Department Spotlight: Wyoming names scholarship after dedicated Legionnaire

Editor’s note: This is a weekly series of Department Spotlight stories featuring unique programs and initiatives of departments throughout The American Legion. Department adjutants are invited to recommend subjects for their departments by emailing magazine@legion.org.

Emil A. Blackmore of Cheyenne, Wyo., was the first World War II veteran to become national adjutant of The American Legion. He held office from July 1, 1956, until his death on April 21, 1967.

For his dedicated service to the organization, The American Legion National Headquarters in Indianapolis named its museum – located on the fourth floor of the building – in his honor. And the Department of Wyoming created a scholarship for high school youth to keep his legacy alive.

The Blackmore Scholarship was established in 1973, and is available to help the grandchildren of Wyoming Legion members in good standing achieve a higher education. The $1,000 scholarship per academic year is awarded to an applicant based on needs and leadership qualities. The applicant also must rank in the upper 20 percent of their high school graduation class.

For more information about the scholarship, click here.