Finally…after all the paperwork and stupid Army bullshit, I received word that my Purple Heart has been approved. My boss actually brought it back with him from his trip down to higher headquarters this past weekend. I won’t actually get the award until the command decides on how they want to present it. I did get a chance to sneak a peak at it (since I work in the shop that handles awards) and it is surreal. I never in a million years thought I would see my name on such a prestigious award. Then again, I never planned on getting wounded in combat. The Purple Heart is the oldest award given out. The award was established by General George Washington at Newburgh, New York on 7 August 1782 during the Revolutionary War. If you would like to read more on it, you can go here.

Someone told me there are certain perks that come with the award. For one, I can join any veterans group like the VFW or American Legion although I already qualified for these groups from my tour in Bosnia. Also, rumor has it that certain insurance companies offer discounted or even free care insurance. I will check up to see if there is any truth to that. I would also like to take this time to say thank you to Aubrey for always asking how I am doing and if I had any update on this award. I think he wanted me to get this award more than I wanted it. Also like to say thank you to Ender, Melissa, Guppy, Stormii, and last but not least Seawave for being there for me these last few months or so. Without them and Matt, I would have gone insane. But they were able to help me keep any shred of sanity I might still have.

“Please sir, do not call me a hero. Heroes never leave the battlefield as they have gave their all for this great nation. And I sir, plan on coming home.” -unknown