Staff Sergeant Justin Vasquez, 26, native of Manzanola, was killed during his second tour in Iraq on June 5th, 2005 by an IED while leading his men south of Baghdad. He was a 1997 graduate of Manzanola High School.
The SSG Justin Vasquez Memorial Scholarship Fund was formed to honor one that gave the ultimate sacrifice for his country. The family wishes to assist graduating high school seniors in becoming productive and contributing participants in their community. Additionally, the family believes in the importance of attaining an education and the necessity of having high standards of work ethics. Thus, these esteemed values are passed on to the succeeding generations.
Since 2006, two $500 scholarships have been awarded each year to graduating seniors. The family has continued to organize yearly events to help the scholarship fund grow. The family is proud to announce that in 2010, three $500 scholarships were awarded.
Beginning in 2014, we are expanding to include applications from ALL Colorado high school seniors
