Caitlin R. is the daughter of fallen U.S. Marine Captain Alan R. He died September 3, 2004, from an IED Explosion. His loved ones say he was humble, strong, smart, and hard-working. Caitlin says, “He loved the Marine Corps and had the respect of his Marines and his superiors.”
With the help of Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation, Caitlin is studying environmental engineering at the University of Southern California. “I thought I would try to find a field where I can take math and physics and do something that contributes to society’s well-being,” explains Caitlin, “Be it sustainability for our environment, or urban planning which allows our natural environment to be preserved, I am looking forward to making a difference.”
Caitlin takes solace in knowing her father was proud to serve his country. “I know how much serving our country meant to him, and that gives meaning to his death. I know he died doing something he loved and believed in, which makes me proud he was serving our country in the military,” Caitlin says.
Caitlin credits Fallen Patriots support for helping make college transition easier. “It’s because of Fallen Patriots’ support that I was able to get into a top school at a private university. The foundation helped with the purchase of my computer as well as tuition for my school,” she says.
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.
