Army amputee wants to pick up where he left off

By William Cole
Advertiser Military Writer

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Spc. Brandon Wooldridge bears another distinction from combat: His left leg ends six inches below the knee. From there down, it's carbon fiber and titanium that's sheathed in his black combat boot.

Despite that, Wooldridge's movements and appearance are pretty much indistinguishable from other soldiers, and that's how he wants it to stay.

Ten months after the 24-year-old's calf was blown off in a firefight and doctors amputated his lower leg, the Schofield Barracks soldier is back with his unit, and his goal is to stay infantry.

"I'm supposed to be able to do that. That's what I'm pushing for," he said. "My medical board's in November. Hopefully, they'll let me stay."

Semper Fi