American Heros

I originally published in “One Hero” (in the right sidebar) that we knew that there were other heroes in the story who saved Matt’s life. Recently Matt called me and gave me some more details about his rescue and the names of those involved. It is my privilege to get to share their names with you and to honor and thank them. (To the heros in this story and any others who personally know those involved: Although I tried to get the details as accurate as possible, please forgive any misspellings of names or innaccuracies of data, and please leave me a message if you are aware of any changes which need to be made.)

American Heroes

After the explosion which left the driver of the Hum-Vee unconscious, Sgt. Lammers’ vehicle slowed to a stop. He saw that his arm was split in half and was missing some fingers, but due to the smoke, he was not aware that he had also lost his legs. Sgt. Lammers tried to get out of the Hum-Vee, and looked down when he realized his legs were not moving. Seeing the full impact the explosion had on his body and knowing that he had to get himself out, he threw himself out of the truck to the ground with his one arm and began crawling to the medic, hero Sgt. Butts, who acted quickly putting on the three tourniquets which saved Sgt. Lammers’ life. Sgt. Butts then turned to help the other wounded heroes, PFC. Clees, PFC Gomez, and Sgt. Applegate. Unfortunately, within days of this incident, Sgt. Butts was himself injured by schrapnel and is being treated in Germany for his wounds.
Sgt. Lammers lay on the ground, facing the reality of the seriousness of his injuries. Thoughts of death filled his mind as hero PFC Freeman stayed by his side, holding his hand, giving him the courage to stay alive. Sgt. Lammers looked to the sky, feeling it was the last glimpse he would have from this side of heaven, and praying to God, he found the strength that he needed to endure.
Hero Sgt. Savant picked up Sgt. Lammers and carried him to a Bradley fighting vehicle belonging to a unit which turned around to come assist. He stayed by his side during the ride to the 28th CSH (Casualty Support Hospital), giving him encouragement, and helping to keep him conscious by talking with him about his wife and kids and some future plans for a BBQ.
Hero PFC Anderson and the heroes of the Alpha CO. 1-18 Infantry were also key in the rescue of the wounded, as they immediately turned to assist after the explosion. Hero SFC Nelson coordinated the vehicles which saved the lives of the wounded soldiers.
Certainly many others played a role in saving the lives of these men, encouraging them, quickly transporting them, and giving them life-saving medical care in the midst of a war zone. These are all heroes who left the comfort of their homes and families to serve and pay for our freedom and security.
Thank you, PFC Clees, PFC Gomez, SGT Applegate, SGT Butts, SGT Savant, PFC Freeman, SFC Nelson, PFC Anderson, and the entire D CO 1-28 and Alpha CO. 1-18 Infantry . We honor you and thank you for your courage and great sacrifices. You are all true heroes.

Jessica