Catchfence

WASHINGTON (April 28, 2011) — Ryan Newman came away from his visit to Walter Reed Army Medical Center feeling inspired, motivated and encouraged.

The driver of the No. 39 U.S. Army Chevrolet, who will be competing in Saturday night’s NASCAR Sprint Cup race at Richmond (Va.) International Raceway, made a side trip to Washington D.C. Thursday to spend time with wounded warriors at the famous Army medical facility.

After lunch in the cafeteria with a wounded warrior and his family, Newman visited the Military Advanced Training Center (MATC), the on-site rehabilitation center for amputees. He talked to a number of wounded warriors while they were going through their daily therapy and work outs with cutting-edge equipment. Newman also visited with wounded warriors in their private rooms.

“It’s always a moving and inspirational experience to witness the positive attitude and courage of these Soldiers,” said Newman, who has made a number of past visits to Walter Reed. “When you see an amputee or double amputee talk about getting back to active duty how can that not motivate you. A true meaning of Army Strong, and it makes me even more proud to the drive the Soldiers’ car.”

Newman did add, “The good news is that there were fewer Soldiers and I didn’t see anybody who I saw last year.”

Col. Colleen Martin, a wounded warrior patient and avid NASCAR fan, said, “It was awesome for Ryan to stop by. The one message for him to take back is not to feel sorry for the warriors because they have such a great attitude and desire to get back to active duty and on with their life. Personally, I am humbled and amazed every day at what I see here.”

- DMF Communications for U.S. Army Racing, Press Release