The day after Christmas, the family of Wayne State University Police Department Sgt. Collin Rose — who was killed in the line of duty in November — wrote a letter of thanks to WSU President M. Roy Wilson and First Lady Jacqueline Wilson and asked that it be shared with the entire university.
In the letter, Randy, Karen and Curtis Rose and Collin’s fiancée, Nikki Salgot, wrote: “We cannot begin to express our appreciation for all the support from the entire university — students, faculty, staff, the police department, and you and Jacqueline during this terrible tragedy.”
The letter says that Rose realized his dream by becoming a police officer and K-9 handler, and that he was proud to be graduating with his master’s degree.
“Collin loved the university — he loved helping others. We often asked him what he did to help someone that day. Collin always had a great story that would warm our hearts. He loved to tell stories about his work.”
President Wilson also offered his gratitude to the WSU community by saying, “I join the Rose family in thanking all the students, faculty, staff and community members for their generous and heartfelt support in this difficult time. You helped us pay fitting tribute to a fallen Wayne State hero.”
Rose was inducted as a Wayne State University police officer in 2011 and quickly earned a reputation as a hard worker and self-starter. He was a patient and highly skilled dog trainer who developed the department’s canine unit to incorporate new capabilities. Outside agencies such as the United States Secret Service and the FBI frequently sought his abilities as a canine officer.
Rose worked hard to get to know his community and build bridges with them during a time in the nation when police-community relations were often strained.
On Nov. 22, 2016, Rose was shot while on patrol. He died the next day from his injuries.
Rose was promoted to sergeant and head of the canine unit by Chief Anthony Holt on Nov. 29, 2016, and was posthumously granted his master of arts in dispute resolution at the December commencement ceremony.
At its December meeting, the Wayne State University Board of Governors commended Rose in recognition of his heroism, hard work and selflessness. His board citation says: “He serves as an inspiring example for the entire campus community of how valor and civil service can help build great communities: and his legacy as a hero will not be forgotten.”
The letter from the Rose family concludes with, “Thank you for giving our son the opportunity to flourish in life, and thank you for all your support during this difficult time. Please continue to pray for us. We are sincerely grateful for everything.”