Injured, separated from the Air Force, but not forgotten

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Kimberly A. Yearyean-Siers
  • 59th Medical Wing Public Affairs
SAN ANTONIO (AFPN) --  Training medical personnel as a member of the 59th Logistics and Readiness Squadron's Medical Readiness Training team was not the path that George Torres had planned to pursue when he trained as an Air Force Pararescueman.

A broken back and compound fracture to his ankle, caused by a combat-related incident, ended his Air Force career. However, thanks to the Helping Airman Recover Together, or Palace HART, program he is now working for the 59th Medical Wing.

"I knew shortly after the accident my career in the Air Force was over. After five combat deployments and the experience of participating in real-world combat missions, operating and training with other combat units like the Navy Seals, the Army's Special Forces and the Rangers, as well as other forces within and outside of the Department of Defense, I realized that I wouldn't have those kinds of experiences again," said Mr. Torres. "However, to my surprise, the Air Force had other plans for me after my separation."

Following his separation he received a phone call from from an Air Force Palace HART representative. His combat-related injuries made him eligible for enrollment in the program.

"After a long conversation over the phone with a Palace HART consultant, I felt somewhat relieved, to say the least, that I was not forgotten," Mr. Torres said. "I was told that membership guarantees me Civil Service employment which was my biggest concern separating from the Air Force because I was now disabled with at least three years of college left to complete."

Palace HART personnel found him a job with the Medial Readiness Training team preparing medical members for deployment. The unique mission of MRT allows him to use many of the skills, training and experience from the Air Force with the flexibility to attend school full time.

Palace HART official's involvement did not stop once he was placed in a job. He still receives support and guidance as he transitions back into civilian life, he said.

"One day I looked at a Palace HART pamphlet with a picture of Craig Fitzgerald, a former Pararescueman and a good friend of mine who was injured from a gun shot wound in Afghanistan, on the front cover," said Mr. Torres. "He looked healthy and happy standing in front of what looked like a small mountain. When I saw that picture, I realized that when you live by the core value of 'service before self,' it is nice to know that your service is recognized. I think that is the impact Palace HART has on all of its members." 

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