Hawley, Texas, is a small town known for its passion for Friday night football and the strong bonds of friendship and family. In Hawley, it’s common to find individuals willing to give you the shirt off their back to help someone in need. This small Texas town laid the foundation for the person Ashton Kroner is today. Although she spent her formative years in the South, life’s journey led her north, and she eventually graduated high school in Clarence, New York.
Following high school, Kroner decided to join the Marine Corps. That decision traces back to a moment in her childhood. Watching a military commercial late at night, she was captivated by the image of men and women navigating an obstacle course. To her young mind, it seemed like they were playing on a grown-up playground. Excitedly, she told her parents she wanted to join the military.
Semper Fi
From July 2007 to July 2015, Kroner proudly served in the Marine Corps, specializing as a field radio operator with the MOS 0621. During this period, her primary unit was the esteemed 8th Communications Battalion. In 2009, she embarked on a deployment to Iraq with the same unit, where she willingly took on the role of a Lioness alongside the infantrymen of 1st Battalion 8th Marines.
In 2011, she undertook another deployment, this time to Afghanistan. Amidst the challenges of service, she balanced the responsibilities of being a newlywed and a stepmom to her now-adopted daughter. Upon returning home, Kroner continued with military orders for recruiting duty, where she dedicated her final three years of enlistment. This chapter gave her valuable experiences and further shaped her commitment to service.
The Transition
Her transition to the civilian sector was marked by an array of challenges, particularly during her family’s time in North Carolina. Despite eight years of military experience, finding gainful employment proved more difficult than anticipated. Kroner found work in property management, earning just a few cents over minimum wage—far from sufficient to meet the needs of her growing family.
Looking back on this period with a sense of reflection, Kroner said there were aspects of her transition that she wished she had approached differently, notably recognizing the importance of having a well-thought-out plan. She didn’t conduct thorough research on the labor market in North Carolina, nor did she begin applying for jobs until after her discharge. Living on food stamps and a meager hourly wage, it became evident that she should have started planning well in advance—perhaps a year before her discharge.
New Opportunities
Faced with these challenges, Kroner and her husband sought better employment opportunities, leading them to Illinois. In this new chapter, she spent two years at a medical device company, navigating the challenges of debt incurred during the relocation. While traveling the U.S. for work and attending school full time, she burned the candle at both ends to secure a stable future for her family. It was during this time that she was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress (PTSD) and a traumatic brain injury (TBI), adding another layer of complexity to her life.
Upon completing a bachelor’s degree in 2018, Kroner found purpose and solace in working with the Road Home Program at Rush University Medical Center. Helping veterans access PTSD treatment at no cost became a significant part of her focus. Little did she know that the challenges were far from over.
In 2021, after completing her master’s degree, her faith and mental stability faced another test when her husband Casey was diagnosed with cancer. Together, they weathered the storm, laughing, sharing dreams and emerging as a stronger couple. During this challenging period, she reflected on the significance of her time at the Road Home Program.
The Alliance
Despite the stability in Illinois, they relocated to Jacksonville, Florida, seeking warmth and outdoor opportunities. This move symbolized a geographical change and a commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for their family, including their children. Kroner was introduced to the Avalon Action Alliance (the Alliance) and began her position as the associate director of development for the UF Health Leon L. Haley Jr., M.D., Brain Wellness Program, which operates under the Avalon Action Alliance’s umbrella.
The Alliance is a significant network that plays a crucial role in providing support and treatment for veterans and first responders dealing with various challenges, including TBIs, PTSD and substance use. It serves as a comprehensive platform dedicated to the overall well-being and mental health of those who have served or are serving in the military and first responder roles. This program goes beyond conventional approaches, offering comprehensive care that addresses TBIs’ physical and mental aspects.
The mission of the Alliance extends beyond geographical boundaries, aiming to create a nationwide network of resources and support. By fostering collaboration among various organizations, health care providers and professionals, it seeks to enhance the accessibility and quality of care for veterans and first responders.
Within the Alliance, there is a strong emphasis on inclusivity, ensuring that veterans receive the care they need regardless of their discharge status, era served, service-connection disability or financial capability. This commitment to inclusivity aligns with the broader goal of creating a supportive and understanding community for those who have served their country.
In her role, Kroner contributes to the program’s mission by working towards securing resources, raising awareness and building partnerships that enable the program to continue its valuable work. The Alliance’s collaborative approach and commitment to veterans’ well-being make it integral to the broader effort to support those who have sacrificed for their communities and country.
Unbreakable Bond
In Florida, Kroner and her veteran husband discovered many shared interests beyond military roles that further solidified their connection. Riding motorcycles became a shared hobby, a source of joint adventure and offered the freedom of the open road. Their passion for scuba diving introduced them to the wonders beneath the surface, creating memories and experiences that transcended the ordinary. Their commitment to service extended to actively engaging in serving their community. The dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of others became a shared value, adding even more depth to their relationship.
Support is Critical
From Kroner’s perspective, reaching out for help is crucial for a successful transition. There was a time when she struggled to process her emotions, leading to outbursts with those closest to her. Pride got in the way, and she almost lost her family and herself because she believed seeking help was a sign of weakness, a disappointment to others.
This mindset persisted even after leaving the military, nearly costing her everything. When she finally summoned the courage to seek help, she realized how wrong she had been. “The pain may be invisible, but it’s just as real,” Kroner shared. “You can’t drown it in alcohol, bury it in work or distract yourself from those invisible wounds. If you had a broken leg, you’d see a doctor—mental health deserves the same attention.”
She continued, “My advice to fellow veterans facing their own demons is simple: get help for yourself. Even if you’re given an ultimatum, those close to you want the best for you and don’t want to see you struggle. Prioritize your health—we’re only here for a short time, and there’s so much to experience in the world. While our military service had a profound impact, don’t let it define the rest of your life. Seek help, prioritize your well-being and embrace the possibilities beyond the challenges.”
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