VIDEO: Medford Marine Receives Purple Heart

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Daniel Vargas of Medford considers himself one of the lucky ones. 

He was deployed to Afghanistan in January 2010, serving as a member of the personal security team for the commanding officer of Combat Logistic Batallion 6. It was his second tour of duty, having been deployed to Iraq in 2008.

On April 30, 2010, Vargas' convoy was ambushed with improvised explosive devices in the western cluster of Afghanistan. Vargas was knocked unconscious by a blast, resulting in the most severe of his injuries. 

Vargas said other members of the convoy were more seriously injured in the attack, but fortunately no lives were taken.

On Friday, the city he now calls home honored him for his service as he received the Purple Heart and several other accolades.

"You're indicative of the young people who protect our country," said Medford Rep. Paul Donato. "We are so proud of your service and the service that you've given to your country."

Vargas received his Purple Heart from USMC Maj. Josh Phares Friday, with a proclamation read by 1st Sgt. Allen Goodyear.

Phares pinned the Purple Heart on Vargas and said to him: "You're wearing this for all the people who can.'t."

Vargas, 31, was born in Bolivia and has lived in the United States since 1995. He said the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks were his motivation to eventually join the Marines.

After receiving his green card on Dec. 4, 2006, he signed up for the Marines the next day. He became a U.S. citizen in February 2008.

After his two tours, he was honorably discharged in January 2011. In December of that year, he moved to Fellsway in Medford with his wife, Juliana, and two daughters, Nicole and Isabella.

Vargas is presently studying international business at Bunker Hill Community College.

In addition to his Purple Heart, Vargas was presented with a proclamation from Donato as well as the Key to the City from Medford Mayor Michael McGlynn and City Councilor Rick Caraviello.

"(Vargas) has answered his call to duty," McGlynn said. "He has been there to represent the United States in their quest to make sure that people around the world have the opportunity to enjoy all those freedoms that we do."