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AF wounded warrior attends White House event

Senior Airman Duane Dunlap enjoys a Salute to the Military event at the White House on July 4. Airman Dunlap, a Security Forces journeyman assigned to the 59th Patient Squadron at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, was one of five Airmen chosen to attend the event that included dinner, fireworks and a chance to meet U.S. President and Mrs. Barack Obama. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Theda Franklin)

AF wounded warrior visits White House

Published July 8, 2009
By Sue Campbell
59th Medical Wing Public Affairs

LACKLAND AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Senior Airman Duane Dunlap enjoyed a very special Independence Day with U.S. President Barack Obama.

Airman Dunlap, 59th Patient Squadron Security Forces journeyman at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, was one of five Airmen chosen to participate in a 4th of July Salute to the Military event at the White House. The invitation included dinner, a fireworks display and the chance to meet the president.

"It was a great experience," Airman Dunlap said. "It was an honor to be picked and meet the president and Mrs. Obama."

In June 2007, Airman Dunlap was part of a four-truck patrol traveling outside the secured base perimeter of Camp Bucca, Iraq, when they were attacked. His patrol was struck by an explosive device, and Airman Dunlap's vehicle was destroyed. His helmet was pierced by shrapnel; he was burned and had a one pound, half inch thick piece of metal in his leg. Without regard to his own safety or pain, he dropped into the vehicle's burning compartment and untangled his leader, pulling him out of his seat.
His actions during this conflict resulted in being presented the Bronze Star Medal with "Valor" and the Purple Heart.

Since his injuries, Airman Dunlap has received treatment and therapy at Wilford Hall Medical Center, here and Brooke Army Medical Center, Fort. Sam Houston, Texas.
He was able to take a guest with him to the 4th of July event. He chose Staff. Sgt. Theda Franklin, non-commissioned officer-in-charge of the Patient Squadron at Wilford Hall.

"We were both able to meet and shake hands with the president and Mrs. Obama," Sergeant Franklin said. "It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It was very obvious that they both really appreciate the military."