CHESTER, NJ — A West Morris Central High School senior was recently honored for his respect for fallen veterans. The student, Lucas Rowland, was awarded a scholarship from the American Veterans Association of Washington Township (AVAWT).

Rowland is the second recipient of the $1,000 scholarship since the AVAWT started the program last year. Thomas McBride, Commander of Post 1776, AVAWT, presented the award to Rowland during a ceremony at the school last week.

Scholarship applicants are tasked with writing a 500-word essay that “captures the tremendous sacrifice demonstrated by a fallen veteran.”

Rowland’s essay focused on his two grandfathers, one from the Navy and one from the Army, who both served in World War II. According to the AVAWT, Rowland recalled his visits to the Normandy beaches as a child, where his mother described the sacrifices made there.

“The veterans of the AVAWT are honored to make our scholarship award to Lucas,” McBride said. “The sentiments he expressed in his essay about his grandparents and all fallen heroes were truly inspiring.”

Rowland will be continuing his education at the University of Pittsburgh, where he intends to major in psychology.