DEPUTY SECRETARY OF DEFENSE WASHINGTON, THE

Military Medicine, Summer 2005

APR 22 2005

Vice Admiral Donald C. Arthur, MC, USN

President

The Association of Military Surgeons of the United States

The Society of the Federal Health Agencies

9320 Old Georgetown Road

Bethesda, MD 20814-1653

Dear Admiral Arthur,

I just returned from two days attending and observing the 19th National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic. The event is nothing short of amazing. Had I not been able to see it with my own eyes and talk to the participants personally, it would have been impossible to appreciate the impact this program has on disabled veterans. As one of them said to me, "This is not a game; it is serious business."

It is indeed serious business. The participants learn how to get about the serious business of life in the face of often unbelievable physical obstacles. They learn that they don't have to accept the "limitations" imposed by their injuries and that they can do things they never imagined possible. It has an uplifting effect on their spirits as well. One blinded veteran told me that this program "gave me my life back."

The opportunity to get together with others who are experiencing the same physical challenges is also priceless. This is clearly an event that participants spend the whole year planning for and looking forward to. The volunteers who make it possible - from the incredibly skilled adaptive ski instructors to the administrative staff - have a wonderful spirit about them. The whole place is filled with an uplifting sense of fellowship that plainly has its impact on the participants.

I want you to know that your support for this activity is making an enormous difference. Please accept my appreciation for your generosity and kindness to those who serve our country.

Sincerely,

Paul Wolfwire