13-Year-Old Launches Scholarship Honoring Fallen Lincoln Police Officers
Most 13-year-olds are concerned with school, sports, and video games. Walker Fetner certainly is, too- but he’s also concerned with something much bigger: honoring two local heroes and making it his mission to make a difference.
In 1974, Lincoln police officers Otis Lee Robison and Allen Lee Harmon were killed in the line of duty. For nearly 50 years, their sacrifice remained largely unrecognized— until Walker took action. As the son of a police officer, Walker has grown up with a deep respect for those who serve and protect. That connection to law enforcement gives his mission a deeper meaning and fuels his determination to ensure that the memory of these fallen officers endures.
“After attending the memorial service where the highway was named in their honor, I sat there and thought, ‘How can I take this to the next level?’” Walker said. That moment sparked the idea for a scholarship fund that would support students pursuing careers in law enforcement, firefighting, the military, and other public service fields.
The initiative began as part of a service project for school, but quickly turned into a personal mission. Inspired by his dream to one day attend the United States Air Force Academy, Walker already understood the importance of leadership and community involvement. “Every year, my dad and I do something to give back, whether it’s Wreaths Across America or helping at the museum in Talladega,” he explained. “But I wanted to do something that could last—something that keeps giving.”
And give it will! The scholarship will be awarded to high school seniors across six Alabama counties—Calhoun, Clay, Cleburne, Talladega, Randolph, and St. Clair—who plan to pursue careers in public safety. The application process, modeled after public service industry standards, requires students to demonstrate academic achievement, strong moral character, and a clear commitment to service.
Walker, with support from his father and a dedicated board of directors, has already raised over $5,000 of their $10,000 initial goal. Once they reach that milestone, the funds will be invested to generate sustainable, long-term scholarship income. A financial plan researched, created, and executed by the 13-year-old founder. Eventually, Walker hopes to award at least one scholarship per county each year.
The project has drawn support from family, friends, local businesses—including McDonald’s and Mellow Mushroom—and community organizations. “We’re proud to support a young leader like Walker,” said Jeremy Wise, CVEC Manager of Marketing and Member Services. “His dedication to honoring the fallen officers and investing in the next generation of public servants is truly inspiring.”
The families of the fallen officers have also expressed their appreciation. “I’ve built a bond with Officer Robison’s family,” Walker shared. “His sister, Sandra, is even on our board of directors. It means a lot to have their support.”
As the scholarship fund gains momentum, Walker remains humble and focused. “This is about remembering two heroes who gave everything for their community,” he said. “And it’s about making sure we have strong leaders for the future.”
Applications for the Harmon-Robison Memorial Scholarship will open January 1, 2026, with the first awards presented in April 2026. For more information or to support the fund, visit the HRMS50 website.