MESSIN WITH PARADISE

MESSIN WITH PARADISE - While Hawaii escaped the kind of devastation suffered by Japan in the March 11 tsunami, it still endured an estimated $30.6 million in damages. But thanks in part to the Civil Air Patrol's early warning system, there were no fatalities. (Photo by TSgt Samuel Bendet)

PEDAL TO THE METAL

PEDAL TO THE METAL - Working the tower at Townsend Bombing Range, Ga., Barton had to cross-train from tactical air control party to cyber transporter after the motorcycle mishap severed his leg. (Photo by TSgt Samuel Bendet)

PEDAL TO THE METAL

PEDAL TO THE METAL - Barton needed more than a leg to stand on to get through grueling rehab; he needed a strong support system, which he got in the form of family members like his mom, Wanda (left) and wife, Megan. (Photo by TSgt Samuel Bendet)

PEDAL TO THE METAL

PEDAL TO THE METAL - Cruising down the highway, Staff Sgt. Kevin Barton rides his 2006 Buell Firebolt XB 12R on the rural roads of Jessup, Ga., using a prosthetic on his left leg.(Photo by TSgt Samuel Bendet)

Orphaned

Grammy and Grampy (GP) lay a big kiss on their grandson while relaxing on a backyard swing. Nathaniel?s parents appointed Ronald and Carol Lee as their son?s legal guardians. Raising Nathaniel has helped them deal with the grief of losing their daughter and son-in-law.(Photo by Samuel Bendet)

Orphaned

?Uncle Face? ? or Staff Sgt. Aron Lee ? plays football with Nathaniel in the back yard. Lee got a humanitarian assignment to Lackland AFB, Texas, to help his parents raise Nathaniel after the tragic deaths of the boy?s mom and dad. (Photo by TSgt Samuel Bendet)