1st Lt. Jani Merritt
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RANK: 1st Lt.
STATUS: National Guard
HOMETOWN: Spartanburg, SC
CURRENT LOCATION/SRU: Fort Bliss, TX
EVENTS:
Archery
Powerlifting
Precision Air Sports
Swimming
Track
1st Lt. Jani Merritt has dedicated more than nine years to the National Guard, first enlisting and later earning a commission.
While mobilized in 2023, Merritt began noticing signs that something was wrong. After seeking medical care, she learned one of her kidneys was failing and her life was in danger. Following multiple surgeries, she continued to experience complications that resulted in severe nerve damage, including left foot drop and a progressive loss of sensation and function in other areas of her body.
Merritt struggled to find positivity until arriving at the Fort Stewart Soldier Recovery Unit, where she fully immersed herself in adaptive sports. Through training and competition, adaptive sports helped her stay connected to the activities she loves while adapting to new physical limitations.
She represented Team Army at the 2025 Warrior Games, competing in archery, precision air rifle, powerlifting, swimming, and wheelchair track racing.
Merritt enjoys archery, bowling, golf, listening to music, and snowboarding.
Motto:
“You deserve a shot at every opportunity presented to you.””
– 1st Lt. Jani Merritt