This year's recipient of the Merle Fister Veteran's Scholarship is US Marine Corps Veteran, Anthony Sandoval. 

"Before getting out of the Marine Corps I did not understand what I wanted to do with my life. Whether it be stay in and do twenty years or get out and become a civilian. Sadly, my last year in the Marine Corps, my wife passed away in a car accident, which left me widowed, broken and afraid. Shortly after deciding to get out I decided to dedicate my life to protecting our nation, whether it be in the military or some other form of service. While doing research I understood that with a degree opens more doors to agencies that protect our nation. Whether it be international or domestic terrorism, I knew I wanted to serve and do my best to protect the American people anyway I could. So I enrolled into Central Arizona College for two semesters, after a year of attending community college, I submitted an application to Arizona State University. It was not until my sophomore attending Arizona State that I decided Customs and Border Patrol is the perfect fit for me and that is what I attend to do in life after graduation. Doing more research I discovered the Air and Marine Operations aspect to Customs and Border Patrol which would go hand and hand with my military background and criminal justice and homeland security certificate not including the goals and dreams I inspire to accomplish with the rest of my life."