Nebraska American Legion Selects Maynard Jensen Memorial Scholarships
News Release
(Lincoln) April 1, 2026 – The Nebraska American Legion selected 13 recipients of the Maynard Jensen Scholarship. The Maynard Jensen scholarship began in 1989 as “The American Legion Scholarship” and it was renamed in 1992 in memory of Past Department Commander Maynard Jensen of Aurora.
Jensen was a World War II Navy Veteran who served in the invasion of Normandy and then in Southern France. He served as the Nebraska American Legion Department Commander from 1971-72. Jensen also served on numerous Department Committees within The American Legion.
For the 39th consecutive year, the Nebraska American Legion has done its part in helping Nebraska students with scholarship money. The recipients of $500.00 scholarships are Jack T. Baker of Trenton; Joslyn M. Reiff of Callaway; Tucker E. Bickford of Weeping Water; Derek W. Nanke of Plattsmouth; Jordin A. Woebbecke of Blair; Rebecca M. Wacker of Shelby; Bryson D. Gullion of Culbertson; Danielle L. Pallat of Seward; Ryan J. Rifer of Orchard; Lane D. Fischer of Wakefield; BrieAnn M. Mellick of Waterbury; Blayklee E. Farr of Maywood and Camryn L. Engel of Doniphan.
The American Legion is dedicated to the motto of “Veterans Strengthening America.” Chartered by Congress in 1919, The American Legion is committed to mentoring youth and sponsoring wholesome community programs, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting a strong national security, and continued devotion to servicemembers and veterans. Legionnaires in more than 12,500 posts across the nation and regions overseas serve their communities with a devotion to mutual helpfulness.