UMHB Dedicates Endowed Scholarship to Local Medal of Honor Recipient at Annual Military Appreciation Football Game

BELTON, Texas-The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor (UMHB) and members of the Central Texas community established a Presidential Endowed Scholarship to honor fallen soldier Staff Sergeant Felix M. Conde-Falcon. SSG Conde-Falcon's children, Richard Conde and Jeannie Holland attended Saturday's annual Military Appreciation Football game, where they were honored alongside representatives from the Military Officers Association of America - Central Texas Chapter, American Legion Post 133, and VFW Posts 4008 and 10377, in a ceremony at half-time.

Just over a year ago, leaders from these organizations, community members, and UMHB officials met with Richard Conde to establish an ambitious vision for a Presidential Endowed Scholarship for students entering the ROTC program at UMHB. This endowment has been named the Staff Sergeant Felix M. Conde-Falcon and Lydia Conde Medal of Honor Endowed Scholarship. Staff Sergeant Felix M. Conde-Falcon was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery during the Vietnam War. SSG Conde-Falcon distinguished himself on April 4, 1969, when he was killed in the line of duty after destroying multiple enemy bunkers and demonstrating extraordinary leadership under fire.

"This vision has been warmly embraced by our Central Texas military community, business leaders, service organizations, and citizens who have been deeply impacted by the service and sacrifice of those who defend our nation," said UMHB Director of Fundraising Aaron Rodeffer. "The story of one family's sacrifice in service to our country has deeply resonated with our local community, and the success of this endowment is a powerful example of people coming together to support a meaningful cause."

To date, this endowment has received $120,000 in contributions. A scholarship will be awarded to an eligible freshman or sophomore UMHB student enrolled in the ROTC program each year. The selection process for the inaugural scholarship recipient will begin in the spring of 2025.

"We are grateful for this investment in UMHB's ROTC program. Scholarships to help support young ROTC cadets are crucial for retaining and attracting students who desire to serve in the U.S. military after college," said Carl Cook, UMHB's senior instructor of Military Science. "In addition, the new Medal of Honor display in our building will provide incredible encouragement and motivation for our students."

During half-time at Saturday's football game, a check for $7,500 was presented to strengthen the endowment further and ensure the first award can be made in the fall of 2025 as the fund continues to grow.

To learn more about the Staff Sergeant Felix M. Conde-Falcon and Lydia Conde Medal of Honor Endowed Scholarship or donate, call 254-295-4173.