Spokesman: Wounded Missouri lawmaker improving in Iraq

PARKVILLE, Mo. -- A state legislator wounded by enemy fire near Baghdad was up and walking Saturday at the hospital in Iraq where he's being treated, a family spokesman said.

Rep. Jason Brown, R-Platte City, is a staff sergeant in the Army Reserve. He was shot in the lung during a recent patrol near Baghdad, said George McClintock, a friend of Brown's family.

McClintock described Brown's condition as "very good." The 36-year-old legislator had not undergone surgery, as doctors worked to determine the best course of treatment, McClintock said.

McClintock said he learned Thursday that Brown had been wounded but did not know when the shooting occurred.

He said Brown's wife, Rachelle, spoke to her husband Saturday.

Brown began a one-year tour of duty in Iraq in April as a civil affairs specialist. His duties include helping to build roads, bridges, hospitals and schools.

He also is seeking re-election. His Democratic opponent in November is Jared Welch, a lawyer who is a staff judge advocate in the Missouri National Guard, in November.