82nd Airborne Pilot Injured in Christmas Day Drone Strike in Iraq

In a tragic incident on Christmas Day 2023, Garrett Illerbrunn, a pilot with the 82nd Airborne, sustained severe injuries from a drone strike in Iraq. His wife, Lorna Illerbrunn, reported that while he is currently able to respond to simple commands, his recovery is a slow and challenging process. “Garrett’s injury is devastating,” she stated, emphasizing the precarious nature of his condition, as a slight change could have resulted in his death. Garrett is now undergoing rehabilitation at the VA Medical Center in Richmond, Virginia, where Lorna has remained a constant source of support. She recounted the emotional toll of seeing her husband in a coma, expressing her desire to connect with him during those dark moments. “I just wanted to put my hand on his and let him hear my voice,” she shared, highlighting the deep bond they share. The severity of Garrett's injuries is underscored by the fact that shrapnel from the drone strike had bisected his skull, necessitating the use of a protective helmet as part of his recovery. Lorna remains hopeful, despite the daunting challenges ahead, and strives to embody the encouragement she offered her husband during his darkest days. In a poignant reflection of their resilience, Lorna quoted her own words to Garrett: “Brave birds fly through the fog,” symbolizing their determination to navigate the uncertain path of recovery together.