Merry Garza

Logistics Specialist Second Class (ret.) Merry Garza joined the Navy in 2013 out of San Antonio, Texas. Though she is a third generation sailor with family roots also in the Marines and Army, she is the first woman in her family to serve in the military. “I hold that close to my heart as an example for future generations,” she said.

She is proud of her work that contributed to the success of Navy missions time and again. In the course of her time in service, she deployed many times, including the East China Sea, where she sustained her injuries. She was ultimately transported to Walter Reed Medical Center, which is where she found adaptive sports through Navy Wounded Warrior.

It sparked a passion for overcoming both her physical and mental challenges. “Adaptive sports have been essential in helping me adjust to my new normal, rebuild my confidence, and find a sense of purpose again, adjusting to declining health,” she said. Garza committed to pushing her limits to prove to herself that she can still stay active even with physical and mental obstacles. She participated in the Warrior Games in 2022 and 2023.

Away from the field, Garza is continuing her treatments for at BAMC for her traumatic brain injury, as well as other neurological, mental, and physical illnesses and injuries. She stays involved in veteran support groups and family activities with her wife, Bethany, and young son, balancing her recovery with being a mom.

What does the Invictus Games mean to you?

I believe that adaptive sports programs such as Invictus are crucial for my teams’ and my recovery journey. They give opportunities for us to improve physically, connect with others, set new personal goals, and find hope to keep pushing forward. I aim to prove to myself that I am worthy and capable. I aspire to inspire others facing challenges by demonstrating resilience and determination.