Army Veterans Make a Splash at Community Race for Brain and Spinal Cord Injury Awareness
By Camille Weston, Public Affairs Officer
Two local Veterans from the G.V. (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center’s Recreation Therapy Outpatient Program took part in the 2025 Dash ‘N Splash Race for Brain and Spinal Cord Injury, held June 28 in Jackson, Mississippi.
Army Veterans Ulis "Trey" Calvert and Jarret Stringer participated in the 12th annual race, which raises awareness about survivors of brain and spinal cord injuries and promotes community involvement and awareness.
Calvert earned 1st place as the first Veteran in a wheelchair to cross the finish line in the event’s Fun Run category. He was also featured along the race route with a Survivor Spotlight Mile Marker recognizing his journey. “I like getting out and doing things like this with others,” Calvert said.
Stringer shared similar sentiments. “I enjoyed getting out of the house, being around others, and the event was so much fun,” he said.
By staying active in recreational therapy, Trey and Jarret are not only strengthening their bodies but also building confidence, resilience, and meaningful connections.
Both are now preparing to compete in the 2025 National Veterans Wheelchair Games in Minneapolis, Minnesota, July 16–23.
Their motivation and commitment are powerful examples of how community events and adaptive sports support healing, reintegration, and personal growth.