Getting A Veteran's Family Back On Their Feet

Getting A Family Back On Their Feet

August 18, 2008--A Fort Dodge man has spent much of the past seventeen years serving his country, including tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan with the 194th Field Artillery out of Fort Dodge. But his military career ended early because of a roadside bomb.

Four years ago in Afghanistan, Sergeant Andrew Birzer couldn't have known a roadside warning about roadside bombs was speaking directly to him. "You literally feel the concussion blast moving through the vehicle," Birzer said.

After the explosion, Andrew didn't seek medical help and started another tour of duty -- this time, thirteen months in Iraq.

"I just ignored the headaches. The headaches, as far as I was concerned was stress from the situation," he said. But his family knew something was very different the moment he arrived home.

"It's more like a new dad, but he's still got some of the old dad in him," daughter Stephanie Birzer said.

"He used to be a big joker, and (now) he's not. He doesn't joke around like he used to," said wife Samantha Birzer.

Andrew has since been diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and a traumatic brain injury. He has also injured his knee since then. His short term memory is poor and he takes dozens of medications to combat depression and anxiety.

Starting today, dozens of contractors with the Associated Builders and Contractors of Iowa, along with dozens of businesses and the group "Operation First Response," are working to completely remodel the Birzer home in just one week.

"They're in for a big surprise when they come home. "It's going to be beautiful," said P.J. Sesker-Green of Operation First Response.

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