PORTLAND – A 21-year-old Army paratrooper who was struck by a hit-and-run driver while jogging in North Yarmouth returned to Fort Bragg, N.C., on Friday in preparation for his deployment next month to Iraq.

The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office said Kevin Balvin Jr. was hit from behind Thursday morning while running along Route 231. A driver spotted Balvin on the side of the road, dialed 911 and administered first aid.

Balvin’s father said his son regained consciousness as people were trying to help him. The soldier injured a leg and suffered cuts over much of his body.

Balvin’s family joined with police in urging the driver to take responsibility, and for anyone who may have information about the accident to come forward.