Wounded warrior adaptive sports camp, warrior care event slated for Aug. 25-28

  • Published
  • By Janis El Shabazz
  • Air Force Personnel Center Public Affairs
JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas --  More than 160 Air Force and Army wounded, ill or injured warriors from across the nation will gather at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington Aug. 25-28 for a warrior care event and an introductory adaptive sports camp.

The Air Force Wounded Warrior Adaptive and Rehabilitative Sports Program supports the Department of Defense commitment to the rehabilitation and recovery of wounded, ill or injured warriors. Wounded warriors who participate in adaptive sports become more active and, based on their individual challenges, they learn to use equipment and increase their independence. The Lewis-McChord camp, sponsored by the Air Force Personnel Center Warrior and Survivor Care Division will include training and participation in wheelchair basketball, sitting volleyball, swimming, air pistol and rifle shooting, archery, cycling and track and field competition.

"These competitions introduce participants to athletic activities using equipment that has been modified to challenge and refine their abilities," said Marsha Gonzales, deputy chief, AFPC Warrior and Survivor Care Division. "The competition and the camaraderie with service members who are experiencing the same challenges aids in the healing process and lets them know they are not alone in their struggle."

The event will also offer career readiness program training sessions to educate and inform participants about career readiness, a care-giver focused agenda that includes training on self-care and mentorship training designed to educate warriors who are now ready to help others through their recovery.

For more information on the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program, visit www.woundedwarrior.af.mil.

For more information about Air Force personnel programs go to the myPers website. Individuals who do not have a myPers account can request one by following these instructions on the Air Force Retirees Services website.