Overcoming Adversity

Prosthetic Feet aren't Slowing this Marine Down

On Oct. 4, 2009 LCpl. Josh Wege was in Afghanistan.  He was riding in a vehicle that was struck by an improvised explosive device.  LCpl Wege received severe injuries to his lower legs and feet.  In fact, his injuries were so severe that the doctor's were unable to save them.

Did that slow down this Marine?  Well after reading that just 44 days later Josh was up and walking a few steps on his new legs.  Pretty amazing for a 19 year old young man who had just experienced a life changing injury!

Navy Musician Teaches Rowing to Wounded Warriors

 

By Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Jesse Awalt
Naval District Washington Public Affairs

06.07.2010  WASHINGTON - A military musician assigned to the U.S. Navy Band here teaches rowing to wounded warriors recovering at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md.

Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Patrick Johnson spends almost every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon motivating wounded warriors at the center's Mercy Hall.

Four years ago, Chief Petty Officer Michel Curtis, also a member of the Navy Band, and Johnson, began rowing at the Capitol Rowing Club here as part of their physical training regimen. Capitol Rowing Club is a masters rowing club on the Anacostia River next to the Washington Navy Yard where the Navy Band is headquartered.

Curtis, who has rowed for much of his adult life, thought other musicians would fit right in at a rowing regatta.