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The 16th annual Jason Plite Memorial Fund Dinner spotlighted the 2019 scholarship winners Devin Wieferich, Abigail Ford and Sam Konen. The memorial dinner held Friday April 12, was an evening of remembrance and celebration.
Jason Plite, a Pararescueman in the U.S. Air Force, had an abundance of talent and special qualities. The “PJ” promise to the world is “That Others May Live”. Jason lost his life while on a mission to rescue two Afghani children, just after completing a mission that saved three severely injured Afghanistan Nationals, March 23rd, 2003.
Devin Wieferich was awarded a $2,500 Artistic Scholarship. Devin’s wish is to create art so that the people who see it will feel the joy he has shared in creating the art piece. Devin is also an accomplished musician in the Grand Ledge High School Marching Band, a member of Boy Scout Troop 121 and the Civil Air Patrol. Devin will be attending Northern Michigan University in their Art and Design program
Abigail Ford was awarded a $2,500 Swimming Scholarship. Abigail has stated that the dedication and discipline she has learned from swimming has taught her much and the key to her success in the sport she loves. It has also carried over into her academics and other areas in life. Abigail loves helping others achieve their personal goals. Abigail will be attending University of Sioux Falls to become a Personal Strength and Conditioning Trainer/Coach.
Sam Konen was awarded a $5,000 Swimming Scholarship. Sam states he grew up fascinated by all things Military and has an intense desire to serve our country. Sam will be attending the United States Military at West Point. Sam is a member of the Grand Ledge National Honor Society and has served as a youth liaison for his church and has went on 6 mission trips. Sam plans on using his experience, drive and determination he has gain from swimming to complete the Survival Swimming Course at USMA.
We were honored to have Senior Master Sergeant Luke M. Naughton, Jason’s fellow Pararescuman, as our guest speaker. Luke gave a heartfelt, emotional, speech including some stories of he and Jason going through the Pararescue pipeline as comrades and best friends. The stories included the importance of camaraderie, teamwork, and the value of embracing fun and silly antics. Our dinner guests were deeply and profoundly touched by Luke’s speech.
The MSU Air Force ROTC “Silver Eagles” was present representing the U.S. Air Force, along with posting and retiring the Colors they performed an impressive Rifle Drill.
We are grateful for the continued support of our attendees, the Opera House, A Catered Affaire’, A Complete Rental, Gladstone Printing, Cakes a Bloomin and the many local and surrounding businesses and artists that donate items for the silent auction. It is through these combined efforts that Jason’s legacy continues on. Over the past 16 years we have awarded over $123,500 in scholarships to 46 Grand Ledge High School senior artists and swimmers.
With heartfelt thanks - The Jason Plite Memorial Fund Board of Directors.
Devin Wieferich, Abigail Ford, Samuel Konen
EVENT PHOTOS
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Keynote Speaker - Senior Master Sergeant Luke M. Naughton
REMEMBERING JASON
JASON PLITE MEMORIAL FUND BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Josh Johnston, Luke Naughton, Ryan Beckmann & Sean Cunningham
