SrA Byers joined the Air Force in May 2005.  He was trained as a driver and .50 caliber machine gunner prior to his deployment to Camp Bucca, Iraq.  On October 16, 2006, his vehicle was hit by an Explosively Formed Projectile (EFP) severely injuring his left leg and right hand, which ultimately required more than 30 surgeries, including a tendon transfer on his  hand, and a full knee replacement. Unfortunately, it became necessary to amputate his left leg.  He is however, able to use  his hand, and although he has severe nerve damage to his right leg, he can walk with the use of a prosthetic.