To: PROLIFE who wrote (608536 ) 8/23/2004 9:15:33 AM From: J. C. Dithers Read Replies (2) | Respond to Let the Dems keep bringing up the Purple Hearts.3 December 1968, U.S. Naval Support Facility Cam Rahn Bay RVN FPO. Shrapnel in left arm above elbow. Shrapnel removed and appl bacitracin dressing. Ret To Duty.” Mr. Kerry sustained a shrapnel injury in his left arm above his elbow. He was treated at the Cam Ranh Bay US naval support facility where the shrapnel was removed and the wound was treated with a topical Bacitracin antibiotic dressing. He was returned to duty following his treatment. Mr. Kerry sustained an injury when he was wounded by a piece of B- 40 shrapnel while on operation. He was noted to have a wound of entry on the back of his left thigh and the wound was debrided and treated with the application of a topical dressing. An x-ray confirmed the shrapnel location but a decision was made to leave the shrapnel in place, as successful removal would have necessitated an extensive wider exposure and block excision of the wound. The course of conservative treatment was successful and a wound infection did not develop. The wound was ultimately closed with sutures following debridement of necrotic tissue. Mr. Kerry was treated for injuries sustained when he was thrown against a bulkhead resulting in a contusion to his right forearm, as well as a shrapnel injury in his left upper buttock. His exam at that time revealed localized bruising of his right medial forearm and of his buttock from the shrapnel with some localized bruising. An x-ray of his forearm did not reveal evidence of fracture. He was treated with a tetanus shot, topical dressing and an ace bandage and advised to apply warm soaks to his right forearm. The review of Senator John Kerry's medical record confirms his overall excellent health during his time in the military service. His generally robust health has continued during the last 18 years to the present time.
