Jahnigen Scholarship established at Ripley Co. Community Foundation
Apr. 23—RIPLEY COUNTY — The Ripley County Community Foundation has announced the establishment of the Jerald "Butch" and Helen Jahnigen Scholarship.
The Jahnigen family established this scholarship in memory of Butch as a legacy of his distinguished military career and his life-long devotion to the American Legion.
Butch entered the United States Army in 1952 and served in the Korean War earning the rank of corporal before his discharge on March 1, 1954. His distinguished service to his country was recognized with the Korean Service Medal with three Bronze Stars, the United Nations Service Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal. As a lifelong member of the Versailles American Legion, he held various positions and participated in all aspects. The American Legion Park east of Versailles was named in his honor.
Beginning with the class of 2025, The Jerald R. "Butch" and Helen Jahnigen Scholarship will provide a scholarship to a graduating high school senior who has a familial connection to the Versailles American Legion Post 173, Sons of the American Legion, and/or Auxiliary. Students must write an essay about the role of the American Legion in the applicant's community.
"Selfless service for the betterment of all is a core American value which Butch lived everyday. The creation of this scholarship seemed to be the most fitting way to honor Butch's legacy," the Jahnigen family said in a joint statement.
Visit rccfonline.org/ to donate to the Jerald R. "Butch" and Helen Jahnigen Scholarship or any of the 209 endowment funds managed by the Ripley County Community Foundation.
To learn more about how you can create opportunities in your community, contact the Ripley County Community Foundation, 13 E. George Street, Suite B, Batesville, by calling 812-933-1098 or via email at office@rccfonline.org — Information provided
