CHANGED MAN (Soldier who lost leg in mine blast to take part in patriotic services)

Star-Telegram ^ | Jun. 23, 2004 | Paul Bourgeois

[Dubya]

BURLESON - Mike McNaughton left his right leg and two fingers in Afghanistan, thanks to a land mine.

He stepped on the mine on Jan. 9, 2003, just two weeks shy of going home to his wife and two children in Denham Springs, La.

The injuries have changed his outlook.

"I'm a better person now. I used to be a workaholic," he said Tuesday while preparing for his part in patriotic services scheduled for July 3-4 at the Church at Burleson. "Now I understand life a lot more. I'm more appreciative of my kids and the simple things. I have more patience."

As part of the program at the church, McNaughton, 32, will share his experiences in the Army and recount his meeting with President Bush, who invited him to the White House for a jog around the grounds after he was fitted with his prosthetic leg.

"Being a soldier is not a job. It's something different. It's a lifestyle," said McNaughton, a member of the National Guard.

He said what he would like people back home to understand is that it's important to support the troops, regardless of political views.

If you go

The special services are scheduled for 6 p.m. July 3 and 9:45 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. July 4 at the Church at Burleson, 511 S.W. Wilshire Blvd.

Information: (817) 295-2165.

[Dubya]

STAR-TELEGRAM/TOM PENNINGTON Mike McNaughton, who was injured in Afghanistan, films an interview for use in a service at the Church at Burleson.

[Dubya]

WHITE HOUSE/ERIC DRAPER VIA THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Mike McNaughton goes for a run at the White House with President Bush on April 14. Bush invited the injured soldier for a run when he got his prosthetic leg.

[Dubya]

I forgot to put this is in Burleson, Texas.