Retired Marine grateful for opportunities at Polk State

Despite serving in the U.S. Marine Corps for more than 15 years and completing four combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, the thought of doing college-level work seemed daunting to Oscar McElroy. Thanks to the dedicated faculty and staff, small class sizes, and flexibility of Polk State College, McElroy has built confidence and found success in his academic endeavors.

A fourth-generation veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces, McElroy graduated from Frostproof High School in 1997. With limited job prospects in the area and a family history of military service, McElroy enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1999. After 16 and a half years, he medically retired in 2015 with full benefits.

“The military life is difficult,” McElroy explained. “You’re away from your family and friends. You miss holidays, birthdays, your kids’ milestones. It’s a sacrifice, but sometimes sacrifice is needed.”

A veteran-friendly college experience

A beneficiary of the Montgomery and Post 9/11 GI Bills, McElroy enrolled at Polk State during the Summer 2025 Semester – a decade after leaving the service. Having been out of school for nearly 30 years and struggling in settings with large crowds, McElroy initially had concerns about higher education, but the College helped to alleviate those.

“It has taken me 10 years to adjust,” he explained. “The class sizes are small. I like that I can take them early in the morning or in the evening – whenever it’s convenient and comfortable for me. Polk State caters to my needs. The professors make you use your critical thinking skills, which I really enjoy. It hasn’t been too stressful at all.”

Since 2025, Polk State has been recognized as a Florida Purple Star Campus. Established in 2023 by the Florida Department of Education, the distinction lasts three years and recognizes institutions that demonstrate a commitment to supporting military families, which include active-duty members and veterans.

“When I first explored college, everyone at Polk State was so knowledgeable and helpful,” McElroy recalled. “They kept me going in the right direction, so I didn’t have to figure it out on my own. I didn’t realize how many programs that Polk State had to offer. I thought it was going to be hard doing college-level work after being out of school for 30 years, but it’s been like riding a bike.”

A decorated military career

As a Marine, operated heavy equipment in Iraq and was part of missions in Afghanistan in Nowzad, Mariah, and Sangin. In between combat stints, McElroy worked as a recruiter out of St. Louis, Mo. From 2006 to 2009.

“I served because I love my country,” McElroy reflected. “I would never want my children to have to go through the things I saw the children in Iraq and Afghanistan go through.”

For McElroy, being away from his family wasn’t the only sacrifice that came with defending his nation. He experiences Post-Traumatic Stress and struggles with anxiety in crowded settings. During a required mixed martial arts training in 2011, McElroy was grappling with a fellow Marine and as he tried to countermove from his back, his foot stuck in place and turned 180 degrees.

After five years of limb salvage procedures, McElroy’s left leg was amputated four inches below the knee. He now has a prosthetic leg.

Grateful for everything

Fortunately for McElroy, he hasn’t gone through his journey alone. McElroy has been supported by his wife of 24 years, Rebekah, and their five children, ranging in age from 12 to 23. McElroy and his wife met in August 2002 when he was home from his deployment in Okinawa, Japan. After just two weeks of dating, the two were married. In January 2003, McElroy was deployed to Iraq.

“My wife has been with me through the highs and lows,” McElroy added. “She supports me going to college and trying to do the things I’m able to do. We all support one another.”

Through the Post 9/11 GI Bill, both McElroy’s wife and oldest son are also currently taking college classes. Set to graduate with his Polk State Associate in Arts in 2027, McElroy plans to continue his education at Polk State.

“My oldest son and I are sort of competing to see who can get a degree first,” McElroy said. “Taking college classes has kept my mind sharp. I want to get a bachelor’s degree from Polk State.”

“Polk State is proud to serve those who have served our country,” said President Anastasios Kamoutsas. “Oscar’s story is a powerful example of determination, resilience, and a commitment to lifelong learning. We are honored to provide a supportive environment where veterans and their families can build on their experiences, pursue their educational goals, and prepare for the next chapter of their lives.”

The College supports more than 400 active-duty service members, reservists, National Guard members, veterans, and their family members each year. Military members, veterans, and their families interested in learning more about Polk State’s programs and resources can visit the College’s Veterans Services page.

For veterans of the armed services, those who have been away from college for a long time, or those considering Polk State, McElroy offered thoughts and words of advice.

“It’s never too late to learn or to get an education,” he concluded. “Even though most of my peers are my kids’ ages, I’m treated well and like everyone else. I’m so grateful to be able to go to college here at Polk State.”