Announcements

Stay Tuned - Tuesday, October 29, 2024

Check back here for updates about the event as they become available. Make sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for more information about AFW2 and Warrior Care Month/Day of Healing.

 

DAY OF HEALING

Retired U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Nalani Quintello, South Carolina, performs one of her original songs at the annual Wounded Warrior Day of Healing event held at the National Harbor on Nov. 13, 2023, sponsored by the Air Force Wounded Warrior program. “The Wounded Warrior Program has helped me deal with my anger from having my military career end sooner than I would have liked,” she said. “It has given me the platform to advocate for those who are suffering from invisible wounds.” (Courtesy Photo)
Members of the band Mango Warrior perform at the annual Wounded Warrior Day of Healing event held at the National Harbor on Nov. 13, 2023, sponsored by the Air Force Wounded Warrior program. Singer, Jessica Derhammer, said music has helped her to get out of head after retiring. “It has brought me a sense of freedom and expression,” she said. (Courtesy Photo)
Retired U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Nalani Quintello, South Carolina, performs one of her original songs at the annual Wounded Warrior Day of Healing event held at the National Harbor on Nov. 13, 2023, sponsored by the Air Force Wounded Warrior program. “The Wounded Warrior Program has helped me deal with my anger from having my military career end sooner than I would have liked,” she said. “It has given me the platform to advocate for those who are suffering from invisible wounds.” (Courtesy Photo)
The visual arts and journaling have been therapeutic for retired U.S. Air Force Maj. Robert Scoggins of Denver, Colorado. He learned how to paint and to journal through the Wounded Warriors program. Also pictured is his service animal, Jefe. (Courtesy Photo)
U.S. Air Force Wounded Warrior staff, participants and supporters enjoy the music of Mango Warrior during the annual Wounded Warrior Day of Healing event held at the National Harbor on Nov. 13 sponsored by the Air Force Wounded Warrior program. (Courtesy Photo)
The cast of an improv group wait backstage to perform at the annual Wounded Warrior Day of Healing event held at the National Harbor on Nov. 13, 2023, sponsored by the Air Force Wounded Warrior program. (Courtesy Photo)
A visitor looks at photography and paintings on display at "A Day of Healing Arts: From Clinic to Community," an event honoring the importance of healing arts, during Warrior Care Month at National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland on November 16, 2017. (DoD Photo by Roger L. Wollenberg)
Army Capt. Luis Avila, center, and his wife and caregiver Claudia participate in "A Day of Healing Arts: From Clinic to Community," an event honoring the importance of healing arts, during Warrior Care Month at National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland on November 16, 2017. (DoD Photo by Roger L. Wollenberg)
Air Force Staff Sgt. Natalie Lopez talks with Army veteran and former Green Beret Michael Rodriguez about her painting at "A Day of Healing Arts: From Clinic to Community," an event honoring the importance of healing arts, during Warrior Care Month at National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland on November 16, 2017. (DoD Photo by Roger L. Wollenberg)

The Department of Defense, military services, and collaborating organizations will use November to celebrate the strength and resilience – physically, mentally, and spiritually – of our wounded, ill, and injured service members, as well as their families and caregivers; raise awareness of the warrior care resources and programs available today; and inspire year-round discourse regarding today’s warrior care priorities. During Warrior Care Month, AFW2 hosts the annual Day of Healing;an annual event designed to promote the recovery and resiliency of wounded, ill, and injured Airmen and Guardians. It offers holistic wellness activities such as adaptive sports, therapeutic workshops, and peer support, creating an empowering space for participants and their families to heal together.

 

BACKGROUND

On Nov. 5, 2008, then Secretary of Defense Robert F. Gates established November as Warrior Care Month as a “DoD-wide effort aimed at increasing awareness of programs and resources available to wounded, ill, and injured service members, their families, and those who care about them.” 

 

Secretary Gates charged the DOD to “continue to make it easier for our troops and their families to take advantage of all the assistance now available to them.” 

 

 

NE Region Warrior CARE Event Schedule

Videos

FAQs - Day of Healing

Q: What is Day of Healing?

A: Day of Healing is an annual event held during Warrior Care Month, dedicated to supporting the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual recovery of wounded, ill, and injured Airmen and Guardians. It offers a range of activities that promote wellness and empower participants in their healing journey.

Q: Who can participate in Day of Healing?

A: The event is open to all wounded, ill, and injured Airmen and Guardians enrolled in the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program. Family members, caregivers, and loved ones are also encouraged to participate in support of their warriors.

Q: What kinds of activities take place during the event?

A: Participants can take part in wellness workshops, peer support groups, therapeutic arts, adaptive sports, and resiliency programs offered by AFW2. These activities are designed to promote holistic healing and foster a sense of community among warriors.

Q: How does Day of Healing support recovery?

A: The event creates a safe and supportive environment where participants can focus on their well-being. By offering diverse healing methods—such as physical activities, emotional support, and mindfulness practices—the event helps warriors regain strength and resilience as they navigate their recovery journey.

Q: Is the event open to the public?

A: While the primary focus of the event is to support service members and their families, select activities may be open to the public, particularly those aimed at raising awareness and fostering community support. Check the event schedule for details on public sessions.

Q: How does this event differ from other Warrior Care Month events?

A: Day of Healing specifically centers around the holistic well-being of wounded, ill, and injured Airmen and Guardians. While other Warrior Care Month events may focus on adaptive sports or broader awareness efforts, this event is designed to offer a healing space for warriors to reflect, recharge, and connect with their peers.

Q: Can family members and caregivers participate in the event?

A: Yes! Family members and caregivers play a crucial role in the healing process and are encouraged to take part in many of the activities. There will be specific sessions aimed at supporting caregivers in their journey as well.

Q: How can I support Day of Healing?

A: You can support the event by spreading the word on social media using the hashtag #HealingWarriors2024 or partnering with the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program to support recovery care events.

Q: How can I get involved as a volunteer or partner?

A: Air Force Wounded Warrior partners are always welcome! Whether you're interested in offering your time, resources, or expertise, you can reach out through the official Air Force Wounded Warrior Program’s website to learn more about available opportunities.

Q: How can I stay updated on event details?

A: Follow the Air Force Wounded Warrior Program on social media and visit our website for the latest updates, schedules, and announcements about Day of Healing.