Air Force wounded warriors took part in a two-day sports camp designed to help them adapt to their new lives, according to an Air Force release. Over 30 airmen attended the first Air Force Wounded Warriors Adaptive Sports Camp, held June 26-27 at JB Andrews, Md., and JB Langley-Eustis, Va. During the camp, participants engaged in various activities—such as wheelchair basketball, sitting volleyball, archery, and swimming—meant to ease them back into a physically active lifestyle. “These heroes have had their lives turned upside down as a result of combat or other injuries and health issues they have encountered,” said Tony Jasso, the Air Force Wounded Warrior adaptive sports program manager. “As part of the Air Force’s Wounded Warrior Program, this sports camp is intended to introduce adaptive sports during the earliest stages of recovery for our service members.” In addition to providing outlets for airmen to overcome physical challenges through sports, the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program also provides them with professional support programs, including transition assistance, employment assistance, and financial counseling. The Air Force Association, which has created the Wounded Airman Program as part of an ongoing effort to help support wounded airmen through their recovery, supported the initiative. (AFA release)
Amid NATO’s continued push to ramp up air defenses in Eastern Europe, Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall swung by seven allied countries to boost relations last week, including those on Russia’s and Ukraine’s doorstep.