A dream of a Roane County teenager of wanting to serve in the National Guard became reality this week. Thirteen year-old Ashton Settle has a rare genetic disorder that affects his appetite, growth, metabolism, and cognitive function. Ashton’s dream reached the ears of the 278th Armored Cavalry Regiment Q Troop in Rockwood. Two months later after making sure it was OK, the regiment got Ashton his own uniform. The unit let him join its formation so he could participate in a mock swearing in. Ashton is now an honorary member of the 278^th. His passion is tanks. Sgt. Tommy Lee Francis told 105.7 News today that once the tanks come back from Poland, Ashton will have a chance to sit in one and see how one operates.