Malmstrom spouse receives Donley Scholarship

  • Published
  • By Chris Willis
  • 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  Dane Richards, a military spouse, recently received the Air Force Association Donley Scholarship. The program is designed to encourage Air Force spouses worldwide to pursue associate, bachelor or graduate degrees, awarding $2,500 per recipient to use toward educational expenses.

The AFA has named its spouse scholarship program the Mike and Gail Donley Spouse Scholarship to provide a lasting tribute to the 22nd Secretary of the Air Force and his wife for their exemplary support of Air Force families.

Richards turned in an essay about his life, where he came from, and what his goals are for the future.

"I kept my fingers crossed and was very happy getting the tuition assistance, I have my courses basically paid for now," he said. "It lifts the financial burden off my back and it gives me more courage and support to finish my degree."

Richards was raised by his mom and never knew his father. At 12 years old his mother died, and his stepfather took him in, until his stepfather decided he could no longer care for him. Richards then found himself sleeping at a friend's house trying to still go to school.

He later met his wife, June, a commissioned missileer, they got married and he followed her to Great Falls, Montana, where she was stationed at Malmstrom Air Force Base. He still had goals to become a commissioned officer in the military but wanted to have a family first.

"Seeing my wife commission and the feeling of dignity and loyalty one shows to the military is honorable," said Richards. "Watching every one doing their job, even when their job gets tough is pretty inspiring."

In order for Richards to receive the scholarship he had to meet specific requirements.

He had to provide an essay describing his academic career goals and the motivation which led him to this decision, two signed letters of recommendation and a completed application, among other things.

After receiving the award, Richards was grateful and motivated to keep pursuing his degree in criminal justice.

"To receive this recognition was very honorable and uplifting," said Richards. "It makes me want to work harder to get good grades and prove that I deserved this scholarship."

To receive more information on Air Force scholarships, visit http://www.afa.org/informationfor/students/ScholarshipsTeachers.