Understanding the True Meaning of a Legacy Scholarship
- Kenneth Wasley
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
At Children of Fallen Heroes, we believe that legacy isn’t just what you leave behind—it’s what you ignite in others.
Our Legacy Scholarships were never meant to fit inside a box labeled "college only." We know that not every young person is destined to follow a traditional university path. Some dream of becoming engineers, doctors, or teachers. Others are called to trades, culinary arts, cosmetology, or even the world of technology and design. And many are still discovering who they are—and that's okay.
The CFH Legacy Scholarship was created to honor the lives of our fallen heroes by investing in the dreams of their children, foster youth, caregivers, and Title One students. It’s more than just financial aid—it’s a bridge. A bridge to opportunities in STEM and Arts programs, vocational training, entrepreneurship, skilled trades, and creative fields that spark purpose and healing.
Some of our scholarship recipients may already have educational support through other means. That’s why our approach is flexible and family-focused. These scholarships can help fund transitional training, skill development, mental health programs, or even retreats where young people can process their grief, build confidence, and connect with others who understand their journey.
Because education isn’t just found in classrooms. It’s in coding a drone, painting a mural, prepping meals for a gala, flying a parachute with your hero’s name on it, or building something with your hands that you’re proud of. It’s in healing, in growing, and in belonging.
And that’s why the CFH Legacy Scholarship matters. It’s a promise that no child will be left behind—whether they choose college, a trade, or a path uniquely their own. It’s a reminder that their hero’s legacy is alive in them. And it’s a call to our tribe—our community—to walk with them every step of the way.
On behalf of the Children of Fallen Heroes organization, it is with great honor and heartfelt congratulations that we award Maverick George the very first Adam Plummer Legacy Scholarship. $1,000 towards his Clemson University Tuition.
📸 Maverick in the middle with his surviving family members of Scott George.
"Some legacies are lived in action—through fire, rescue, and quiet moments of showing up. Chad Autry lived his legacy fully, and now it lives on through his son, Owen."
In this photo, from left to right, I’m standing with Fire Chief Richard Whiteside, Owen’s mother—an Army veteran—his stepfather, who serves in emergency aviation, and myself. Together, we represent the tribe surrounding Owen. A tribe built from service, sacrifice, and love. This is what carrying on a hero’s legacy looks like.
Stay tuned for the Chad Autry Legacy Scholarship announcement—created to honor a devoted father, first responder, and pillar of his community.
Through Owen and through every child this scholarship reaches, Chad’s story will continue to inspire and heal.
