A 33-year-old former Oregon National Guard soldier shot in Iraq is trying to clear up an issue that has the government taking his paychecks.
Joint Base Lewis-McChord spokesman Joe Piek issued a statement in response to this report Wednesday -- saying the bill was for something else, but he declined to say what unless Gary Pfleider signs a waiver of his privacy rights.
Back on September 24, 2007, Pfleider sat on an open truck as it began a routine mission. Suddenly, a sniper's bullet hit his left thigh.
"I remember the sound of the bullet hitting my flesh, the smell of it, then me grabbing my grabbing my leg. After that I was out for about 16 hours," said Pfleider.
He was rushed to hospitals in Germany and eventually the U.S. Eight surgeries later, he is able to walk but wears a brace and uses a cane for balance.
Last May, the government sent him a letter demanding he either turn in items he believes were left behind in Iraq or pay more than $3,000.
The government started garnishing his disability payment, taking $120 of his $800 monthly check. It also seized his tax returns.
A spokesman from the Oregon National Guard said both the Guard and the Army reviewed the case. Pfleider said he recently found out the charges were for overpayments made to him over several months.
He signed a second affidavit in February of 2010.
Finally, he'd had enough, thinking he was being billed for gear.
Pfleider went to the media and congressmen like Oregon's Rep. Kurt Schrader stepped in to help.
"He was right, he did file the appropriate papers and documentation came through back in 2007 or 2008 I think it was. And we've talked to the commanders of the guard and its going to be taken care of this week," Schrader said.
"If the charges are solely due to gear being lost during a combat related injury, a soldier is not usually charged," said Captain Stephen Bomar.
"However, sworn statements would be gathered by all involved to ensure accurate accountability," said Cpt. Bomar.
