CLARKSVILLE, TN – The 1st Sgt. Loyal E. Conard Leadership Scholarship was presented to Arturo J. Norris at the Newton Military Family Resource Center on the campus of APSU on Tuesday, July 25.
Joined by his mother, grandmother, sister and brother, Arturo received a Certificate and a check for $1,000 which was deposited into his student account at APSU. In addition to his family, Dr. Phyllis Casebolt, principal, Middle College at Austin Peay, staff of the NMFRC and several members of Detachment 603, Marine Corps League attended the ceremony. Scholarship applicants were asked to select the most important Marine Corps Leadership Trait from 14 traits. Arturo was selected for the award based on his excellent essay on the importance of integrity.
1st Sgt. Loyal Conard served our country with over 20 years of active service in the United States Marine Corps. During his Marine Corps career, he exercised outstanding leadership and occupational skill with the Marine Corps Air Wing. Rising to the grade of E-8, Conard continually demonstrated positive leadership, not only for those in his charge, but also for all he encountered. After retiring from the Marines, Loyal worked on Fort Campbell for Taylor Motors, which provides school bus service for the Fort Campbell Schools. Expanding his woodworking hobby in 1999, Loyal opened L.C. Woodcrafters on Fort Campbell Boulevard. Specializing in custom shadow boxes, plaques, framing, trophies and other forms of recognition, Loyal was able to provide a meaningful service for those who deserved special recognition. He built his business and reputation by providing beautiful products for his many customers. He was a charter member of the James N. McCutchen Detachment of the Marine Corps League #603, Clarksville. He served as Detachment Commandant and a term as Department of Tennessee Commandant.
Following his passing in April 2018, at the age of 82, Conard bequeathed his business to the daughter of a fellow Marine to ensure that recognition for service could continue; not only for the military but for youth, church and community activities. He will be remembered for his leadership and service; as an American, Marine, father, grandfather and businessman. Kaycee Conard Smith, Loyal’s daughter, continues the family tradition of service as an Associate Member and the Paymaster for Detachment 603.
We invite all Marines, sister service veterans and interested adults to join our organization. Marines, Navy Chaplains and FMF Corpsmen who have served with Marine units are eligible for voting membership, while others may join as Associate Members. For information on the Marine Corps League, contact stephenbaird@bellsouth.net or 931.538.2093