Applications Sought for 2013 O'Grady-Brown Scholarships

The O'Grady-Brown Memorial Scholarship Fund, created in memory of two fallen Nyack police officers to support young people interested in a career in law enforcement, is accepting applications for its 2013 awards.

Last year, the fund provided $6,000 in scholarships to six Rockland County high school graduates, according to fund chairman Robert W. Van Cura. Applications have been sent to all of the high school guidance offices in Rocklalnd and applications can also be downloaded from the fund's website, www.ogradybrown.com

Applications must be submitted by April 15 and scholarships will be awarded at the fund's annual awards brunch, set for 10 a.m. on June 1 at the Nyack Seaport, Nyack.

The fund was created to "perpetuate the goals, aspirations and ideals" that characterize Nyack Police Officer Waverly Brown and Nyack Police Sergeant Edward O'Grady. They were killed as a result of the Oct. 20, 1981 Brinks armored truck robbery at the Nanuet Mall. They were part of a roadblock at Mountainview Avenue in Nyack when members of the Brinks robbery crew opened fire on police.

In the robbery, Brinks guard Peter Paige was killed and Joseph Trombino seriously wounded. Brinks guard James Kelly suffered wounds and a concussion.

Although the Nyack Police Department no longer exists, each Oct. 20 a memorial service honors the two police officers and the Brinks guard killed in the robbery.

The scholarship fund supports graduating high school students pursuing degrees directly relating to advancing a career in law enforcement. Scholarships are awarded without regard to age, sex, race or national origin.

High schools students who reside in Rockland County are eligible for the scholarship.