New fund established in honor of Sgt. Chad Keith

Fund will help educational field trips for Batesville students

(BATESVILLE, Ind.) – The Ripley County Community Foundation has launched a new legacy fund in honor an American hero from Batesville. 

Sgt. Chad Keith made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in Baghdad, Iraq on July 7, 2003. 

He enlisted in the Army prior to graduating from Batesville in 2000. Sgt. Keith was a member of the 2-325th Infantry, Company D, 82nd Airborne Division.

Friends recall how humble and artistic he was and how he was always up for a new adventure. Chad once met George W. Bush, shook his hand, and told him, "I'm going to be you one day."

He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery where Batesville Middle School eighth graders visit his grave during the annual D.C. trip. 

The newly-created Sgt. Chad Keith Legacy Fund aims to provide support for educational field trips offered through the middle schools located in Batesville, with preference given to support the Batesville Middle School’s 8th grade field trip to Washington DC.

“Civics education plays a vital role in fostering informed and engaged citizens. By visiting historical sites and learning about the foundations of our democracy, students can gain a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by veterans like Sgt. Keith”, stated Amy Streator, Executive Director of the Ripley County Community Foundation. 

To learn more about the Sgt. Chad Keith Legacy Fund contact the Ripley County Community Foundation at (812) 933-1098 or visit www.rccfonline.org.