by maddie rose

Created on: June 12, 2008   Last Updated: September 02, 2008

An Extra- Ordinary Veteran

Bob Johnson was an ordinary man, as ordinary as his name may sound. The only reason anyone would pick him out of a crowd was the fact he missed both his legs. The military tried to be kind, when the medical team gave him the news. He lost his 'limbs' as the doctor put it nicely, while in Vietnam. He stepped on a land mine. Then his life became extra-ordinary. It changed his whole outlook on everything. Right before this happened; he experienced the loss of his wife, and baby during the time he was not home with them. Now with the loss of his legs, he foundit an easy role to fit in, to become a bitter man.

He married before 'Nam,' to a wonderful woman, Judy. They were high school sweethearts and loved each other. They made many happy plans together. He left for the Army while she was pregnant, with the first. He was one of the men, who did not wait to see if he was drafted or even thought he may get out of a draft. He wanted to be in the Army. He felt it honorable to serve for his country. He was as patriotic as red, white and blue, the flag itself.

He was in Saigon, when he received the news, his wife died in labor ten days ago. The note did say, "We are very sorry to inform you," as if it were an old friend who knew him personally, who may have understood how he felt. Still, a cold way to find out, after the funeral was over. He did not see any point in going home. His life there was though. He wrapped himself into work and tried extremely hard not to think of it. Besides, he could never leave these young boys here by themselves. He felt too needed in Vietnam for now.

It was exactly ten days later; he was the leader of his men, in the swamps, when he stepped out on the bank, when he heard a noise. The last noise he heard that day was a 'click,' from under his boots. Then he woke up in a tent, with people in white apologizing, sorry they could not save his legs. He did not understand. He still felt them, but they told him, his legs were gone. Much like his wife Joyce. Sent home to an empty house, Bob still felt Joyce was there, she should be there.

Bob went to the local VA hospital often, for physical therapy, they told him. It did not do much good. He worked a few jobs here or there, mostly because people felt sorry for him. He hated the pity too. Many people feel uncomfortable about hiring the Vets in the wheelchairs. He had an honorable discharge and medals to show for his bravery, but it was difficult for the civilians to see past

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