Bridge II Sports Visits Camp Lejeune for Wounded Warrior Battalion East Symposium
Written by Austin Pittsley Operations Manager
On April 28, 2026, Stuart and I had the honor of attending the Wounded Warrior Battalion East Symposium at Camp Lejeune, thanks to an invitation from Mr. Dallas Poole, Veteran & Charitable Organization Coordinator for the Battalion.
The symposium brought together service‑focused organizations from across the region with a shared goal: to provide meaningful support for wounded, ill, and injured Marines, Sailors, and their families. It was both inspiring and humbling to be part of a space so intentionally centered on care, connection, and opportunity for those who have given so much.
Bridge II Sports was incredibly grateful for the opportunity to share the work we do in the community through adaptive sports. We had meaningful conversations about how sport can serve as a tool for physical activity, confidence‑building, social connection, and long‑term wellbeing. Being able to introduce our mission and programs to service members and their families was truly impactful.
This visit also held special meaning for Bridge II Sports. Casper Vande Hei, our Archery and Air Rifle instructor, is an alum of Wounded Warrior Battalion East. Casper has spoken highly of the Battalion’s role in supporting transitioning service members, particularly in providing structure, resources, and encouragement during a pivotal stage of life. Seeing the care and intention behind the Battalion’s work firsthand reinforced just how meaningful that impact is and why partnerships like these align so closely with our mission.
We were also excited to connect with so many outstanding organizations doing important work to support the military community. The collaboration, innovation, and shared commitment present throughout the symposium underscored the strength of these networks and the importance of working together to better serve transitioning service members and their families.
Looking ahead, we are thrilled about what’s to come. Bridge II Sports is excited to continue building a relationship with Wounded Warrior Battalion East and their partners. We’re especially excited to share that we have finalized plans to bring Valor Games Southeast: On the Move to Camp Lejeune later this year.
While full details are still being finalized, we are planning for the event to take place in September, and we look forward to sharing more information soon. This marks an exciting next step as we bring adaptive sport opportunities directly to military installations across North Carolina.
Thank you again to Mr. Poole and the entire Wounded Warrior Battalion East team for welcoming us and for the important work you do each and every day. Stay tuned—Bridge II Sports will be returning to Camp Lejeune soon.