When it was time to name the EST High School Senior Mentor Scholarship Award, the decision was both easy and clear. We chose to honor Eugene A. Carpenter, who was born in 1917 and spent his early years working on his family farm in Missouri. He graduated from Fresno State University in 1932 and served his country honorably in the Army Air Corps during World War II. After successfully completing 18 missions as a B-17 Bomber Navigator in WWII, he transitioned into the Air Force Reserves and fully retired in 1975.

Eugene continued to exemplify a spirit of service throughout his life. He was an active member and volunteer at his church, volunteered his time at Mather Air Force Base Hospital, and also volunteered with organizations such as the Red Cross and the Special Olympics. Moreover, he voluntarily tutored third, fourth, and fifth graders in reading and math at his grandchildren's elementary school.

He was a mentor to his crew during WWII, a guide at his beloved church, and a supportive figure in his community and family. Eugene A. Carpenter is the mentor I aspire to be. He was my grandfather, and having his love, support, and influence is undoubtedly a key reason I established EST.