FIRST COMMAND EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

Since 1983, First Command Educational Foundation (FCEF), a 501(c)(3) public charity, has awarded over $5.5 million in scholarships to help active duty, veterans, and their families pursue undergraduate, graduate, and vocational degrees. These scholarships open doors to opportunity, empowering recipients to build brighter futures for themselves, their families, and their communities.

Our primary scholarship, the Carroll H. Payne Memorial Scholarship, partners with military-affiliated organizations, such as spouse groups and ROTC units. FCEF does not participate in the application or selection process, allowing our partners to tailor their awards to the unique needs of their communities.

In addition, FCEF manages numerous endowments that support military-connected students across the country. Two of our private scholarships include the M. Alice Konecny Memorial Endowment, awarded to high school seniors at Tamaqua Area High School in Michigan, and the Paul J. Smith Memorial Scholarship, designated for cadets in ROTC units at Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base.

FCEF’s scholarship program is made possible through the generosity of individual donors, corporate sponsors, and community partners like you. Your support helps us recognize the sacrifices of our military families and affirm that their aspirations are worth investing in.

Thank you for your consideration. Your gift changes lives—and tells our military community they matter.