NIMAC scholarship applications available

The Niagara Military Affairs Council (NIMAC) is accepting applications for the Merrell Lane Memorial Aviation Scholarship. The award is presented to an enlisted member assigned to the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station (NFARS) in pursuit of an aviation-related career.

The scholarship was established in memory of Merrell Lane, co-founder and the first chairman of NIMAC. Lane enjoyed all aspects of aviation and was very active in the Thunder of Niagara airshow. He enjoyed a lifelong hobby of rocketry and was a longtime member of the National Association of Rocketry.

“Merrell, who was an enlisted soldier himself, would be thrilled to know a scholarship is offered in his name for enlisted members to further their careers in aviation,” said John A. Cooper Sr., chairman of NIMAC. “The United States Air Force has identified pilot shortages as a challenge going forward, and to know that NIMAC can assist in this area is exciting – especially with the 914^th and 107^th missions. Five service members have already benefited from the scholarship since 2017.”

Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited private pilot licensing program or enrolled in an aviation-related curriculum at an accredited college/university. Aviation-related fields can include, but are not limited to, A&P mechanic, aeronautical engineer, aviation educator, air traffic controller, flight attendant, and commercial or airline pilot.

“Western New York has a very rich history in aviation. NIMAC is proud to support our enlisted members through this scholarship, to enrich that history as they further their education in an aviation career,” said Chief Master Sgt. Michael Zimmerman, USAF retired, NIMAC vice chairman.