WASHINGTON, D.C. – United States Senator Mark Kirk (R-Ill.) today honors the 20 veteran paralympians who participated in the official 2012 Paralympic Games in London, England.  Kirk, a Navy reservist who suffered a stroke in January and spent time in rehabilitation for physical challenges on his left side, released the following statement:

“I would like to thank all those who have served in the Army, Air Force, Coast Guard, Marines and Navy for their service. As our nation honors all veterans on this day, I want to especially recognize 20 veterans who have overcome their disabilities and earned a place on Team USA as archers, runners, cyclists, swimmers, rowers and soccer players in the 2012 Paralympic Games. We appreciate these veteran Paralympic competitors not for their disabilities but for their achievements. These athletes are among the millions of veterans who have overcome the daunting challenges of transitioning back to civilian life.”

Click the link to find photos and details of each athlete’s accomplishments.