Wounded Warriors train for DOD Warrior Games at Air Force Academy

Hundreds of wounded U.S. service members from all five military branches are preparing for the 2018 DOD Warrior Games at the Air Force Academy.

Monday is the first time the athletes had the chance to train at the Academy for the events they will be competing in for the games.

From shooting, archery, track and much more, these warriors are pushing themselves to the limit. Staff Sergeant Robert Dominguez with the Marine Corps says he is looking forward to participating in the competition for the first time, “It feels great to be here to be able to participate and compete against other services, other warriors. It’s pretty exciting.”

For many, it is their first time competing. All have different injuries but Lance Corporal Brent Gaffey says it’s the bond these athletes share that makes these games thrilling. “I’m going to be with my Marine Corps brothers,” Gaffey says, “not only that, these are all injured warriors too so we are all in the same boat and we are all competing for the same thing.”

The goal is to win the gold. Don’t let the friendly competition fool you, these service members are setting their sights on a first-place finish, “As service members, Marines, we always look to compete against each other and push each other to be better even though we are injured,” says Staff Sergeant Anthony Reingoud, “We still have the same mindset.”

The games start June first and run until the ninth. The event is free to the public and takes place at the Air Force Academy.