FORT Bliss, Texas - Sgt. Jasmine Lee has been pushing herself from the very start. The Detroit, Michigan native enlisted in the Army the first opportunity that came her way in 2008.
"I literally waited till the day I turned 18 because I knew my mom would try to talk me out of it. A lot of people underestimate me," she laughed. Those people have always served as motivation for Lee and have led her to participate in her first Army Trials. She is looking to prove her doubters wrong and set new goals for her future. The first of those goals: earning a spot on Team Army for the 2016 Department of Defense Warrior Games.
The 5 foot one inch, 106 pound Logistics Specialist deployed to Afghanistan in 2014 and injured her mid and lower back during a military vehicle processing assignment.
She returned to recover at the Warrior Transition Battalion at Fort Benning, Georgia.
"Working through the WTB was extremely beneficial for me. Let's face it, life could be worse. My injuries are not as bad as some of my fellow Soldiers. I know it's a second chance at life for many of them" Lee said.
Lee says the WTB served as more than just a place to heal, it also gave her a support system and introduced her to adaptive sports that have helped with her recovery.
"Participating in adaptive reconditioning sports is a blessing and a healthy release," Lee said. "It raised my confidence level. I am my own worst enemy, but the staff and my fellow Soldiers helped push me through. They were the ultimate support system," Lee explained.
A former high school track athlete, Lee is here to compete not only in track and field, but also in archery and air rifle. She is excited about the opportunity to compete in her new sports.
"I wanted something different. I've always been active. I wanted to step outside the box. I love a challenge, especially when it's a sport a lot of females don't undertake," she said. "I ran track in high school, but archery and rifle are different, they peaked my curiosity. These sports teach you about concentration, coordination and arm strength. Exploring the non-traditional sports pushes me harder", Lee said.
As Lee pushes herself in her recovery and prepares for what's next, she continues to set her goals high and without limitation.
"This is about my future. "Don't tell me I can't do something, because I'll prove you wrong. That's why I put the trials on my goal list. People don't always get second chances, I'm making mine worthwhile," she concluded.
The third annual Army Trials is being hosted by Fort Bliss, March 6-10. More than 100 wounded, ill and injured Soldiers and veterans will compete for a spot on the Army Team. The Department of Defense Warrior Games will be held at the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York, June 14-22.
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