Luke Sedlacek ’24 was presented with this first-time $5,000 scholarship made possible by the Meier Family for a graduating senior who is attending a military academy like Ben did.

Major Benjamin D. Meier was in the United States Air Force and was a La Salle graduate from the Class of 2000. Ben’s career as an Air Force fighter pilot had him deployed to Iraq, Libya, and twice to Afghanistan.

Among other commendations, Major Meier was awarded the Air Medal seven times, the Aerial Achievement Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal twice, and the Air Force Combat Action Medal. In one specific mission in Afghanistan, where he saved over 50 ground troops and protected innocent civilians with his tactical patience and aerial skills, Ben was the U.S. Air Forces in Europe nominee for the Exceptional Pilot Award, at which time he was considered in the top 10 of approximately 12,000 Air Force pilots.

Major Benjamin Meier passed away on September 29, 2015 in Lancaster, CA. He was struck by a hit-and-run driver while on his morning run. Ben is survived by his mother Ann who is pictured with Luke at Senior Presentation, his wife Becky, their sons Logan and Gabriel, his two sisters, and their families. The family established the Major Benjamin D. Meier Memorial Scholarship to keep Ben’s memory alive and to honor students like Luke who are committing themselves to a life of service by attending a military academy.

This $5,000 scholarship will be awarded to Luke upon his successful completion of basic cadet training. Thank you Mrs. Meier for continuing Ben’s legacy of service to others and for allowing La Salle to keep his memory alive at his Alma Mater through this scholarship opportunity. Congratulations Luke!