Sport: 

Fencing

Biography:

Leo is an Army veteran and has a wife and five children. Upon graduating from high school, Leo enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in the 1st Gulf War. In 1996, Leo finished his active duty tour and joined the Oregon National Guard. After the September 11, 2001 attacks, Leo rejoined the active duty Army.

In January 2004, Leo was deployed to Iraq where he served as a vehicle top gunner providing security for supply convoys. In November 2004, Leo sustained a spinal cord injury from an IED blast outside of Fallujah, Iraq. After being injured, Leo was evacuated to a military hospital in Germany and then back to the United States for further treatment and to begin his rehabilitation. From November 2004 to March 2006, Leo endured numerous surgeries and extensive rehab.

Upon retiring from the Army, Leo began supporting his 11-year-old son pursue the sport of fencing. Leo found that fencing was a sport he could do with his son and so began to practice and compete in wheelchair fencing. Today, with the support of CAF Operation Rebound, Leo fences internationally and is a Paralympic hopeful.

How Does Operation Rebound Help?

Operation Rebound provides unparalleled sports opportunities and support to our troops and veterans of any branch of service and first responders who have served honorably and have suffered permanent physical injuries. Grants are awarded for event travel, lodging, entry fees, training and equipment.

How Can You Help?

Make a tax-deductible contribution to Challenged Athletes, Inc., (dba Challenged Athletes Foundation) a non-profit 501 (C) (3) organization. To make a donation, please call (858) 866-0959, send a check to the address listed below, or make a secure payment through our website: www.challengedathletes.org.

Support Leo Curtis by getting involved today