Michael Gallardo is from Los Angeles. He gave up a baseball career to join the military because he felt as though it was a calling. That, and a sign. The sign, was 9/11, which is also his birthday. Serving in Iraq, Gallardo was severely injured when the Humvee in which he was riding, in a split second decision, intentionally ran over an IED to protect other soldiers on the ground. The ensuing explosion and vehicle damage led to serious injury to Sergeant Gallardo’s left leg. After months of attempts to save his lower left leg without success, Sergeant Gallardo was rendered a below-the-knee amputee. He was awarded a Purple Heart. We salute Sergeant Michael Gallardo for his bravery, selflessness, and dedication to the service of our country!