Valor Games West 2016 - Competitive Games for Disabled Veteran Competitors held on USCG Island Alameda, CA

1. Valor Games 2016 – “Team Coast Guard” Success in Community Volunteerism
REPORT: Roger Bazeley FSO-Public Affairs F-17; Where: USCG Island Alameda; June 2016 – 2-6 June
Opening Ceremony USCG Honor Guard; Valor Games Archery Coach and Athlete: Photos: Bazeley 2016
In the spirt of volunteering for community events members of the U.S. Coast Guard and Auxiliary served
in many support roles for The Valor Games Far West 2016, which is part of the Far West Wheelchair
Association. This four-day event was held entirely on the excellent facilities of Coast Guard Island.
Members of the Coast Guard Auxiliary volunteered and participated in the competition alongside Active-
duty Coast Guard volunteers, as well as members from all services. There were many different events to
support, such as opening ceremonies, archery, and special dinner outings. Many volunteered for a
whole day, or as some, all four days.
Opening Ceremony: Pledge of Allegiance and Singing of the National Anthem, Photos Roger Bazeley PA

2. In partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard and the Northern California Regional Paralympic Sport
Program, the Far West Wheelchair Athletic Association hosted the 2016 Valor Games Far West from
June 3-6, 2016 on Coast Guard Island in Alameda, CA. The primary goal of the Valor Games is to
introduce adapted sports to attendees and is for any Veteran with a disability who is eligible for VA
healthcare. The Valor Games Far West is an introductory level sports competition for Veterans with
disabilities eligible for VA healthcare. The Competitions included; archery, biathlon, cycling, the field
sports of shot put and discus throw, powerlifting, indoor rowing and swimming.
Valor Games West 2016 Opening Ceremony Photos: Roger Bazeley USCGAUX PA
The Valor Games event began in Chicago, Illinois in 2011. Two successful years of that event led to its
expansion to three additional regions of the country, including the Bay Area. The regional Valor Games
provide consistently high quality experiences for the athletes across the country. The sport competition
showcases over 100 Veterans and active duty service members who have disabilities. Valor Games Far
West is the only Valor Games event that is offered west of the Rocky Mountains.

3. Valor Games Completion Awards Ceremony – USCG Island Alameda, CA - Photos: Roger Bazeley
Valor Games Archery, Awards, Evening Social at Oakland Air Museum - Photos: Roger Bazeley FSO-PA
Evening Social at Oakland Air Museum - Photos: Roger Bazeley FSO-PA

4. Valor Games West Closing Ceremonies
Valor Games West Closing Ceremonies – Awards and Plaques of Appreciation
Vice Admiral Ray Receiving Plaque from Valor Games Director
Rosie The Riveters

5. Valor Games Director, and Simon Adair and Partner Alysia; Simone Adair Golf Practice;
Valor Games Medalist Captain USCGAUC Simone Adair and Veteran Medalist

6. Closing Ceremony Celebration: Participants and Musicians – Photos: Roger Bazeley USCGAUX

7. Valor Games 2016 – “Team Coast Guard” Success in Community Volunteerism
REPORT: Roger Bazeley FSO-Public Affairs F-17; USCG Island Alameda; June 2016 – 2-6 June
Rosie the Riveters, WWII – Roger Bazeley Photos FSO-PA F17
It was an honor and a very rewarding experience to volunteer for the event by
photographing and capturing the moments of competitive spirt and courage
among the participants as well as, the comradeship, joy, and support expressed
by all.
Respectfully Submitted,
Roger Bazeley USCG- Auxiliary FSO Public Affairs F17 D11N, Photographer