Ben Lanning pins on the Purple Heart he received in Iraq after the truck he was riding in hit a roadside bomb. The Purple Heart is awarded to those wounded or killed while serving in the U.S. Military. While in Iraq, Lanning was also awarded the Bronze Star Medal, the fourth-highest award for bravery, heroism, or meritorious service. Lanning received both decorations in 2004.

Additional graphics from Student recalls military service in Iraq: