JOINT BASE MYER-HENDERSON HALL, Va. (Jan. 13, 2015) -- More than 500 service members and civilians from the Joint Force Headquarters-National Capital Region/U.S. Military District of Washington and its Inter-Agency partners gathered at a 'Ready and Resilient' professional development training session to hear Master Sgt. Cedric King, a double amputee, speak about the challenges he faces in his life.
In 2012, King was wounded in Afghanistan by an Improvised Explosive Device (I.E.D.) while conducting a building-clearing mission. He sustained a multitude of internal and external injuries and has become a bilateral leg amputee.
"I want to send a message to those guys that meant to hurt me," said King. "Instead of hurting me, you've only made me better. Instead of taking my legs away, you've given me so much more to live for."
"Master Sgt. King is a great example of a person being resilient," said Command Sgt. Maj. David O. Turnbull, JFHQ-NCR/MDW command sergeant major." He didn't let his injuries defeat him. He used it as a reason to push all possible limits."
King discussed the challenges and the mental and physical effects his injuries had on him as well as his family. He spoke about life after losing his legs and how faith, family and focus are the key factors in his ability to conquer life's challenges.
"You can take my hands, you can take my eyes and you can take my hearing," said King. "But what you cannot take away from me is that spirit inside."
"His story exemplifies the 2014 theme for Warrior Care Month - 'Show of Strength,' which we, as an organization, hope to continue to embody in this New Year," said Turnbull.
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