SFC Neal Boyd, of Haynesville, Louisiana, previously stationed at Fort Wainwright, AK, was sent to Iraq on September 22, 2008.  On November 8,2008, two other soldiers and SFC Boyd were on  a house securing mission. SFC Boyd instructed the others, upon entering the house, not to touch anything.  One soldier opened the refrigerator and an Improvised Explosive Device detonated.  All three of the soldiers were severely injured.  SFC Boyd’s right leg was amputated instantaneously.  They were medically evacuated for treatment. He spent 8 months at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington DC before being medically transferred to Brook Army Medical Center in San Antonio.  His left leg sustained substantial nerve damage and his right leg had been amputated in the explosion.  He has lost hearing completely in his right ear and his left ear has severe damage.  SFC Boyd has undergone a total of 43 surgeries including brain surgery.  He is trying to walk again with the help of a prosthetic leg.

SFC Boyd was awarded the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star.  He is an American Hero.  Thank you for your service SFC Neal Boyd.  God Bless You and your family.