On Saturday, February 25, PLEA organized and participated in the third annual Carey’s Corps run as part of the Phoenix Marathon. Former Marine Staff Sergeant James Carey, who served combat
tours in Iraq, suffered severe paralysis after an accident during a water training exercise several years ago. His former platoon commander, Marine Captain Nate Wood, began pushing Carey in marathon
races as a form of physical therapy, with the use of a specially built wheelchair. Three years ago, PLEA helped organize #9255 volunteers to support Carey’s first entry into the Phoenix Marathon,
and now it is an annual event.
This past year, Captain Wood has been unable to participate due to duty assignments and related obligations. PLEA would like to thank Phoenix Officer Rich Vasquez, who stepped up to the plate to run the entire marathon with the team, which took turns pushing Carey the entire distance. Officer Vasquez had just run the P.F. Chang’s Rock n’ Roll marathon four weeks earlier.
Thanks to all the volunteers who participated to make this event a success. Staff Sergeant James Carey, you continue to inspire with your perseverance and courage, and we are heartened by your ongoing improvement.
