‘Command News’

Message from the Commander

It has been just a few weeks since I assumed command of the Wounded Warrior Regiment (WWR) and I have already realized that this is the most blessed duty I have been assigned in my Marine Corps career.

Each day, I have the privilege of witnessing first-hand wounded, ill and injured Marines who are focusing on their abilities to return to duty or their home towns to embark on productive civilian lives. Their courage, determination and motivation are inspiring and very humbling.

As the commanding officer of the WWR, I pledge to continue to enhance the capabilities of this vital command so that Marines who have so selflessly served – especially in a time of war – receive high quality care. This care includes, but is not limited to: leadership and mentorship, comprehensive recovery planning assistance, administrative support, family and caregiver support, Integrated Disability Evaluation System advocacy, and transition assistance.

This edition of the WWR’s eNewsletter highlights Marine accomplishments and provides information on benefits and programs. I hope you find it helpful, and I respectfully ask for your constructive comments and feedback so we can ensure future editions hit the target with your information needs.

With the full backing of our Commandant and a grateful nation, I can assure you the WWR will keep faith with wounded, ill, and injured Marines and their families. I am deeply honored to serve the best Americans I have known and work alongside the highly dedicated WWR staff who supports them every day.

Semper Fi,

Willard A. Buhl, Colonel, USMC

A Farewell Message from the Commander

This month, I will pass on the command of the Wounded Warrior Regiment to Col. Willard Buhl.  It has been my great pleasure to serve our wounded, ill and injured Marines and sailors on their journey to recovery.  Working alongside our dedicated staff across the globe has been a privilege and I am honored to have served with you .   I will sincerely miss serving the Wounded Warrior Regiment, but know the command will be in the very capable hands of Col. Buhl.

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Message from the Sergeant Major

It is with great honor that I am posting as your Wounded Warrior Regiment sergeant major. Sgt. Maj. Ploskonka’s efforts leave a legacy of successes in warrior care that will be felt by wounded, ill and injured Marines and families for many years. I will take his advice to heart when I will carry out our commander’s intent by providing motivation to our wounded warriors and their families, offering assistance and direction during recovery to full duty or reintegration to civilian communities, and ensuring our medical staff and chaplain corps remain in constant contact with our warriors and their families.

Semper Fidelis,

Sgt. Maj. Joseph E. VanFonda

Message from the Commander

I am pleased to issue the Wounded Warrior Regiment’s first eNewsletter!

As the Commanding officer of the Wounded Warrior Regiment, I am honored to be charged with ensuring the nation’s wounded, ill and injured Marines and their families receive the best non-medical care and support possible. These Marines and their families selflessly made sacrifices that have resulted in life-changing events – some catastrophic.

The Wounded Warrior Regiment concentrates on more than helping Marines “stay in the fight.” Our focus is on ability – helping Marines and their families improvise, adapt and overcome. To do this, we support more than medical healing. We help strengthen the Marine’s Mind, Body, Spirit, and Family throughout recovery.

This eNewsletter is organized around these lines of operation and our focus on ability.  With each issue you will be introduced to a Marine who has adapted to and overcome the challenges of his or her new reality.  Then, enjoy articles covering each of the lines of operation – Medical, Mind, Body, Spirit, and Family.  Finally, we will share actual questions and answers from the Sergeant Merlin German Wounded Warrior Call Center.

This eNewsletter is for you – the wounded, ill or injured Marine, family members or caregivers and all those who are interested in supporting and honoring those whom we serve.  Enjoy the articles, share ideas and comments, and help us provide the inspiration and information you need.

Semper Fidelis!

John L. Mayer

Colonel, USMC

WWR Commanding Officer