WASHINGTON, DC – The National Park Service will provide enhanced programs and services for injured military members through a partnership established with Wounded Warrior Project.

In a ceremony held at the Lincoln Memorial, National Park Service Director Mary A. Bomar and Wounded Warrior Project Executive Director and Founder John Melia signed an agreement to develop opportunities to help severely injured military members mend physically, mentally, and spiritually in parks.

“The words of Abraham Lincoln’s second inaugural address carved on the wall inside of the memorial remind all of us ‘to care for him who shall have borne the battle,” said Bomar. “National parks are places of refuge and inspiration. I am thrilled that this partnership will allow more veterans to be rejuvenated by the serenity, beauty, and recreational opportunities found in parks.”

In addition to identifying a variety of activities and locations for Wounded Warrior Project programs, the National Park Service will provide information on park concessions, cooperating associations, and employment opportunities for veterans and their families.

“Wounded Warrior Project is grateful to the National Park Service for this opportunity,” said Melia. “These heroes have sacrificed greatly in service to their country. I think it is fitting that, through this partnership, some of America’s best places will be available to help them heal.”

The first collaborative effort between the National Park Service and Wounded Warrior Project will take place at Acadia National Park in Maine on October 20, 2008. Project Odyssey is designed to aid the recovery process for those suffering from combat stress and post traumatic stress disorder. Other programs are already planned for Yosemite National Park in California and Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming. The programs are funded with support from the Coleman Company. Wounded Warrior Project is a non-profit organization whose mission is to honor and empower wounded warriors. It serves to raise awareness and enlist the public’s aid for the needs of severely injured service men and women, to help severely injured service members aid and assist each other and to provide unique, direct programs and services to meet their needs. For more information, please call (904) 296-7350 or visit www.woundedwarriorproject.org.