Understanding the CenTex MOAA Chapter Scholarship Requirements

The Central Texas Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) plays a vital role in supporting future leaders and veterans in the Central Texas community. One of its primary initiatives is providing scholarships to deserving students. This article will delve into the scholarship opportunities offered by the CenTex MOAA Chapter, eligibility criteria, and related information.

The Central Texas Chapter of the Military Officers Association of America

The Central Texas Chapter exists to:

Promote the purposes and objectives of the Military Officers Association of America.
Foster fraternal relations among retired, active, and former officers of the uniformed services.
Protect the rights and interests of personnel of the uniformed services and their dependents and survivors.
Provide useful service for members and their dependents and survivors.
Serve the community and the nation.

Colonel Jack Oliver Scholarship

CenTex MOAA presents the Colonel Jack Oliver Scholarship to an outstanding Cadet at the University of Mary Hardin Baylor (UMHB).

About Colonel Jack Oliver

Jack Oliver was born on his family’s farm in Belton, Texas, on September 21, 1924. His family had a strong military history. Oliver initially wanted to become a pilot but was encouraged to study navigation due to his math and science background from Texas A&M University. He attended Bombardier Navigation School in San Angelo, Texas.

During his service, Oliver flew missions as a navigator and was injured by shrapnel, wounding his eyes. After the war, he went to pilot training in 1947 and transitioned to the Air Force, serving for 30 years. He participated in the Lockheed Skunk Works project and helped launch information-gathering satellites into space.

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Scholarship Programs

The Heart of Texas (HOT) MOAA Chapter has awarded over $147,000 in scholarships to deserving applicants since 2006. The scholarships are awarded in two categories: “Freedom Is Not Free” and in the honor and memory of “General Harry A.

Scholarship Categories

"Freedom Is Not Free" Scholarship: This scholarship recognizes students who demonstrate a commitment to service and leadership.
"General Harry A. Scholarship": Awarded in honor and memory of General Harry A., this scholarship recognizes students who have demonstrated academic excellence and leadership potential.

The number of scholarships awarded and the amounts of each scholarship are dependent on the number and quality of applications received and available Chapter funding. For 2026, the minimum amount for any scholarship awarded will be $2,000.

Proceeds from the Chapter fund raising efforts were used to award educational scholarships to deserving students attending or planning to attend accredited schools of higher education, to Baylor University Army and Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) cadets, to cadets in Junior ROTC (JROTC) units at five local area high schools, to the Heart of Texas Civil Patrol (CAP), and to multiple veterans’ programs in Central Texas.

Eligibility for Membership in CenTex MOAA

Officers active, retired and former officers, widows & widowers of deceased officers of all US uniformed services, Reserves or other components of those services are eligible for membership. Honorary member, associate & auxiliary members are considered upon written request. To be eligible for chapter membership, an individual must be a member of the National Organization(applications for membership are available at meetings & from each member). The 2013 National Chapter Membership program provides new incentives for new members to include free chapter memberships.

How to Apply for a Scholarship

Applicants have to review and complete the scholarship application as thoroughly as possible.

Chapter Activities and Meetings

The Central Texas Chapter conducts monthly meetings (except December) at various locations. The President opens the membership meeting at Noon. The meetings include honoring the National Colors, a prayer by the Chaplain, a business meeting, and a guest speaker. Guest speakers have high level of importance, i.e. Congressman, MD, PhD, GO, District Engineers, Directors, Military Commander, School Superintendent, University President and other community leaders.

Additional Projects and Support

The main project of the chapter is to provide scholarship to a graduating High School Sr who has been accepted into a University ROTC Program or qualifying Tech College. Member serving as sponsors are linked with local HS JROTC Units to assist Senior Leader. Additional special project funded & supported, e.g. purchase, installation and dedication of a marble bench at the State Vet Cemetery.

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