“Failure is not being knocked down. Failure is staying down.”

At just 20 years old Matthew Bradford was fighting for his life, battling depression and guilt after sustaining life-threatening injuries in Iraq. On January 18, 2007, Matthew was on patrol with his unit in Haditha, Iraq, when a bomb planted by an insurgent exploded inside a culvert directly underneath his feet causing immediate blindness, the loss of both of his legs, and other life-threatening injuries. Today, Matthew’s mission in life is to inspire people with his courage and determination. BVA allows Matthew the opportunity to inspire fellow blinded veterans – showing them that there is light in the darkness.

As a proud BVA member, Matthew Bradford is a shining example of the new lease on life that you help blinded veterans discover through your generous support of BVA and its programs. On March 28 join us as we mark the nationwide observance of Blinded Veterans Day and the 79th anniversary of BVA’s founding in 1945.

Learn how Matthew started on his road to recovery.

Testimonials

“Failure is not being knocked down. Failure is staying down.”
Matthew had an insight that got him started...
Read More
A Veterans Day Tribute
Enrique's shock of knowing he was losing his sight was painful...
Read More
A Hero of the Greatest Generation
It didn't take long for Bob to start over...
Read More
Helping Others to Achieve
Brian felt lost, alone, and didn’t know what to do next…
Read More
One Vision, One Team, One Fight
Lonnie's strength and joy come from those who haven’t yet experienced...
Read More
A Shining Light of Inspiration
Paul continually guides his colleagues out of the darkness and into the light...
Read More
Rising to the Challenge
Ken epitomizes BVA’s mission...
Read More
Gaining New Vision
Steve found purpose and fulfillment in life again...
Read More
Living the Army Values
Eric inspires his fellow blinded veterans...
Read more
Never Leaving Anyone Behind
Monaca champions women veterans initiatives via her...
Read More
Previous slide
Next slide