Wounded Veterans Take to the Field for Fun and Competition

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., April 6, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- A group of injured veterans put their game faces on for a flag football game recently at Episcopal School in Jacksonville. The games provided the participants a chance for bonding and friendly competition.

Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) organized the day of football as part of its Alumni program – one of 20 direct programs and services offered to wounded veterans, their families, and caregivers free of charge. The Alumni program connects injured service members with one another to create individual support structures. Through shared experiences, like sporting events, dinners, and service projects, WWP helps wounded veterans realize they are not alone. A little competition doesn't hurt either.

"I swatted a throw from one of the teenagers there from the church," said Leslie Fuqua, a Navy veteran and WWP Alumnus. "It led to the nickname 'JJ Watt, Jr.' for the rest of the game. I also intercepted a pass."

Leslie also took advantage of the chance to spend time with other injured veterans in a WWP setting.

"WWP means knowing there is help if I need it. I know that WWP has helped many friends of mine and will continue to help countless others when the time arises."

Leslie is also using his connection with WWP to give back.

"I decided to join a local peer support group and will be helping as much as possible."

WWP believes in four pillars to a wounded veteran's recovery: Mind, Body, Engagement, and Economic Empowerment. The Mind pillar, including the Peer Support program, served more than 2,500 injured service members in February 2016 alone.

The Peer Support program connects injured service members with others who are further along in the recovery process, and provides opportunities for wounded veterans to share their readjustment to civilian life with other combat veterans who have faced similar challenges.
https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/programs/peer-support

About Wounded Warrior Project
The mission of Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) is to honor and empower Wounded Warriors. WWP's purpose is to raise awareness and to enlist the public's aid for the needs of injured service members, to help injured servicemen and women aid and assist each other, and to provide unique, direct programs and services to meet their needs. WWP is a national, nonpartisan organization headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida. To get involved and learn more, visit woundedwarriorproject.org.

Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160406/352273 
Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160406/352272 

SOURCE Wounded Warrior Project