My name is Liam. I'm a POG, mos being 08xx. I served as the CAG rep for 2/8 in Karma and Saqualleah (spelling??) 2006-2007. Then with 3/5 Kilo 3rd platoon and 1/5 Bravo 2010-2011 in Sangin. I was actually attached to the platoon Abbate was in when he was killed.
On a mounted patrol, I took shrapnel from a poorly made double 155 in 2007. Then stepped on a pressure plate May 2011 amputating my left leg above the knee and severely damaging my right limbs.
I spent 4yrs at Walter enduring 50+ surgeries and learning basic functions: walking, writing, bathing, dressing, etc.
I began racing cars and learned how to operate a clutch. My skills behind the wheel allowed me to go pro in 2015..
I retired in 2015 and moved to FL but had to return to Walter Reed in 2017 for what was supposed to be 1 surgery and a 6mos stay. Unfortunatley, due to complications and injuries, my stay turned into 3yrs, and 13 surgeries. I took this time to finish my degree at Georgetown and graduated last spring with honors.
I finally moved back to FL August of last year. 5wks ago, my right knee gave out causing me to fall and break my foot and snap my quad tendon. I had surgery on my foot 4wks ago and am scheduling a return to WR to try to repair my knee.
In the mean time, I am learning how to shoot left-handed and currently have 4 pistols and 2 ARs.
Through PB Abbate I'm hoping to possibly establish new relationships, learn differen coping mechanisms and possibly find a new hobby besides cars and guns
Hi Liam, welcome to PB Abbate brother. Thank you for your intro. I look forward to hopefully meeting you soon out in MT. I'm based out West in CA but please hit me up if you ever find yourself out in OC.
Hey Liam, happy to have you here. Where are you located in Florida?
Hey Dwyer - seeing your name really took me back! I had no idea you were having such a tough recovery still. I hope things are getting a little better for you and that you’ve found a spot with PB Abbate.