Columbus Day weekend, Major James Pradke and his wife were driving to their Indiana home with their two children, ages 4 years & 6 months. He had just completed a volunteer military assignment in Illinois. In an instant, their lives were forever changed when they were struck head-on by a drunk driver going 100 mph on the wrong side of the interstate. This tragic accident sent all four of them to three different hospitals with life-altering injuries. They began their recovery and in time were moved to the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago (RIC) where SALUTE, INC. became aware of their situation. While Major Pradke’s parents and siblings gave emotional support, SALUTE, INC. was able to jump into action for this family to fulfill their immediate needs of food, clothing and other basic necessities which allowed them to stay focused on their rehabilitation at RIC. Because the Pradke’s finances were heavily dedicated to their recovery, SALUTE, INC. continued to look for creative ways to support this military family. Ege, their four year old son who lost his arm in the accident, was beginning his journey of transitioning back into life with a missing limb. SALUTE, INC. was able to provide the tuition for a local school which helped Ege acclimate physically and socially to his new reality. Major Pradke, who served four tours in Iraq, planned to continue his military career but due to this accident and his injuries, he is currently stationed at Fort Campbell awaiting orders to be medically retired from the Army. SALUTE, INC. also connected the family to other organizations and resources for additional assistance during a difficult transitional time. Major Pradke expressed his gratitude in a letter to SALUTE, INC. Here is a portion of his message:
“Thank you from the bottom of my heart, for the kindness you have demonstrated to my family and specifically to Ege. I pray that this picture demonstrates just how important a role you have played in saving the life of a son of the U.S. Army, our pride and joy, our son Ege”