More than 50 athletes and mentors listen as Brig. Gen. David Harris, 96th Test Wing commander, speaks at the opening ceremony for the Air Force introductory adaptive sports and rehabilitation camp at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., April 13. The DOD’s military adaptive sports program enhances warrior recovery by engaging wounded, ill and injured service members in ongoing, daily adaptive activities, based on their interest and ability. This is the first event of the type to be held at Eglin. (U.S. Air Force photo/Samuel King Jr.)

Eglin hosts introductory adaptive sports, rehabilitation camp

  • Published
  • By Kevin Gaddie
  • Team Eglin Public Affairs
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Team Eglin held an opening ceremony for the week-long Air Force introductory adaptive sports and rehabilitation camp yesterday at the fitness center.

"This is the gateway to a whole new world of paralympic sports for these athletes," said Brig. Gen. David Harris, 96th Test Wing commander in his opening remarks.  "Far from them being inspired by us, we're really looking forward to the opportunity to be inspired by their courage and athleticism."

In 2011, the Department of Defense created the Military Adaptive Sports Program to enhance warrior recovery by engaging wounded, ill and injured service members in ongoing, daily adaptive activities, based on their interest and ability.

For Staff Sgt. Daniel Crane, an amputee and retired Security Forces Airman, who is now a mentor-athlete, the adaptive games represent a new reason for living.

While stationed in Guam, Crane lost part of his right arm when he was shot by a local resident.  The experience left him deeply depressed, angry and disillusioned.

"In the beginning I didn't like that I had to leave the military, and everything I worked so hard for was taken away from me," said Crane, a San Antonio native. "I had nothing to hold on to. These games have given me a new purpose in my life. Through the games, I still get to serve these Wounded Warriors and military members. If I can help others in their recovery, it's also helping me. The people I help are now my priority."

Adaptive sports and athletic reconditioning activities play a fundamental role in recovery, rehabilitation and reintegration of service members back to their units, or as they transition into the civilian environment, said Marsha Gonzales, warrior and survival care division deputy.

"I hope the athletes will take what they learn at these events back home and incorporate this training into their recovery process and in everyday life," she said. "I hope they'll be inspired to come back next year and try out for the competitive team."

Since its inception, the Military Adaptive Sports Program has assisted more than 158,000 wounded, ill and injured service members at 325 structured camps and clinics, for activities, according to a DOD news release.

For the schedule of events, click here.

For more information on the wounded warrior program, visit www.woundedwarrior.af.mil.

For more information about Air Force personnel programs go to myPers at https://mypers.af.mil.  Individuals who do not have a myPers account can request one at www.retirees.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-120510-068.pdf.