Titan Scholarship

(Business & Entrepreneurship)

Award Amount ($500-$5,000)

The Titan Scholarship is designed for students passionate about business, innovation, and entrepreneurship. This scholarship supports individuals with strong leadership potential and a vision for success in the corporate, startup, or economic sectors.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Must be pursuing a degree or coursework related to business administration, entrepreneurship, finance, marketing, economics, or related fields.

  • Demonstrates an active interest in leadership, business innovation, or economic development.

  • Participation in business-related extracurricular activities (e.g., business clubs, startup competitions, financial literacy programs).

  • Strong academic performance in business and economics-related courses.

Submission of an essay or project proposal outlining a business idea, economic study, or entrepreneurial venture.

Roger Liggon

Roger Liggon’s journey of service and leadership began just seven days after his high school graduation, when he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps at age 17. His decision wasn’t driven by pressure or tradition—it was personal. A fellow church member, fresh from Marine boot camp, warned him not to try it, doubting he could handle the challenge. Roger took that as motivation. After researching the Corps and understanding exactly what he was signing up for, he made his commitment.

He completed basic training at Parris Island and received further instruction at Camp Lejeune before being assigned to the legendary 1st Battalion, 9th Marines, 3rd Marine Division. Joining the unit at Camp Schwab in Okinawa, Roger forged deep bonds with fellow Marines during intensive training designed to prepare them for combat. His first combat operation was Deckhouse V—a harsh introduction to the realities of war.

After several routine operations and field events , Roger’s mobility was impacted by an old knee injury that flared up under the demands of rugged, mountainous terrain. Against his wishes, he was reassigned to the U.S. He pleaded to stay with his unit—“I didn’t want to leave my guys”—but was instead reassigned and later honorably discharged.

Roger shifted his focus to civilian life and launched a successful career in data processing. After early jobs at Western Union and the U.S. Postal Service, he landed an entry level position as a Data-processor Trainee with Manufacturers Hanover Bank. He also completed his college, earning a Bachelor Degree in Management and Marketing. Over time, he rose through the ranks to become an Assistant Vice President, eventually overseeing more than 300 employees,including supervisors and managers. 

But his connection to the Marines never faded.

Years later, Roger read about a Vietnam Veterans Welcome Home event in Cleveland, Ohio. Knowing that Cpl. Cook—one of his fellow 1/9 Marines—was from the area, he made the trip hoping to reconnect. What happened in Cleveland would spark the beginning of something bigger. Not only did he find Cook, but several other 1/9ers also showed up. Roger began collecting contact information, floated the idea of staying in touch, and created a modest newsletter to do just that.

The list grew with each issue. What started as five copies turned into more than 500, each one typed, printed, and mailed with the help of his wife Jackie, and his daughter Raquel. It became a family affair. The momentum built toward the first official 1/9 reunion in Washington, D.C., in 1989. Roger expected maybe 50 people. Over 150 showed up.

That gathering marked the true launch of the First Battalion Ninth Marine Association—later known as The Walking Dead Association. Through Roger’s vision and persistence, what began as a newsletter became a national organization committed to honoring the brotherhood, sacrifices, and legacy of the Marines who served in 1/9.

Roger Liggon’s unwavering commitment has helped keep that legacy alive for decades. In recognition of his extraordinary leadership, passion, and service to his fellow Marines, the Titan Scholarship has been established in his name—a tribute to the man who ensured that the story of the Walking Dead Battalion would never be forgotten.