Three local students received a $500 scholarship from Fort Stewart-Hunter Army Airfield’s Sergeant Major Association in a ceremony at Michael’s Deli Thursday.

“As you go forward with your education goals and careers, remember there are a lot of people that want you to do well,” said Stewart-Hunter Garrison Com. Sgt. Maj. James Ervin. “The Sergeant Major Association is here to help you every way we can.”

He thanked scholarship sponsors and supporters, including the Sergeant Major Association, Liberty County Chamber of Commerce, CH2MHILL/OMI, Hinesville Military Affairs Committee and local businesses La Quinta Inn, Pioneer Services and Mike Reed Chevrolet.

In addition to Ervin, 3rd Infantry Division’s Com. Sgt. Maj. Edd Watson and other sergeants major, active duty and retired, were on-hand for the scholarship presentation.

Ervin explained the scholarship funds were raised each year through golf tournaments at Stewart and Hunter, and he again thanked members of the community for participating in and supporting the events.

Scholarships were presented to Darren Bergen from Hinesville, who will attend Georgia Southern University this fall with a major in mechanical engineering; Lindsey Blair from Savannah, who will attend Auburn University, majoring in business; and David Xiao from Richmond Hill, who will attend Mercer University as a pre-pharmacy major.

“At the end of the day, it’s all good,” Ervin concluded his remarks. “It’s not a full scholarship, but we have done something in our community to help our young adults. I urge you to pursue your goals, and remember that motivation is the key.”

Ervin will step down as garrison command sergeant major on Friday, following a change of responsibility ceremony. He said his next duty station is Aberdeen Proving Ground in Aberdeen, Md. He has been a senior enlisted leader at Fort Stewart since 2009.