We all remember the terrible tragedy at Fort Hood this past December where 13 of our military personnel we gunned down in a stateside terrorist attack. 2 of those killed in this attack were from the Chicago Area. Army Pfc. Michael Pearson of Bolingbrook and Army Pfc. Francheska Velez of Chicago. We were able to honor both of their families with a framed Defender print.
Today we would like to honor a local Hero who survived the attack. Army Staff Sgt. Miguel Valdivia was in the room when the shooting took place and was hit 3 times by gun fire. Twice in the leg and once in the left ear. We mourn the 13 fallen but we are grateful Miguel survived the shooting and was here with us today. The YMCA in Elgin has so graciously extended him the opportunity to rehabilitate while he is here at home in Elgin.
Special thanks to Wayne Brzycki for photographing the presentation.
