John Adams
As a platoon sergeant in the Florida National Guard, John Adams carried the responsibility of approximately 30 soldiers located in and around Ramadi, a city located near the Sunni Triangle. In August of 2003, during a routine patrol, Adams was seriously injured when an improvised explosion device detonated near his Humvee.
As a result of the explosion, John suffers from TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury), along with headaches, life-term vertigo and short-term memory loss. Other than the injuries related to TBI, John also sustained damage to his right arm and now suffers from a speech impediment. After an emergency surgery in Germany, he was transferred to Walter Reed Army Medical Center, where he had a metal plate placed in his brain. John remained at Walter Reed for almost a month to focus on his recovery. Through intensive rehabilitation and continuous physical therapy, he has made huge strides in his recovery.
Today John and his wife Summer are National Spokespersons for the Coalition to Salute America's Heroes. Their story of recovery is a source of inspiration to other wounded service members and families, proving that although there are many emotional, physical and financial obstacles to overcome, it is possible to resume a normal and fulfilling life together. John and Summer live in Miramar, Florida with their two young sons.