Chattanooga soldier Andrew Smith, who lost parts of both legs when he stepped on a land mine in Afghanistan, had his first visit home this past weekend after months of surgeries and rehab in a military hospital.
He also got a special tribute from Ret. General B.B. Bell at his home church, Covenant Presbyterian in East Brainerd.
His mother, Cathy Smith, reported, "We were thrilled to learn just over a week ago that Andrew & Tori were cleared to come home for a visit. They arrived Friday and left yesterday. Veteran's Airlift Command - "Hero Flight" donated their time and personal aircraft to bring them home. For this first trip home, they wanted a low-key visit with family and church family. They are looking forward to a larger homecoming when he is able to walk off the plane!!
"At the conclusion of the service this past Sunday, Andrew and Tori were paid a wonderful tribute from Four-Star General B.B. Bell (ret) who attends our church, and they were able to greet everyone in a reception following the service."
Andrew was recently fitted with artificial legs.