Welcome to the AW2 Community Support Network

Filed under Community Support Network, Resources by on November 18, 2010 at 11:10 am {no comments}

By Patty Sands, WTC Stratcom

Join me in welcoming the newest organizations in the AW2 Community Support Network. These organizations are part of the 192 AW2 Community Support Network organizations that help better the lives of our AW2 Soldiers, Veterans, and their Families. Click on the links below to get to know them. 

The AW2 Community Support Network was created based on direct requests from severely wounded, ill, and injured Soldiers, Veterans, and Families. Wounded Soldiers stated that connection with their local community and community leaders was essential for their success and reintegration.

Do you know of a caring organization that wants to assist wounded, ill, and injured Soldiers, Veterans and their Families? If so, please email the AW2 Community Support Network at the below email address. I welcome your recommendations and referrals. 

Send organization referrals to AW2CommunitySupportNetwork@conus.army.mil

Not Army Brats–Army Heroes

Filed under 2010 Symposium, Staff Stories by on November 16, 2010 at 3:55 pm {one comment}

By Emily Oehler, WTC Stratcom

AW2 kids at events like Operation Purple at the AW2 Symposium, find it easy to relate to each other by sharing their experiences and stories.

Just this week, I was on a conference call and the person stated she was an “Army Brat.” It’s a phrase I heard a lot growing up between Fort Eustis and Fort Monroe, and one that comes up at work frequently. Many a co-worker is a self-proclaimed Army Brat. To me, the phrase is used as a badge of honor–and rightfully so. As someone who had a meltdown when moving one time in elementary school and who also came unhinged when my dad “went away” for his doctorate–in our hometown–I respect and am in awe of the inner strength of Army Brats.

During the past three years, I’ve gotten to know a special type of Army Brat–the “wounded warrior’s Brat.” Each year about 50 kids attend the AW2 Symposium and participate in Operation Purple© camp.  Each year, the kids come in quiet, guarded, and hesitant. Each year, they leave boisterous, open, and connected. For me, it’s a real treat to get to know these Army Brats. They are strong, dedicated, loving, protective, tender, and fierce. And, I think they deserve a new nickname–“Army Hero.”

These Army Heroes have been through a lot. And have a lot share. Having asked them a few questions before, I decided I would share a few of the comments from four kids whose dads were severely wounded in combat. Makale and Dreyson’s dad was an active duty Soldier and Bradley and Lauryn’s dad was a reservist.

What frustrations do you feel about having a parent in uniform?

“He was not there for many events in my life. Some kids in my school would tease me about not having done some things yet like hunting. I’d say, ‘Dude, my Dad is fighting a war in Iraq.’” – Bradley

“Not seeing my Dad. I missed him so much and I was always excited when I knew I would see him.” – Lauryn

How do you feel when you hang out with other wounded warriors’ kids?

“It’s nice to hang out with kids who know what it’s really like to have a parent with horrible injuries. My friends at home have no idea what it’s like to have a dad who is completely different than before they went off to war.” – Makale

“Fun! But, also kind of sad because of seeing all the moms and dads that have been hurt in the war.” – Dreyson

“They understood what I have gone through, we connected.” – Bradley

What advice do you have to  kids whose parents are wounded?

“That it will all be OK. Try not to worry about it all. And, anytime you can, go to Operation Purple©!” – Makale

“If your dad or mom has seizures or flashbacks, do not be afraid. It will be okay.” – Dreyson

“Stay calm, but find your outlet. I was given a huge stuffed bear when I was in the 3rd grade. I used it as my punching bag sometimes when I was angry. I still have him with me.” – Bradley

“It’s OK, we have all been through it. Being around other hurt Soldiers helped me understand what my Dad was going through.” – Lauryn

What do you want people to know about your mom and dad?

“That just because he is different now than before, he’s not crazy! My dad’s injury has been really hard on my mom, but she still does a good job taking care of all of us.” – Makale

“That my dad fought in the war to save the world. My mom works hard taking care of my dad and me and my brother.” – Dreyson

“He is brave and strong in his heart and mind. She is kind.” – Lauryn

What should America know about Army Families?

 “It is tougher than most people realize. We are strong kids but have had a void in our life with a parent serving.” – Bradley

“They are brave and they are not like other Families I know. My dad has been a reserve Soldier and none of my friends have Families like mine. We are not like ‘civilian’ Families.” – Lauryn

“Kids serve too. It is hard having your parent in the Army and never knowing when they may have to leave and whether or not they will come back home.” – Makale

Reflections on Veterans Day

Filed under General, Holiday, Staff Stories by on November 11, 2010 at 4:08 pm {no comments}

By Alan Morales, WTC Stratcom

The air was always a little chilly on Veterans Day in New Jersey. As a child, I would wake-up early and my mother would drive me to the local Veterans’ memorial. Situated in a quaint park, the memorial would be crowded with folks from the community. The walkway leading to the stone memorial would be lined by Veterans, many in wheelchairs and many wearing old uniforms. I remember thinking as an 8-year-old–wow these guys are old!

Every year until I reached high school, I had the honor of singing the American National Anthem at my local community’s Veterans Day ceremony. I would get nervous and hold the podium, hoping the crowd wouldn’t notice my knuckles turning white. A trumpeter on stage played a pitch, I took a deep breath, and I sang.

Even as a young child, I realized how important this event was. After the ceremony, I would listen to Veterans share their stories about their service in Vietnam or Korea. I would see them holding the hands of their grandchildren, beaming with pride.

Never did I think that almost 16 years later, I would be in a position where I would continue to hear these stories. The faces of the Veterans I speak with today are now a little more diverse. In fact, on any given day, most Veterans I meet are just a few years older than me.

As the primary lead for the Army Wounded Warrior Program’s blog, listening to stories and experiences from Soldiers and Veterans is now a part of my every day job. It’s an experience that has opened my eyes and has changed the way I think about the military.

What was chubby 8-year-old Alan missing? The concept of sacrifice. American men and women volunteer to fight for this country. They give up substantial amounts of time with their Families and friends to make sure that others back home are safe. Now, exposed to the details about what their sacrifice truly looks like, I realize that I haven’t just learned more about military life. I have been forever changed as an American citizen.

I take great honor in the opportunity to help give a voice to AW2 Soldiers and Veterans. Their stories don’t just impact me, but they more importantly impact others in the AW2 community. These stories motivate. They help a Soldier who is struggling in their journey to reach his or her new normal. They provide ways for Veterans to overcome their challenges. They empower.

Today, I thank American service members for all they have done, are doing, and will do. I also give a special thank you to AW2 Soldiers and Veterans. Your stories have inspired me and have made my memories of Veterans Day back in New Jersey just that much more special.

Wounded Warrior Takes First Prosthetic Run at University of Michigan Football Stadium

Filed under Adaptive Sports, Advocate Story by on November 9, 2010 at 2:58 pm {2 comments}

By Melvin Kearney, AW2 Advocate

Running for the first time in three years and with a prosthetic leg, AW2 Veteran Amanda Mikulka (right) outruns AW2 Advocate Melvin Kearney (left) on the University of Michigan football field.

AW2 Veteran Amanda Mikulka walked into my office smiling from ear to ear. “I am going to pick up my running leg from the prosthetics lab here at the Ann Arbor, VA facility,” she beamed. After the Veteran was fitted for her running leg she informed me that it had been three years since the rocket-propelled grenade attack that caused her to lose her right leg below the knee. She had not run since that day. 

As her AW2 Advocate, my wheels began to turn. I wanted to make her first time running in three years a day that she would never forget. The University of Michigan’s Military Appreciation Day football game that I helped coordinate was just around the corner. So, I decided to make a phone call to the Michigan Assistant Athletic Director. The AW2 Veteran was given a personal tour of the entire University of Michigan Big House Stadium including the new suite and press box area. The highlight of the afternoon came when Amanda, who has been a Michigan football fan since she was a child, was given the opportunity to have her first run across the Michigan football field and straight into the end zone.  

Before she ran across the field, she told the Assistant Athletic Director that she wanted me to run by her side, but then she paused and said that since I was in a suit, I probably would not want to run with her. I smiled and said, “Lead the way Amanda.” Amanda and I ran from the 50-yard line straight into the University of Michigan end zone. After her very first run in three years, I asked her how she felt. She responded breathing hard, “Tired–but I am happy Kearney. I will never forget this day for as long as I live.” 

At the close of the afternoon, Amanda thanked the Assistant Athletic Director for the experience. During our goodbyes, the director let Amanda know that she was one of the few fans that could say she not only visited the stadium, but also ran across the football field and into the end zone.

Warrior Transition Command Launches a New Public Website

Filed under Resources, Warrior Transition Command by on November 8, 2010 at 10:25 am {no comments}

By Jim Wenzel, WTC Stratcom

In response to the need for detailed information about the Army’s Warrior Care and Transition Program, the Warrior Transition Command (WTC) has created a new public website at www.wtc.army.mil.

This website provides wounded, ill, and injured Soldiers, Veterans, their Families, and the interested American public and media information about Army warrior care and support as well as specific information about various WTC programs. The WTC website also provides links to featured content from the WTC and AW2 blogs, valuable warrior care resources, photos, and other media.

The U.S. Army realizes that Army warrior care consists of many detailed processes and key players. Shedding light on the key information that wounded warriors and their Families need most, the WTC website is intended to help the warrior care community achieve their goal–to successfully transition wounded warriors back to duty or to civilian life.

From sharing information about the Medical Evaluation Board (MEB) to information about the Comprehensive Transition Plan (CTP), the WTC is committed to providing easy to understand information that is relevant for wounded warriors and Families. Accessible from work or home, the WTC website will help guide wounded warriors through the healing and recovery process.

The WTC website will be updated frequently as new programs and events are made available so check back often. If you have any questions about the website or for someone on the WTC staff, please email warriorcarecommunications@conus.army.mil.

Stand Up For Heroes

Filed under Non-profit, Staff Stories by on November 4, 2010 at 5:05 pm {no comments}

By Emily Oehler, WTC Stratcom

Last night I was at dinner at Walter Reed with about 50 wounded Soldiers and their Families to watch the Bob Woodruff Foundation’s 4th Annual “Stand Up for Heroes” entertainment/comedy event. The event was live in New York, NY, and was broadcasted via satellite to Walter Reed Army Medical Center and six areas of operation in Iraq. The event celebrated Soldiers, honored those who are wounded, and raised funds for programs that support wounded warriors around the country. Based on the laughter at Walter Reed–the event was a hit. 

As hosts, Lee and Bob Woodruff brought a personal perspective to the challenges wounded warriors and their Families face, they also shared an understanding of the importance of humor during the recovery process. Lee joked with the Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army GEN George Casey in the audience, “I want to run my fingers through your medals.”  

Bob also demonstrated to the audience how rare servicemembers are within American society by stating that less than 1% of the country currently wears a military uniform compared to the 11% during Vietnam. Several wounded servicemembers and their kids were featured in a foundation video that stressed “it’s not about the war, it’s about the warrior.”        

The Vice Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army GEN Peter Chiarelli welcomed participants and political comedian Jon Stewart emceed, opening with, “We’re here tonight for a fundraiser for wounded warriors–or rather, to get money for the Democratic party.” On a more serious note, he added, “I spout for a living, and I know that it’s a privilege that is defended at every single level by those we’re honoring.” 

Tony Bennett, a World War II infantryman, kicked off the show stating, “I know what everyone here has been through.” Bruce Springsteen followed up with several songs, including a moving duet with his wife, “If I Should Fall Behind (wait for me),” and then auctioned off his acoustic guitar for $145,000.  Other performers included Joel McHale and Jerry Seinfeld. 

Brian Williams, NBC Nightly News anchor, worked the crowd for immediate donations of $50,000, $25,000, $10,000, and $5,000–more than 100 people made donations. The money will support the mission of the Bob Woodruff Foundation to help ensure that our nation’s injured servicemembers, Veterans, and their Families return to a home front ready to support them. 

Jon Stewart closed the night stating, “These Soldiers–this is the best our country has to offer.”

The Bob Woodruff Foundation is a member of the Army Wounded Warrior Program Community Support Network

International Elite Runners Trade an Army Ten-Miler and the Marine Corps Marathon Race for a Servicemember’s Smile

Filed under Adaptive Sports, Soldier Story by on November 4, 2010 at 4:47 pm {3 comments}

By LTC (Ret.) Sue Bozgoz, Guest Blogger

Note: The expressed comments and views of guest bloggers do not reflect the views of WTC or the United States Army

The "irun4god" running team intends to donate their awards from the Marine Corps Marathon and Army Ten-Miler to the wounded warriors at Walter Reed Army Medical Center.

It’s not easy to understand why a group of world class runners who live half way around the world would compete in a 10 and 26.2 mile race with no prize purse waiting for them at the finish line.  What I’ve learned over the years is that money is good, but you can’t take it with you to the grave.

As a former All-Army marathon runner and founder of the “irun4god” running team, I am well aware of the hard work these men and women accomplished last weekend, running the Army Ten-Miler and the Marine Corps Marathon. It’s work that has a high pay-off, even more so for someone who thought they could never run again.  

I used to run every day until on September 21, 2006, I was riding in my van in Atlanta, GA and was hit by a semi-trailer truck. I vividly recall sitting in my van and looking in my rear view mirror yelling the words, “Oh good Lord, not today. I haven’t said goodbye to my son, Austin!” 

Hours later and still in shock after my accident, I realized that the semi-trailer truck totaled my vehicle while pushing it into oncoming traffic. I wasn’t sure I’d ever be able to run again.

I stopped running in 2006 until I heard WO1 Johnathan Holsey, an Army Wounded Warrior (AW2) Soldier, speak at the 2008 Army Ten-Miler in Washington, DC. I recall Holsey explaining to the audience how he lost his leg in a road side bomb explosion in Ramadi, Iraq. For him, he wasn’t going to let an injury hold him back. He returned to his training regime with the help of a crank bike and started training for the New York City Marathon.

Continuing to tell the audience his story, Holsey shared with us that obstacles continued to follow him into the race. While crossing mile 13, his crank bike tire blew out as he attempted to make a right turn. He shared with us that he was immediately approached by an assistant who had pleaded to him, “Let’s take you back to the start.”  In response to the assistant, Holsey told him, “No thanks. I‘m going to finish this race–it may not be a world class time, but I am going to finish what I started.” Finish, he did.

AW2 Veteran Johnathan Holsey (left) coached LTC (Ret.) Sue Bozgoz (right) on how to overcome her injury and continue pursuing her passion for marathon running.

His story was exactly what I needed to hear in order to inspire me to run again. It inspired me so much, that in 2008, I ran the Marine Corps Marathon with Holsey and other world-class runners by my side. Holsey’s story helped me build the determination and courage to overcome my own obstacles. He is an inspiration to both wounded warriors and civilians.

This year, the “irun4god” running team launched an outreach program that included visiting the Warrior Transition Brigade located at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, DC. After visiting the brave war Veterans and Soldiers at Water Reed, we immediately understood the meaning of the words, “Freedom is not free.”  As a team, we agreed that we would run the Army Ten-Miler and Marine Corps Marathon not for ourselves, but as a team to honor wounded servicemembers. Turns out the “irun4god” running team won several trophies at the two races and although it was an honor to win, it was a greater honor to donate these awards to the servicemembers at Walter Reed.

In light of November being Warrior Care Month, our only hope is to inspire servicemembers to walk, run, or bike with us next time we hit the pavement.

Everyone needs a helping hand, but it takes self-assertion to take the first step in the right direction.

Honoring Families and Caregivers During Warrior Care Month

Filed under CSM Benjamin Scott by on November 4, 2010 at 11:32 am {no comments}

By CSM Benjamin H. S. Scott, Jr., WTC Command Sergeant Major

WTC Command Sergeant Major Scott

CSM Benjamin Scott Jr. has personally witnessed the substantial positive impact Families and caregivers place on wounded warriors during their recovery and transition.

November is Warrior Care Month, and this year’s theme is “Army Strong–Family Strong: caring for wounded, ill, and injured Soldiers by supporting their Families and caregivers.” 

For Warriors in Transition (WTs), Families and Caregivers provide unparalleled support during a challenging time.  They offer a sense of normalcy, of the familiar.  They’re a shoulder to lean on and often the voice of reason when the WT needs to talk through difficult decisions. 

Before joining WTC, I served at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, where I worked with Soldiers who had just been medevaced from theater.  And I met the spouses, parents, and other caregivers who had just flown halfway around the world, often on a red-eye flight, fearing the worst, leaving their children with relatives or friends.  As I watched them, I saw the strength they mustered to encourage their Soldiers–a deep, enduring sense of fortitude that many of them didn’t know they had. 

At WTUs, Families and caregivers continue to play an integral role in each WT’s recovery.  You attend medical appointments, keep your WT on schedule, and participate in CTP scrimmages.  And you make incredible sacrifices–sometimes living away from the rest of your Families and putting your own careers on hold.  And for all you do to take care of your Soldier, you must take care of yourselves, too.  Please utilize the resources available to you, the counseling services, the administrative resources at the SFAC, and all of the other programs the Army has in place.  Speak up to your WT’s Squad Leader if there’s something you need.

I also want to speak to the children of WTs.  I know this can be scary and challenging, when your parent is hurt.  You’ve probably got a lot of questions and wonder when your life will get back to normal.  These reactions are completely understandable, and I hope you’ll ask your questions and tell your parents how you feel.  I also encourage you to embrace your Family’s “new normal” – life may be somewhat different than before your mom or dad was injured, but things will get better, and your Family will keep moving forward.

To all the Families and caregivers, I won’t say I know what you’re going through, because I don’t.  But I do know that you’re standing tall when you feel like your world is falling apart.  YOU are the unsung heroes of today’s conflicts.  The Army, the nation can never fully repay you for your sacrifices.  The Army understands that the strength of the Soldier starts with the Family, and that may never be more apparent than when the Soldier is injured.  During Warrior Care Month, and throughout the year, I commend you for all you do.

American Kids Inspire an AW2 Veteran

Filed under Soldier Story by on November 2, 2010 at 5:27 pm {2 comments}

By Robert Jackson, AW2 Veteran

For Robert Jackson, adjudicating the 2010 FOE God, Flag, and Country Oratory Program offered him a chance to serve his community and be inspired by American youth.

A few years ago, I started speaking at corporate functions, sporting events, colleges, K-12 grade schools, and other similar events.

Recently, I had the honor of speaking at the Fraternal Order of Eagles (FOE) International Conference held in Louisville, KY, where I had the honor, as an AW2 Soldier, to judge their God, Flag, and Country Oratory Program.

This program is a competition that started with FOE and the American Legion in 1967. Luckily, the FOE organization kept the program going after all these years. The God, Flag, and Country Oratory Program gives 10- to 15-year-old children a deeper understanding of the significance of the “God, flag, and country” ideal. At the same time, it makes them aware of the American Heritage of this ideal while demonstrating to them why it is so meaningful today.

The contest also provides a way for the children to build up their confidence and public speaking skills. Each contestant has three minutes to compete and say why the “God, flag, and country” ideal is important. I saw many contestants compete and I must say–I was blown away.

I watched numerous 10- to 15-year-old children compete against each other within certain age groups. With tears in my eyes and chills down my spine, I sat with a warm heart while I attempted to judge the hardest competition I had ever seen.

I was also asked to speak to the members present and share a motivating message. During my speech, I told them that I was the one that was motivated.

After hearing an 11-year-old child explain that our nation does have hope for the future or listening to a 14-year-old child discuss the fact that some of our brothers and sisters will not make it home, but that their sacrifice will be remembered–I was moved and the tears and chills once again returned.

Not only do I feel that this program will inspire wounded servicemembers and their Families, but it will also make them aware of a community program that will allow their kids to share their pride for their parents’ and their Families’ sacrifice.

“People helping people” is FOE’s motto and they support this motto by helping many different charities. In Iowa for example, one of these initiatives is the construction of a $25 million diabetes research center at the University of Iowa.

I suggest you spread the word about the God, Flag, and Country Oratory Program to servicemembers and their Families. It is another avenue for AW2 Veterans to serve their communities out of uniform and give them that selfless service feeling again.

To find out more about FOE and their charities, take a look at the FOE website.

The appearance of external hyperlinks does not constitute endorsement by the United States Department of Defense of the linked Web sites or the information, products, or services contained therein. For other than authorized activities such as military exchanges and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) sites, the United States Department of Defense does not exercise any editorial control over the information you may find at these locations.

VETS Program Works to Increase Employment Opportunities for Wounded Warriors

Filed under Career/Education, Resources by on October 28, 2010 at 4:04 pm {no comments}

By Nancy Adams, WTC Education and Employment

Employment is one of the most important aspects of anyone’s life–particularly for Warriors in Transition (WTs) who are separating or medically retiring from the Army and AW2 Veterans. Finding employment can be challenging, but with hard work, determination, and support, a successful career is achievable.

The Warrior Transition Command (WTC) is keenly aware of the importance employment plays in a wounded warrior’s recovery and transition to life post-injury. For that reason, WTC works with various agencies and organizations to build career opportunities for separating-WTs and Veterans.

The Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS) is one example of an organization that is working with WTC to help transition WTs who are separating or medically retiring from the Army and AW2 Veterans who have already transitioned. Headed by the Department of Labor, VETS currently works with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to educate and inform top employers around the country about the benefits of hiring Veterans. The program highlights these benefits to employers and educates them about how hiring Veterans can help them achieve their hiring goals and their mission to support the military.

Currently, VETS is being piloted in 14 States and is intended to be rolled out nationwide. By continuing to engage employers and organizations, VETS, with the assistance of WTC, will open doors to new career opportunities for WTs. Employers and other organizations can find more information on the VETS program by visiting the Veterans’ Employment and Training Service website.

In light of Disability Awareness Month and whether you are an employer, organization, AW2 Veteran or a Family member, know that WTC along with other military and non-military organizations are working to provide the tools necessary for wounded warriors to successfully transition to civilian life.  

If you are a Warrior in Transition about to separate or medically retire from the Army, please contact your squad leader or commander about employment opportunities. If you are an AW2 Veteran, please learn more by contacting your AW2 Advocate or by checking out the AW2 Career and Education Web page.

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