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    Journalist praises military medics during visit to RAF Lakenheath

    Journalist praises military medics during visit to RAF Lakenheath

    Photo By Airman 1st Class Alexander Vasquez | U.S. Airmen assigned to the 48th Medical Group had the chance to speak with Benjamin...... read more read more

    RAF LAKENHEATH, SFK, UNITED KINGDOM

    02.28.2024

    Story by Airman 1st Class Alexander Vasquez 

    48th Fighter Wing

    ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England. -- British-American journalist Benjamin Hall, renowned for his reporting from conflict zones, addressed the 48th Medical Group at RAF Lakenheath, England, Feb. 21, 2024.
    Hall came to the Liberty Wing to express his heartfelt acknowledgment of the importance of Airmen in the military medical field and to spread his story, which is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
    While reporting on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, riding in a vehicle with fellow journalists, tragedy struck when his vehicle was hit by three detonating airborne munitions. The blast resulted in the loss of vision in one eye, the amputation of his right leg, and severe burns which aided in the necessitated amputation of his foot.
    However, amidst the chaos and devastation, Hall's life was saved after he was rescued by a group of civilian volunteers. .
    “I never thought that I would die that day,” said Hall. “I only thought I was going to get home no matter how, even if I had to crawl.”
    Through the heroic efforts of the volunteers, Hall was safely transported to Poland, where U.S. forces took responsibility for his care. His journey from the brink of death to survival is a testament to the courage and resilience of both Hall himself and those who aided in both his rescue and the life saving care he received from the U.S. service members in Poland.
    During his visit to the 48th Fighter Wing, Hall shared his humbling story with the personnel of the medical group. His message carried weight as he spoke not only of his own experiences, but also of the vital role played by military medical professionals. Hall's story served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by servicemen and women around the world and underscored the importance of their work.
    “I look back at the moment I was lying there a lot,” Hall said. “It's important to remember it, you become stronger by remembering it. And if you know you could get through that, you can get through anything. And that was the mindframe I had from the beginning, I will get better.”
    As Hall departed RAF Lakenheath, his presence left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of hearing his story. His visit served as a powerful testament to the resiliency needed to face adversity and the importance of expressing gratitude to those who selflessly serve their country.
    Hall is still reporting full time on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, as well as spreading his story for military members and their families to hear.

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    NEWS INFO

    Date Taken: 02.28.2024
    Date Posted: 03.04.2024 11:24
    Story ID: 464879
    Location: RAF LAKENHEATH, SFK, GB

    Web Views: 62
    Downloads: 0

    PUBLIC DOMAIN