Photo By Sgt. Maxwell Pennington | Cpl. Thomas R. VanderLaan, a correctional specialist at the Naval Consolidated Brig,...... read more read more
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MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, Calif. - Every day, Marines immerse themselves in the Marine Corps core values - honor, courage and commitment. Marines are expected to overcome the obstacles of life whether it’s in combat, a physical fitness test or a paralyzing neck injury.
Cpl. Thomas R. VanderLaan, a correctional specialist at the Naval Consolidated Brig here and Ceres, Calif., native, broke his neck June 29, 2011, while tackling a weighted dummy during football practice, leaving him with the loss of feeling in his nerves and the inability to walk.
VanderLaan’s mother, Susan Wares, describes her son as a person who always works hard and does the best he can in everything.
Those traits helped lead VanderLaan in his decision to become a Marine.
“He joined the Marine Corps because he wanted to be the best of the best,” said Wares.
VanderLaan’s passion and positive attitude has carried with him through this trying time.
“Everything I have as far as being able to keep going, I’ve learned half of it’s me and the other half of it’s the Marine Corps,” said VanderLaan.
VanderLaan’s drive and determination has already enabled him to adapt to new things he’s had to re-learn. From holding a tooth-brush to regaining strength, he’s taking it day-by-day to get back to the things he loves.
Master Sgt. Ross G. Blaine, the Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron communication chief and assistant head coach for the Miramar Falcons, said he knew the first time he met VanderLaan, while recruiting him for the team, that he is motivated and goal-oriented.
“He’s one of those Marines that’s intangible, you just can’t describe him,” said Blaine.
Although VanderLaan may not currently be working at the brig or playing on the field tackling opponents, he still contributes to the team.
“Spiritually on the field we’re fighting for him, because we know we have a wounded warrior fighting for us,” said Blaine. “His determination to walk again is surreal. He’s one of the most inspirational Marines I have ever met.”
Training extensive hours in everything from psychological therapy to physical therapy, VanderLaan keeps his motivation and determination to someday walk again.
“I’ve done enough research and realized that there’s a chance to make a full recovery,” said VanderLaan. “I’m not looking for a miracle to make it back to walking. I’m looking at a lot of strength, determination and pushing every single day. Once my feet hit the ground, I’m running and I’m not stopping.”
| Date Taken: | 08.25.2011 |
| Date Posted: | 08.25.2011 15:16 |
| Story ID: | 75930 |
| Location: | MARINE CORPS AIR STATION MIRAMAR, CALIFORNIA, US |
| Web Views: | 431 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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