Blinded by bomblet in Iraq, Fayette solider battles back (includes photo)

Blinded by bomblet in Iraq, Fayette solider battles back

Sunday, August 17, 2003

By Cindi Lash, Post-Gazette Staff Writer

Blood spurted from his shattered legs and from dozens of small gashes all over his body. More blood streamed from wounds on his head and down on his face.

Sam Ross with his aunt, Libby Ross, with whom he lives. (Doreena Balestreire, Post-Gazette)

When he cried out that he couldn't see, his frantic buddies poured bottled water over him to wash away the red ooze that matted his hair and eyelashes. But by then, Army Pfc. Sam Ross was aware of only one thing: the wave of pain so intense he was sure he would not live through it.


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Families of Iowa soldiers worry and wait for news

Families of Iowa soldiers worry and wait for news
By LYNN OKAMOTO
Register Staff Writer
08/10/2003

The news of a Des Moines soldier having his legs amputated after an explosion in Baghdad sounded all too familiar Saturday to the family of a Cedar Rapids soldier.

Spc. Randy Chasten, 31, of Cedar Rapids was injured July 24 when his Humvee drove over a land mine in Iraq. He broke his jaw and his teeth were knocked out. His legs later became infected from the shrapnel.


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