Unexpected awards bestowed by Truman State University…

As Truman State University was recognizing their graduates, they took the time to recognize our son Connor and the impact he had on campus.  Twice this week, Connor received honors.  They were completely unexpected and most appreciated.  He was recognized for his work, in a short time, at the school he loved.

Connor was honored with the “Black Jack Pershing” award given annually to one Military Science student who:  “demonstrates the ability to achieve their goals and goals the Battalion sets forth, displays resilience in achieving these goals, have made sustained contributions toward improving self and fellow cadets in the Truman State University ROTC Battalion, in a manner worthy of Battalion wide recognition, significantly advanced and improved the Battalion.”

Connor received this award from the Military Science Department.  In a kind, personal letter, we were told that even today, he has made a lasting impact on the Cadet Battalion.  Major J. Anderson, U.S. Army expressed that Connor was one of his top students.  He had just finished grading one of his papers when he heard the tragic news of his passing.

He was also awarded a certificate of recognition, for his successful progress, toward the attainment of a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, by Troy D. Paino, Truman State University, President.

We are honored and humbled by these unexpected awards and graciously accepted them on behalf of Connor.  Our family continues to be blessed by the life of our son.  People still recognizing his accomplishments continue to amaze us.  Thank you to all that share these awards and memories of him.  It fills our hearts with joy!

I pray for you to live your life with zest.  Always place a high value on people, no matter who they are, where they came from, the color of their skin or how they present themselves.  Connor told me, one of his missions in life, was to meet as many people as he could.  He always stopped and spoke with people and asked their story.  Only hours before he tragically left us, he called to tell me, that he had met a man  walking through Kirksville with military issued boots.  He took time for a long conversation with him and asked me to look him up on line and read his story.  He was walking across America for a purpose.   Connor had an enthusiastic appreciation and love for life.  His positive attitude was contagious.  I know that he lived life fully everyday.  Many were blessed to see him grow into all of these qualities, some had only just met him.  As his mother, I was given a gift in him and will forever be grateful.

May the Lord bless you and keep you, may the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious unto you, may the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.  Number 6:24-26