Last week the Mission Viejo Saddleback Valley Elks hosted a very special group for dinner, the Wounded Warrior Amputee Softball team. The team is in Southern California and chose the Elks lodge to spend their evening. Multiple dignitaries from Mission Viejo City Council attended including Mayor Pro Tem Greg Raths, council members Patricia Kelley and Wendy Bucknum along with Mark Nix, Director of Recreation and Community Services. Exalted Ruler Mike Klinger presented a donation from the Elks Lodge of $500 to WWAST to continue their own charitable ways. Thanks to Sheryn Howlett and others of the Mission Viejo Elks Veterans Committee for organizing this great event.
Mission Viejo city council member Wendy Bucknum (far left), Mayor Pro Tem Greg Raths (center), Lodge Exalted Ruler Mike Klinger (far right) with members of the Wounded Warriors Amputee Softball Team
The Wounded Warrior Amputee Softball Team™ (WWAST) is a 501(c)(3) public charity whose mission is to inspire and educate others while enhancing the health and welfare of Wounded Warrior Amputees. The WWAST is comprised of competitive, athletic veterans who have lost limbs while serving their country in the military/war. The team includes individuals with a variety of amputations. Some are still in the service; others are attending college thanks to the Post-9/11 GI Bill while others have moved on to new careers. We now travel the country playing able-bodied teams in competitive and exhibition softball games, bringing our special brand of softball, courage, and inspiration.
Photo Credit: Mission Viejo Saddleback Valley Elks
