Iraq War Veteran and Amputee Resumes Firefighting Career

CAPITOL HEIGHTS, Md. - For more than 30 years, it has been firefighter Dwayne Frost's lifelong mission to serve the public. That service started after a seven-year stint in the U.S. Marine Corps.

"I later became a nurse, later became a police officer, then a volunteer firefighter," said Frost.

Frost then joined the National Guard in October 2000 where he was working alongside military police, medics and communications specialist.

But on July 23, 2003 during Operation Iraqi Freedom, his life changed forever. A suicide bomber struck his vehicle. Frost survived but had severe injuries to his lower leg. Eventually his leg was amputated below the knee.

"I was frustrated in the beginning, not being able to accept the loss of my leg," Frost recalled.

The recovery was tough but he made it through and was ready to return to his career as a firefighter.

"It was a struggle because I had to prove myself fit, to be able to do the same thing the regular firefighters and the EMT's do," said Frost.

Six years after surviving a suicide bomb, he was back.

"I still say I have two legs. Just one is stronger than the other,” Frost said.

His journey through life has turned out to be an inspiration, especially for his oldest son Dwayne Jr., who is now a member of the fire department.

"By him doing everything even though he is injured, he still keeps a positive head. He’s faithful in church. So, he is a good role model, a big influence in my life," said Dwayne Jr.

I don't classify myself as a hero. I say a mentor. I do what I’m supposed to do," his father remarked.

Despite everything he has been through, Frost says he feels blessed to be able to serve the public.

"I never want nobody to tell me that I can't do nothing when I know I can. As long as I put God first, I'm not worried about anybody else,” said Frost.

Frost’s distinguished military service includes a Bronze Star for capturing seven of the 55 most wanted Iraqis.

He says he has done everything he wanted to do in life except become a millionaire, but he is still working on that.