Posted on 05/01/2006 6:53:21 PM PDT by SandRat
CAMP LIBERTY, Iraq – When he went on patrol last September on the 4th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, Staff Sgt. Willie Hall had no idea the day’s events would separate him from his unit for more than six months.
“I never thought that day that I wouldn’t be back. I even had plans to finish watching a movie with my buddies when our patrol was over,” said Hall, who recently returned to his unit, Company B, 1st Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, Multi-National Division – Baghdad.
Hall’s dismounted patrol came under attack in Ghazaliya September 11 from a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device followed by small-arms fire.
According to members of his unit, Hall provided first aid to fellow Soldiers before realizing he, too, was significantly wounded in both the neck and arm. After forcing their attackers to flee, Hall’s unit evacuated him for treatment.
He was transported to Walter Reed Army Medical Center, where commenced on a six-month journey of treatment and physical therapy he hoped would bring him back to full health.
“As soon as I was feeling close to 100 percent, I knew I had to get back to my platoon,” said Hall. “That is where I belong.”
Hall’s efforts to recover were met with his unit’s excitement when he made his return to action.
“After I found out how bad he was hurt, I wondered what would happen to our unit,” said Spc. Thomas Neumann, Co. B, 1-87 Inf. Regt. “He really showed us that he stands by his men. We were all very excited.”
“It was really good to have him back in the platoon,” added Staff Sgt. Daniel Morriss, Company B, 1-87 Inf. Regt. “His return from a six month hospital recovery inspired all of us. It was a great example of leadership to everyone.”
(Editor's note: Capt. Douglas Hermann writes for the 1st Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division Public Affairs Office.)
Now there. The proper amount of tissue boxes issued. How so many of them serve with honor and commitment. They are amoung our finest.
CLASS VIII Requisitions came in today.
Duty, Honor, Country.
It lives on in the hearts of patriots.
heheh. Keep em rolling.
BTTT
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