Scholarship honors fallen Waupun soldier

WAUPUN - The first woman from Wisconsin to be killed in combat during the Iraq War will now have a scholarship named for her at her high school.  

Army Private Rachel Bosveld died in 2003 at the age of 19.

In the library of her former high school, Rachel Bosveld the student was remembered.

"Rachel loved life, loved to draw, loved to play the violin," said Doug LaViolette, Brian LaViolette Foundation.

"She was a very energetic, happy-go-lucky giving person," said Mary Bosveld, Rachel Bosveld's mother.

And while serving in Iraq, Rachel Bosveld the soldier was honored.

"She loved her family, and she loved her country," said LaViolette.

"Some days it seems like forever, and some days it seems like how could this be, it was just yesterday," said Bosveld.

Now, family friend Bob Nueske has stepped up to sponsor the Rachel Bosveld Scholarship of Honor.

"When you know someone close who loses a life, and you watch it on the news everyday, we still think about it. Once it's close to you, you understand the true difference," said Bob Nueske, Rachel Bosveld Scholarship of Honor sponsor.

Neuske and his wife will give $1,000 each year to the recipient: A senior who will be going into the military or public service.

"I think it really means that she's not forgotten. That her memory will live on forever through other people, and they will remember what she stood for, and hopefully they'll continue her legacy," said Bosveld.

A legacy reflected perhaps in a medal. Every scholarship winner will get one.

"May your service to your community and your commitment to your country always be a reflection of your high standards, and an inspiration to those who follow in your footsteps," said LaViolette.

There are about 170 seniors at the high school. The winning applicant will be announced in May.
 
The Brian LaViolette Foundation created the Scholarship of Honor in 2003.

LaViolette's father formed the foundation after 15-year-old Brian drowned 20 years ago.