A Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC) Sailor will participate in a coin toss during an Old Dominion Monarchs football game against the Florida Atlantic Owls, Nov. 28.

Chief Logistics Specialist (EXW/AW/SW) Larry Ramey, a wounded warrior, who recently checked aboard NECC from Commander, Navy Reserve Force Command was offered the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity through the Navy Wounded Warrior - Safe Harbor (NWW) program.

"It's something I haven't done before, but always wanted to," said Ramey, who is a die-hard fan of football in general.

Ramey's participation in the coin toss coincides with Warrior Care month, which is observed annually in November. This year's theme is "Building a Ready and Resilient Force".

Debbie Harmison White, Senior Associate Athletic Director with Old Dominion University emphasized their strong support of the military community and the wounded warriors.

"It is an honor to have our partnership with the Navy Wounded Warrior - Safe Harbor program and our fans have reacted well when we have recognized these outstanding men and women during our pre-game activities," said White, who also added it is most fitting to recognize military members during the Thanksgiving holiday. "Over 28 percent of the ODU student body have direct affiliation with the military, and with a large percentage of the population of Hampton roads tied with the military, we are proud to recognize our Hampton Roads neighbors and citizens service to our country."

Ramey looks forward to continuing his service in the U.S. Navy and gained a new outlook on life from his experience.

"Serving in my country is one of the best things that I have ever done," said Ramey, who said during his recovery his priorities shifted to focus on family first. "Life is short and it is important to value the moments that I have, and to be there for my family and my wife."

In 2008, November was officially designated as Warrior Care Month; a month dedicated to honoring the courage, resilience and accomplishments of wounded, ill, and injured service members, their families, and their caregivers.

NECC is an enduring war fighting force providing sea-to-shore and inland operating environment capabilities across the full range of military operations that is focused on delivering combat effective expeditionary forces ready for worldwide operations now and into the future.


For more news from Navy Expeditionary Combat Command , visit www.navy.mil/.