So how did

Lee obtain these unique flag souvenirs? As one of 20 men and women in

Major Justen's 948 Forward Surgical Team, Lee was responsible for everything

from the operating room to flag detail. Having purchased a few flags from

the Post Exchange store on base, Lee would lower the usual American flag

and raise the flags he intended to present to his family and the Clayton

State staff. Each flag would fly for a day over Kandahar Airfield.

"This

is the best gift I've ever been given by a student," said Jeff Hammer,

director of Admissions at Clayton State. "It meant more to me than

your typical gift, because Bryan was willing to go that far to show his

appreciation."

"I was

very touched and wondered what I had done that was so special," said

Bonner. "I was just doing my job."

Bonner played

a role in securing Lee's financial aid, helping him apply for his Montgomery

GI Bill Benefits federal veteran benefits via e-mail.

Lee, a resident

of Peachtree City and 1999 graduate of McIntosh High School, chose Clayton

State because of the "flexibility to pursue education." With

a choice of day and night classes, Lee can keep his job as a civilian

licensed EMT ICU nurse at Gwinnett Medical Center, and still earn the

prerequisite credits he needs to pursue his career goal of Physician's

Assistant in the Army.

Lee earned

a Medal of Commendation from the Army for excellence during his tour in

Afghanistan. On reserve until he completes his needed courses at Clayton

State, he plans to make a career out of military service. "I really

enjoy the Army. It's the best job in the world," said Lee.

The flag presented

to the Office of Admission's staff will be displayed, with its corresponding

certificate signed by the 948 Forward Surgical Team, in the Clayton State

Admissions Office. Bonner's flag will be framed and placed on the wall

in her office.