Dars Fest Captain Michael J. Medders Scholarship

Michael Joseph Medders was a 2001 graduate of Avon Lake High School, where he was the Senior Class Treasurer and a first-team All-Southwestern Conference, all-district, all- county, and all-Ohio Football player for the Shoremen. Michael was also a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and the Avon Lake Chorale. He attended Walsh University in North Canton on a football scholarship and then transferred to Bowling Green State University his sophomore year. He entered the R.O.T.C. in 2003 at Bowling Green State University and graduated in 2005. Upon graduation, he was assigned to the 2nd Squadron, 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment at Fort Hood where he served as a troop leader. His unit was deployed to Forward Operating Base Caldwell about 60 miles northeast of Baghdad near the Iraq/Iran border. In May 2008, he was hit by a roadside bomb near Baghdad and suffered a concussion. He was treated at a field hospital and promptly returned to work. In July 2008, Michael's leadership and excellence was rewarded when he was promoted to Captain. Captain Michael Joseph Medders lost his life in the line of duty on September 24, 2008 in Jisr Naft Iraq. Michael touched so many hearts and was always laughing, smiling, optimistic and willing to help others. He lived his live to the fullest with a contagious personality, infectious laughter and a caring heart. Captain Michael J Medders leaves an enduring legacy.