(LF, if you think this belongs over on Sound Off, please move it there.)
On 1/1/05 two uniformed Marines arrived at our door to tell us that our 21 year old son Evan had been severely wounded by a land mine in Iraq. That evening I posted about it on this board, seeking your prayer support. I’m posting here again about it as I am extremely pleased by the result of your prayers.
Evan had multiple wounds. The permanent ones turned out to be the loss of both legs, one above mid-thigh, the other slightly below the knee, and the loss of vision in one eye.
This has been a dismal year for us. The first good time occurred in August when we were able to see Evan stand at the altar and exhange weddding vows with a wonderful young woman. The other came on Friday when we welcomed them back home!
He’s had 28 surgeries so far this year, with more to come. But he hasn’t lost a bit of his sense of humor or his confidence.
Today he fitted on his running prosthetics and ran on the track at his former HS. I wasn’t there, but his bride took pictures. As I looked at them this evening, my heart swelled with pride and my eyes with tears of joy.
It belongs right here for everyone to see and read. God bless you and Evan and the entire “oldfrat” family.
Here’s the true human spirit and determination at work for all to see and be proud of…after his first marathon we’ll all say, “what problem?” He’ll accomplish more in his lifetime than most men with original equipment!!!
Congratulations to your son and your family. Having children myself and a son in law that served in Iraq, I can only imagine the suffering you and your family went through with his injury. I’m sure with the spirit and attitude that he has, he’ll do fine and go on to become an inspiration to many people that he will not even know about.
Brad,
There is nothing like a homecoming for one of our finest & their families. After all you folks & Evan have been through, this one was REALLY special.
Thanks for sharing it with us.
God Bless,
Mike
This is such heartwarming news and it belongs right where it is. It’s a wonderful testimonial to the human spirit and Evan exemplifies it to the max. He and you will remain in our prayers and we’re looking forward to more good news in the future.
Hi Brad,
Every night when I’m walking my son’s dog, I look up at the stars and say a little prayer for him, Evan and all our guys/gals over there. You have an inspired and inspiring young man and daughter in law there.
How incredibly inspiring. Thanks for sharing. Prayer and determination are an incredible combination. And having the support of you, oldfrat, his family and an obvious wonderful young woman only adds to the recipe. JGW
It was news that any parent with a son or daughter or for that matter any member of ones family dreds! I have thought of you and your son freqently but was unable to come up with the right wording to ask how things were coming along.Thanks for the up date.Your son has shown alot of courage to over come such obsticals.We’re all proud of him for his courage.
My son just arrived back from Iraq on Wed.His home coming was a blessing but seems so dismal compared to the joy you must feel…But still it is a great feeling to have him out of that Hell hole.
Good luck to you and your family.And be sure to tell your son that this parent, of a serving soldier is Extremly proud of him.
Oldfrat,
Of course, words are not enough but…
Thank You to both Evan and the rest of the oldfrat family. I wish you all the best of all the best possible from now on.
John Williamson,
Unfortunately, I didn’t read your post till after I posted my reply to oldfrat. But, to you, yours and your son, also a THANK YOU for your service to our country.
Mark
PS: Just recently (Oct.1) stayed in Spearfish on our way home from Wyoming. If only I would have known…
[This message has been edited by Marco (edited 30 October 2005).]
Thanks for the up lifting update on Evan. I got a lump on my throat when I read your 1st posting back in Jan 2005, and have read all the updates you have posted…so I have been following along…Looks as though you have raised a fine young man. Give Evan and his new bride my best wishes.
Semper Fi,
John Gordon
Albuquerque, NM
USS Missouri BB-63
1985-1989
What an inspiring young man. He went into
harms way to do what he believed in. When
life delt him his injuries, he just reached
a bit deeper and found the strength to
overcome those injuries and to get on with
his life. Truly an exemplary young man. I
know you must be bursting with pride. Our
heartfelt thanks for his sacrifices in the
service to his country and best wishes for
continued success in life.
Warm regards, Jim
This soldier prays on bended knees for Evan and his family. I thank the Lord for you, Evan, for you have made the world a safer place. I have been praying for you and your family since I first heard about your wounds. You have uncommon valor and bravery by the bucket full. You have lots of compation too. To me you represent all that is great about being American and being a member of our military. Thank you Marine. Carry on and Semper Fi.