Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2012

GAINESVILLE, Ga. (AP) -- Authorities say a U.S. Marine from northeast Georgia is recovering after being severely injured by a blast from a roadside bomb in Afghanistan.

The Times of Gainesville reports that part of Pfc. Sean Adams' right leg has been amputated just above the knee.

Adams, a 2011 Chestatee High School graduate, also suffered a shrapnel injury to his left eye. Relatives say the 19-year-old suffered lung injuries and both of his ear drums were ruptured.

Authorities say Adams was checking roads and searching for improvised explosive devices in the village of Kajaki on Friday when he stepped on one.

His brother, Josh Adams, said relatives think he was right over the bomb when it exploded because of the extent and type of his injuries. He is being treated in Germany.

(Copyright 2012, The Associated Press)