Alton Soldier Presented Helmet That Saved His Life

(Le Mars) — An Alton, Iowa National Guard soldier based out of the 113th Calvary Squadron,
Charlie Company from Le Mars on Saturday afternoon was presented the helmet that saved his life.  While on tour in Afghanistan, on May 28, 2011, Specialist Tom Albers, 23, was conducting a dismounted joint presence patrol with his team in Afghanistan’s Kafshan Valley, Parwan province when he and his fellow troops came under fire.  A bullet hit his helmet, but fortunately, for Albers, did not hit his head.  Albers recalls the incident.

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Albers admits he was stunned for a few moments.  He says he was able to take cover and quickly realized there was no blood, and in fact he was able to continue the mission.


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Specialist Albers describes his helmet after taking a round.
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Once enemy fire subsided and they began pulling out.  Albers finally realized the seriousness of what just happened.  He was evacuated, with his only injury being a small burn mark across the top of his head.  His helmet was sent to Program Executive Office based in Fort Belvoir, Virginia for analysis.  Program Executive Office has been dedicated to developing, producing, fielding and sustaining virtually everything a soldier wears, carries, and operates.  Saturday, the helmet was returned to Albers by Command Sgt. Major Emmett Maunakea with PEO, encased in a presentation case with a plaque, during a ceremony at the Le Mars armory.