Risk Management Magazine

Since the accident, I’ve had a bone graft to repair my upper jaw, dental implants and several scar revision surgeries to smooth out my chin. I still have very little feeling in my lip, as well as two distinct scars between my lower lip and my chin. Fortunately, doctors were able to put me back together and I have a story to tell.

The following morning, 12 other Soldiers were bitten by an unknown number of coyotes between the hours of 0100 and 0600. The Soldiers were either asleep, on guard duty in fighting positions or actively looking for the animals. Like the first victim, these Soldiers were transported to Bayne-Jones Army Community Hospital for treatment and rabies vaccinations.

I learned from this experience, all right. I’ve made it my mission to ensure episodes like this don’t happen under my watch. My Soldiers’ safety is priority one.