It is not well known that wounded service members are currently spending months sometimes years in hospitals and rehabilitative facilities. The signature injuries of this conflict, including amputation, severe burns and Traumatic Brain Injury require lengthy hospital stays and lifelong care as do the multiplicity of other injuries. However, the spirit and resolve of our nations wounded heroes transcends the sublime and is tantamount to their Warrior ethos.

Because exhaustive rehabilitation can dampen that spirit, Hope For The Warriors™ has established the Warrior Hope & Morale Program. The new program provides life experiences allowing injured service members to participate in opportunities for respite and recreation outside of their rigid rehabilitative schedules. The Warrior Hope and Morale Program celebrates and reengages the fighting spirit of Wounded Warriors by meeting emotional needs, restoring hope and inspiring a steadfast recovery as an important part of their long-term rehabilitation.

Whether it is a golf outing, fishing trip or chance to attend an event such as Fleet Week, New York City, the Warrior Hope & Morale Program provides Wounded Warriors the opportunity to move forward, embrace new experiences and in the process forge new friendships that will enhance their inner spirits.

It has been our experience that opportunities like this can make a significant impact on recovery and posture. With your support the Warrior Hope & Morale Program will help to restore hope in the eyes of a hero.

MAY 2008

The Warrior Hope & Morale Program was launched in May 2008 with 15 wounded service members and medical attendants from Brooke Army medical Center and the Center For The Intrepid in San Antonio, Texas participating in a range of activities during Fleet Week, New York City. Each aspect of this kick-off event was well supported by the generosity of individuals and organizations both locally in New York City and throughout the country, including the NYPD, FDNY, Mr. Arnold Fisher, Mr. Rich Wood and the people of Plaza Construction, Mr. Ed Malloy, President of the Building and Trades Council, Mr. Harry Bridgwood and Friends of the Vietnam Veterans Plaza, George Harvey and MSA and John Vigiano and the his FDNY volunteers. Monetary and in-kind donations contributed towards many of the logistical aspects (airfare, ground transportation, and some meals) as well as activities themselves (tours, baseball game tickets, participation in Fleet Week festivities). The event was an amazing success.