University of Alabama doctoral student Michael LaRocca has been named a 2014 Tillman Military Scholar. (c/o Pat Tillman Foundation) 

TUSCALOOSA, Alabama -- A University of Alabama doctoral student and Purple Heart recipient who served in Iraq has been named to the 2014 class of Tillman Military Scholars. 

Clinical psychology student Michael LaRocca, originally from Ohio, is one of 58 service members, veterans and military spouses chosen from over 7,500 interested applicants. 

According to a UA press release, LaRocca served as an infantry officer in South Korea before serving in Iraq, where he earned a Purple Heart. 

He attended West Point before obtaining his Master's in clinical psychology at Pepperdine University. 

According to the release, LaRocca works with veterans at the local VA as he completes his dissertation on PTSD predictors in combat veterans. 

The Pat Tillman Foundation, dedicated to the memory of the NFL player who enlisted following 9/11, awards more than $1.4 million in higher education scholarships.

"The Tillman Military Scholarship is not a gift; it is an investment in excellence and potential," said Marie Tillman, President and Co-Founder of the Pat Tillman Foundation, in a release. "Pat lived his life with a passion for learning and action – he didn't sit on the sidelines. The Tillman Military Scholars selected embody the same ideals that he lived by every day. Through our mission, we are proud to support and empower these outstanding leaders as they pursue their educational goals and strive to impact significant, positive change for our country and communities after their military service."