A Second Chance at Home: Wounded Veteran Begins New Chapter in Arizona

A Second Chance at Home: Wounded Veteran Begins New Chapter in Arizona

AVONDALE, Ariz.—Army Sgt. Padge Mattaliano survived one improvised explosive device blast in Afghanistan. The second tore away portions of his leg and bicep, leaving him permanently disabled. Twice awarded the Purple Heart, Mattaliano was just 23 when he came face-to-face with death—and walked away with a deeper appreciation for life. More than a decade later, “feeling blessed” is a phrase he still returns to often. It was on his mind again as h…