Often wounded warriors returning from combat miss the cheering crowds their brothers and sisters in arms receive during those homecomings. But this week, we all have the chance to show them how much we appreciate all they have done in defense of our country.

At the Olympic Training Center, more than 200 wounded warriors from every branch of the military are about to compete for the glory of winning a gold medal in the inaugural Warrior Games.

The games, a joint effort between the U.S. Department of Defense, the U.S. Paralympics, the United Services Organizations and Ride to Recovery, are designed to give our fighting men and women who've been wounded an opportunity to inspire us all once more.

Many have battled back from the brink of despair, often with the help of sports. And like the olympic flame, burning bright over the Olympic Training Center, they are a symbol of everlasting determination.

As they marched down the Olympic Path Monday, cheering family and friends stood shoulder to shoulder with sports superstars Roger Staubach, Randy Gradishar, and Rick Berry as they praised the wounded warriors.

Governor Ritter went so far as to call the men and women participating in the games the pride of America, because they personify so many of our country's greatest characteristics such as resilience and determination.

"Feels great. It's a big part of the healing process I think for a lot of these guys, and for me too," says Sergeant Kisha Makerney, with the Warrior Transition Battalion out of Fort Sam Houston.

The Army sent about 100 competitors, the Marines 50, the Air Force 25 and the Navy and Coast Guard 25 combined.

The games run May 10-14. The events include swimming, cycling, wheelchair basketball, archery, track, discus, shot put and sitting volleyball, among others.

All of this weeks games are open to the public. For a schedule of event times and locations click the link below.