On Friday, August 11, a 16-month odyssey came to a close. Ellenville’s own Sergeant Eddie Ryan finally came home after being away for so very long.

By now, everyone knows the story of the remarkable young man and his tragic wounding by friendly fire during his tour of duty in Iraq. Everyone also knows about the devotion of his mother, Angela, the strength of his father, Chris, and the generosity that was displayed throughout the Hudson Valley, particularly by the friends, neighbors and community members within the Village of Ellenville and the Town of Wawarsing.

Sgt. Ryan’s departure was attended by many well-wishers as local veteran’s groups, fellow patients and hospital staff members were present to give him a proper sendoff. Ryan was then escorted to his home in Ellenville by a group of motorcyclists from the Nam Knights and the Blue Knights.

Sgt. Ryan had been rehabilitating at Helen Hayes Hospital, located in West Haverstraw for several months. Initially, doctors were not optimistic about the Marine’s chances of recovering or even surviving. But Sgt. Ryan had other plans. He is now speaking and learning to walk.vThus far, Eddie has defied a great many expectations and his community hopes that he can continue doing just that.

To find out more about Eddie and his family, or to give a contribution to Sgt. Ryan, please go to www.helpeddieryan.com.

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