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Date: 7/26/2018
SOMERS, CT – Leroy Collins is a modest man. “I do a lot of stuff, but it’s no big deal. A lot of guys do what I do,” he told The Reminder.
Collins, a member of American Legion Post 101 in Somers, has been nominated for the recognition of Legionnaire of the Year for the state of Connecticut.
Drafted into the Army in 1969 – “I went willingly, I had no problem.” – Collins spend two years in the military and although he was trained for duty in Vietnam, he was never assigned there.
Post 101 Commander David McCaffrey praised Collins for his dedication to the post and to helping veterans.
“Collins is a 360 degree, 365 days-a-year, dedicated Legion veteran. It is a matter-of-fact that he accomplishes something for our Post every day of the year, often causing an about-face of some challenging and critical situations. He holds two officer positions within the Post as well as 12 committee positions – each having nearly daily activity/action items required of him,” McCafferty said.
He continued, “Many local heroes go unnoticed; Collins’ is one such individual. His skills extend far beyond that of his Legion responsibilities. He has a special ability to project a warm, cheerful attitude to everyone around him. Quite a few have seen him resolve conflicts and handle other difficult situations with remarkable patience and admirable tact. In the community, he goes out of his way to help people in need by offering transportation, picking up supplies, helping with handyman projects, offering auto mechanic advice and assistance and just being a trusted friend. He loves people, works extremely unpredictable and endless hours for the Legion and always tries to lift the spirits of those around him. His endearing personality traits have helped many veterans who suffer from a myriad of physical and emotional health issues.”
Collins was noted as a “key player” for the post’s “Flags on Main” project. He makes frequent trips to the town’s cemeteries to look for misplaced or destroyed flags and medallions on the graves of veterans. He assists in the post’s monthly participation in the Somers Flea Market.
Collins said he wasn’t really surprised by the news of his nomination and said it was the first time for such a recognition.
“I do a lot of stuff for vets. That’s what it’s all about,” he said. Collins called himself “fortunate” to have come out of his military service with no injuries, unlike many people who served during the Vietnam War.
Collins, now retired, spent many years working for Sweetlife Foods in Suffield, CT.
McCaffrey concluded, “Collins is one our most beloved and respected Post veterans and is a “cornerstone” member of our Somers community. It continues to be a daily privilege to know and work alongside this extraordinary and dedicated veteran. I feel confident that you will wholeheartedly agree that Mr. Leroy F. Collins is the most deserving candidate for this award.”