TEHACHAPI, Calif. -- A local soldier is recovering in Germany after being seriously hurt in an explosion while on a mission in Iraq.

Family members said U.S. Army Specialist Matthew McCool, a Tehachapi native, is recovering after being seriously hurt during an explosion while on a mission Thursday night.

McCool was hit by shrapnel in the head while he was out scouting in a vehicle at about 3 a.m. Pacific time Thursday. He was airlifted to a green zone hospital in Baghdad where he underwent surgery. His family said he has a concussion and lacerations to his face, and his status is serious, though he is expected to fully recover.

The military told McCool’s family that he was joking with his buddies while being airlifted after being injured.

Family said he is alert and stable and may be coming back to the U.S. They say McCool is slated to be transfered to the Walter Reed Medical Center in Washington, D.C., by next week. Still in Germany, McCool on Friday was able to speak with family from the intensive care unit.

According to his family, this is the second time he's been hit by a bomb this week. They also said their faith and community support is helping them through this tough time and that McCool has told ICU staff that all he wants to do is come home and see is niece.

McCool’s brother-in-law, Fortune Steele is also serving in Baghdad, but with the Marines.

McCool has been writing a War Blog for the Tehachapi News while in Iraq.