A step into the DeSoto County School Board meeting Thursday night and the signs were there. Something special was about to happen.
“He’s the most-friendly Christian man I think I’ve ever met. He is loved by everyone who knows him,” said Olive Branch resident Lana Hathacote.
Beloved 96-year-old World War II veteran K.T. Robbins of Olive Branch finally got the high school diploma he wanted for years.
It was a presentation that drew a standing ovation. Young students sang “God Bless America” as Robbins watched smiling and waving to the young singers. There were also lots of pictures and smiles in the room.
“I am flabbergasted. I tell you I really am, it’s so wonderful,” said Robbins.
District leaders said Robbins joined the U.S. Army as World War II was starting. He served under General George Patton. Robbins became a baker, delivering bread to soldiers overseas while often dodging bullets. His role took him to places like Iceland, England and France.
This night, there was no dodging this community’s show of thanks.
“Oh yes, yes, we’ll hear about this for quite a while,” said Hathcote, Robbin’s close neighbor.
“It’s great. It’s the greatest thing that’s happened to me here I’ll tell ya,” said Robbins smiling.
