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Hunter Girdner, a veteran and defense contractor, returned to Northwest Florida after being critically injured in Operation Epic Fury in Iran. While attempting to rescue a teammate, Girdner was struck by shrapnel from a nearby drone attack.

He underwent multiple surgeries, including kidney removal and liver repair, and has permanent shrapnel in his abdomen. Girdner's actions ensured all crew members survived the attack. After 11 days in the ICU at Walter Reed Hospital, he returned home to a community celebration. Girdner aims to pursue a master's degree in software engineering to continue serving the country.