2022 Warrior Games: A look back

  • Published
  • By Shannon Hall
  • Air Force Wounded Warrior Program

Approximately 300 competitors recently came together in Orlando to compete in the 2022 Department of Defense Warrior Games. Though this is a competition, the overall intent is to build relationships and support for warriors, and to recognize their strength and commitment to rising above any all and obstacles.

The Warrior Games is a Paralympic-style competition that features athletes from all branches of the military. Athletes compete in adaptive sports including archery, cycling, track, field, shooting, sitting volleyball, swimming, wheelchair basketball, rowing, powerlifting and wheelchair rugby.

"It was great to meet with active-duty and veteran Airmen and Guardians competing in this year's Warrior Games, as well as the families, friends, and wingmen who have supported these athletes through recovery and rehabilitation,” Under Secretary of the Air Force Gina Ortiz Jones said during a visit to the games. “Their resilience and accomplishments are truly inspirational.”

During the opening ceremony, Jones spent time interacting with Team Air Force athletes. She learned some of their stories, how they train and how the Air Force Wounded Warrior (AFW2) Program has changed their lives.

While attending one of the competitions, Jones also got to meet with athlete’s families, friends and those that show up to support them. They discussed some of the struggles they face but also highlighted how adaptive sports play a huge role in their a warrior’s recovery.

There are still a couple of competitions remaining but Air Force is leading the way in achieving personal best and each of the team members have exemplified the Air Force Core Values and the Space Force’s Guardian Ideal. To watch the competitions, live and stay up to date on the event please visit the Warrior Games website.