Wounded Warriors
An organization built for veterans by veterans; the Wounded Warrior Surf Program was created to make possible the mental freedom and physical release that Surfing provides available to those who deserve it the most. The mission of this component of the Hawaii Military Surfing Organization is to allow those willing, to experience the healing power of the ocean through surfing and being immersed in the water. The program caters to small group oriented surf sessions focusing their efforts on maximizing the fun and safety for each person. The Wounded Warrior Surf Program has established a relationship with the Warrior Transition Unit located on Schofield Barracks and at Tripler Army Medical Center allowing the Organization to go directly to the agencies that provide leadership and care for these fine Americans as they recover from their wounds. The Organization also supports wounded veterans from all conflicts The United States has taken part in. The Wounded Warrior Program, in line with the HMSO President’s philosophy on board design, believes that those who truly want to experience surfing should do so on the proper equipment. To this end the club will provide the equipment to accomplish the objective, which includes mostly single fin classic style long boards; which truth be told are more like works of art than pieces of sporting equipment. The Hawaii Military Surfing Organization is committed to the perpetuity of good mental and physical health to those who have served this nation.
*Individuals who are interested should contact Greg Luttman @ gregory.luttman@gmail.com for further details and coordination.
**Participants should advise their primary care providers before engaging in surfing or in any other physical activity. All participants will be required to sign a liability waiver prior to surf session.
Private First Class Mark Webber
Mark was wounded 27 March 2009 while conducting dismounted patrols in Bayji, Iraq with Charlie Company 2nd Battalion 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th ID. He received a gun shot wound to the leg and called in his own MEDEVAC! Mark received a Purple Heart Medal for his wound.
Mark is a fantastic athlete which he showed by standing up and riding two phenomenal waves within the first half hour of his first ever surf session/lesson. Mark's easy going personality and enthusiasm made for a great day and huge stoke for the club as we were able to assist a true hero with catching his first wave. Needless to say, Mark can't wait to get back in the water and feel the glide again!
(Left)SSG Robert Heiber, from Phillipsburg, NJ was wounded 29 September 2003 while conducting Scout Sniper operations in Shkin, Afghanistan serving with 1-87IN, 1Oth Mountain Division. He received shrapnel wounds from an enemy mortar round and was awarded the Purple Heart Medal.
(Right)SSG Joel Peterson, from Onamia, Minnesota was wounded 5 April 2007 while conducting counter mortar operations in Riyadh, Iraq serving with 2-27IN, 25th Infantry Division. He received a gunshot wound and shrapnel wounds from an enemy hand grenade and was awarded the Purple Heart Medal.
Greg giving a quick lesson on the Pop-Up and proper paddling position.
The Crew begin the long White Plains Paddle.
Post Session, (from Left to Right) SPC Richard Benedict, CPT Greg Luttman, SSG Robert Heiber, SSG Joel Peterson
