In 2023, Master Sgt. Mitchell Cross, a soldier stationed at Fort Bliss, Texas, faced a life-altering moment when a wrong-way driver struck him while riding his motorcycle. The collision resulted in the loss of his right leg above the knee. Despite the severity of his injury, Cross remained conscious and applied self-aid while waiting for emergency responders, crediting the quick actions of his friend, a passing motorist, and military police for saving his life. The quality medical care he received at University Medical Center (UMC) of El Paso played a critical role in his initial treatment and recovery.
Supported throughout by his family and military leadership, Cross embarked on the challenging path of physical and emotional healing. Within six weeks, he was fitted with a prosthetic leg and began intensive physical therapy at the Center for the Intrepid in San Antonio.
Cross’s resilience paid off when he returned to work as the operations sergeant major for the 4th Battalion, 70th Armored Regiment. Just months later, he deployed with his unit to Korea for an Emergency Deployment Readiness Exercise.
Reflecting on his journey, Cross acknowledges the transformation his injury brought to his outlook on leadership and service. He sees multiple paths to being an effective leader and is committed to mentoring Soldiers with the knowledge he has gained over his career.
Today, UMC proudly celebrates Master Sgt. Mitchell Cross’s inspiring leadership and unwavering resilience.
Follow UMC El Paso on X and do not miss any important updates.
Stay updated with the latest UMC news! Download our UMC Cares app, available for both Android and Apple devices.
