Rethmel Has Some Family Time

U.S. Army Specialist Brandon Rethmel, who was critically injured when his base in Afghanistan was attacked in June, got to spend some time with his family at Mologne House at Walter Reed hospital.

Rethmel, who is from Olean, was deployed to Afghanistan on June 8th and assigned to the Army’s 4th Infantry Division. Two weeks later, his base and unit were attacked with a barrage of rockets by enemy forces. He was critically injured during the skirmish and lost a leg below his knee cap. One arm was severely mangled and he suffered extensive wounds to his abdomen.

A benefit for Rethmel and his family will be held at War Vets Park in Olean on September 4th from 4-8 pm. In addition to chicken BBQ, beverages, and live music, a Chinese auction will held.

You can find previous stories HERE and HERE.

Pictured from left are Brandon, his father-in-law Eric Schellhammer of Bradford, Brandon's wife Sylvia and their daughter Mariah.
(Photo courtesy of Marcie Schellhammer)