Richard's Story
Richard W. Collins, III represented the best of America. A standout student-athlete in high school, he excelled in soccer and lacrosse and was known for his leadership and kindness, including his compassionate interactions with deaf students during a church volunteer trip.
At Bowie State University, Richard joined the Army ROTC, becoming the third generation of Collins men to serve in the military. By his senior year, his potential was evident. Montrose Robinson, head of Bowie State’s ROTC recruiting, called him “a star who wanted to be a general officer and he had what it would take to be a general.”
Commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant on May 18, 2017, Richard’s promising career was tragically cut short just two days later when he was murdered in a hate-fueled attack.
Stabbed by a white man on the University of Maryland campus just days before his college graduation, his life was taken as his potential was beginning to be realized.
In 2020, in recognition of his character and bravery, Richard was posthumously promoted to 1st Lieutenant by the U.S. Army.
Richard W. Collins, III
A Legacy of Service
Richard’s family has a long tradition of military service. His grandfathers served as a police officer and an Army soldier during the Korean War, while his father served in the Navy during the Vietnam War and his mother supported the military as a Navy spouse. Richard aspired to follow their path and was set to serve as a Military Intelligence officer in South Korea.
Confronting Hate and Racism
Richard’s murder echoes a painful family history, as his grandfather was similarly killed by a white man driven by blind hatred upon returning from the Korean war.
The Collins family’s story reflects the sacrifices many have made for a country that hasn’t always embraced them. Despite their tragedy, Dawn and Rick Collins remain committed to honoring Richard’s legacy through this foundation.
Richard W. Collins, Sr.
Richard W. Collins, Jr.
