Mark Forester Scholarship

The Mark Forester Scholarship has been presented since 2013 by the Combat Control Association (CCA) to honor Senior Airman Mark Forester and his sacrifice. As an enlisted CCT with a bachelor's degree, Mark believed strongly in education and set an example for all others to follow. His ideal is captured through the presentation of this scholarship by helping others further their academic endeavors, whether through college, trade schools, or certification programs. The Mark Forester Scholarship provides financial assistance to dependents of Combat Control Association (CCA) members, who are veterans, former, retired, active duty/guard/reserve Combat Controller, Combat Control Officer, or Special Tactics Officers. Students involved in JROTC and demonstrating good academic achievement are encouraged to apply. The 2026 submission window is July 20 - August 14, 2026, by midnight PST. Application processing begins August 15, 2026, with the application board review taking place August 17-21, 2026, awardee announcement on August 24, 2026, and scholarship presentation on August 31, 2026. Applicant criteria: Must be a family member (dependent) of any CCA member who is a veteran, former, retired, active duty/guard/reserve Combat Controller, Combat Control Officer, or Special Tactics Officer. Must be currently enrolled and accepted in an institution of higher learning — College AA, BA, or BS; Trade School (e.g., welding, culinary, electrical, plumbing); or Certification programs (e.g., Microsoft, Cisco Systems, Juniper). Must have maintained a 3.0 grade point average (GPA), verified by evidence such as a letter from a counselor or a copy of transcripts. Completed scholarship application by the application procedures listed in the criteria. CCA Policy: Scholarships are based on one-time scholastic achievement, activities, or interests, as well as a trade school or certification program. Individuals accepted into 'service' academies are not eligible, as this represents a distinct and significant level of accomplishment (e.g., Air Force Academy, full-ride ROTC program). Official written verification for the recipient's registration/enrollment from the institution of higher learning must be received by the scholarship committee before distribution of funds. The CCA will mail the scholarship check directly to the institution of acceptance. If the recipient ceases to attend classes at the institution of choice, trade school, or certification program and does not transfer to another institution or program, the recipient must return any remaining funds to the CCF. Applications require a 600-word essay and at least two letters of recommendation (which may NOT be from family members). Applications are evaluated based on scholastic achievement (class rank, GPA 3.0-4.0), honors/AP/IB programs/internships, extracurricular activities (honors and awards, employment), JROTC involvement, and letters of recommendation.