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thedrifter
04-11-07, 01:05 PM
Wounded troops, families can win retreat
By Karen Jowers - Staff writer
Posted : Wednesday Apr 11, 2007 10:31:28 EDT

Wounded service members and their families can apply for an all-expenses-paid retreat in August at a resort in Maryland.

Anyone injured, wounded or who became ill while on active duty since the start of the war in Afghanistan in late 2001 is eligible to apply for the retreat, which will be Aug. 5-9 at the Turf Valley Resort near Baltimore. The Blewitt Foundation created the program, called Destination R&R, to honor the sacrifices of wounded service members and their families, and to provide an opportunity for family rejuvenation and fun.

The Blewitt Foundation will fund all expenses for families, including travel, through donations. About 25 to 30 families will be selected to participate in this first event, according to the National Military Family Association, which is working with the foundation.

Applications are accepted online only, at NMFA Destination R&R, and must be submitted by midnight Eastern time May 4. The National Military Family Association will select the participants.

Those who were wounded or experienced emotional trauma or illness related to their service in the wars are eligible, including current or former uniformed members of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, U.S. Public Health Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Members of the National Guard and reserve in drilling status are eligible, as long as their injury was sustained while on active duty or training. More information about eligibility is available at NMFA Destination R&R.

First priority will go to families whose service member has been in recovery from a wound, injury or illness for at least one year, according to the NMFA. Eligible service members must at least be in outpatient treatment status because there will be limited medical assistance at the retreat.

Ellie