NEWPORT NEWS, Va. –
The Newport
News police and fire departments competed against the Wounded Warrior Amputee
Softball Team in a seven-inning game, April 15, 2017, to raise awareness for the
sacrifices and resiliency of the nation’s veterans.
The WWAST
is comprised of veterans and active-duty members who lost limbs while serving in
the military since 9/11. The members’ amputations range from above the knee to
below the elbow, and they hope to educate others that “life without limbs is
limitless.”
“We are
passionate about being patriots. We love our country. Although we are no longer
serving, we feel that we are serving in the capacity of inspiring and educating
the world,” said retired U.S. Army Col. Ben Mitchell, WWAST member, whose right
leg was amputated below the knee. “My objective is to inspire, be an example
and most importantly, try to motivate individuals to get up and never quit.”
Having persevered
while undergoing extensive rehabilitation, the team members are competitive
athletes, armored with prosthetic arms and legs. They play against able-bodied
athletes in exhibitions across the country to increase awareness for their
cause.
Recognizing
the impact the WWAST can have on the nation, the organization also hosts
softball camps for children with amputations, where the players serve as
coaches and mentors. Their goal is to educate and inspire children who face many
of the same challenges they do.
Whether
through games or camps, community members attending the event appreciated the
WWAST’s mission of encouragement.
“I think (the
event) is a positive thing for the community – to let us know we are all
capable of anything if you put your mind forward and work together,” said
Brittany Lewis, Newport News Police officer. “Although I play softball
regularly, I have never had an opportunity like this, so I am very honored.”
Having once
served their country, the WWAST athletes continue to serve as role models
across the nation, inspiring hope in the face of adversity.
For more
information about WWAST or WWAST Kids Camp, visit www.woundedwarrioramputeesoftballteam.org.