The Willis Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization formed in memory and in honor of a beloved brother, son, friend and Marine, is committed to supporting the men and women of our armed services by providing Great Rewards for Great Warriors. The mission of the Willis Foundation is to continue to perpetuate the memory of Corporal Christopher Kelly Willis by fostering and contributing to the welfare of those things in life he loved and cared for the most, the world's children and the United States Marines. Because of the generosity of Willis Foundation contributors, our scholarships have been given to these children who have also given the ultimate sacrifice — please help the Willis Foundation in securing their future:

2011 Scholarship Recipient – Avery Matteoni

This year’s scholarship recipient is Avery Matteoni. 

Avery is the daughter of Sgt Anthony and Lindsy Matteoni of Union City, Michigan. Sergeant Anthony Matteoni was a United States Marine who served with 2nd Battalion, 6th Marines.

Sgt Matteoni was killed in the Helmund Province of Afghanistan in 2010, having never met his daughter Avery who was born in February of 2011.

2010 Scholarship Recipient Elizabeth Julian and her mother Erin

Elizabeth is the daughter of SSgt David and Erin Julian of Plainwell, Michigan.

SSgt David D. Julian served with 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division.

Staff Sergeant Julian was killed in combat in Baghdad in 2008.

2009 Scholarship Recipient – Amirah Goode

Amirah is the daughter of Corporal Jordan and Aubrey Goode of Kalamazoo, Michigan.

Corporal Goode was a Kalamazoo Central High School graduate and served with the 4th Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division.

Corporal Goode was killed in combat in Afghanistan in 2007.