Established in 1985 by the Seabee Veterans of America (#4) in memory of Ralph Alonzo Richards, who was an active member of the SVA until his death in February 1985. Mr. Richards was a native of Detroit where he worked 33 years for the Ford Motor Company. He interrupted his civilian life at the age of 38 when he enlisted in the Seabees on November 28, 1942 and was subsequently sent to Davisville, RI where the 60th Battalion was formed at Camp Endicott. In February of 1943, the battalion was sent to the South Pacific where the 60th built four major airfields. After 22 months of active duty the battalion was shipped home. Upon return, the 60th was decommissioned and the men were reassigned to other battalions after a few months of leave. Mr. Richard’s next assignment was with the 133rd Battalion where he served until the end of the War. He was discharged from active status in November of 1945 and enlisted in the Reserves in 1955.
Endowed Scholarships allow our investors to build a lasting legacy, impacting Seabee children and grandchildren for generations to come. Endowed Scholarships often honor or memorialize family members, Seabee leaders, NAVFAC units, organizations or corporations. Perpetual Named scholarships can be funded at three levels, $60,000, $120,000 and $150,000 and are named by the donor.
Contact Dan Miller at danmiller@seabee.org to start a endowed scholarship.