FORT GORDON, Ga. (Nov. 14, 2014) - Wounded warriors previously faced with overwhelming uncertainty about the future are now stepping out more knowledgeable and hopeful.
Fort Gordon's Soldier and Family Assistance Center hosted a Warrior Care Month Expo at the U.S. Army Reserve Center Nov. 5.
The purpose of the event was to provide Soldiers and families with supportive services and resources to assist them in transition.
"Whether transitioning back to the active duty, the Guard or Reserves, or out of the military, we're here to make sure they know what services are available to them to help ensure success," said Dr. Tolanda Martin, SFAC education services specialist.
This year's theme, "Show Your Strength," focuses on reintegration, reconditioning, rehabilitation, and recovery of wounded warriors. The expo focused primarily on reintegration, but featured exhibitors with valuable resources in all four areas. Fort Gordon Army Wellness Center, Army Community Service, Vocational Rehabilitation, and Augusta Warrior Project were among organizations assisting Soldiers at the expo.
For one combat veteran, the expo was a welcoming event. Master Sgt. Richard Fuller of the Warrior Transition Battalion arrived at Fort Gordon about two weeks ago. Fuller's injuries date back to 2007 when he was deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Fuller said he was involved in seven incidents that earned him a Purple Heart and resulted in a traumatic brain injury diagnosis. He opted to stay in despite his injuries, but as symptoms worsened, he decided it was time to hang up his hat and take care of himself the way he spent years caring for other Soldiers. Serving more than two decades in the military makes getting out hard to do, but Fuller said learning about the programs available to him help ease some of his angst. The healthcare, in particular, leaves him hopeful.
"From 21 years ago to now, the healthcare they provide for us is so much better," Fuller said. "Ever since the war started, it's so much better because they have more programs specific to the injuries of this war."
Sgt. Joshua Jester, a National Guardsman assigned to the WTB, returned from Afghanistan, where he was injured in September. The carpentry and masonry specialist said although he's uncertain about his future, events like the expo make him feel hopeful.
"The people who came out here have shown they really care," Jester said. "It really helps Soldiers out and makes you feel good to be home again."
Jester is part of the Fort Gordon WTB majority. According to Kara Kennedy, SFAC education specialist, a significant portion of WTB Soldiers on Fort Gordon are National Guard and Reserves, so a lot of them are staying here in the Augusta area once they transition.
"We have a very unique population in the WTB that maybe doesn't mirror the rest of Fort Gordon," Kennedy said.
Regardless of each Soldier's background, present situation, and future goals, Kennedy said there are local organizations eager to help those staying in the area as well as groups in virtually every city for those relocating. The SFAC is a good starting place for service members whether they plan to continue their military career or not. If the SFAC is unable to assist with a specific need, they will refer the service member to an agency that can.
"It's about making sure that information is accessible and making sure people know about it because there is a lot of stuff individuals just don't know exists," Kennedy said.
"A lot of times our Soldiers think they're alone, or they don't know which way to turn, but there are people out here ready to help," Martin added. "There are also Soldiers who can share their stories and walks of life so you know you're not by yourself."
Social Sharing