Fort Carson Soldier Receives Purple Heart for Traumatic Brain Injury in Afghanistan

Capt. James McDaniel of Fort Carson was awarded the Purple Heart for his traumatic brain injury from a VBIED explosion in Afghanistan in 2012. Maj. Gen. David Doyle praised McDaniel’s bravery during the incident. Following a year of health challenges, McDaniel sought recognition for his combat-related injury, embodying the spirit of perseverance among soldiers.

Captain James McDaniel, a soldier stationed at Fort Carson, has been honored with a Purple Heart for sustaining a traumatic brain injury during his deployment in Afghanistan. The injury occurred when a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) detonated on July 9, 2012, near a wall separating the provincial headquarters in Kandahar from a schoolhouse. Despite initial disorientation, Capt. McDaniel reacted promptly, providing cover fire and aiding in the evacuation of his team.

Maj. Gen. David Doyle commended Capt. McDaniel for his composure amidst the chaos of the explosion, stating, “While rounds impacted around him and grenades exploded nearby, he displayed remarkable composure.” He emphasized that every soldier should emulate Capt. McDaniel’s dedication to the mission and his fellow service members during the crisis.

Initially, Capt. McDaniel did not recognize the extent of his injury and returned to duty after being evaluated. However, approximately a year later, he began experiencing memory and vision issues, leading to ongoing difficulties, such as focusing with one eye. He successfully underwent cognitive behavioral therapy, allowing him to recover enough to eliminate the need for glasses.

Motivated by his recovery journey, Capt. McDaniel applied for the Purple Heart, which recognizes combat-related injuries. He noted that the application review process lasted around a year: “I am proof that endurance and survival is inherent in all of us.” This personal testament highlights the resilience prevalent among service members following combat-related injuries.

Capt. James McDaniel’s receipt of the Purple Heart underscores the often-unseen impacts of traumatic brain injuries in combat. His remarkable bravery during a life-threatening situation and commitment to recovery serve as an example for his peers. Maj. Gen. David Doyle’s recognition reinforces the importance of resilience and support among soldiers, illustrating that the journey towards recovery requires a proactive approach, much like addressing physical injuries.

Original Source: gazette.com