U.S. Army National Guard Second Lieutenant Robert S., father to Allison S. died in 2009. His daughter describes him as a “man of many talents” with the most prominent being music. “My father had a phenomenal ability for playing the trumpet. He would play Taps for ceremonies with the police department,” she says. “He used music to teach me valuable life lessons that I still think about today. The most important one of all being that you can’t quit after trying and failing.”
Allison finds peace in knowing her dad would be filled with pride knowing she is working toward her goals in life. “My dad was always insistent on me following my dreams and knowing I can achieve whatever I set my mind to. I like to think that I keep those ideals at the forefront of my mind.”
With the help of Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation, Allison is studying general mathematics and minoring in nonprofit management at Appalachian State University. “My father’s commitment to the community was passed onto me, and I want to make sure that I am able to play my part in giving a voice to the voiceless,” says Allison. Her plan is to attend law school after graduation and pursue a career as a criminal prosecutor.
“Because of Fallen Patriots, I can go to the school of my choosing and not have to worry about the financial backing it requires.The support they have provided has been vital to my success as a college student.”
Fallen Patriots aims to identify and provide scholarships to all 25,000 children who have lost a parent in the line of duty over the past 35 years.
