Fort Carson Soldier Awarded Purple Heart for Traumatic Brain Injury in Combat
Capt. James McDaniel from Fort Carson received the Purple Heart for a traumatic brain injury from an IED blast in Afghanistan. Despite initially feeling well after the attack, he later faced memory and vision problems. His recovery inspired his application for the Purple Heart, which took a year to process. McDaniel’s experience emphasizes the need for recognizing and treating combat-related injuries.
Capt. James McDaniel from Fort Carson was awarded the Purple Heart on Tuesday for a traumatic brain injury sustained during combat in Afghanistan. The injury occurred on July 9, 2012, when a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device detonated near his position at Kandahar’s provincial headquarters, causing significant chaos. As a provost marshal, McDaniel immediately responded by providing cover fire and supporting the evacuation efforts.
Maj. Gen. David Doyle praised McDaniel for his composure under fire, stating that he exhibited remarkable dedication to his mission, even amidst rounds and grenades exploding around him. At that time, McDaniel was a specialist with the Security Force Advisory and Assistance Team 25, where he took care of his fellow soldiers and played a crucial role in neutralizing the threat from the explosion.
Initially, McDaniel did not realize the extent of his injuries and was cleared to return to duty. However, around a year later, he began experiencing memory and vision issues, one eye failing to focus properly. Despite these challenges, he utilized cognitive behavioral therapy and other treatments, leading to significant recovery—he no longer requires glasses.
McDaniel’s path to recovery inspired him to seek the Purple Heart, which honors those injured in combat. The approval process for his application lasted about a year. He reflects on his journey, remarking, “I am proof that endurance and survival is inherent in all of us.”
Capt. James McDaniel’s recognition with the Purple Heart underscores the importance of acknowledging often-invisible wounds, such as traumatic brain injuries, sustained during combat. His exemplary response during the attack and the subsequent challenges he faced highlight the resilience of soldiers and the necessity of appropriate healthcare for all injuries, both physical and psychological. McDaniel’s journey demonstrates that recovery is attainable with persistence and proper treatment.
Original Source: gazette.com
