In early August, as part of Wounded Warrior Program, the CIA welcomed 12 members of the military who are recovering from combat injuries at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.

The Wounded Warrior Program serves military service members receiving medical treatment or rehabilitation in the National Capital Region. As part of this program, the Agency provides the service members with activities outside of the hospital environment to help them recuperate and transition back into the workforce.

Director for the National Clandestine Service (NCS) John Bennett greeted the group in the Original Headquarters main lobby. All 12 visitors were recovering from injuries sustained in Afghanistan.

CIA Director David H. Petraeus made a special appearance and presented the guests with his coin, to honor their service to the nation. D/CIA Petraeus expressed gratitude for their sacrifices and their service, and he joined other Agency leaders in welcoming them to the Langley compound. Before concluding their visit, the soldiers toured the CIA Museum and lunched in the Headquarters cafeteria.

In addition to hosting visits, CIA also matches recovering soldiers who have security clearances with temporary assignments at CIA. Since 2007, program participants have worked in the NCS, the Directorate of Support, and the Directorate of Science and Technology. Many participants have found it easy to transfer skills from their military careers to intelligence work.

Learn more about the Army Wounded Warrior Program and Air Force Wounded Warrior Program.