Why the Wounded Warrior Project Matters

While I sit at home resting and preparing for the second and more difficult portion of the cross country journey, you'll have noticed I haven't written much. In the near future as I print my maps and do my research there will be a preview of the five states I still have to transport my unwilling legs across. For now, though, I'll give you all a little research to do, but don't worry its as on point as can be expected of one as flighty as I am wont to be. More specifically I have three Wounded Warrior Project related bits of news.
First off, check out this recent NPR series of articles relating to a group of Marines fighting in Afghanistan. The regular news may have limited coverage of the action overseas, but guess what, Americans are still dying and being severely injured in our name. The need for the services of the WWP is only going to continue to grow.
For those of you more into visual stimulation, "Who Will Stand" is a recent documentary on those returning from war and their difficulty dealing with their physical injuries and just as importantly, the need for psychological care. Interviews with those who have served underline the stigma and damage to careers which can result when a member of the military seeks help for PTSD or other combat-related disorders.
Finally, please check out my friend Swagman John's site on Facebook. He is organizing an Appalachian trail hike to support the WWP. I met John on the C&O Trail coming out of Washington DC and he gave me assistance and advice which left me better prepared to complete the first leg. He and other thru hikers will be carrying a bear bell shaped like a chicken along the entire route from Georgia to Maine to raise funds for the charity.
Even more finally, check out "Doonesbury" from time to time. The cartoon features two characters who are wounded warriors and their difficulties reintegrating into society after their terrible injuries. B.D., an reservist who lost his leg in Fallujah and Toggle, a young man who sustained a traumatic brain injury, regularly appear in the comic's world.

Thanks to recent donations from:
Rebecca Hartness