Soldier's Story Shows Importance of Family, Love, Faith

Jay Briseno was an Army reservist serving in Iraq when, in June, 2003, he was wounded and as a result, became paralyzed. Tonight on the NewsHour, reporter Susan Dentzer shared the poignant story of Jay's life these days and of the loving care he receives each day from his parents. It was a fantastic piece of journalism that took no position on the war, but allowed us to see how one family is coping with having a son who is, by Army accounts, the most severely wounded veteran of the War in Iraq. The transcript and audio can be found here.

The report provides insight into the unique griefs borne by the families of severely wounded veterans, as well as the pride they feel in their loved-ones' sacrifices and heroism.

For those inclined to think that religious faith is passe, the Briseno family offer disarming testimony to the contrary. From the transcript:

SUSAN DENTZER: The Brisenos told us their abiding religious belief gets them through, as does support from their local Roman Catholic Church. Three times a week, Dick O'Connell, a church deacon, visits the Briseno home to bring communion to Jay.

It was moving to see the smile of Jay Briseno's face as he received the Sacrament and the blessing offered by this deacon from his church.

Tonight, before I go to sleep, I'll be saying a prayer, asking God to give strength to the Briseno family and thanking Him for their example!

[Kudos to Dentzer and the NewsHour with Jim Lehrer for this outstanding report!]