UI student will get Purple Heart for Iraq injury

MOSCOW, Idaho – University of Idaho student Riley F. McNeal will receive a Purple Heart on May 3 for wounds he suffered in Iraq.

The lance corporal from Tacoma entered UI after his graduation from Tacoma’s Bellarmine Prep.

In January 2005, just a semester short of completing his degree in secondary education, he enlisted in the Marines through the National Call to Service program.

That program allows volunteers to sign up for 15 months active duty service followed by 24 months in the reserves.

“This war is a cause I believe in. I wanted to do my part – put in a couple of years,” McNeal said in a press release from the university.

He went to Iraq a year later and was in a platoon responsible for locating improvised explosive devices. During combat operations in the Anbar province, McNeal’s vehicle was struck by an IED.

He received a laceration to the left side of his head, was treated for his injuries and returned to duty.

McNeal was honorably discharged in November. He returned to the University of Idaho, and will complete his degree this semester. He plans to teach high school history.

“This solidifies everything that happened over there,” McNeal said of the medal. “We found roadside bombs, and I’m receiving a Purple Heart for a roadside bomb. It was a sacrifice I’m proud of.”