Representative Womack Advocates for Purple Heart for Retired Staff Sgt. George O'Dell 17 Years Post-Injury
Retired Staff Sgt. George O'Dell received the Purple Heart medal 17 years after sustaining injuries in Iraq, an achievement made possible through the advocacy of U.S. Representative Steve Womack. The ceremony took place at the Veterans Wall of Honor in Bella Vista, Arkansas, on Thursday, September 24, 2026. O'Dell, who served 21 years in the military, including 17 as a combat medic, was injured on July 8, 2009, while providing security during an ambulance exchange in Iraq. He initially dismissed his injuries, prioritizing his mission, and did not become fully aware of their severity until months later. A doctor diagnosed his injuries in 2010, leading to six surgeries and his medical retirement in March 2013. His injuries included a moderate traumatic brain injury, fractures in his shoulder, femur, and hip, and a broken rib. O'Dell stated that not being treated immediately after the incident hindered his initial consideration for the Purple Heart. He later reached out to Representative Womack's office, whic...
