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Washington, D.C. – Last night, U.S. Rep. Steve Buyer (R-Ind.) was honored at an annual event hosted by the PVA for his efforts to expand adaptive and therapeutic sports programs for disabled veterans.

Buyer, who serves as Ranking Member on the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, received PVA’s Public Service Award for his long-time advocacy of sports therapy as an alternative avenue of inspiration to help wounded warriors rehabilitate from their injuries.

The Honorable James Peake, Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), presented the award. In his remarks, Secretary Peake noted that Buyer was instrumental in facilitating a partnership between VA and the U.S. Olympic Committee in 2005 to promote opportunities for disabled veterans to participate in adaptive sports programs.

“Throughout the years, Steve Buyer has been a friend and supporter of both PVA and veterans at large,” Peake said. “Tonight, Paralyzed Veterans of America honors his enduring advocacy and commitment for veterans and all people with disabilities. He believes in the power of sports to be a platform of inspiration and healing for ’s brave. Steve is that special person who helps those who have sacrificed so much to realize their potential. His philosophy is simple… get out there and try… and if you do, you are a winner!”

Peake included in his remarks a quote from Peter Ueberroth, Chairman of the U.S. Olympic Committee Board of Directors. “We know part of Congressman Steve Buyer’s legacy is in the support of those men and women who have sacrificed for country and now wear another uniform, representing one more time as team .”

Recognition of Buyer’s accomplishment was well-timed. Wednesday, the House approved legislation Buyer introduced in 2007 to bolster VA’s adaptive sports programs. The provision, which is included in S. 3023, as amended, the Veterans’ Benefits Improvement Act of 2008, came from Buyer’s legislation, H.R. 1370, the Disabled Veterans Sports and Special Events Promotion Act of 2007, to establish a VA Office of National Veterans Sports Programs.

The master of ceremonies at the gala was NASCAR Driver Kyle Petty. Other honorees included U.S. Senator Chuck Hagel, HOK Sport, B.A.S.S., and actor Scott Porter of NBC’s Friday Night Lights.

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