News
Chairman Filner Supports Veteran Athletes and Military Paralympic Program
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 22, 2009
Photo cutline
House Veterans’ Affairs’ Committee Chairman Bob Filner (D-CA) joined Veterans Affairs Secretary Shinseki, US Olympic Committee Chief of Paralympics Charlie Huebner, and Paralympians at an event to mark an expansion of rehabilitative support for injured veterans. On Wednesday, October 21, 2009, the VA and USOC signed a memorandum of understanding to officially announce a new partnership that will increase training opportunities, provide equipment, expand access to Paralympic mentors, and enhance ongoing sports programming in communities across the country.
Calling the partnership an important step in ensuring that that U.S. Military Paralympics Program is capable of supporting veteran athletes, Chairman Filner said, “For many service members and veterans who have been severely-injured, their rehabilitation can be a disheartening experience. The partnership between USOC and VA will provide injured service members and veterans more opportunities to heal and grow, while in an environment of athletic competition and sport. For so many wounded warriors, this program provides a valuable chance to explore new limits, dream new dreams, and continue their active lifestyle.”
VA photo by Emerson Sanders
In the photo:
Front row (L-R): Norman Bellingham, Three-time Olympian and US Olympic Committee Chief Operating Officer; Secretary Eric K. Shinseki, Department of Veterans Affairs; Scott Winkler, Track & Field Paralympian.
Back row (L-R): Assistant Secretary Tammy Duckworth, Public and Intergovernmental Affairs, Department of Veterans Affairs; Kortney Clemons, Track & Field Paralympian; Ranking Member Steve Buyer, House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs; Chairman Bob Filner, House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs.