Sergeant Merlin German, USMC

On February 20, 2005, an IED exploded underneath LCpl Merlin German's humvee in Fallujah. He was blown out of the turret but he was on fire. After some very brave Marines got to him and put the fire out on their buddy, Merlin was left with 3rd degree burns over 97% of his body. The soles of his feet and the top of his head were the only areas not burned. The IMSFF remembers vividly the day that Merlin flew in from Germany to BAMC. No patient there had ever lived with burns like this before, and no one expected him to survive. Nineteen months later, Merlin moved out of the hospital and eventually moved into a new home in San Antonio, where he continues to undergo additional surgeries and rehabilitation at BAMC.

The donors of IMSFF have helped the German family with a handicap van; they have kept Merlin's mom and dad at bedside; they have helped them keep their home in the Dominican Republic; they purchased a mattress recommended by his physical therapist; they helped with furniture for a temporary apartment; and provided great assistance with Merlin's new two-story house. Merlin and his wonderful family are living testaments to the power of the IMSFF, the capabilities of our military medical system, and the beauty of the indomitable human spirit.

Today, after two meritorious promotions, Sgt German is excited about a trip to NYC to visit his family and celebrate his 22nd birthday. The IMSFF staff and the Marine liaisons at BAMC describe Merlin’s personality as being full of life. He is cheerful, has a great sense of humor, and is mischievous enough to put a smile on the face of any general officer. What a blessing he is to all who know and love him!