Army Specialist Brett Allan Paige of Manteca is recovering from  extensive injuries suffered in Afghanistan.

The 2007 Sierra High graduate was wounded May 17 when an improvised explosive device detonated.

Paige underwent several successful surgeries. He’ll be spending the next month recuperating at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C.

“Brett was a joy to coach and a joy to be around,” said Sierra High varsity basketball coach Scott Thomason.

Paige was a center on the 2007 Sierra High team that won the Valley Oak League championship.

“He was a physical, tough player and a great defender and a great rebounder,” Thomason said of the former center. “ He was a genuine good guy.”

Paige also was a swimmer for the Sierra High Timberwolves. Coach Dave Breitenbucher remembered Paige as a hard worker.

“He’d do everything you’d ask him to do,” Breitenbucher said.

Paige worked at Doctors Hospital of Manteca after graduating from high school. He also attended Delta College.

Paige started his Army service on Aug. 10, 2009. He completed his first deployment in the Global War on Terror as an Army Ranger. For his second deployment – during which he was wounded – Paige opted to serve with the 82nd Airborne.

His parents Budd and Patty Paige indicated they were grateful for the United States Army “for their outstanding medical care and personal support during this difficult time.”

They are asking those who wish to do so to send messages of encouragement and support to their son on Facebook at Manteca Soldier Brett Paige.