[alloysteel]

Max Cleland, left a triple amputee from injuries suffered in a war zone....

But NOT from engagement with enemy forces.

The VA will certainly cover this sort of injury, through their medical facilities, which qualifies for long-term rehabilitation and training, and it is more than enough for establishing the right to Specially Adapted Housing, GI life insurance, and a disability pension.

But did he earn a Purple Heart for the injuries involved? Kerry got three, AND retained all his limbs.

Non-combat injuries in and out of war zones account for more than half of all of compensation paid to veterans by VA. Active duty service is itself far more dangerous than most civilian occupations, even in the absence of combat.

[HolgerDansk]

Active duty service is itself far more dangerous than most civilian occupations, even in the absence of combat.

This is particularly true of military pilots. GWB flew the F-4 Phantom, and the "Rhino" was a particularly demanding airframe, training accidents were common. And, I would add, far more dangerous than being a "combat photographer".