RCCF Announces Establishment of Jerald & Helen Jahnigen Scholarship

Graduating seniors with familial connection to the Versailles American Legion Post 173, Sons of American Legion may apply.

Jerald “Butch” and Helen Jahnigen. Photo by Korrinn Wood Photography (provided by RCCF).

(Ripley County, Ind.) - The Ripley County Community Foundation is honored to announce the establishment of the Jerald “Butch” and Helen Jahnigen Scholarship. The Jahnigen family established this scholarship in memory of Butch as a legacy of his distinguished military career and his life-long devotion to the American Legion.

Butch entered the Army in 1952 and served in the Korean War earning the rank of Corporal before his discharge on March 1, 1954. His distinguished service to his country was recognized with the Korean Service Medal with three Bronze Stars, the United Nations Service Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal. As a lifelong member of the Versailles American Legion he held various positions and participated in all aspects. The American Legion Park east of Versailles was named in his honor.

Beginning with the class of 2025, The Jerald R. “Butch” and Helen Jahnigen Scholarship will provide a scholarship to a graduating high school senior who has a familial connection to the Versailles American Legion Post 173, Sons of the American Legion, and/or Auxiliary. Students must write an essay about the role of the American Legion in the applicant’s community.

“Selfless service for the betterment of all is a core American value which Butch lived every day. The creation of this scholarship seemed to be the most fitting way to honor Butch’s legacy”, stated the Jahnigen Family.

Visit https://rccfonline.org/ to donate to the Jerald R. “Butch” and Helen Jahnigen Scholarship or any of the 209 endowment funds managed by the Ripley County Community Foundation. To learn more about how you can create opportunities in your community, contact the Ripley County Community Foundation, which is located at 13 E. George Street, Suite B, Batesville, IN, by calling 812-933-1098, or via email at office@rccfonline.org. This is just one more way we are working to Connect People who Care with Causes that Matter.