A mathematics and physics major at Albion College with activities ranging from cross country to tutoring to chapel and gaming, it's a wonder Devon Funk gets any sleep.
And then the sophomore who prepped at Harper Creek High School added participation in the Marine Corps reserves last January.
"I didn't want to be one of those people who didn't do anything when innocent people get hurt," Funk said.
A lance corporal now, Funk is being trained as a combat engineer who specializes in finding improvised explosive devices to clear the way for the infantry to come through.
"I wanted to be close to the front line, but my mom was not was not comfortable with me as straight up infantry," Funk said, explaining his mom was required to sign paperwork when he first joined the corps. "I want to serve and I don't care what I have to give up to protect (my fellow Marines). We have all these common experiences and you come to love each other through the building of strong bonds."
Funk says it has been fortunate that drill weekends have not kept him from any competitions with the Britons. He plans on going through advanced training for the entire summer in hopes of being ready for active duty in the corps after graduation.
"I hope to stay in the corps long enough to be effective," Funk said. "Hopefully after 20 years I can transition to a civilian job as a professor maybe."
With Veterans Day approaching, Funk says that he is just wants to carry on the special tradition of the Marine Corps.
"I personally have not done anything," he said. "(Veterans Day) is about those who have served. It's time to appreciate those who are done with their service."
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Joe and Julie Serra have given a $5 million leadership gift to launch a fundraising initiative to make two dreams a reality at Albion College. The first is a newly expanded fitness and student activity facility at the site of the current Dow Recreation and Wellness Center. The second is a new or renovated competition facility for the volleyball, men's basketball and women's basketball teams that currently call Kresge Gymnasium home.
The College is continuing to raise funds in support of both projects. To learn more, call 517/629-0446 or email advancement@albion.edu