[Chuck Roots' weekly columns are written for his
hometown newspaper, the Ripon Record.]

Million Dollar Wound
June 2, 2004

Memorial Day is a time to remember, reflect and rejoice.

For me, every day I serve with the wonderful men and women of the Navy/Marine Corps, I am reminded why our nation is great.

If you will indulge me, I would like to tell you about some of these remarkable young people who wear the uniform of our nation's military. I'll start with a lance corporal I spoke with yesterday who was in Iraq earlier this year. The reason he was back in the States was due to a serious injury he sustained during combat operations. His lower leg was peppered with shrapnel. So severe was the injury that he was incapable of walking for three weeks. During his rehabilitation, his goal was to gain full use of his leg again — and then return to his unit in Iraq. By the time you read this, our young warrior will be winging his way back to join the fight with his fellow Marines.

Now, this Marine had what has been referred to historically as a "million dollar wound." Often when a serious wound is inflicted, the individual gets to return home and stay. I've spoken with a good number of our wounded, and to a man they want to get back and carry the fight to the enemy.

Part of my day includes looking through the reports on our killed and wounded. I always marvel at how many of the wounded never leave Iraq and quickly return to duty, eager to continue the war on terrorism.

Do they like war? No. Do they enjoy being away from their families and loved ones? No. In fact, when their time of service ends, most will return home to become solid, productive citizens. But until then, they choose to engage in a struggle that is bigger than themselves, a struggle they realize has a direct effect on our world and whether we will continue to live as a free people or be intimidated by the rantings of fanatics, whose only desire is to destroy that which does not fall in line with their demented thinking. Ask yourself this question: Is this any different than WWII, in which we found ourselves engaged in a mighty struggle against the tyrannies of Nazism (the policy of state control of the economy, racist nationalism, and national expansion — Hitler's Germany), fascism (a governmental system marked by stringent socio-economic control, a strong central government usually headed by a dictator, and often a belligerently nationalistic policy — Mussolini's Italy), and imperialism (the policy of extending a nation's authority by acquisition of territory or by the establishment of economic and political hegemony over other nations — Hirohito's Japan)?

Then there's the corporal who was critically injured, receiving serious wounds to both legs and shrapnel in his eye. He has undergone several medical treatments and surgeries in a valiant attempt to save his eye. His desire is to regain his sight and stay in the Marine Corps. Another Marine lost both hands. While being fitted with prosthetics, he quipped that he'd like to stay in the Corps, but only if they put hooks in place of his hands. That way he says he could hang on the pull-up bar and set a new Marine Corps record for the most pull-ups!

Leaving a staff meeting recently I stepped outside to take the walk back to my office. As I descended the stairs, I noticed a group of Marines on the grass, most of whom were sitting on their sea bags. As I came to ground level, these hard chargers all came to their feet at attention and rendered the proper hand salute and greeting. I returned their salute and then engaged them in some light-hearted conversation. I said, "You guys going somewhere?" "Yes, sir," was their reply. "Iraq?" I quarried. "Yes, sir." "What unit are you with?" I asked. "Sir, we're combat replacements."

As I looked at their young, fresh faces, I was struck once again with the harsh reality that these young men have placed their futures on hold in order to secure our safety and freedom. I said, "God bless you," and walked away because I had a sudden urge to give every one of them a hug.

Memorial Day may simply have been another holiday weekend for you, and I would have wanted you to enjoy it with your family and friends. But, as you go about your business this week, I ask you to remember the men and women who are in harm's way, battling a vicious enemy, enabling you and me to live in peace.

And if you know someone who has a loved one serving in the military, take a moment to call them or send an e-mail saying thank you. It would mean a lot, especially during this election year when many things are said in the media and by politicians that are hurtful to our military and their families.

Be proud, America! Our warriors are guarding the wall.