Veterans reflect on their greatest source of strength

Video: Invictus Games competitors talk about the importance of family support and bonds with other veterans.

BNN

Thursday, November 2, 2023

In 2012, Stef “Wolf” Wolput, then on active duty in the Belgian Air Force, experienced a disorder causing paralysis in his right hand and left leg. He then entered a deep depression.

  • His wife, Katrien, became worried because he spent most of his days on the couch with the curtains closed.

Moments that inspire: Two years later, Wolf saw the Invictus Games on TV — a moment he says inspired the beginning of his recovery. With the Games and the steadfast support of Katrien, he began to heal. 

Watch: Learn more about Wolf’s journey to become an Invictus Games competitor and why he says families are so important in the recovery of veterans.

No words necessary: Simon “OB” O’Brien, a Boeing UK senior manager, and Bob De Graaf, a BGS geospatial technician based in Germany, met for the first time as volunteers at Invictus Games Düsseldorf 2023. 

  • The two Boeing veterans connected over combat boots and shared experiences in the military. 

Watch: O’Brien and De Graaf share more about the unspoken bond veterans have and how the Invictus Games creates a space for respect. 

Why it matters: Through partnerships with organizations like Invictus Games Foundation, Boeing is committed to supporting the physical, mental and emotional well-being of service members through rehabilitation and recovery programs so veterans can reclaim their sense of purpose. 

By Rachel Ayres and Tom Rule