Perhaps there was no better time than Veterans Day for Spring Hill Elementary School in Fayetteville to pay homage to a Tyrone man who died for his country in Iraq.

Former Spring Hill assistant principal Sharon Collins was summoned to the stage and presented a plaque with her son’s photo on it, along with a sign proclaiming the area “1Lt. Collins Court” after her son, Army 1st Lt. Robert W. Collins. Lt. Collins was killed April 7, 2010 in an explosion in western Iraq.

It was noted that Lt. Collins exemplified so many of the leadership qualities that are being taught every day at Spring Hill.

Mrs. Collins raised the plaque aloft in response to a standing ovation. Her son is remembered by his platoon as a positive leader who cared about his men and was able to use his hallmark sense of humor to keep things light when necessary.

A special scholarship has been established in memory of 1st Lt. Collins to be awarded to a senior at Sandy Creek High School, his alma mater, “who exemplifies the character and life that Robert was known for: “Not by ability, but by heart.”

Donations may be made out by check and sent to:
The 1LT Robert Wilson Collins Patriot Spirit Scholarship
c/o The Bank of Georgia
100 Westpark Drive
Peachtree City, GA 30269