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Local Hero’s Homecoming: Cantonment Veteran Injured In Operation Epic Fury To Be Honored On Saturday
March 12, 2026
A Cantonment veteran injured during Operation Epic Fury will be welcomed home Saturday evening at the University of West Florida.
Medically retired former serviceman Hunter Girdner joined a contract crew with four other men, answering the call once again alongside the U.S. Army in Operation Epic Fury.
During this deployment, his team was located in a targeted area and was attacked. While relocating, the Cantonment veteran noticed one of his squad members was left behind. While running back to rescue his teammate, he was hit by shrapnel and critically wounded.
He underwent several operations to include removal of a kidney, spleen repair, and more at Walter Reed Army Medical Center.
“He is heading back home now and I am asking for YOU to spread the word and come line the streets, fill the room and simply share a prayer as we welcome him back to Northwest Florida,” Rep. Michelle Salzman said.
Salzman will join Lt. Governor Collins, Sen. Don Gaetz, Escambia County Sheriff Chip Simmons, and others will be there to welcome him home along with prayer from U.S. Marine Corps League Chaplain Tim Chandler.
The welcome home event will take place at 6 p.m. Saturday in the UWF Conference Center (Building 22).
Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Comments
8 Responses to “Local Hero’s Homecoming: Cantonment Veteran Injured In Operation Epic Fury To Be Honored On Saturday”
I don’t think you’re home just yet Hunter – but any day now! You are amazing and brave and we are so thankful for your service but MOST IMPORTANTLY that you helped your team to safety and got out of there alive! You have a long road to recovery but have an amazing family and support system that will be there for you through it all! Please let us know if you need ANYTHING!! Pensacola is PROUD OF YOU!!
Thank you for your service to our country and your bravery in helping your fellow man. May God bless you and heal your wounds.
We the People Thank You & May God bless you & yours!
Thank you for your service. You are a great example for other shoulders to follow.
Welcome home brother. Glad you made it back.
Thank you for serving our Great Country. You went above and beyond the call to duty when you went back to help your fellow squad member. Thanks you for putting your life in harms way for all others in our great country. God bless you for you courage and your service to the USA!
Welcome home Hunter and God Bless you!! So very THANKFUL for your sacrifices and devotion to our Great Country!!! What a Hero you are and will ALWAYS BE in my eyes!!! God Bless all Our Military!!! And GOD BLESS AMERICA!!
Thank you for your service young man. Praying you heal up and get back on your feet.