Veteran: Glenn E. Collins

SUBMITTED PHOTO The charming Glenn E. Collins likes to ham it up on the Fourth of July.

When Glenn E. Collins graduated from high school and couldn’t find a good job, he joined the Army since his brother, Cicero, had joined the Air Force. His basic training was at Breckenridge, Ky.

“It was hard is all I can say,” Collins said. “I was a member of the artillery and went to Japan after boot camp. I also served in Japan and was proud to earn the rank of sergeant.

“I proudly served four years and was so happy to see my family when I returned home.”

Collins, who lives in Franklin Township with his wife, Nancy, and his dog, Dukie, was highly decorated, having been awarded the Silver Star while serving in Korea. It’s still hard for him to talk about it because it brings back sad memories.

“There was nothing funny about Korea; it was hell,” he said. Other honors include the Korean Medal of Honor, National Defense Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, Army Occupation of Japan and Korean Service Medal.

“I met Gen. Douglas McArthur and all of my fellow military buddies are special people,” he said. “My son, Steven, retired from the Marines. I am so proud of him.”

His son, Roger, who is deceased, served in the Marines for a short time. His other son, Jeff, resides in Beech Grove.