The Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School fifth grade was delighted with a visit from retired U.S. Army captain William Reynolds on Friday, Oct. 4, to learn about the international Invictus Games, in which wounded and injured service personnel from around the world compete. Brother-in-law of fifth-grade teacher Jeremy Campbell and ambassador for the Games, Capt. Reynolds shared a powerful story with the students. 

A West Point graduate and former college gymnast, Reynolds was injured in the left leg by an explosive in Baghdad, Iraq, in 2004. He underwent multiple surgeries to save his injured leg. As a lifelong athlete, competing with his injuries proved challenging for him. 

After volunteering at the 2012 Warrior Games in Colorado Springs, Colo., Reynolds underwent amputation and was fitted with a prosthetic running leg and blade foot which allowed him to start running and cycling again. Those same games were attended by Prince Harry, who was inspired to take the event to an international level and launch the Invictus Games. (Invictus means “unconquered.”) More than 500 athletes compete in the Paralympic-style games, held biannually in different locations. 

Capt. Reynolds competed in sprinting and cycling at the inaugural Invictus Games in 2014 in London and served as captain of the U.S. team for the 2016 Games held in Orlando, Fla. In 2018, he was invited to speak at the Invictus Games in Sydney, Australia and now serves as ambassador and supporter. He has met Prince Harry, former President George W. Bush and former President Barack Obama. Reynolds, who lives in Bethesda, Md., with his wife and children, will attend the 2020 Games in the Netherlands. 

Capt. Reynolds showed videos of the athletes competing in event such as wheelchair rugby. In sharing his personal story with HIES students, he reminded them that people often have disabilities that can’t be seen, including mental or emotional challenges. The Invictus Games holds a lot of meaning for service personnel by giving them a platform to achieve success post-injury and to generate a broader understanding and respect for those who have served their country. 

“Having a disability doesn’t limit you,” Capt. Reynolds said. 

— Christina Mimms