25 photos showing why The Warrior Games is the world’s most inspiring competition
SUMMARY
Since 2010, The Warrior Games has allowed wounded warriors from each military branch to compete in Olympic style games each year. This year's games are being held at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va. from June 19-28. By utilizing the therapeutic power of sports, the games enable wounded, ill, and injured service members to showcase their athletic abilities.
Here are 25 photos that show why this event is one of the most inspiring in the world.
1. The Warrior Games are attended by senior government and military leadership such as former Secretary of Defense Leon E. Panetta (center) and Chief of Staff of the Army Gen. Raymond T. Odierno.
2. There is an elaborate opening ceremony complete with the lighting of the cauldron to mark the beginning of the games.
3. Warrior athletes make up 6 teams including Army ...
4. Air Force,
6. Navy / Coast Guard,
7. Special Operations Command (SOCOM),
8. And British Armed Forces.
9. The crowd is packed with family, friends, and caregivers of the competitors.
11. It's also chance to see the long standing rivalry between military services.
12. Events include archery ...
13. Wheelchair Basketball,
14. And Cycling.
15. Then there are Field events such as seated shot put, standing shot put, seated discus, and standing discus.
16. There's track and field ...
17. Shooting,
18. Sitting Volleyball,
19. Swimming,
20. And Wheelchair Rugby.
21. There's even exhibition games that dignitaries and Olympic champions will play in, like Prince Harry of Wales and 3 time Olympic gold medalist Misty May Treanor.
24. And the team with the overall best performance is awarded the 'Chairman's Cup.'
25. No matter what the result, there is a powerful spirit of camaraderie.
To learn more about the games, visit the Warrior Games website here.
Now: Everyone should see these powerful images of wounded vets
OR: Here's How A Combat Wounded Veteran Got His Dream Shot At College Football