GAINESVILLE, Ga. — A young Georgia teen’s heartfelt tribute is touching hearts far beyond state lines after he ran a mile in honor of a fallen Ohio police officer.
Gainesville student pays tribute through nonprofit run
Andrew Collinson, a freshman at Gainesville High School, completed a one-mile memorial run on Friday to honor Officer Phillip Wagner, a police officer from Lorain, Ohio, who recently died in the line of duty. The run was part of Collinson’s involvement with Running 4 Heroes, a nonprofit organization that supports and honors fallen first responders through symbolic runs.
Police escorted the mile in honor of Officer Wagner
Collinson’s tribute was far from solitary. He was escorted by officers from the Gainesville Police Department, the Hall County Sheriff’s Office, and other local emergency agencies. As he ran, Collinson carried a blue line flag, symbolizing his solidarity with law enforcement across the country.
A message of gratitude from one teen to a hero’s family
In addition to his run, Collinson shared that he would be sending a personal letter to the Wagner family to offer his condolences and appreciation for Officer Wagner’s service.
“I’m honored to be running for Officer Wagner. He served the people of Lorain and our country with integrity and strength. He is a true hero,” Collinson told 19 News.
A small act, a wide impact
While Officer Wagner served in Lorain, Ohio, the impact of his sacrifice is now being felt in Gainesville, Georgia — a testament to how a single act of remembrance can ripple across communities and inspire others, regardless of distance…