Today’s Star Spangled Salute honors Army Veteran Lt. Jason Pak and an interpreter named Shams Ghaznavi.  The two met in Afghanistan and were bonded on a day in December when Jason stepped on an IED and Shams, thanks to his quick actions, saved his life. Jason lost both of his legs, the two stayed in touch for almost a decade. Then, Shams and his wife were offered a special Visa to come to the U.S. but the process was slowed because of Covid and the Taliban fighters in Shams town.  Jason went into scrambled mode, using any and all tools at his disposal, and with the country collapsing, Jason was able to get Shams and his wife airlifted from danger, saving the man who saved him many years ago.  Shams and his wife now live in Pennsylvania and have a daughter and he and Jason stay in touch regulary, with Jason helping Shams adjust to his new life in the States. Thank you both for sharing your story and THANK YOU Jason for your service.

https://www.militarytimes.com/off-duty/military-culture/2023/03/15/how-a-soldier-helped-rescue-the-afghan-interpreter-who-saved-his-life/