Tuesday December 24, 2013
What is it?
The Warrior and Family Support Center at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, provides coordinated services to patients, next-of-kin and extended family members with a primary focus on wounded warriors from Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.
This center was set up in December 2003. It is the only one of its kind, offering a safe environment for military families to reconnect with their wounded warriors, following military operations and restart their lives with the full support of the Army community.
What has the Army done?
During the past 12 years of war, seriously injured Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines were evacuated from theaters of operations to major medical facilities located on military installations.
Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC) is recognized as one of the world’s best trauma centers to provide a long-term medical care to the wounded warriors. On the BAMC physician’s initiative, the concept of the Warrior and Family Support Center was developed, led by Army Community Service, and authorized by the Fort Sam Houston (FSH) Garrison commander. This center helps support the involvement of the families in the rehabilitation process of the wounded warriors in an atmosphere that encourages healing.
Through generous donations and the Returning Heroes Home Project, on Dec. 1, 2008, the Warrior and Family Support Center was moved to a bigger location and designed to provide all the comforts of home for the wounded warriors and their families.
What efforts does the Army have planned for the future?
The WFSC schedules over 100 activities each month. The wounded warriors and their family members have the opportunity to attend free-of-charge sporting events, movies, plays at local theaters, concerts, the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, Fiesta, shopping trips, luncheons and dinners, Bingo, fishing trips, and much more.
Why is this important to the Army?
The WFSC , similar to the Fisher House program, is part of the Army’s continued effort to leverage partnerships with the community to reduce cost. Donations of time and money from the private, corporate, and non-profit sectors enable the maintenance of the facility and the numerous activities to support the wounded warriors and their families.
To build a ready and resilient force, facilities and programs like the WFSC shows how the Army maintains its covenant with the Soldiers and their families, and incorporates the outpouring of support from the American people towards warfighters.
Resources:
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