'Miracle' Marine dies.

With thanks to TexasFred for sending this to me.


A Marine sergeant who became a symbol of resilience as he strove to recover from a roadside bomb blast in Iraq that blanketed 97 percent of his body with burns has died, the Defense Department said. He was 22.

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.

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There are some people who such a tragedy in their lives would have made them bitter and angry at the world and life in general. But not Sgt. Merlin German. Instead he founded: Merlin's Miracles, a charity that helps burn victims like himself. He had been planning to attend college and continue with a career.

To his family and friends, I want to send my deepest condolences to you upon your loss. The United States and the world has lost one of its best.

Semper Fi!

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'Miracle' Marine dies