Sgt. Dan Powers had been a skilled paratrooper, but after coming within inches of death in Iraq he struggled to even walk and his return to the skies seemed out of reach.
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Twenty-eight of Powers' fellow soldiers followed, dropping into the bay.
"When we hit the water, we both gave each other the thumbs up, and it was just an incredible feeling," Garrity said.
On shore, triumphant hugs and congratulations were exchanged.
"He has done more for this brigade than he will ever know," Garrity said. "Look to Dan Powers. Be like Dan Powers. Don't let the bad guy win."
Powers said he dedicated his jump to everyone who worked to save his life. "And to all the guys who weren't as lucky as I was. It's for them."
Next month, Powers -- a fully qualified paratrooper once again -- will be boarding another military plane, this one bound for Afghanistan.
Why? "It's my job. And the war is not won."
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