SPC Michael S. Monthervil

SAN ANTONIO, FL

MISSION ACCOMPLISHED ON JUNE 17, 2023

 

Michael S. Monthervil always knew he wanted to join the Army. He originally planned to enlist after college, but a few years into his studies, he could not wait any longer and enlisted in the Infantry. He was attached to the 10th Mountain Division and loved going out on missions and “taking out the bad guys.” All that changed on July 28, 2014. During a training exercise in Afghanistan, Specialist Monthervil fell on his neck, injuring his spinal cord and resulting in the loss of use of his legs.

Michael remembers being injured and medically evacuated. He was operated on in Germany the same day he was injured and then sent immediately to Walter Reed, where he stayed for nine days. Finally he was transferred to the Tampa VA Medical Center for his rehabilitation. Michael’s brother, was also in the Army and stationed in Germany at the time. His brother was allowed to travel home with Michael and be by his side for the surgery.

Michael enjoys spending time with his wife, Ashley. He plays wheelchair rugby, often traveling to local and national competitions. He has also found drawing and painting to be beneficial in his recovery, and has auctioned some of his paintings at various events. Ashley is attending St. Leo University for business marketing and enjoys photography and boxing.

A specially adapted custom home from Homes For Our Troops has allowed Michael to focus more on his recovery. His previous home was not wheelchair accessible, making it impossible for him to complete everyday tasks and physical therapy. Michael now has a place where he and Ashley can safely live. “It means everything to me to have a place where I can build a family and have my independence back,” he says.

He credits his family with helping him stay so positive and says his parents are everything to him. Michael also dreams of having his own family and returning to school, but his biggest goal is to walk again someday.

Michael calls Homes For Our Troops and its supporters “a blessing.” He says there were moments when he wondered if his injury was it for him, but he always kept faith that God has a plan.

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