What: Freedom Alliance is presenting U.S. Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Jerry Wayne Padgett II with the gift of new all-terrain wheelchair in honor of their courageous service to our country.
When: Wednesday, January 7, 2026, 9a.m.
Where: Vistra Communications, 18315 U.S. Hwy 41, Lutz, FL 33549
Who: Jerry was born in Odessa, Texas, raised in Canoga Park, California, and enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 2001. He served aboard the USS Cushing, USS Preble, and COMMGRP1, deploying five times and contributing as a Command Community Relations Photographer and rescue swimmer. In 2006, while on patrol in Afghanistan, he was severely injured by an improvised explosive device, resulting in a spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, and audio and visual impairments.
Now living in Land O’ Lakes, Florida, with his family and service dogs, Jerry stays active with his son and frequently volunteers in his community. With the support of sponsors who provided his all-terrain wheelchair, he looks forward to returning to Florida’s trails and helping others enjoy the outdoors. He shares deep gratitude for this gift, which allows him to overcome daily barriers and experience a renewed sense of freedom.
“Jerry’s courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to serving others embody the very best of our nation’s heroes,” said Freedom Alliance President Tom Kilgannon. “Providing him with this all-terrain wheelchair is a small way to honor his sacrifice and help restore the freedom he fought so hard to protect. We are proud to stand with Jerry as he returns to the outdoors he loves, and we’re grateful to the generous supporters who make moments like this possible.”
Related Posts
