Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I have to use the scholarship money for school-related expenses?
A: No. We want recipients to be able to explore, live life, and learn something outside the everyday rigors of college life. Maybe share a little bit of what you experienced when you're done.
Q: Who was LtGen. Charles G. Cooper?
A: He was the grandfather of the Cooper brothers, the founding members of OPERATION C4. He loved his family and the Marine Corps.
Here's more about his life: "Charlie" was born on 24 December 1927, in Clarksdale, MS, where he graduated from Bobo High School in 1945. An All-State tackle in high school, he went on to play varsity guard and tackle at the University of Mississippi and the Naval Academy, where he graduated in 1950. In September 1950, he married the love of his life, Carol Edgerton at the Naval Academy Chapel. After completing The Basic School in March 1951, Charlie was assigned to Company B-1-5, First Marine Division in Korea as a rifle platoon commander. Seriously wounded in the Korean counter-offensive of 1951, he received the Silver Star and the Purple Heart Medal (two awards). Overcoming the prognosis of career-ending injuries, he returned to full duty in early 1953, eventually commanding infantry units at every level. He served twice as battalion commander (2/8, Second Marine Division and 1/7, First Marine Division in Vietnam), was CO of Marine Barracks-Washington DC, CG 1 Marine Amphibious Force/ First Marine Division, CG MCRD-San Diego, and CG Marine Corps Base, Camp Lejeune. He also served as Marine Corps Congressional Liaison, and Director of Manpower, USMC. Charlie retired as Commanding General, Fleet Marine Forces Pacific, in 1985. Throughout his 35-year career, he was recognized as an inspirational leader who passionately fostered his "Band of Brothers" concept. After leaving active duty, he consulted on defense related issues, was a guest lecturer on leadership and political/military affairs, and remained devoted to and active in Marine Corps affairs. In 2004, he received USNA's Distinguished Graduate Award.
You can also see his book, Cheers and Tears: A Marine Story of Combat in War and Peace, HERE.