Master Sgt. Israel Del Toro Honored At Providence

NEW LENOX, IL - American hero Master Sergeant Israel Del Toro returned to his alma mater last week. Del Toro, a Purple Heart recipient who re-enlisted in the United States Air Force after suffering major burns over most of his body in a Humvee accident 12 years ago, was also given a parade in New Lenox over Labor Day weekend.

At Providence, Del Toro was the honorary captain for the football team Friday night as the Celtics faced St. John Vianney. He also spoke with members of the football team and reunited with classmates from the Providence Class of 1993, according to a news release from the school.

"It is an awesome feeling to be back at Providence" Del Toro said . "Seeing some of my old teachers, coaches and classmates is a very unique experience for me."

ALSO ON PATCH: Parade Held For Purple Heart Recipient Master Sgt. Israel Del Toro In New Lenox

Del Toro suffered burns over 80 percent of his body during the 2005 accident in Afghanistan while on-duty with the Air Force. But while only given a 15 percent chance of survival, Del Toro defied the odds and became the first airman to re-enlist after becoming eligible for a medical retirement. He remains with the Air Force and plans to retire in 2020.

In addition to the Purple Heart, he has been awarded the Army Commendation Medal and the Pat Tillman Award for Service at the ESPY Awards.

He said Providence helped prepare him for some of life's greatest challenges.

"They teach you about community service and taking care of each other and I was able to carry that with me throughout the military and my life," he said.

Photo: Master Sgt. Israel Del Toro meets with members of the Providence football team. Photo courtesy of Providence Catholic High School