Colonel Chris Toner

Colonel Chris Toner graduated from Washburn Rural in 1983. After graduating from Emporia State University, he received his commission in 1987 as a distinguished military graduate of the ROTC program. Currently, Col. Toner serves as the Chief of Staff, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. Col. Toner is a graduate of the Naval War College, School for Advanced Military Studies, Command and General Staff College, the Infantry Officer Basic and Advanced Course, the Field Artillery Officer Advanced Course, the Air Assault Course, the Airborne Course, Jumpmaster Course, and Ranger Course. Col. Toner's awards and decorations include the Valorous Unit Award, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Ribbon with four stars, NATO Medal, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Expert Infantryman Badge, the Senior Parachutist Badge, the Air Assault Badge, and the Ranger Tab. Col. Toner carries the distinction as one of the most decorated WR military soldiers in our high school's history.