American300 Warrior Tour brings 'never quit' message to 24th Air Force, JBSA

by Tech. Sgt. Scott McNabb

 24th Air Force Public Affairs 

12/22/2011 - LACKLAND AIR FORCE BASE, Texas  -- No one complained about the rain during 24th Air Force's war fit physical training here Dec. 19. 

Complaining was not an option when two amputees from American300 Warrior Tours led the way.

Chad Crittenden, CBS' Survivor contestant, and Mike Schultz, ESPN's X Games adaptive gold medalist, didn't have to say anything to inspire people to be their best, but each man took time to talk to every Airman with a question after their workout.

Robi Powers, American300 Foundation founder and managing director, was there and talked about the organization's program and its dedication to raising resiliency in American military members, their families and the communities in which they live.

"If there's one thing I've learned having traveled to over 300 bases outside of CONUS over the past three years, it's that we've got resiliency issues, troop strength issues that need to be addressed downrange and at home," he said. "We raised enough money this year to fund this first ever [stateside] tour, and we plan on continuing this themed series of tours, all under the banner of 'Never Quit.'"

The guests stretched and warmed up with members of 24th Air Force, then Crittenden l the run while Shultz set the pace in the fitness center for those who wanted to work out with him. 

"Mike and Chad are heroes, athletes, professionals, volunteers ... role models for us all with a message and a lifestyle that exemplifies resiliency," said Maj. Gen. Suzanne Vautrinot, 24th Air Force commander and a senior adviser to the foundation. "All involved now carry their message in our hearts, minds and every element of our DNA. It was a pleasure and privilege for 24th Air Force to host their visit here in San Antonio. We are inspired."

Crittenden lost his leg to synovial sarcoma, a rare form of cancer. Shultz received his injury during a snocross competition. Neither let the loss prevent them from becoming world-class athletes again. The theme of the tour was "Never Quit." That message hit home for many, and one 24th senior non-commissioned officer cleared his schedule and joined to help any way he could.

"It was a once in a lifetime opportunity, and I wanted to be a part of that," said Senior Master Sgt. David Roberson, 24th AF Spectrum Management superintendent. "They showed individuals if you have a never-quit attitude, no matter what situation you're in, it's really not that bad. And, if you put your mind to it, you can overcome anything."  

Touring stateside bases is something new for Powers and the speakers who volunteer their time. Joint Base San Antonio was the last stop in their first tour in the United States. Powers said the mission will always be overseas, but it's important to support military members at home when possible.

When the tour left the war fit session, the next stop was the 68th Network Warfare Squadron, a subordinate unit to 24th AF, followed by stops at Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center and San Antonio Military Medical Center where they visited military members who were recovering from or facing the possibility of amputation.

A member of the 68th NWS said it was great to show the American300 members around the unit and that he was impressed by how Crittenden and Shultz took time to talk to people one-on-one. He said it was a great opportunity for the unit and it meant a lot to the men and women working there.

The Air Forces cyber commander said that sincerity made a huge impact. 

"The positive impact Robi, Mike and Chad had on all the people they reached out to and literally "touched" with hugs, handshakes, stories and words of encouragement to share, are much appreciated," said Vautrinot. "I don't think all Santa's elves could have put more "Merry" in the "Christmas" season. The best presents come from the heart, and their visit was a great gift, making every Wingman a bit stronger, prouder and more resilient as we accelerate full throttle into a New Year. These kind of visits aren't easy to pull together, especially before the holidays. I want to thank all those who were instrumental in making this happen, specifically, Lt. Col. Cindy East, 24th Air Force Public Affairs, Capt. Jason Walker, 24th Air Force deputy director of staff, Linda Frost, Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center Public Affairs, and Chondra Perry, San Antonio Military Medical Center Public Affairs."