Wade Spann

Wade Spann, from Burke, Virginia, enlisted in the Marine Corps straight out of high school. He served with Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment from 2001 to 2005, deploying to Iraq three times, including the 2003 invasion, operations in Fallujah, and Al-Ramadi. In 2004, while conducting search operations near Fallujah, his Humvee was struck by an IED, resulting in a shrapnel injury to his head. Despite this, Wade completed his service, returning for a third deployment in Ramadi. After his military career, Wade became a mentor in Fairfax County’s Court Veterans Docket, helping fellow veterans avoid jail time. Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in 2018, Wade made it his mission to stay active and push his physical limits. He was selected as the USMC’s Ultimate Champion at the 2023 Warrior Games Challenge, which has helped him stay connected to the Marine Corps and maintain his confidence. An avid outdoorsman, Wade enjoys hiking, camping, and summiting peaks across the U.S. He is excited to represent Team U.S. at the Invictus Games for the first time, especially in winter sports.

What does the Invictus Games mean to you?

The Invictus Games is a physical testament to all who have served a greater entity larger than themselves and suffered injuries, illnesses, or disabilities for their service. Through friendly competition we form stronger bonds and prove to the world that while a piece of us may not be perfect we can come together and overcome adversity and find meaning in our struggles.