Robert “Bob” Emmet Leo
February 23, 1921 - March 23, 2022
Montana was originally part of the Inland Empire Chapter of APCO which included Montana, Eastern Washington, and Northern Idaho. Robert “Bob” Emmet Leo knew this territory was too large to be effective and took the first steps for Montana to start its own chapter on August 28th, 1973.
Bob, who lived to be 101 years old, was a man of many talents and stories. He was best known for his Gatti-Hallicrafters DXpedition in East Africa called “To the Mountains of the Moon,” and was the main radio operator at the 1948 Hallicrafters East Africa expedition. He served as a Navy JA Code interpreter during WWII and played a critical role in the outcome of the Battle of Midway.
Bob was active in HAM radio operations throughout his life and wrote a bit about these activities at the age of 96. His experience with radio communications, dedication, and drive paved the way for technicians, radio operators, and public safety telecommunicators around the state and the globe.
The Robert E. Leo Scholarship was designed to help Public Safety Professionals access opportunities for professional development. These funds can be used for both APCO courses and expert training in areas not addressed by APCO Institute. The scholarship can be applied to registration fees, books, actual course expenses, and attendance to MT APCO Conferences. Additional opportunities may be offered at the discretion of the Scholarship Committee.
By design, the funds cannot be used for travel, lodging, meals, living expenses, or membership fees for APCO.
Read the full description of the scholarship and criteria below or download an application today.
Are you interested in supporting local Montanans working in Public Safety Communications?
Click below to become a scholarship sponsor today. Your contributions stay local and go directly to those working in Public Safety Communications in Montana.
We are honored you are considering donating to the MT APCO Robert E. Leo Scholarship.
