This year's honoree's and beneficiaries include retired U.S. Army Capt. Nicholas Vogt and retired U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Eddie Ryan. The Sticks for Soldiers charity event, which raises money to support the needs of severely wounded soldiers, as well as promote youth awareness of military service.
In the nine years that area lacrosse teams have taken part in the charity, the tournament has raised more than $455,000 through team entry fees, silent auction, merchandise and corporate and private donations. The goal this year is to raise $150,000 and divide the proceeds among three honorees.
Vogt was injured while leading his platoon on a foot patrol on Nov. 12, 2011. Vogt was severely injured by an IED explosion that killed a fellow soldier. This resulted in double above-knee amputations and a traumatic brain injury, among other things. He survived after numerous heart failures and after more than 500 units of blood transfusions.
Ryan was injured during his third deployment to Iraq in April, 2005, when he was shot in the head by two machine gun rounds on a rooftop. He was not expected to survive except for the effort of his fellow Marines. With the bullets piercing his skull and face, Ryan is wheelchair bound with only limited use of one arm.
The tournament begins at 8 a.m. with first games at 9 a.m. at Ludlowe Taft Stadium. There will be a mid-day ceremony complete with a military honor guard to introduce and recognize the honorees. Participating high schools include host Fairfield Ludlowe, Fairfield Warde, Fairfield Prep, Staples, Hopkins, St. Josephs, Barlow and Weston.
For more information, honoree profiles, tournament schedules, location and history, please visit www.sticksforsoldiers.org.
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