The Wounded Warrior Project

You’ve probably seen that logo before on posters or donation jars. I was lucky enough to be introduced to the organization this fall when the campground where we have our camper and ATV from hosted a benefit. Labor Day weekend’s always a party, but the campground owner made arrangements for the pig roast to benefit the Wounded Warrior Project.

We had the honor of meeting a family and both the husband and wife were Wounded Warriors alumni. The representative from the organization who organized and spoke at the event became involved with the WWP when her son came home wounded. ATVs were rented so the Wounded Warriors and their kids could ride and a great time was had by all.

I wish I had the speech made during the meal taped so I could share it with you in her own words, but I’ll have to muddle through. Any mistakes are my own.

Our wounded soldiers usually come home in nothing but hospital johnnies on those big, cold cargo planes. There’s a group of women near Ramstein who knit wool booties so at least their feet are warm, but rarely do the men and women still have any personal belongings. A small group of veterans started making backpacks to deliver to the hospital bedsides of our wounded, and when more backpacks were requested, the Wounded Warriors Project was born.

Now the scope of services they provide is amazing. I encourage you to click on the link above and read about the organization. They assist with the overwhelming task of government paperwork and counseling, for both the Wounded Warrior and the family. They help navigate the system. They set up adventures for Wounded Warriors and their families to help them rediscover life after injuries. The speaker talked about a veteran who wanted to go back to school and didn’t know how until she educated herself on the process and helped him.

I’m sure there are many ways to support the Wounded Warrior Project. Hosting a fundraising event (as simple as registering your event with them and they’ll help you do that). Attending a fundraising event. Maybe you have skills that would benefit them in a volunteer capacity. If you know a family struggling with the return of a wounded loved one, encourage them to reach out to the WWP.

And if you see that logo on a donation jar, dig deep into your pockets and purses and give your loose change. It only takes 100 pennies to make a dollar, and every dollar counts.

And to every man and woman who has taken the oath to defend my freedom and that of my children no matter the cost, thank you.