Semper Fi. Got your 6. Semper Fortis.
Just some of the official and unofficial mottos associated with the United States Armed Forces.
As far as this newspaper is concerned, civilians in the homeland should also take words like “Always Faithful” and “Always Courageous” to heart, especially when searching for something to do for those soldiers who have returned from the front lines looking and feeling different than when they were first deployed.
One way to reach out is to support the Department of Defense Warrior Games, which will be held this year in Chicago from June 30 through July 8. Approximately 265 wounded, ill and injured service members and veterans representing teams from the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard and U.S. Special Operations Command, as well as the United Kingdom Armed Forces and the Australian Defence Force will participate in the competition.
Teams include active-duty service members and veterans with upper-body, lower-body, and spinal cord injuries; traumatic brain injuries; visual impairment; serious illnesses; and post-traumatic stress. They will go head-to-head in archery, cycling, sitting volleyball, shooting, swimming, wheelchair basketball, track and field, engaging in friendly competition and experiencing the healing power of sports.
According to the DoD, the Warrior Games were established in 2010 as a way to enhance the recovery and rehabilitation of wounded warriors and to expose them to adaptive sports. Sponsored by the U.S. Olympic Committee in Colorado Springs, Colo., the inaugural Warrior Games hosted approximately 200 wounded, ill and injured service members. During the following years, the Warrior Games expanded in size and scope.
Comedian and “Daily Show” alum Jon Stewart will open be this year’s games.
“Last year the Warrior Games were so impactful that I couldn’t wait to participate again as the master of ceremonies for the 2017 Games,” Stewart said. “This is a can’t-miss event for Chicago; join me in celebrating our nation’s service members.”
Recording artist Kelly Clarkson, who will be performing in Chicago, helped put the games – AND THE SACRIFICES OF THE PARTICIPANTS – into perspective.
“These men and women have put their lives on the line for us and have overcome so much in the process of doing that!” she said. “It will be a tremendous honor to perform for them and their families who have sacrificed so much!”
U.S. Navy Captain Brent Breining, director of the 2017 Games, added, “Warrior Games showcase the resilience and triumph of these athletes after overcoming significant injuries and illnesses.”
Never forget those who have made ANY sacrifice for his or her country.
A Soldier’s Prayer
“Dear Lord, I’m just a soldier
A protector of our land,
A servant called to battle
When my country takes a stand,
I pray for strength and courage
And a heart that will forgive,
For peace and understanding
In a world for all to live,
My family’s prayers are with me,
No matter where I roam,
Please listen when I’m lonely
And return me safely home.”
