Lt. John J. Griffin, Jr. / USS Emmons Memorial Scholarship
Two $2500 scholarships are awarded each year and possible $500 honorable mention awards as outlined in the application.
Mission Statement:
The Scholarship Program was established to help preserve, maintain and promote the legacy of the 60 courageous men who made the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of their ship and shipmates on April 6, 1945 during the battle of Okinawa. Their fighting spirit and that of the surviving USS Emmons crew members led by Lt. John J. Griffin was in keeping with the finest traditions of the United States Navy and must be preserved for the benefit of future generations of Americans.
Applying for the Scholarship:
Applications for the scholarships are available annually to:
1) Direct, lineal descendants of one who served aboard the USS Emmons, and
2) Direct, lineal descendants of a sibling of any childless crew member who lost his life as a result of the April 6, 1945 attack at Okinawa.
2026 Scholarship Results
2026 was another successful year for our Lt. John J. Griffin, Jr./USS Emmons Memorial Scholarship Program! $2500 awards went to Claire Gillanders and Rory Mackin, while Bridget Johnston received a $500 honorable mention award.
Claire, great-granddaughter of shipmate Walter Blair, is a student at the University of Tampa, majoring in Marketing with a minor in Sales. This fall Claire will study abroad in Italy’s Florence University of the Arts.
Rory will be a freshman at California State University San Marcos, majoring in Finance. He is the great-grandson of shipmate Edward Tostanoski and lives in Monte Sereno, California.
Bridget lives in Estero, Florida, and is the great-granddaughter of shipmate Walter Blair. She will be a freshman attending Florida State University majoring in Dietetics.
We are proud of all our applicants and wish them well as they continue their studies.
The 2027 scholarship application will be available January 1st. $6000 in awards will again be available.