Wounded Warriors honored at FSCJ

First Coast News

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- They served our country, and Tuesday, 27 Wounded Warriors on the First Coast had a day that was all about them.

These men and women are currently enrolled in the Wounded Warrior Project's Track Program at Florida State College at Jacksonville.

"It's been challenging, but rewarding. We are all getting into school. Some of us haven't been to school, myself I haven't been to school in 17 years," said student Joshua Wathen.

Wathen is a Purple Heart recipient. He got some x-rays and had his teeth cleaned as part of FSCJ's Wounded Warrior Day.

"We appreciate their support of all the warriors," he said.

Wathens is getting college credit as he transitions from military life to civilian life through the school's TRACK program, the first education center in the country for Wounded Warriors.

In his 11 years in the army, Wathens survived three overseas deployments and an IED explosion. Now, he's hoping to use all her learns, in combat and in the classroom, to go into sports management.

"Although a little challenging, all the resources that's there for us, the community and everyone has helped the transition," he said.

The day also means a lot to some of the dental hygiene students who are participating in the event.

Ashley Cozza's husband is a rescue swimmer with the Navy. He's leaving for training soon.

"It's awesome. This hits close to home to me. I have a huge heart for veterans. My husband has been through a lot. We've been through 6 years in the military," she said.

Students enrolled in the program can earn up to 24 credit hours.

"It's our opportunity to give back to this who serve us and those who protect our freedom," said Cynthia Wampler, Professor of Dental Hygiene at FSCJ.

The students also received free haircuts, chair massages, and lunch prepared by students in the FSCJ Culinary Arts program.