Matthew Leon

Logistics Specialist First Class Matt Leon once had a job helping to set up venues for the 2002 Winter Olympics when they were held in Salt Lake City, Utah. He was not content with his long-term career prospects and joined the Navy in 2006 because he wanted to serve his country, travel, and gain marketable skills. He deployed five times, including to Afghanistan in 2012. His injury resulted in the need for a spinal fusion, and his doctor recommended that he enroll in Navy Wounded Warrior to navigate through the treatment and recovery processes. His care team knew he loved watching sports and suggested that he try adaptive recreation to stay active during recovery. He did not anticipate the influence the program would have on his life. He attended his first camp and came home with a new fondness for wheelchair basketball. “I have been able to learn sports that I wouldn’t have otherwise know about. I met people in the military and veterans who shared their experiences and resources for me to continue participating in these sprots after I retire.”