Kolawole Arubuolawe

Seaman Kolawole “Kola” Arubuolawe joined the Navy in 2021 because of the professional opportunities it afforded him and his family. Shortly after, a routine wisdom tooth extraction led to a broken jaw and infection that required a graft from his hip.

In the midst of his recovery, he found solace and support through Navy Wounded Warrior and the adaptive sports program. He attended his first cam in January 2023 and represented Team Navy at the 2023 Warrior Games Challenge, winning four medals.

“Participating in Navy adaptive sports became a beacon of hope, allowing me to regain confidence and purpose,” he said. “I am immensely grateful for the support and opportunities afforded to me by the Navy’s Wounded Warrior program. My dream is to pay it forward, using my skills to contribute to the security infrastructure for the country that has given me so much.”

Beyond support for his physical recovery, the Navy aided him in earning a second master’s degree in cybersecurity, paving his way for a promising career after transitioning to civilian life.

During the 2024 Warrior Games, Arubuolawe will compete in cycling, indoor rowing, and sitting volleyball.