With an impressive command of the sky, Air Force veteran and VFW's “Sport Clips Help-A-Hero Scholarship" recipient Kareem Pore plans to use his skills as an airman to one day fly commercial airliners.
Pore began his 12-year career in the military in 2006. After being stationed at F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne, Wyoming, he was deployed overseas to Al Dhafra Air Base in the United Arab Emirates. He served with the Logistics Readiness Squadron, which managed the movement of resources and personnel.
On a deployment to Osan Airbase in South Korea, Pore earned his VFW eligibility. It was here that he began to see himself as a commercial pilot after being exposed to a commercial flight course.
“I am very familiar with the VFW,” Pore said. “It’s a place and organization that provides a safe haven for veterans.”
VFW Post 1881 in Cheyenne, Wyoming, is Pore’s Post, given it is less than 10 miles from F.E. Warren Air Force Base.
Pore learned about the scholarship through the website.
“The process to apply, compared to other scholarships, was simple, direct and to the point,” Pore praised. “There was never any confusion.”
Pore is currently using the scholarship towards a degree in Aeronautical Science at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, Arizona. He believes the skills he developed while serving, including team building, leadership and a keen attention to detail, will contribute to his success as a commercial pilot.
Pore is excited to continue his career in the skies. “I thank VFW and Sport Clips for this opportunity,” he concluded. “I would most definitely recommend this scholarship to other veterans pursuing a college degree.”
This article is featured in the 2025 October issue of Checkpoint. If you're a VFW member and don't currently receive the VFW Checkpoint, please contact VFW magazine at magazine@vfw.org.