U.S. Marine Corps Raider finds new beginning through the DoD Warrior Games

Photo By Sgt. Mitchell Johnson | U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. John Thompson, veteran, with Team Marine Corps, takes part in a field event during the 2023 DoD Warrior Games Challenge at Naval Air Station North Island in San Diego, California, June 5, 2023. The DoD Warrior Games are composed of over 200 wounded, ill, and injured service members and veteran athletes, competing in 12 adaptive sporting events June 3-12, 2023 at Naval Air Station North Island in San Diego. (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Mitchell Johnson)  

SAN DIEGO, CA, UNITED STATES

06.12.2023

Story by Cpl. Mitchell Johnson 

Marine Corps Wounded Warrior Regiment

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. John Thompson, veteran, a former Marine Corps Critical Skills Operator with the Second Marine Raider Battalion, has found new strength and purpose through his participation in the 2023 DoD Warrior Games Challenge. Despite suffering severe injuries, Thompson’s resilience and determination have allowed him to take on new challenges to improve his mind, body, and spirit.
Inspired by witnessing the attacks during 9/11 as a young boy, Thompson enlisted in the Marine Corps. After serving as a machine gunner for five years, he sought a more challenging path and successfully underwent the selection process for the Marine Special Operations Command (MARSOC).
However, a motor vehicle accident during deployment left Thompson in a two-week coma with a traumatic brain injury, collapsed lungs, and multiple broken bones. After a long recovery, he had to hang up his uniform and retire from active duty. Despite this setback, Thompson discovered the Warrior Games, an annual event for wounded, ill, and injured service members and veteran athletes, competing in 12 adaptive sports.
The games have become a turning point for Thompson. He has found a sense of camaraderie and support among fellow veterans and active-duty personnel.
“I loved working with other branches. To see how they take down problems and friction points, and now all of our common enemies are injuries, so I get to see how different members take down their challenges, and that motivates me to continue pushing forward and makes me want to further my lifetime careers”, said Thompson.
The games have also become a bridge between his military service and civilian life.
“I could probably write a book on just how the Wounded Warrior Games allows me the opportunity to basically get back into it. It's sort of cushioned my exit from active duty. So, it means a lot more to me than I thought it would because it's given me the ability to say goodbye to something that I love so dearly, but also still... be tethered to it.”
Thompson’s competitive spirit has been reignited at the games. When asked what his favorite memory about the games was, without hesitation Thompson responded, “getting that gold medal”, in wheelchair basketball.
In the eyes of Thompson all injured service members have an unbreakable spirit and can find fulfillment, make lasting friendships, and excel in sports as well as life despite their physical and mental challenges.
Sgt. John Thompson’s journey showcases resilience, determination, and the power of adaptive sports in transforming lives.

• Date Taken: 06.12.2023
• Date Posted: 06.27.2023 17:06
• Story ID: 448106
• Location: SAN DIEGO, CA, US