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Cpl. Carl Sampson CW3 Michael Wells LCpl. Justin McLeese Sgt. Jeffrey Lynn Kirk
First Lt. Jeffrey Adams Cpl. Matthew Cole Spc. Russell Kyle Burleson Spc. Christopher Vining
Sgt. Christopher Ramsey Sfc. Michael McNaughton Sgt. John Aaron Blanchard LCpl. Ryan McCurdy
Sgt. Sammy Anderson Sgt. Jonathan Reed Lt. Christopher Barnett Pfc. David Burridge
Cpl. David Bear Stewart Sfc. Kurt Comeaux Spc. Matthew King Cpl. Michael Savoie
Cpl. Jacob Schick LCpl. Hardy Mills IV
Sergeant John Aaron Blanchard of New Roads LA was serving in the La. Army National Guard. While riding in a track-tank on June 8, 2005, an anti-aircraft warhead remotely detonated under his tank, severely injuring him. He suffered damage to his spleen, which had to be removed, punctures to his liver, fractures of the left shoulder and severe fractures (in four separate places) to his left leg He continues to travel to Walter Reed Army Hospital for treatment and he has battled infections at Our Lady of the Lake Hospital. Another of our soldiers, riding in the vehicle, lost his life in this same incident.
Sgt. Blanchard continues to rehabilitate from his injuries. He is the recipient of the Louisiana War Cross, and General Dick Codys Bronze Star Medal with other awards pending.
Sgt. John Aaron Blanchard, we thank you for serving our country and for the sacrifices you have made.