Michael was deployed from Fort Riley, KS to Afghanistan the first week of December 2009. He was stationed at FOB Wilson, near Kandahar. On January 3, 2010, while on a routine foot patrol, he was seriously injured by an IED. The same event claimed the lives of his Air Force companion and three soldiers from Fort Carson, CO.
This blog chronicles the events of Michael's life from his injury to the present day. He is now the author of this blog; is married, is a father and lives in Texas with his guide dog, Xxon. His injuries are now healed, he is retired from the U.S. Air Force and is planning on what to do for his next adventure.















Friday, March 12, 2010

First, I have to tell you that internet access at this place is terrible.  For the entire week we've only been able to get on twice. I know there are folks out there wondering what;s going on but I promise it's not intentional that we can't post as often as we'd like to.  With that said, let's move on to the action.....

Michael's supervisor and commander came to visit him over the weekend. The last time they saw him was in Washington DC and he wasn't nearly as mobile as he is now.  They offered him the chance to get out of the hospitalwith someone besides his mom and he siezed the opportunity.  Having been stationed in Kansas, it is almost inevitable that a trip to the ocean is in store. They took him to Half moon bay where they could get down on the beach and walk a bit.  Michael said it was cold and windy but it didn't stop the surfers from enjoying the waves coming in.


The guys brought him a present from Kansas as well, The Air Force ROTC at Kansas State University sent Michael this t-shirt.  He's always worn pull over shirts like this and he's glad to be able to do so again.  While his face was healing, it was impossible to get them on without significant pain. It's so much better now.


Michael said the best part of the weekend was going to watch the Sharks play in San Jose.  Even though he's an Avalanche fan he was glad to be at a hockey game again.  He said that despite the fact he wasn't able to physically see the game, he could follow the action on the ice by listening to the announcer and hearing the reaction of the crowd.  He was surprised how well he could keep up with what was going on that way.  


His dad called the next day and they spent quite a bit of time talking about the things he's been doing here and about what's going on back at home. He is totally amazed at the work being done getting ready for the fundraiser in Bosque Farms and expressed his appreciation for everyone involved. He wishes he could be there to take it in personally and looks forward to coming home soon.  He expressed concern about being able to thank everyone. His dad shared that same concern and told him there was no way he could thank evryone because there were just too many good people from too many places to thank.  It is truly amazing the outpouring of love and support that's come to Michael and our family.

Thank you all so much for the time and energy you have put forth in Michael's behalf. We, as his family are so grateful for all you've done and continue to do. May you all find peace and joy in the service you're providing and know how much we appreciate it.  This tragic event has opened our eyes to the beauty of being in the United States of America and living in a small community where people still genuinely care about each other. We've seen the sense of brotherhood Michael found in the military in general and in being a TACP specifically.  We've felt the strenth of being in a family that loves and sustains us - ready to lift, hold, pull or push us as necessary. And perhaps most significantly, we've felt the hand of the Lord in this event. From the initial notfication that Michael was wounded, through the present time.  We're certain the thoughts and prayers offered in Michael and our family's behalf have been answered time and time again as he has progressed to where he is today.  Again, we thank you all for what you've done.  Please don't stop saying your prayers, THEY WORK!

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