Two decades after his deployment to Iraq, former Army Staff Sergeant Phillip Trezza is revisiting the most difficult chapters of his service — this time in conversation with his teenage daughter. The reflection, reported by Jey Born for NPR, aired on Morning Edition on November 6, 2026, and examines the experiences of a medic tasked with treating wounded service members in a combat zone.
Trezza deployed to Iraq 20 years ago in the role of Army medic. His account, shared with his daughter, focuses on the toughest moments he encountered while helping the wounded — a perspective that highlights the often-overlooked emotional toll on military medical personnel, who are charged with caring for casualties while navigating the same dangers as the troops they treat.
The interview is part of a broader national conversation about veterans' mental health and the long-term effects of combat service. For local readers, Trezza's story underscores the importance of resources and support networks for veterans and their families, particularly those who served in medical roles during the Iraq War.
The segment aired on Morning Edition, NPR's flagship morning news program, on November 6, 2026. Audio from the conversation will be available later today, according to NPR.
NPR notes that it does not offer or accept money for coverage or interviews, and that anyone making such an offer or request is not an NPR employee and does not represent the organization.
