Raaz Family Friend Tells of Iowa City Soldier Who Lost His Legs in Battle

Below is a letter from Sue Mullins, of Iowa City, who is a family friend of Sgt. Collin Raaz. Raaz is undergoing intense therapy and rehabilitation after losing both legs in combat in Afghanistan this year.

The US wars in Afghanistan and Iraq are approaching ten years. As time passes, citizens can easily become complacent about the wars and the affects on our country, and the service men and women who are fighting for us. Often we hear television reports of accidents and deaths of our soldiers, perhaps say a quick prayer for them and their families and move on about our day. But when an accident affects someone we personally know and love, our attitude and level of interest in the war changes forever.

A local soldier, Marine Sergeant Collin Raaz, age 25, was injured by an IED (improvised explosive device) during combat operations on June 15, 2011 in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Sgt. Raaz lost both of his legs above the knee and has a fractured pelvis.  He is recuperating in San Diego, CA, at a military rehabilitation facility. If you would like to write a letter of encouragement to Collin his address is:

Sgt. Collin Raaz

Wounded Warriors Unit

Naval Medical Center Hospital

34800 Bob Wilson Drive

San Diego, CA 92134

A Marine Scout Sniper, Collin has been in the service for 4 years, and was the squad leader of a 9-man team in a forward operating base located in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. This was Collin’s third deployment and second combat tour of duty in Afghanistan. His men showed extreme composure and bravery by quickly coming to his aid upon impact.  Tourniquets saved his life along with the quick response and transport of a helicopter flown by British troops.

Sgt. Raaz is the son of Jerry Raaz and Julie Raaz of Iowa City. Collin graduated from School in 2004; was an honor student, City High Cross Country runner, and an Eagle Scout from Boy Scout Troop #204.  Collin has two brothers who are also City High alumnus: Nathan Raaz (2002) and Dillon Raaz (2008). Collin’s parents, two brothers, and family and friends and will be traveling as often as possible to be with him during his recovery and rehabilitation. 

Lives can change in an instant. Every time you hear a news report about the war, stop to say a prayer for all of the troops worldwide who are valiantly fighting for our freedom and that of the Afghan and Iraqi people. The Raaz family and friends wish to thank all who have been keeping Collin in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

A fund has been established for Sgt. Raaz to assist with expenses related to his injuries that are not covered by the Military at the in Iowa City, IA. Gifts can be made at any UB Bank address; or at (usbank.com) or sent to this mailing address:

Sgt. Collin J. Raaz Recovery Fund  

US Bank, c/o Walter McFadden

2312 Mormon Trek Blvd., Iowa City, IA 52246