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I have always enjoyed playing guitar. I am self taught, and have never received any formal instruction. I feel that playing and creating music is beneficial not only for the mind, but also for the soul, in the way that it is very relaxing and allows you to express feelings and emotions through the music that you create with your hands.

On October 23, 2010, our 2nd element, was hit by an IED. Their truck had mine rollers on the front of their vehicle. After the blast, their driver and truck commander, was moved to our truck. We were the 6 element, travelling with our platoon leader. I remember hearing charlie-mike (continue mission), and the next thing I know, I am waking up on the ground, hearing gunfire and people screaming in pain. I do not remember the blast, due to a concussion. I was medivacced to Bagram, and ultimately to Fort Carson, Colorado, which was my home station, from which I deployed with my unit, the 4th Engineers. After realizing the true extent of my injuries, I was medivacced to BAMC, in Fort Sam Houston, Texas, in order to receive reconstructive surgery on my left leg.