Patrick AFB honors Invictus warriors

  • Published
  • By 45th Space Wing
  • Public Affairs
ORLANDO, Fla. --  Patrick Air Force Base honored military warriors during the 2016 Invictus Games at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando, Fla., May 8-12, 2016. The Invictus Games are composed of 14 nations, over 500 military competitors, competing in 10 sporting events.

The Patrick Air Force Base Honor Guard was invited to raise the Invictus Flag at the Opening Ceremony, May 8.

Additionally, Air Force Staff Sgt. August O'Neill, formerly assigned to the 920th Rescue Wing, and kicked off the event by accepting the Invictus flag from first lady Michelle Obama and delivering the flag to the Patrick AFB Honor Guard by being hoisted from a 920th Rescue Wing helicopter into the opening ceremony.

On July 15, 2011, while deployed to Camp Bastion, Afghanistan, O'Neill was shot through both legs while on a mission to rescue a team of Marines under fire and taking casualties.

After 3 1/2 years and 20 surgeries, O'Neill made the decision to have his left leg amputated above the knee. In late 2015, he returned to full duty and began training to return to his pararescue team of brothers.

The Invictus Games 2016 will continue from May 8-12. Be sure to check out the competition and follow Team U.S. by visiting www.invictusgames.org.

To see the bios of Air Force competitors, click here.

(Information in this article can be attributed to: Let the healing begin: Invictus Games kick off by Staff Sgt. Carlin Leslie)

 

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