PORT ALLEGANY — Veterans Memorial Inc. in Port Allegany donated scholarships recently to local students.

The Paul Maynard Scholarship of Courage was awarded to Olivia Freer, a 2020 graduate of Port Allegany High School. Roxie Taylor Scholarships were awarded to Kalyn Naylor and Kayla Copp, also of the PAHS Class of 2020.

The $1,000 Paul Maynard Scholarship of Courage was given in memory of Paul Maynard, who was a Vietnam veteran, serving with the Marines. He was wounded three times during his two tours from 1967 to 1968. Maynard served in combat during the Tet Offensive and was awarded several medals including three Purple Hearts. He was a member of the VMI for several years.

Maynard had an amazing laugh and a way to make everyone around him smile.

Also, the Veterans Memorial presents two $1,000 scholarships each year to students who studied in Port Allegany in memory of Roxie Taylor, who was a vital member of the VFW Auxiliary for 12+ years. She was always willing to help and had an infectious smile.

To qualify for this scholarship, applicants must be a resident of the Port Allegany School District, must be receiving a post secondary education from a trade school or college, have recorded volunteer hours from seventh-12th grade and have a teacher recommendation.