Valor Games 2016 – “Team Coast Guard” Success in Community Volunteerism

REPORT: Roger Bazeley FSO-Public Affairs F-17; Where: USCG Island Alameda; June 2016 – 2-6 June

Opening Ceremony USCG Honor Guard; Valor Games Archery Coach and Athlete: Photos: Bazeley 2016

In the spirt of volunteering for community events members of the U.S. Coast Guard and Auxiliary served

in many support roles for The Valor Games Far West 2016, which is part of the Far West Wheelchair

Association. This four-day event was held entirely on the excellent facilities of Coast Guard Island.

Members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary volunteered and participated in the competition alongside Active-

duty Coast Guard volunteers, as well as members from all services. There were many different events to

support, such as opening ceremonies, archery, and special dinner outings. Many volunteered for a

whole day, or as some, all four days.

Opening Ceremony: Pledge of Allegiance and Singing of the National Anthem, Photos Roger Bazeley PA

In partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard and the Northern California Regional Paralympic Sport

Program, the Far West Wheelchair Athletic Association hosted the 2016 Valor Games Far West from

June 3-6, 2016 on Coast Guard Island in Alameda, CA. The primary goal of the Valor Games is to

introduce adapted sports to attendees and is for any Veteran with a disability who is eligible for VA

healthcare. The Valor Games Far West is an introductory level sports competition for Veterans with

disabilities eligible for VA healthcare. The Competitions included; archery, biathlon, cycling, the field

sports of shot put and discus throw, powerlifting, indoor rowing and swimming.

Valor Games West 2016 Opening Ceremony Photos: Roger Bazeley USCGAUX PA

The Valor Games event began in Chicago, Illinois in 2011. Two successful years of that event led to its

expansion to three additional regions of the country, including the Bay Area. The regional Valor Games

provide consistently high quality experiences for the athletes across the country. The sport competition

showcases over 100 Veterans and active duty service members who have disabilities. Valor Games Far

West is the only Valor Games event that is offered west of the Rocky Mountains.

Valor Games Completion Awards Ceremony – USCG Island Alameda, CA - Photos: Roger Bazeley

Valor Games Archery, Awards, Evening Social at Oakland Air Museum - Photos: Roger Bazeley FSO-PA

Evening Social at Oakland Air Museum - Photos: Roger Bazeley FSO-PA

Valor Games West Closing Ceremonies

Valor Games West Closing Ceremonies – Awards and Plaques of Appreciation

Vice Admiral Ray Receiving Plaque from Valor Games Director

Rosie The Riveters

Valor Games Director, and Simon Adair and Partner Alysia; Simone Adair Golf Practice;

Valor Games Medalist Captain USCGAUC Simone Adair and Veteran Medalist

Closing Ceremony Celebration: Participants and Musicians – Photos: Roger Bazeley USCGAUX

Valor Games 2016 – “Team Coast Guard” Success in Community Volunteerism

REPORT: Roger Bazeley FSO-Public Affairs F-17; USCG Island Alameda; June 2016 – 2-6 June

Rosie the Riveters, WWII – Roger Bazeley Photos FSO-PA F17

It was an honor and a very rewarding experience to volunteer for the event by

photographing and capturing the moments of competitive spirt and courage

among the participants as well as, the comradeship, joy, and support expressed

by all.

Respectfully Submitted,

Roger Bazeley USCG- Auxiliary FSO Public Affairs F17 D11N, Photographer