Stories

After crash, pilot turns to JBLM Soldier Recovery Unit for help returning to duty.
September 18, 2024 — CW2 Ian Tambornino, a passionate Army helicopter pilot, experienced a life-altering event in February 2023 during a training exercise in Alaska when a horrific helicopter crash severely injured his arm. Despite extensive damage to his ulna nerve, flexor tendon, and veins, he was saved by his crewmates and received medical treatment that reconstructed his arm. During his recovery, Tambornino was assigned to the Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) at Joint Base Lewis McChord (JBLM), where he has focused on physical recovery and career readiness. Although the road to recovery has been challenging, involving adaptive reconditioning activities like yoga to regain motion, Tambornino remains determined to return to the cockpit. With the support of his Transition Coordinator and training opportunities at JBLM, he is working on maintaining his flight knowledge through ground school and simulations. Grateful for the SRU's resources, he emphasizes the importance of advocating for oneself and taking recovery step by step, with his ultimate goal being to fly again... MORE

CW2 Ian Tambornino is ready to return to the cockpit and fly again.

At the SRU, the opportunities are there if you apply yourself.
September 18, 2024 — Recovery Care Coordinator Kenneth Tate, a medically retired Army veteran, has spent over a decade helping Soldiers at the Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) at Fort Carson. After his own military career was cut short due to a medical condition, Tate experienced firsthand the challenges Soldiers face during recovery. Now, as an RCC, he ensures that Soldiers take full advantage of the many opportunities available at the SRU, such as internships, free schooling, and certifications, which help prepare them for returning to duty or transitioning to civilian life. Tate emphasizes the importance of applying oneself to these opportunities, sharing stories of success, including Soldiers who have secured high-paying jobs after leveraging IT certifications. His personal experience as a former SRU client makes him relatable and effective, encouraging Soldiers to engage with the programs available and take control of their future... MORE

“I don’t want to go to a job after the Army; I want a career.”
September 17, 2024 — Master Sgt Keith Brooks, a 23-year Army veteran, has faced significant challenges throughout his military career, including a severe knee injury sustained during his second deployment to Iraq. Despite enduring seven surgeries and 18 months of rehabilitation, Brooks transitioned from infantry to a CBRN specialist and continued his service. His journey saw him return to the Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) twice, most recently in 2023, where he faced medical retirement. Brooks is now embracing the opportunities available to him, including job fairs, internships, and career development programs, as he prepares for life after the Army. He actively mentors younger soldiers, emphasizing the importance of taking advantage of transition resources. Through internships, educational programs, and certifications, Brooks is paving the way for a future career in federal contracting, determined to secure a successful post-military career for himself and his family... MORE

Master Sgt. Keith Brooks with Command Sgt. Major Harold Dunn

Retired Soldier helps others get out of their comfort zone.
September 9, 2024 — Lisa Smith, an Army Recovery Care Program Transition Coordinator at Fort Riley, excels at helping Soldiers transition to civilian life by building trust and sharing her own experiences as a twice-transitioned Soldier. With over 30 years in the Reserves and six years of mobilization, Smith uses her extensive background to guide Soldiers through their recovery and career planning. She has been instrumental in supporting Soldiers like Army Sgt. 1st Class Jack Peko, who suffered a stroke, by providing opportunities for career development and ensuring comprehensive support for their families. Smith’s dedication helps Soldiers navigate their futures beyond the Army... MORE

Retired Sgt 1st Class Lisa Smith is in her eighth year as a Transition Coordinator helping Soldiers at Fort Riley’s Soldier Recovery Unit

"Life isn’t happening to me; it's happening for me.”
September 9, 2024 — Spc. Dominique Washington’s Army career was unexpectedly cut short in August 2023 when she suffered a stroke at age 29. Despite having no prior health issues, she experienced two more strokes and a seizure in the following months. Her recovery journey began at the Fort Drum Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) in December 2023. Initially hesitant, Washington found the SRU’s support invaluable, helping her cope with the trauma of her strokes and the loss of her mother to a similar condition. The SRU provided her with the care and encouragement needed to navigate her new reality and focus on raising her daughter... MORE

“It is a blessing that I am here at an SRU.” ~ Staff Sgt. Julia Vickers
September 4, 2024 — Staff Sgt. Julia Vickers experienced a transformative year after being deployed to Camp Humphries, Korea, where she faced significant mental health challenges. Initially hesitant to join the Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU) at Fort Belvoir, believing it was only for combat-injured soldiers, she soon realized its value for her own recovery and transition. With eleven years of active duty, Vickers, who started as a lab technician before moving to human resources, found the SRU’s support crucial. The SRU allowed her to focus on her care and career transition, reigniting her passion for healthcare. She is now preparing for a new career in nursing, combining her medical and human resources experience... MORE

Staff Sgt Vickers with her mother, Crystal Banks, and her grandfather, Samuell Banks

Job Fairs at the SRU give Soldiers hope for their future
September 4, 2024 — Chief Warrant Officer 2 Michael Yoha, a sixteen-year Guardsman from California, is transitioning to civilian life after a medical retirement due to injuries sustained during deployment. Despite his initial plan for a twenty-year career, Yoha’s deployment to Kuwait and Saudi Arabia led to severe back and hip pain, dizziness, and multiple injuries, necessitating his evacuation to the Joint Base Lewis McChord Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU). At the SRU, Yoha is undergoing extensive therapy and medical treatment while leveraging job fairs and resume writing coaching to translate his military skills into civilian job opportunities. He finds the resources at SRU invaluable in navigating this challenging transition... MORE

CW2 Michael Yoha speaks with FEMA representatives at a job fair

Tough times don’t last; tough people do
August 22, 2024 — Master Sgt. Natalia Laughlin, a combat medic and mother of three, faced significant challenges after sustaining injuries during a run in 2022. As a former platoon sergeant at the Joint Base Lewis-McChord Soldier Recovery Unit (SRU), Laughlin found herself on the receiving end of the care she once provided. Her injuries included a hip and back injury, as well as a torn ligament in her hand. While managing her recovery, Laughlin also dealt with her 20-year-old daughter’s epilepsy and upcoming brain surgery, adding emotional strain to her physical recovery. Despite the hardships, Laughlin found strength in gratitude and the support of the SRU, including one-on-one therapy. She encourages others to embrace the SRU programs and seek help, emphasizing the importance of mental health and vulnerability. Her motto, “Tough times don’t last; tough people do,” embodies her resilience and determination to inspire others... MORE

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