I'd heard rumors that a "freak" happenstance had taken one of BAMC's (it's now SAMCC, but locally we still call it Bamcee) heroes.  Until a few moments ago, I didn't know it was one of my former Fisher House residents, and someone I so admired for his spirit and courage.  I watched Merlin German go from hard to look at, to radiant in his progress.  He and his family were residents of Fisher House for over two years.  We all believe he was well on his way to recovery.  Every time I saw him, he was better and better!  I cannot believe, after all he went through, he is gone to the Lord.  I think God just decided he'd done more than enough.

"Sgt. Merlin German died April 11 at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, where he was continuing treatment for the injuries he suffered in combat on Feb. 22, 2005, the Pentagon said Thursday.

The former turret gunner was dubbed the "Miracle Man" for his determination in facing his wounds, which cost the former saxophone player his fingers and rippled his face with scars. He endured more than 40 surgeries, spent 17 months in a hospital and had to learn to walk again.

Meanwhile, he started a charity, Merlin's Miracles, to aid child burn victims and considered college and a career."

He died in what was described to me as a "routine" procedure, but as many of the "routine procedures" as this hero had been through, his body just gave up.  God bless this hero, who continued to be a hero through his foundation.  I hope and pray you will visit his foundation at http://www.merlinsmiracles.com.  God rest your soul, Merlin.  We love you.