Posted on 09/19/2005 6:18:30 PM PDT by SandRat
FORT SAM HOUSTON, Texas, Sept. 19, 2005 – NBA legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson scored a slam dunk with wounded servicemembers during a visit to Brooke Army Medical Center Sept. 10, thanking them for their numerous sacrifices, courage and dedication.
Johnson visited patients in the BAMC Burn Center and the Amputee Care Center.Wounded warriors being treated at BAMC brought their families in to visit with Johnson. He autographed basketballs, rookie cards and photos while laughing and joking with the servicemembers. Even as time ran short, he left no basketball unsigned.
“It really boosts our morale to see someone who is willing to sacrifice their time to come and visit us and thank us for what we do,” said Sgt. Juan Arrendondo, amputee soldier at BAMC.
Johnson thanked the warriors for their sacrifice and dedication for serving and protecting America. He spoke with mothers, wives and children of the military’s wounded heroes and personally thanked the servicemembers.
“It’s important to tell them thank you and show them the respect they deserve,” said Johnson. “They protect us each and every day. We are so lucky to have the best military in the world.”
Giving high fives, Johnson made a point to greet every patient he saw. Children shook Johnson’s hand, while in the arms of their military parent. Servicemembers expressed their gratitude to Johnson for coming to visit.
Johnson recognized the incredible sacrifices each wounded warrior has made for their country. “Coming to visit BAMC makes you realize the things you take for granted. I think we forget that we’re blessed,” said Johnson.
Johnson spoke about those in New Orleans who are trying to recapture some sense of normalcy. He said he hopes America continues to rally around those people in need.
As Johnson exited BAMC, he continued to pose for pictures and sign autographs at the request of patients entering or exiting the medical center. Johnson said seeing wounded warriors in person and shaking their hand was an eye-opening experience in that it makes us see how we truly need each other.
The soldiers were excited he took time out to visit them. “I’m happy he came to visit. I know he’s busy so it really means a lot. It lets me know he cares,” said Sgt. Moses Sonera, amputee soldier being treated at BAMC.
Thanks Magic!!!!
This is such a heart warming story, I'm sure it will be featured on all the network newscasts tonight.
That will happens when it snows in hell. Did you see it on the news??? Neither did I.
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