Fulton Walker spent his life with strong roots in Martinsburg. Now, Martinsburg is honoring his love for the town with a scholarship in his honor.

Walker’s family and friends have created the Fulton L. Walker Jr. Scholarship Fund in his memory at the Eastern West Virginia Community Foundation. The scholarship will benefit students from Martinsburg High who plan to attend West Virginia University, Walker’s alma mater.

The $2,500 scholarships will be given to graduation senior at Martinsburg who have excelled both academically and athletically during their time in high school. The recipient should also be active in community service, something that was close to Walker’s heart.

The program may also offer a $1,000 scholarship from time to time for students who have demonstrated a commitment to personal excellence.

Walker was a four-sport athlete at for the Bulldogs, especially in football. He went on to play at WVU, and Walker eventually played in the NFL for the Miami Dolphins and Los Angeles Raiders.

Walker played both football and baseball for the Mountaineers.

Walker was known for being the first player in Super Bowl history to return a kickoff for a touchdown. He ran the kick 98 yards when his Dolphins took on Washington in Super Bowl XVII.

Walker retired after eight season in the NFL.

He never forgot his roots in the Eastern Panhandle, volunteering as a coach and mentor to young athletes.

The scholarship also commemorates Walker’s dedication to education. Given the chance to play professional baseball straight out of high school, Walker decided to turn that down and attend college. He eventually earned his Master’s degree in industrial safety.

Walker passed away in October at the age of 58.

Donations can be made to the EWVCF. For more information, visit www.EWVCF.org.