Ashton Kroner, USMC Veteran and PINK Director of Veteran Affairs, TBI Survivor
Ashton served in the United States Marine Corps for five years as a Field Radio Operator with the 8th Communications Battalion, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. She deployed in 2009 in support of OIF, receiving orders as a Lioness attached to 1st Battalion, 8th Marines at Al-Taqaddum Air Base. In 2011, she deployed to Camp Leatherneck in support of OEF with the 8th Communications Battalion. From 2012 to 2015, she was a Recruiter stationed with the 1st Marine Corps District RS Albany, New York.
During her time in service, she suffered multiple traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and now lives with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). She says, “As a Marine Corps veteran, I have seen and experienced firsthand the challenges of coming back home. Living with TBIs and PTSD has been a significant part of my journey. At the UF Health Leon L. Haley Jr., MD, Brain Wellness Program, we focus on addressing these challenges. Our program is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for veterans dealing with TBIs and PTSD, helping them regain their quality of life. Seeing the progress and resilience of veterans in our program is incredibly rewarding, and it reinforces my commitment to this vital work.”
Ashton completed her Bachelor’s degree from Purdue University, graduating Summa Cum Laude in July 2018, and received her Master’s in Business Administration from Purdue in 2021. She worked at the Road Home Program as the Outreach manager prior to joining the Haley Brain Wellness Program. Ashton is now the Associate Director of Development at UF Health Leon L. Haley Jr., MD, Brain Wellness Program. She volunteers her time with the Marine Corps League.