Jessie Davila Memorial Scholarship

Sgt. Jessie Davila was killed on February 20, 2006, while on mission in Baghdad, Iraq. His untimely death left a huge void in the lives of all who knew him. For me, his sacrifice set in motion a plan I had discussed with him prior to deployment. My plan was to return from Iraq, and pursue a law degree. I made a promise to Jessie that I would honor his sacrifice by following through with that plan and becoming an advocate committed to serving others.

Upon returning from Iraq in November of 2006, I immediately began my undergraduate studies at Park University. I didn't have any college credit when I started, but I was determined to finish as soon as possible, with the highest GPA possible, in order to get accepted to any law school that would take me. Jessie's selfless sacrifice served as a constant reminder to never take life for granted, and to always charge forward when times were tough.

In May of 2012, I kept my promise to Jessie by graduating from Stetson University College of Law. During my time at Stetson I became very involved in the area of Veterans Law. I decided that I would serve others by being an advocate for veterans, and helping them fight for their benefits.

The story doesn't end there. My hope is that more veterans decide to pursue law degrees as a means to serve others. I vowed to never forget Jessie, and to tell everyone I knew about him and his dedication to serve others. I am hoping to raise $25,000.00 in order to endow a scholarship in his name at the Stetson University College of Law.

The Sgt. Jessie Davila Memorial Scholarship would provide financial assistance to veterans of Iraq, and/or Afghanistan who are interested in pursuing a law degree. My hope is to eventually offer a full-tuition scholarship to a qualifying veteran each year, but I have to start small and keep building the fund. Please consider joining me in this new plan to honor Jessie by making a contribution.

Jessie, we love and miss you. We will never forget!