Lakeland proclaims Feb. 22 as Pfc. Robert Lee Colter Day as remains returned after 84 years

The City Commission issued a proclamation on Feb. 17 recognizing the return and reinterment of Private First Class Robert Lee Colter, a Lakeland native who served in the U.S. Army Air Forces and died as a prisoner of war in the Philippines during World War II.

Mayor Bill Mutz read the proclamation recounting Colter's service, capture following the December 1941 invasion of the Philippine Islands, internment at Cabantuan POW Camp and subsequent burial at the Manila American Cemetery. City staff said Colter's remains were disinterred in 2018 and positively identified in 2023 by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency. "After 84 years, Robert Lee Colter finally returned to his hometown and family, fulfilling our nation's promise to never leave a warrior behind," the proclamation said.

Representatives from veterans organizations — including the Military Order of the Purple Heart and the Herman Jenkins Memorial American Legion Post 4 — presented certificates of appreciation to Colter's family during the meeting. Sheila Tindall, representing the United Daughters of the Confederacy at the meeting, presented a certificate on behalf of her organization, and other veterans groups also offered honors.

City staff announced a viewing on Feb. 21 and a graveside reinterment ceremony scheduled for Feb. 22 at 11 a.m. at Lakeland Memorial Gardens, hosted by the Military Order of the Purple Heart Department of Florida and partner groups.

Commissioners and family members described the return of Colter's remains as a solemn and meaningful moment for the community. The commission recessed its presentation items to proceed with regular business.