Let the games begin

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Michael Joo
  • 100th Air Refueling Wing Protocol
RAF MILDENHALL, England --  The first ever "Invictus Games" began Sept. 10, 2014, at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London.

To properly kick-off the momentous occasion, U.S. Ambassador Matthew Barzun -- along with His Royal Highness Prince Harry of Wales -- hosted a reception at his residence in London for all the contestants, their supporters and approximately 190 U.S. Air Force personnel Sept. 9.

More than 90 individuals representing Team Mildenhall attended.

American television journalist Bob Woodruff gave the opening remarks, closely followed by Ambassador Barzun, Prince Harry and a special webcam video from President Barack Obama. The festivities were capped off by a live music performance by the Foo Fighters.

The idea for the Invictus Games came about after Prince Harry visited the U. S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado, last year. Named after William Earnest Henley's famous poem, the Invictus Games mirrors the U.S. Wounded Warrior Games, from which Prince Harry drew his inspiration.

The sporting event invites the international community to recognize a select group of brave men and women. These individuals embody a warrior ethos, having made profound sacrifices for their nations when called upon to serve.

Four-hundred service men and women from 13 nations and four different continents are scheduled to compete.

Events include archery, indoor rowing, power-lifting, road cycling, sitting volleyball, swimming, wheelchair basketball and wheelchair rugby.

The closing ceremony is scheduled for Sept. 14.