Tinker Officers’ Spouses’ Club hands out 8 scholarships Published May 28, 2009 By Howdy Stout Tinker Public Affairs TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- On May 13 the Tinker Officers' Spouses' Club presented eight scholarships totaling more than $8,000 to seven high school graduates and one military spouse. Speaking at the presentation ceremony, Col. Allen Jamerson, 72nd Air Base Wing commander, praised the students for their academic efforts. "You're the kind of people our nation needs," he said. "You're the people who are going to take the flag and keep our nation strong." Michael Kloiber, president of Tinker Federal Credit Union, said it is important for college students to be as debt-free as possible. "College graduates with large student loans are at a disadvantage even before entering the workplace," he said. The TOSC sponsors the annual college scholarship program through donations and funds raised at the Tinker Thrift Shop. Scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, community participation and leadership. Colonel Jamerson praised the efforts of the club, saying the activism and support of military spouses is "what continues to keep our Air Force and our military families strong."