Charles Byers served in the United States Army from 1966 to 1972 and eventually earned the nickname “Big Band Aid,” after going into the medical field.
He was sent to Vietnam, where he served as a senior combat medic to replace the former medic who had sadly been killed. As if that wasn’t stressful enough, things were about to get so much worse.
Just 23 days before Byers was supposed to head home, his unit was ambushed. Instead of hiding or going home like he was supposed to, he volunteered to go out into the field and treat the wounded soldiers.
While Byers was out patching up as many guys as he could, he got shot in his left arm and stomach.
He was treated and awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart, and was recently picked to represent Arizona for the National Purple Heart Honor Mission, where he was honored for his selfless service along with fellow Purple Heart recipients.
After serving in the Army, he remained in the medical field. Even after retiring, he is still serving his country in a different way.
Byers now advocates and fights for veterans’ health, rights and well-being, alongside U.S. senators and legislators.
“There’s a reason why we survived, and I didn’t want to throw that away. So, that’s why I continue to advocate so strongly,” Byers told 12 News. “Proud of my service. Proud that I served in Vietnam. I’m proud I was able to be there for my brothers.”
Hear more of Byers’ story in the video below: