By Scott Thomas

Rick Waters is a father, a husband, a Navy veteran, and a crossing guard near Hill Elementary. 

He's quick with a joke, and cares passionately about the kids he helps each morning, refusing to let anything divert his attention from them. 

What he doesn't like is the spotlight.

“I like being the quiet guy next door,” he said.

On Jan. 31, someone purposely hit Waters with his car. For unknown reasons, the person got out of his car and assaulted Waters. 

When Waters needed it the most, his military training came through. He knew not to curl up, and was able to defend himself. The assailant ran away. Waters was taken to the hospital and released later that day. 

The next day, he was back at his corner, doing his job.

"It was a matter of honor," he said "Everyone told me not to go to work, but I didn't want to let him win."