REALITY CHECK

I was going to re-enter the blogosphere with a blog about my shoulder replacement surgery and the subsequent rehab.  I changed my mind after recently being an honored guest at a Camp Pendleton change of command ceremony for the United States Marines Wounded Warrior Battalion West.  From this point on you will not read anything I write nor hear anything I say that even hints at my being disappointed in the cards God has dealt me. 

As the men and women of this battalion stood at rigid attention on the parade ground for close to two hours in a hot sun, the changing of command took place.  The outgoing commandant spoke about the huge progress made during his command.  The commitment of much needed funds had allowed for a construction program that, when finished would provide a base hospital and state of the art equipment for those Marines injured while defending our country.

Then he talked about what the Marines do for their own.  Each wounded soldier is placed in one of several facilities on the west coast depending on their injuries and the need for rehab.  From the outset, he explained, there is a concerted effort to bring the entire support of the Marine family to bear in the support of these soldiers as that feeling of family is critical to their recovery.  While receiving mental and physical treatment they are also being prepared for a life after they leave the Marines.  Even though some return to service in whatever capacity they are capable, most must eventually leave the cocoon of the Corp and make it on their own.  Every conceivable effort is made to prepare them for that challenge.

The commandant then told of a recent athletic competition in Denver of wounded soldiers from various branches of the service.  One of the competitions was won by a soldier who was in attendance.  He was a double, high amputee, which means both legs were amputated very high.  He was also blind.  He was introduced and received a loud ovation.  The commandant said that most would be overwhelmed with despair given the same circumstances.  He asked the soldier how he felt about life.  In a booming Marine voice, the soldier responded “Never been better, Sir!”

 After the change of command, which involves a solemn ceremony of the outgoing commandant passing the flag to the incoming officer, there were more words of commitment to the now and future soldiers of the Wounded Warrior Battalion.  As we dispersed I walked up to the soldier who had been acknowledged.  I did my best to muster every bit of sincerity and respect I had in me to thank him.  From his wheel chair he replied “You’re welcome”.  The fact that he could not see me only intensified what was already a very humbling experience.