The family of Staff Sgt. Shawn Manning, a Twin Falls native wounded in a shooting rampage last week at Foot Hood, Texas, reported this week that his condition is improving.
In a prepared statement, the family reported that Manning was removed from intensive care Monday.
"He was able to stand and walk a short distance today [Monday]. He is talking to us and wants everyone to know how much he appreciates all the communities supporting him and his family."
Manning, originally from Twin Falls, is a resident of Lacey, Wash. His mother, Shari Taylor, has residences in Hailey and Twin Falls and his brother Bryan Manning lives in Hailey. His sister Kim and her husband, Eric Lott, live in Twin Falls.
The family reported that Manning, who has served two prior tours of duty in Iraq, was at Fort Hood preparing for deployment to Afghanistan when the shooting occurred on Thursday, Nov. 5.
Thirteen people were killed and 29 wounded in an attack by suspected shooter Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan, an Army psychiatrist. According to news reports, Hasan opened fire at a processing center where soldiers were getting medical attention before being sent oversees.
Manning's family reported that Manning, one of the first victims, was shot six times, once in the chest, three times in the abdomen and in the leg and foot.
"All of the shots missed major organs and arteries and we are blessed with this miracle," the family reported.
The family also stated that contrary to news reports elsewhere, Manning, an Army mental health professional, "did not know or work with the gunman at any time."
The family expects that Manning will soon be transported to Fort Lewis in Washington for further recuperation.
Terry Smith: tsmith@mtexpress.com
Shawn Manning
