READ: The inspiring story of a soldier who lost both legs in Afghanistan, but learnt to walk again and is now expecting first child

A 24-year-old soldier who lost both his legs during a tour of Afghanistan has announced he and his wife, Taylor, are expecting their first baby in May - in what must be some very welcome good news after months of hardship.

1555411_713663278657473_485665007_n

by Ellie Hooper |
Published on

Josh Hargis, from Cincinnati, Ohio, suffered serious leg injuries when a female suicide bomber blew herself up in October - killing four of his comrades.

He received the Purple Heart medal whilst he was still in hospital - an award for soldiers injured in action - and even managed to salute his senior officer from his bed as he received it.

The image of Josh saluting from his hospital bed has become famous
The image of Josh saluting from his hospital bed has become famous

After the event, Josh's commander wrote to Taylor to explain the impact the day had on him.

'I cannot impart on your the level of emotion that poured through the intensive care unit that day,' he wrote.

The couple are now expecting their first child

'Grown men began to weep and we were speechless at a gesture that speaks volumes about Josh's courage and character.'

'I will remember it as the single greatest event I have witnessed in my ten years in the army.'

Josh lost one leg above the knee and one below

Josh has since had to undergo intense physical therapy to help him walk on his prosthetic limbs - a journey that Taylor has documented on her Facebook page.

Family and friends have also rallied round the couple - setting up a fundraising page to help them through what will be a testing few months.

The couple pictured before the explosion
Josh, seen taking a break from training
The couple kiss during one of Josh's gruelling trainig sessions

'Though we can't change what has happened, we can change their future,' wrote Patrick Griffith on the site.

Visit the page here.

Just so you know, we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website - read why you should trust us