Australians are celebrating our veterans competing at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics.
Minister for Veterans' Affairs and Defence Personnel Andrew Gee spoke with former Australian Army Sapper and Paralympian Curtis McGrath OAM, to wish him and the entire Australian Paralympic Team good luck in Tokyo.
Curtis was three months into a tour of Afghanistan as an Australian Army Combat Engineer when he stepped on an improvised explosive device. Tragically, he lost both his legs, shattered bones in his wrist, sustained burns to his left arm, had perforated ear drums and a large wound at the back of his thigh.
Just nine years after his life-threatening injuries he is looking to win back-to-back Paralympic Gold Medals in the Paracanoeing.
Minister Gee said it was an honour to speak with Curtis as he prepares to defend his Paralympic title.
"Curtis is an extraordinarily bright and talented young Australian who has worked extremely hard following his life threatening injuries while on active service, to reach the summit of Paralympic achievement in such a short time," Minister Gee said.
"His resilience, hard work and determination are qualities shared by so many of our Defence personnel and veterans, and his story shows how sport can change your life against all odds.
"Curtis has served our country in peacetime and war, he's a Paralympic gold medallist and an athlete we're all very proud of, including the veteran community.
"He's achieved so much at such a young age which is a testament to his determination and drive."
Curtis McGrath said it was a pleasure to share his story with Minister Gee.
"I'm humbled to be able to represent my country alongside so many inspirational Australians at the Paralympic Games," Mr McGrath said.
"My Army mates saved my life back in 2012 and I hope my story can inspire other defence personnel and veterans who face adversity to persevere and find a passion to help them through, for me it was sport."
"All of our Aussie athletes personify the Paralympic values of courage, determination, inspiration and equality, and their families and friends should be extremely proud," Minister Gee said.
"I wish all Australians, including Curtis and our competing veterans all the very best of luck in Tokyo. We're all behind you.
"Although fans won't be there in person to wave the Aussie flag in the stands, we'll all certainly be there watching the telly and cheering them on from home.
"We saw how much the Olympics lifted our spirits in a difficult time, so now let's bring on the Paralympic Games - Aussie, Aussie, Aussie!"
