Retired Army soldier Mike Mills had already put in his 20 years of service, but re-enlisted in order to take part in Operation Iraqi Freedom. He was on his way to Baghdad when he was caught in an attack that would change his life forever. 

Mike was gravely wounded in a roadside bomb attack. His truck exploded, he was soaked in fuel, and he burned until his colleagues could put out the flames. 

Mike survived but suffered deep tissue burns over 31 percent of his body.  He lost fingers, muscle tissue, his ears, his nose, and a lot of skin.  Now after some 37 surgeries, Mike has returned to living an independent, “normal” life. 

To honor Mike and all disabled veterans, two nonprofit organizations, the Langenfeld Foundation and the Minnesota chapter of Safari Club International are taking Mike on the trip of a lifetime — on safari in South Africa. Global Rescue will provide memberships for Mike and his fellow veterans and safari companions Walter Broich and Kyle Anderson. Kyle was also wounded in Iraq; he suffered traumatic brain injury when shrapnel penetrated his helmet and skull. 

If you or someone you know wants to say “thank you” to Mike and others like him, you can make a contribution at www.TheLangenfeldFoundation.org, or by mail to The Langenfeld Foundation, PO Box 533, Hastings, MN 55033.