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Community Corner

Horsham's military volunteers support upcoming national disabled veterans event

Volunteers from the 111th Fighter Wing teamed with area Navy and
Army members at Horsham Air Guard Station, Horsham, Pa. to assist with
equipment bound for this year’s National Veterans Wheelchair Games. 



Scheduled to be held in Philadelphia Aug. 12 – 17, the
competition sponsored by Philadelphia’s Department of Veterans Affairs and the
Paralyzed Veterans of America, is expected to draw over 600-disabled veterans
from across the U.S. Several-thousand square feet of sporting equipment such as
basketball courts, air rifles and Ping-Pong tables are temporarily stored at
the Guard Station. 



“This is the 34th time that the games have been held and the
first time here in Philadelphia,” said Julia Fries, VA recreational therapist
and events vice-chair for the National Veterans Wheelchair Games. “There will
be 18-competitive competitions and 1 exhibition game that will held during the
5-day event.” 

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“Especially for first-time participants, it [the games] always
has a positive and life –changing impact. The participants arrive not really
sure of themselves at times, wondering if they really want to get involved.
Once they’re here, there’s just this huge welcoming, wonderful group of people
that start a fantastic camaraderie. It’s awesome and beautiful to give the
feeling and encouragement that they can do sports again and truly compete,”
Fries added. 



According to the National Wheelchair Games web site, over 2,500
volunteers will be needed over the course of the event to make it a
success.       

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“At the conclusion of this year’s games, the equipment will
loaded up on trucks and warehoused at the location sponsoring next year’s
event,” said Fries. 



For more information about the event or to volunteer, visit
their web site at: http://www.va.gov/opa/speceven/wcg/index.asp

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