Press Release - Saturday, October 22, 2005
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Lt. Governor Pat Quinn made a special appearance to present a declaration at an awards ceremony for U.S. Army Sgt. Joel Gomez
CHICAGO -Today, Lt. Governor Pat Quinn made a special appearance to present a declaration at an awards ceremony for U.S. Army Sgt. Joel Gomez of Wheaton, Illinois who was severely injured in Iraq and left a quadriplegic.
Assigned to 118th Infantry Bravo Company, Gomez was severely injured in March, 2004 when his Bradley Fighting Vehicle rolled off a 200-foot cliff and landed in the Tigris River in Baghdad. Gomez was paralyzed from the neck down.
Recently discharged from Hines VA Hospital in September, Gomez now lives with his family in a new handicapped-accessible home designed to meet his needs. Gomez also celebrated his 25th birthday on October 20.
For his service to the Army, Gomez received four awards: the Army Commendation Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, the Iraqi Service Medal, and the Global War on Terrorism Medal.
Quinn was joined by Gomez's parents, Algimiro and Emilia Gomez, as well as two soldiers who served alongside Gomez in Iraq. Colonel George Glaze, commander of Gomez's unit, was also in attendance.
"Sgt. Joel Gomez suffered a great tragedy for his country," Quinn said. "But during his recovery process he has demonstrated the true spirit of a survivor. Today, we salute him for his bravery and perseverance. He is an example to us all."
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