July 19, 2007
EVANSTON, Ill. -- Northwestern fans can help former Wildcat great Ron Burton earn entrance into the Patriots' Hall of Fame by visiting New England's web site and casting your vote!
Burton is one of three finalists, along with Stanley Morgan and Ben Coates.
Burton had a stellar on-field career with both the Wildcats and Patriots. He is a member of College Football's Hall of Fame.
While Burton's athletic talents are well-documented, it was his off-the-field contributions that made him a special person.
When he lost his battle with bone cancer over four years ago, the outpouring of love for this man was overwhelming. A John Hancock advertisement ran in the Boston papers stating, "First he was a Patriot. Then he became a Giant."
As the first-round draft pick of the Boston Patriots, everyone knew he was a good running back, in spite of the fact that he never talked about it. But the most striking aspect of his passing was, and continues to be, the depth of love and admiration people have for Ron Burton, the man.
After his football career, Burton continued to serve his community and started the Ron Burton Training Village, a camp for adolescent boys from all races and walks of life, which strives to improve their physical, mental and spiritual growth.
For over 20 years, this camp has instilled love, peace, patience and humility into thousands of young men. That's how Ron Burton lived. That's how these young men live.
His legacy continues as his camp grows with each passing year.