IN PICTURES: DISABLED VETS DIVE AT LOOE KEY

These guys don’t shy away from adversity. In fact, they run, jump  — and swim — toward it.

A group of about 10 disabled U.S. veterans had overcome unimaginable adversities on the battlefield and later at Walter Reed Military Hospital, where many became amputees.

But that didn’t stop them from becoming certified scuba divers the weekend of Sept. 3-4 at Looe Key Reef Resort and Dive Center at MM 27 in the Lower Keys.

The veterans were in town with Ranger Road, a nonprofit “providing veterans the necessary tools to be successful during the crucial transition from military to civilian life. By pushing towards lasting solutions … we can be part of a community and support system that thrives on community involvement and physical and emotional wellness.”

In addition to its dive program, Ranger Road offers adaptive motorsports, outdoor adventures, skydiving, sailing, mixed martial arts, fitness programs and more. 

Visit rangerroad.org for more information, or to find help for a veteran in crisis.

The nonprofit veteran support group Ranger Road brings 10 or so disabled U.S. veterans, many of them amputees from Walter Reed National Military Hospital, to Looe Key Reef Resort to get them scuba-certified. CONTRIBUTED

Mandy Miles drops stuff, breaks things and falls down more than any adult should. An award-winning writer, reporter and columnist, she's been stringing words together in Key West since 1998. "Local news is crucial," she says. "It informs and connects a community. It prompts conversation. It gets people involved, holds people accountable. The Keys Weekly takes its responsibility seriously. Our owners are raising families in Key West & Marathon. Our writers live in the communities we cover - Key West, Marathon & the Upper Keys. We respect our readers. We question our leaders. We believe in the Florida Keys community. And we like to have a good time." Mandy's married to a saintly — and handy — fishing captain, and can't imagine living anywhere else.