The leadership of Rotary District 5930 proudly established the Military Veterans Scholarship Program to help eligible honorably discharged veterans pursue their higher education goals. 
 
On December 14, 2016, at the meeting of The Laredo Rotary Club, District Governor Debbie High and Assistant Governor Juan Lira presented the first two scholarships to two outstanding and very deserving veterans. They are Richard Zundt and Sergio Hernandez.   
 
This new Military Veterans Scholarship Program was made possible through a District Designated Fund (DDF) Grant because of the generous donations to The Rotary Foundation by D5930 Rotarians and clubs three years ago.
 
 
In one of the attached photos, Juan Lira presented Richard Zundt a check in the amount of $4.610.36 to help him purchase the equipment he needs to earn his specialized certification in Heating, Air Conditioning,and Refrigeration.  Also pictured is Roberto Vela (President of The Laredo Rotary Club), who interviewed and recommended Richard for this scholarship.  
 
 
 
 
In another photo, Juan is shown presenting a check for $1,928.34 to Sergio Hernandez to help him earn a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree. Also pictured is Mark Ceballos (President of the Laredo Next Generation Rotary Club), who interviewed and recommended Sergio for the scholarship.  
 
A third photo is included in which everyone involved in this special event is pictured.
 
 
Biographical Sketch for Richard Zundt
Richard Zundt voluntarily joined the Navy and proudly served our country for three years from 1971-1974. Following his completion of boot camp, Richard went to Millington Naval Base in Millington, Tennessee for flight captain training to learn how to guide planes. Upon graduation, he was transferred to Naval Air Station Cecil in Jacksonville, Florida, where he worked in a fuel depot.  Upon successfully completing his tour of duty, Richard decided to join the Texas National Guard, where he honorably served for 20 years as a supply specialist charged with the distribution and collection of weapons and other supplies.  Richard is currently pursuing specialized certification in Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration at Laredo Community College.
 
Biographical Sketch for Sergio Hernandez
Sergio Hernandez proudly served as a United States Marine for ten years in different capacities. These included Maintenance and Production Controller, Training and Licensing Coordinator, and Logistics Specialist.  He was a member of Marine Aviation Logistics and Attack Helicopter Squadrons.  Sergio served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and was a member of a Marine Expeditionary Unit charged with efforts to counter piracy.  Among his numerous awards are the Iraqi Campaign Medal (with bronze star), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, and Global War on Terrorism Medal.  
Sergio is currently working at the Webb County Veterans Service Office and is pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree while attending Laredo Community College.  Upon earning his degree, he hopes to establish a business enterprise that will prioritize the hiring of veterans, while maintaining an environment in which they can experience the comradery they once had while serving our country. 
 
Photo credits: Azucena Andrade