Austin Belschner

Machinist’s Mate Third Class Austin Belschner was born and raised in Fort Worth, Texas. Eager to serve his country, he joined the Navy at age 18. In the course of his watchstanding duties while stationed on the U.S.S. Nimitz, an electrical power box exploded within 10 feet of him. It damaged his hearing, led to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other complications to his health.

In the course of his medical care, he enrolled in Navy Wounded Warrior, and his care team recommended the adaptive sports program as part of his recovery plan.

“The service members that I have met have all been paramount to my recovery and my mental health,” he said, “It really builds that family we all look for. I was at the darkest place in my life, ready to give up and quit. These people kept me out of that mindset. The struggles, the bonds, and the common understanding between one another really keep us all in a very tight chain. I’m grateful for this community.”

During the 2024 Warrior Games, Belschner will compete in archery, shooting, and wheelchair rugby.