Published: October 02, 2008 11:24 pm            

MILITARY: Cambria soldier to be awarded Purple Heart in Iraq

CAMBRIA — When Army Pfc. Colin Pack returns to Iraq this weekend, he’ll be awarded with a special honor.

Colin’s mother, Sandi Pack, said her son will be given the Purple Heart, a military decoration granted to those who have been wounded or killed in the line of duty.

In June, Colin was driving a truck carrying soldiers when the vehicle was hit by an improvised explosive device.

Rather than jump out of the truck and save himself, Colin kept driving, hoping to save the soldiers in the back, Sandi said.

“He floored it, to get everybody out of there,” she said. “Had he (jumped out), those men could have died there.”

Colin suffered second- and third-degree burns to his body and hands, a concussion and swelling. A piece of shrapnel was lodged in his cornea, Sandi said.

He came home on leave Sept. 13, and today, he’s completely healed and his eyesight has improved.

He’ll leave Friday to return to Iraq for his second tour of duty, which will end sometime in 2009.

On Wednesday, he received a call from his sergeant in Iraq, informing him that he’d be awarded the Purple Heart upon his return.

Sandi said the family had company at the time, and everyone went “crazy” upon hearing the news.

“That was so cool,” she said.

She said they’ve had company almost every day since Colin came home. He’s been enjoying his leave, spending time with friends and family and relaxing.

His military service photograph was added to the Wall of Honor in Lockport Common Council chambers late last month.

At home, Colin is known as the “President of Cambria.”

“He grew up here and they have always called him that,” Sandi said. “He’s the leader of the pack here.”

Sandi said she’s already looking forward to Colin’s return.

“I can’t wait,” she said.

Contact reporter April Amadon at 439-9222, ext. 6251.

        

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