Bonding Through Competition

OAHU, Hawaii, July 7, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Ninety warriors and their families explored the true meaning of 'ohana – the Hawaiian concept of blood and extended family – during a recent Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) challenge course at Kualoa Ranch's Secret Island.

The daylong event was full of activities, including tug of war, kayak races, and volleyball games. Paddleboarding, glass bottom boat rides, and a barbecue beach picnic rounded out the day's festivities.

"All events had a competitive edge to them," said Norman Corbett, Army veteran and Warrior Transition Battalion soldier. "But the tug of war really had a lasting impact on everyone. We enjoyed the early morning start, which allowed for a full day of family healing and sharing stories."

By reintroducing injured veterans and their families to the bonds created in the military, warriors are given a tool to assist with the long-term recovery process.

"I just thought I was going to be able to be outdoors and feel safe," said Josue Arroyo Hernandez, retired Army veteran. "It superseded my expectations. Not only did I feel safe, but I was able to interact with people with the same problems I deal with every day. I liked everything from the beginning to the end."

During event activities, WWP program specialists interact with attendees and advise them about additional services that can help their recovery. All assistance is provided through the help of generous donors, allowing the warriors to benefit from these resources at no cost.

Norman said the healing factor at events like the family challenge course comes from warriors communicating with and helping one another.

"It allows us to empower others through building positive relationships," Norman said. "We see from different eyes, hear from different ears, and feel from different hearts. But we are the sum total of these experiences. It is very meaningful."    

About Wounded Warrior Project
The mission of Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP) is to honor and empower Wounded Warriors. The WWP 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.

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SOURCE Wounded Warrior Project