New Horizon Scholarship
Award Amount ($500-$5,000)
The New Horizon Scholarship is designed for bold thinkers, risk-takers, and self-starters—students who refuse to be confined by traditional career paths. This scholarship supports individuals pursuing unconventional fields of study, those who challenge norms, explore uncharted territories, and push the boundaries of what is possible.
We seek applicants who demonstrate independence, creativity, and a fearless drive to pursue unique academic and professional aspirations. Whether you're venturing into emerging technologies, avant-garde art, experimental sciences, or fields yet to be fully defined, this scholarship is for those who refuse to settle for the expected.
Eligibility Criteria
Open to undergraduate and graduate students worldwide.
Must be pursuing an unconventional field of study or a nontraditional career path.
Demonstrated initiative, resilience, and a commitment to innovation.
Evidence of independent projects, research, or ventures outside conventional academic
Lt. Gen. William M. Keys (Ret. USMC)
Lt. Gen. William M. Keys (Ret. USMC) is a distinguished United States Marine Corps veteran whose exemplary service and leadership have left a lasting impact on the Corps and the 1/9 Walking Dead Battalion. The First Battalion Ninth Marine Association is dedicating the New Horizon Scholarships in recognition of his remarkable contributions to the United States Marine Corps and his unwavering dedication to the 1/9 Walking Dead Battalion.
Lt. Gen. Keys became associated with 1/9 during the Vietnam War. As a designated infantry officer, he served at every level of operational command, from Platoon Leader to Regimental Commander, demonstrating extraordinary leadership and commitment to the mission and the Marines under his command.
In 1967, then-Captain Keys took command of Delta 1/9 during the Vietnam War, a pivotal period where his leadership and bravery were put to the ultimate test. It was during his service with 1/9 that he was awarded the Silver Star for his courageous actions during Operation Prairie I, exemplifying his dedication to duty and the safety of his fellow Marines.
Lt. Gen. Keys’s connection to the 1/9 Walking Dead Battalion proved to be a lasting commitment well beyond his wartime service. His career in the Marine Corps spanned an impressive 32 years, during which he excelled at every level of rank and responsibility, consistently proving himself as a leader of integrity and excellence.
Following his retirement from active duty, Lt. Gen. Keys continued to achieve remarkable success in the civilian sector. Most notably, he served as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Colt Industries, where he successfully guided the company through some of its most challenging times over a twelve-year tenure.
Lt. Gen. William Key played a key role in the founding of the 1/9 Walking Association, offering his leadership and experience by serving on its first Board of Directors. As a respected figure with deep ties to the battalion, his involvement brought credibility and momentum to the newly formed organization. His support helped lay a solid foundation for the association's mission to honor the legacy of the 1st Battalion, 9th Marines and to support its members, past and present. His commitment reflected a deep sense of duty—not just to the Corps, but to the Marines he served alongside.
The scholarship award dedicated in his honor serves as a testament to his enduring legacy of leadership, service, and commitment to the United States Marine Corps and 1st Battalion 9th Marines.