And it's about time I wrote something upbeat. In the midst of the pall cast by the crash of the CH-47 on Saturday, came this post about the aftermath of the crash of another Chinook -- almost forty years ago.
Read, and rejoice with the writer.
I thought that needed sharing. When I asked Gary if I could post it (obviously, he said "Yes"), I also asked about sponsorship for some background. An event this size doesn't just happen by magic.
He wrote:
I mentioned that I knew of a young Marine who'd think this was right up his alley, and Gary replied,
Did that last start any wheels turning? If so, drop me a note in the comments -- I have Gary's contact info.
Read, and rejoice with the writer.
From: Gary McDermott
Sent: Sunday, August 07, 2011 5:52 AM
To: [redacted] ; Vietnam Helicopter Flightcrew Network
Subject: {Avn-Vets} NVWG Anniversary
Today is the Anniversary of the accident which put me in a wheelchair. August 7th, 1973; 38 years ago today. It is bittersweet however, as I leave Pittsburgh, PA after competing in the 31st National Veteran Wheelchair Games with 650 other veterans who use wheelchairs.
I continued to hold my title in Air Rifle in my division, winning a Gold Medal.
I also managed to win a Gold Medal in the Slalom Course, setting another record with the lowest time of 1 minute 35 seconds.
The third Gold Medal was obtained by competing in Soccer, this consisted of three games, an elimination. In the Gold Medal Game we held off the Green Team in a scoreless game until the last minute when we scored a goal, immediately switching to defense to keep them from scoring until time ran out. It only takes one goal to win; 1 to 0.
Finally I won a Silver Medal in Field Club, a British event similar to Javelin.
I already look forward to next years competition in Richmond, VA.
Special Thanks to Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 776, Bettendorf, Iowa for their support in making this trip possible. Several other supporters will receive special thanks also for their contributions in support of my trip.
Regards,
"gmac"
Gary McDermott
US Army Vietnam Veteran
147th Assault Support Helicopter Co.
"Hillclimbers" '68-'69
11th Aviation Group
1st Aviation Bde
Vung Tau, RVN
CH 47 / CE
HHT 8/1 Cav
Fort Knox, KY
I thought that needed sharing. When I asked Gary if I could post it (obviously, he said "Yes"), I also asked about sponsorship for some background. An event this size doesn't just happen by magic.
He wrote:
The National Veteran Wheelchair Games are sponsored by the VA (yes; Veterans Affairs) and the PVA (Paralyzed Veterans of America). There are many other sponsors also, such as; UPS, XEROX, TOYOTA, INVACARE, QUICKIE, ROHO, ETC. Go to www.va.gov (search NVWG) or www.pva.org (search through Sports) and you can see pictures, video's and results. The POC would be through the PVA web site, next games will be June 24, 2012 in Richmond (2013 is set for Tampa, and in 2014, they'll be held in San Juan), and you can obtain an entry form from the PVA web site next year. You must be honorably discharged and use a wheelchair.
I mentioned that I knew of a young Marine who'd think this was right up his alley, and Gary replied,
There are other events and hunts also, if he likes to hunt. I have more info if needed. The best to do is start fundraising to offset the transportation and lodging expense.
Did that last start any wheels turning? If so, drop me a note in the comments -- I have Gary's contact info.
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