Al Asad Injured Military Personnel Finally Receive Purple Hearts
August 08, 2022
Military personnel at the Al Asad Air Base in 2020 did not expect what happened to them on January 8, 2020. Fifteen ballistic missiles launched by Iran rained down on the Base, narrowly missing hundreds of U.S. troops and Guard personnel. The strike lit the existing short fuse in the ongoing clashes between Tehran and Washington.
Weeks later, the world learned that at least 100 combat personnel sustained traumatic brain injuries (TBI) from the attack. TBI walks with its human companion for the rest of their lives – sometimes in a minor yet irritating manner. If a veteran is incapacitated, they may have to seek medical retirement.
Military personnel who face situations like the Al Asad bombing often receive a Purple Heart. Although they may be entitled to a Purple Heart, it can take up to two years before it is received. This occurs because senior leadership denied the award or because a glitch in tracking the injuries sustained occurred. Purple Hearts are an entitlement, and an injured veteran is “entitled to it upon meeting specific criteria.” Purple Heart status helps provide multiple benefits, serving as a bulwark for veterans sourcing disability compensation and care.
Unfortunately, the president downplayed the attack and caused many not to take it seriously. As it turned out, at least nine National Guardsmen suffered severe injuries. At least one member received a 90 percent disability rating from VA. Approximately 80 troops have been awarded the Purple Heart for the combat injuries received in 2020.
TBI is often referred to as a signature injury in wars. It was first codified in 2011 by the Army as an award for a concussive injury. Difficult to correctly diagnose, the symptoms may not be accurately recorded. Even in the face of the attack, no one seemed to know if the injured troops were eligible. It was subsequently noted in a Defense Department Inspector General’s report that Army officials failed to find out if all personnel involved in the explosions were diagnosed. Commanders were not aware of the regulations relating to tracking injuries.
Many veterans with TBI do not look physically different. They may appear as regular people living their lives, but they can suffer from headaches, brain fog, forgetfulness, difficulty sleeping, and flashbacks. This injury should not be downplayed because people suffering in silence need help to move forward.
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