troopscholarship.com

The Robert Somers Aviation Scholarship Fund honors the legacy of Robert “Bob” Somers, a lifelong aviation enthusiast, experienced pilot, and flight instructor known to fellow aviators as “Troop.” Over more than 50 years of flying, he logged nearly 34,000 hours and helped train hundreds of young pilots. The fund carries forward his enthusiasm for aviation by offering partial scholarships to help aspiring pilots pursue flight training.

Scholarships are intended for highly motivated residents of Upstate South Carolina who are pursuing aviation as a career and are currently enrolled in a flight program at GMU. Applicants must have completed the written exam for the rating they are working toward. Recipients are selected from completed applications and may be interviewed by phone or in person.

The fund also supports its mission through donations and sales of Bob’s book, The Cuban Eight, and signed, numbered tiger artwork prints. Based in Greer, South Carolina, the organization welcomes inquiries from prospective applicants and supporters.