Mission Accomplished of September 13, 2008

Sgt Greg Edwards

Irvington, AL

Marine Sgt. Gregory Edwards took his last step on Oct. 21, 2006. Alpha Company was on patrol in Ramadi, Iraq, conducting house-to-house searches when a hidden explosive detonated. The blast left Sgt Edwards a double amputee with a shattered left hand. He has endured 37 surgeries and a painful physical regimen that he devised himself to strengthen the tender stumps that end just above his knees. With everything that he has been through he remains extremely humble about his service to our country. When people stop to thank him for his service he says "I don't think I need to be thanked for my service. I chose this. I know that being blown up or dying is one of the hazards of my job. If you don't expect to get hurt as a Marine infantryman, you're in the wrong line of work."

It was his third tour in Iraq. He went in on the initial invasion and saw the statue of Saddam Hussein fall. During his second tour, he was nearly electrocuted and spent time at Walter Reed recovering. Although he is a living example of the war's cost, he prefers to look back on what he says will be lasting benefits of his sacrifice. "I lost my legs not for this country, but for the country of Iraq, so their children will be able to run around, just like mine. If time was turned back, I'd do it all over again."

Homes for Our Troops is proud to have presented this beautiful home to Greg Edwards and his family on September 13, 2008. A home that he can call his own and that will allow him to move freely and become more independent.