Some may not know, but LT Larkin O'Hern was on foot patrol in Afghanistan just about three weeks (?) ago when he took a direct hit from an explosion which left him a triple amputee. He's recovering quickly in Brook Army Medical Center San Antonio, and per the story below just received a visit from SCTY of Defense Robert Gates, who awarded him the Purple Heart Medal. Larkin comes from a strong Aggie family, with roots in Belton and College Station TX. He graduated West Point and became a soldier, serving in Afghanistan up until the incident sent him home early.
See Larkin's Caringbridge site for updates on his condition and recovery.
Larkin & Robert Gates
"Call me if you need me" -RG
Larkin's Parents and brother
Rachel's Parents
Larkin & Rachel
Dave Amiot, Sheldon Hodges, and Matt Barry. West Point classmates.
See Larkin's Caringbridge site for updates on his condition and recovery.
quote:
Saturday, January 29, 2011 4:50 PM, CST
Today Larkin received his Purple Heart Award from the Secretary of Defense, Dr Robert Gates. For pictures, please check out the new additions to the photo album.
During the interview, Secretary Gates also gave Larkin his coin and business card. As he gave him the card, he said that he knows Larkin is getting excellent care now, but somewhere along the way, he could come across some bureaucracy, and he should pull out the card and say, "Don't make me use this." If that didn't work, Larkin should call the number and the problem would be resolved quickly. He also told us that he only gives his cards out in hospitals.
While the Purple Heart is the award no one wants, and Larkin refers to it as the "wrong place wrong time" award, this was truly a special and memorable day. Thank you Secretary Gates, for your care and compassion for your soldiers. Yours is truly a career of public service, and an inspiration to us all.
Larkin & Robert Gates
"Call me if you need me" -RG
Larkin's Parents and brother
Rachel's Parents
Larkin & Rachel
Dave Amiot, Sheldon Hodges, and Matt Barry. West Point classmates.