Meet one of Superman's Heroes

After being severely wounded by gunfire from an insurgent's AK-47 in Fallujah, Iraq, in November 2004, Klay South returned to the United States with only a hospital gown to his name and long-term plans for convalescent care in his future.

"They cut your clothes off of you in the field and get you out of danger," the former Marine corporal and Greenwood native said. "If you are lucky, your gear comes back several months later."

Now 33, South said it has been more than five years since he was wounded, but he is still undergoing surgeries.

South decided to do something to help those men and women who needed something to take their minds off of the pain and their lengthy hospital stays.

Using his own experiences as a guide, and with the help of his mother, Janet, he created Veterans of Valor, a nonprofit organization that helps fellow service men and women -- and their family members -- through the difficult first days back home.

South formed his organization nearly three years ago and got a good head start with his first fundraiser, raising $25,000. He recently got a big help in publicizing his effort by appearing in a Bon Jovi music video for the single "Superman Tonight," in which he wore his dress blue uniform and displayed a sign showing his work with wounded vets.

He said that meeting the rock band's lead singer Jon Bon Jovi and guitarist Richie Sambora was a lot of fun, and he hopes the video brings awareness to the plight of wounded vets as well as other everyday heroes who help make a difference.


Read the rest of his story here.

~ Hath