CPT ROBERT WITHERS

Winter Garden, FL

Mission Accomplished on Nov. 21, 2015

After joining the military on 9/11, Captain Bobby Withers commanded troops in post-Katrina New Orleans and two tours in Afghanistan. While leading a counterattack against suicide bombers disguised in American uniforms, he sustained numerous injuries, including the loss of his right leg. He was airlifted to Landstuhl, Germany, for immediate life-saving treatment before returning stateside to Walter Reed Medical Center for additional surgeries and extensive rehabilitation.

In 2010, he was awarded the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and Army Commendation Medal with “V Device” for Valor. Following his medical retirement, and with the support of a specially adapted custom HFOT home in 2015, Bobby embraced a new chapter focused on Post-Traumatic Growth through volunteering and physical fitness.

Bobby credits his mortgage-free home with enabling him to “Pay it Forward” through volunteer service and physical fitness. He is the Orlando Chapter Recruitment Lead with Achilles International and remains active in the Veteran and local communities. He enjoys spending time with his wife, Megan, and staying active in support of causes that are meaningful to him.

He chose to build his home on Florida’s Coast-to-Coast Trail and says, “The adapted features of my new home, everything accessible while in my wheelchair, gave me the safety and independence I needed to pull myself out of a downward spiral and choose a new trajectory.” Bobby has become an accomplished multi-sport endurance athlete and has represented Team HFOT in numerous races, including Half Ironman triathlons and full marathons.

Bobby would like to express his gratitude to HFOT donors and supporters: “Because of your support, I have been empowered to make my family, friends, and community proud again, restoring the sense of purpose that was taken from me. In every meaningful way, HFOT has given back what our enemies sought to take, and so much more!”

Ver: 09-26