Boeing Vice President of Apache Programs, Al Winn presented an Apache combat pin and a framed picture to a former Apache pilot who lost his right arm during his tour in Afghanistan in 2006. The small ceremony at the Rotorcraft site in Mesa, Ariz., recognized retired CPT Daniel McConnell whose arm was severed just below the elbow during a wartime accident in an Apache helicopter. He was deployed with the 4th Squadron of the 278th Air Cavalry Regiment out of Jackson, Tenn.

Since the first Gulf War, the Apache program has had a tradition of presenting the Apache Combat Pin to soldiers in Apache units who have served in combat.

The framed picture titled “Heroes” and medallion were given as extra thanks for going above and beyond the call of duty, Winn said. “This year we are giving these to folks who have committed themselves to more and gone beyond the call,” he said, then read the caption on the photo: “The hero is one who kindles a great light in the world, who sets up blazing torches in the dark streets of life for men to see by.”

“I really appreciate it,” McConnell told Winn. McConnell praised the crashworthiness of the Apache helicopter as well and said it was because “the Apache performed as advertised” that he was able to walk after the serious accident. McConnell also toured the Apache assembly line. After his 11 years of service in the U.S. Army, McConnell is now attending medical school and would like to serve as a flight surgeon.

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