In honor of Veterans day, the Ross Medical Education Center campus in Kokomo, Indiana had the pleasure of a visit from U.S. Army Specialist Anthony Walton as a guest speaker. As a friend of Assistant Campus Director of Admissions, Shannon Spencer, he was thrilled to come and speak to the students. Shannon arranged his visit to the campus and was able to be present during his motivational speech to the students.
The morning students in the Medical Assistant program, Dental Assistant program, and Medical Insurance Billing and Office Administration program classes gathered together to hear his message on strength, endurance and perseverance. Specialist Walton survived his last tour of duty in Afghanistan after being hit with 37 rounds. He came as a living inspiration to the students to never give up no matter what lies in front them. He also encouraged each of them to forge ahead and to not allow obstacles to stop them, because success is just beyond what they can see for the moment.
His speech and presence on the campus was revitalizing to all faculty, staff, and students. After speaking with all the classes together, he then went to each class individually and spoke with them on a more personal level. His testimony to the students was so impacting that three students who had considered dropping out of school due to situations in their home life changed their minds after hearing his story. He was able to reach them and affect their way of thinking. He showed them that through their struggles, they can produce something beautiful.
He also showed them that their attitude towards every difficulty is an opportunity. One senior Medical Assistant student, Lauren Buntyn, shared that he was an inspiration and that she enjoyed hearing him, “he told us to never give up no matter what.” As a token of appreciation from the campus for his time with them, his influence on the students, and his service to the country, Specialist Walton was given a Military Shadow Box, a celebration bucket filled with candy, Thank You cards, and cookies from the students, faculty, and staff. As United States Congressman Jeff Miller said, “the willingness of America’s veterans to sacrifice for our country has earned them our lasting gratitude.” The students and staff at the Kokomo campus would like to thank all military personnel for their service and sacrifice.