The request from Joel:

Dear Luke’s Wings:

My name is Joel. I am a sergeant in the U.S. Army. on March 12, 2008, I was riding in a vehicle in Iraq when we took a direct hit from a mortar attack. I suffered traumatic brain injury, I was blinded in both eyes, I lost my right leg below the knee and the fingers on my left hand. The fire burned more than 60% of my body. I am currently in the Polytrama Center in Tampa. I am undergoing occupational therapy and speech therapy as well as a variety of other rehabilitation processes.
I have a wonderful family. They have been very supportive of me. We keep in touch by phone. I have not seen my family since Christmas. 

The letter to Joel:

Dear Joel,

Tonight, Luke's Wings will welcome its supporters to a local DC establishment, Gin and Tonic, to raise the money to fly your family - including your parents, sisters, and brother - to be with you and General Petraeus in June.  Luke’s Wings can and will be bringing your family to town.

None of the folks that will be coming out to support you tonight can possibly imagine the pain you have gone through, and continue to endure; but every one of us marvels at your spirit, your devotion to your family, and your valiant efforts to press on.  General Petraeus, as we’re sure he will tell you, is but one of your humble admirers.  The award he will bestow upon you in June encapsulates the awed sentiment of a grateful nation - a nation of which you asked no questions while you placed her freedoms squarely atop your shoulders and marched on through the night.

We are proud to help your family spend this very special time with you.  Please also pass along our gratitude to each service member with you in Tampa.
And Joel – while your military will continue to help you recover; know that it is your family that will help see you through.  God Bless you for thinking of them so unselfishly; you will no doubt continue to receive their unabashed, unconditional, and steadfast love - simply for being their son and brother. 

With admiration,
Luke’s Wings