Airmen Excel at Warrior Games

The Air Force’s team brought home a team record of 18 medals during the 2012 Warrior Games in Colorado Springs, Colo. “I think we exceeded all expectations,” said team coach Maj. James Bales. “The goal for the team was just to come out here and perform at the best of their ability, and they did that,” he added. Bales said it was the Air Force’s best performance in three years. USAF athletes medaled for the first time in volleyball and wheelchair basketball, earning a bronze medal in both. They also brought home a gold medal and two silver medals in swimming; two silver medals and a bronze medal in cycling; and two gold medals, three silver medals, and four bronze medals in track and field. The games took place from April 30 to May 5 at the Air Force Academy. The shooting events were held at a different site. The Warrior Games bring together ill, injured, or wounded athletes across the US and British militaries to compete in paralympic sports. The Marine Corps team won the trophy for the most cumulative medal points. (Colorado Springs report by TSgt. Mareshah Haynes)