In 1999, the Paul L. Bates Memorial Scholarship Fund came into existence following the stipulations laid out in Colonel Bates’ will. Administered and overseen by the Board of Trustees of McDaniel College in Westminster, Maryland (formerly Western Maryland College), this scholarship honors the memory of Colonel Paul L. Bates, a distinguished alumnus of the College. Colonel Bates, Class of 1931, not only excelled as an All-American football player but also served as the commander of the groundbreaking 761st Tank Battalion during World War II, the first all African American combat tank battalion. Recognized for their extraordinary valor in action, the unit earned commendation from the President of the United States.
What is the Purpose of McDaniel College Scholarships?
The scholarship, a tribute to the courageous men who served under Colonel Bates’ leadership, focuses on providing financial support to lineal descendants of members of the 761st Tank Battalion who served during a specific period, from August 1944 through April 1945. Applicants must be accepted to and attend McDaniel College, maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, and demonstrate financial need.
Eligibility Criteria for McDaniel College Scholarships
- Lineal Descendants: Must be descendants of members of the 761st Tank Battalion who served during the specified period. This includes children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, ensuring the legacy continues;
- Acceptance to McDaniel College: Applicants must be accepted to and attend McDaniel College. This criteria is essential for eligibility, aligning with the college’s commitment to education and opportunity;
- Academic Performance: Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. This requirement encourages consistent academic effort, ensuring students remain committed to their studies and personal growth;
- Financial Need: Demonstrate financial need. This ensures support is directed to applicants who require financial assistance, promoting equal opportunities for education regardless of economic background.
Call to Action: How to identify Descendants for the McDaniel College Scholarships?
On May 1, 2010, Ivan H. Harrison, Jr., addressed a letter to colleagues, expressing concern over the lack of descendants from the 761st Tank Battalion availing the scholarship opportunities. Recognizing the importance of honoring the legacy of Colonel Bates, efforts were made to compile a comprehensive list of battalion members and their descendants. A form was circulated to gather pertinent information, aiming to ensure that deserving descendants do not miss out on this valuable opportunity.
Table: Sample Scholarship Application Form
| Name | Relationship to 761st Member | Address | Phone Number | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| John Doe | Grandson | 123 Main St, Anytown, USA | (555) 123-4567 | [email protected] |
Steps to Identify Descendants:
- Form Distribution: Circulate the form among known descendants and contacts within the community. Utilize social media, email newsletters, and community bulletin boards to ensure widespread distribution, aiming to reach as many potential applicants as possible to honor the legacy of the 761st Tank Battalion members;
- Information Collection: Gather names, addresses, and contact details of descendants meticulously. This process involves reaching out through various communication channels, including phone calls, emails, and social media platforms, to ensure a comprehensive database of descendants who could benefit from the initiative;
- Spread Awareness: Encourage recipients to share the form with others who may be eligible, utilizing personal networks, community organizations, and online platforms. The goal is to create a ripple effect, maximizing the reach to potential beneficiaries who may not be directly known to the organizers but are part of the extended community;
- Data Compilation: Consolidate collected information into a database for easy reference, employing software tools for data management. This step is crucial for organizing the information efficiently, enabling quick access and analysis to facilitate decision-making and communication with descendants, ensuring a smooth application process.
Recognition of Colonel Bates’ Legacy
Renowned basketball player Kareem Abdul-Jabbar received honors from McDaniel College for his work highlighting the legacy of the 761st Tank Battalion and Colonel Bates. Through his book “Brothers In Arms: The Epic Story of the 761st Tank Battalion, WWII’s Forgotten Heroes,” Abdul-Jabbar shed light on the battalion’s heroic deeds. The college bestowed an honorary degree and an Army Coin of Excellence upon Abdul-Jabbar during the Founders Convocation, underscoring the enduring impact of Colonel Bates’ leadership and the scholarship fund established in his honor.
Table: Recognition Awards Presented at McDaniel College Founders Convocation
| Recipient | Award Received | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Kareem Abdul-Jabbar | Honorary Degree, Army Coin of Excellence | September 29, 2007 |
| Colonel Paul L. Bates (Posthumously) | Trustee Alumni Award | September 29, 2007 |
Notable Accomplishments:
- Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: Honored for his book “Brothers In Arms” and efforts in highlighting the 761st Tank Battalion’s legacy;
- Colonel Paul L. Bates: Recognized posthumously for his leadership and contributions as commander of the 761st Tank Battalion.
Conclusion
The Paul L. Bates Memorial Scholarship Fund stands as a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of Colonel Bates and the members of the 761st Tank Battalion. Through the scholarship, McDaniel College continues to honor their legacy and provide opportunities for deserving descendants to pursue higher education. As efforts continue to identify and support eligible applicants, the impact of Colonel Bates’ leadership and the scholarship fund reverberates through generations, ensuring that their stories of courage and resilience endure.
