The Warrior Games is an annual event — much like the Olympics — that promotes "the benefits of sports and reconditioning to help wounded service members recover." Of course, it also encourages a bit of healthy competition, and seeing the delighted smiles on these veterans' faces is truly the most rewarding part of this video.
Israel Del Toro was one such participant, and the retelling of his harrowing experience in Afghanistan was difficult to stomach at first. When he collapsed after an ambush attack on his team, Del Toro’s one thought was of his young son. "I broke my promise to [him] that I would not let him grow up without his dad like I did."
Miraculously, he would return home and begin the long process of recovery, one that the Warrior Games has helped Del Toro achieve. He says that many veterans "miss that camaraderie" that comes with serving in the military, and "showing them that […] there's a light at the end of the tunnel" is absolutely vital to their healing process.
Like the Navy veteran who started his own fly-fishing organization, and the Canine Companions that provide our service members with much-needed friendship, sometimes all it takes is someone to reach out when the days get darkest.
We thank all our veterans for their service and continued efforts! You’re never alone.
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