The Reagan Legacy Foundation (RLF) awarded eight scholarships to USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) Sailors, former Ronald Reagan Sailors, and family members during a ceremony aboard the ship, April 20.

The RLF awards scholarships annually for Sailors and their family members. Six other recipients have either already received their award or will receive it upon returning from temporary assignments.

"This shows the outstanding generosity from the Reagan Legacy Foundation, and the support to the crew and their dependents," said Capt. Buzz Donnelly, Ronald Reagan's commanding officer. "Over $25,000 was awarded to the recipients to further the qualification, certification and education of those involved."

Scholarship selection is based on criteria of academic achievement, or demonstrated commitment to future academic performance, proven leadership and extracurricular activities. Applicants are also required to provide a brief written essay on former President Ronald Reagan as part of their selection consideration.

"We had a total of 14 scholarships awarded this year and we are extremely proud of those who were selected," said Ensign Chris Miller, the ship's educational services officer.

Desiree Mireles, from Prosser, Washington, said she was surprised to be selected for a scholarship.

"I feel honored to be able to extend the legacy of Ronald Reagan through the continuation of my education," said Mireles, spouse of Air Traffic Controller 1st Class Juan Mireles aboard Reagan. "I am grateful for this opportunity and for the support of this community and my husband."

The foundation is a non-profit organization that seeks to advance the causes Ronald Reagan began, and to memorialize the accomplishments of his presidency. The organization also leads a global initiative to educate youth about the role Reagan played in the fall of communism, and the spread of democracy throughout the world. Projects include a permanent Reagan exhibit in Berlin, as well as the Liberty Education Tours, a student program offering future leaders education in the principles of liberty as they study the words and actions of Reagan and other world leaders while visiting sites significant in the history of freedom worldwide.

Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the collective maritime interests of its allies and partners in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

For more information, visit www.navy.mil, www.facebook.com/usnavy, or www.twitter.com/usnavy.

For more news from USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76), visit www.navy.mil/.