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Brought to my attention earlier today…

Army Sgt. Neil Duncan, from Maple Grove, MN, was severely injured in Afghanistan on December 5, 2005 when an improvised explosive device (IED) ripped through his Humvee. Neil was seriously wounded as a result of the explosion. He lost both of his legs, shattered his jaw, broke his elbow and hand, and sustained multiple shrapnel wounds. Within a week of the attack, Neil was transferred to Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, DC where he began the long road of recovery.

Neil went through more than 20 surgeries, rigorous physical and occupational therapy along with dental reconstruction over the last 14 months at Walter Reed. However, through his mental/physical strength and determination, Neil has overcome this huge hurdle as he is now able to do things he was once able to enjoy.

Neil will soon be leaving Walter Reed to go back home to Minnesota.

Neil is a very focused — and inspiring — young man, he has big plans for his future. That plan includes purchasing a home close to a university so that he can complete his college education, and adapting his home so that he can live an independent lifestyle, despite his injuries.

As Neil will be coming home to Minnesota, his friends and family want to give him a proper welcome home and help him financially as he starts his new life as an independent person. A homecoming benefit to honor Neil and to express our sincere appreciation for his sacrifice and commitment to our country will be hld. This benefit will include a silent auction, raffle, and cash donations as well as a chance for people to meet our hero. All proceeds will be used to help Neil build an independent life adapted to his specific needs - a handicap accessible house, a vehicle with adaptive equipment, etc.

The benefit will be held at the following address:

American Legion Post #172
260 4th Avenue SE
(Hwy. 169 & Cty. Rd. 81)
Osseo, Minnesota 55369

Ways you can help:

Cash donations can be made via paypal, or at any Wells Fargo Bank, see here for account information.
Donate items for the silent auction
If you’re in the area, stop by and attend the benefit

For more information, see Neil’s website, and while you’re there, how about leaving him a comment thanking him for his service?

Stop by check it out. Offer what you can. Check out his site for more details about both the benefit and Neil himself.