Veterans Appreciation Clinic Hosted by the Mount Washington Resort at Bretton Woods
BRETTON WOODS, New Hampshire ??” On March 6-8, 2006, Bretton Woods Mountain Resort hosted a Veterans Appreciation Clinic, at which soldiers were introduced to skiing and snowboarding using adaptive equipment. Five soldiers participated, including some that have been involved in the current Iraqi conflict, along with another seven support personnel. The profile of the injured included blind, amputees, and spinal cord injured in wheelchairs. One soldier participated on a snowboard equipped with an outrigger.
Ralph Marche from Veterans Affairs is responsible for the Wounded Warrior Project with the Veterans Administration. The Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) was founded on the principle that veterans are our nation’s greatest citizens. The WWP seeks to assist those men and women of our armed forces who have been severely injured during the conflicts in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other locations around the world. Many of the injuries are traumatic amputations, gunshot wounds, burns and blast injuries that will retire these brave warriors from military service. Among other endeavors, the WWP works to help speed rehabilitation and recovery through adaptive sports and recreation programs, raising patients’ morale, and exposing them to the endless possibilities of life after an injury.
“The Mount Washington Resort at Bretton Woods was happy to contribute Hotel rooms, meals, lift tickets and lessons, all to support our troops, especially those whose lives have been profoundly affected by severe and permanent disabilities,” says Resort President Joel Bedor.
Cris Criswell, Adaptive Program Director said, “It is a good thing The Mount Washington Resort at Bretton Woods is doing to recognize and appreciate the sacrifices made, and being made as we speak, by young men and women called to duty. The number of permanently wounded soldiers in the current conflict has risen to over 18,000, and we will be living with their needs for years to come.” Criswell also stated that he is looking to make this an annual event, and could also possibly extend the Wounded Warrior Project to summertime activities as well.
For more information about the Bretton Woods Adaptive Program or about The Mount Washington Resort at Bretton Woods, please call 877-873-0626 toll-free, or visit www.mtwashington.com.