By Screaming Eagle Foundation
FORT CAMPBELL, Ky. – As the 72nd anniversary of the 101st Airborne Division’s activation approaches, veterans of the U.S. Army’s famed 101st are back in the news – caring for their fellow Screaming Eagles on active duty today.
The 101st Airborne Division Association consists of 7,400 Screaming Eagle veterans across the nation. In 2012, these 101st Airborne Association veterans formed the “Screaming Eagle Foundation” to help take care of financial emergencies and special support services for active-duty 101st soldiers.
The U.S. Internal Revenue Service officially granted 501 (c) (3) tax-exempt status for all Screaming Eagle Foundation donations at the end of June. “The foundation has operated for two years on “interim” tax exempt status as a “start-up foundation,” says Fred Ranck, financial advisor and secretary, speaking for the foundation officers and board of trustees.” It is a joy and honor to support our younger soldiers,” Ranck adds.
The foundation continues to support programs at Ft. Campbell to benefit junior enlisted soldiers serving on active duty, and their families. Wounded Warriors receive support, and college scholarship opportunities are provided for descendants and heirs of 101st Airborne Division Association veterans through charitable donations.
“This is a joyous time for Screaming Eagles everywhere,” says Tom Sewell, Screaming Eagle Foundation President. “This gives all veterans, soldiers, sponsors, and friends of the 101st the opportunity to contribute and say thank you to men and women who serve our country, now and in the future.”
Prior to the Screaming Eagle Foundation, the Screaming Eagle Support Program (SESP) and Scholarship Program were conducted by the 101st Airborne Division Association. Since 2001, the 101st Association has provided $1.5 million in financial support to soldiers and family programs at Fort Campbell, KY. The association has also awarded $274,351 in scholarships to eligible applicants. “With the new tax-exempt status, hopefully more members and people will now contribute to the foundation, allowing it to do more for our committed young men and women who are serving our country,” said Fred Ranck.
More donations increase the foundation’s ability to provide more assistance. Tax-free contributions can be sent to the “Screaming Eagle Foundation” at http://www.screamingeaglefoundation.org or call the 101st Airborne Division Association National Headquarters at Fort Campbell, KY at (931) 431-0199.