2019

Comedian Jon Stewart Gives High Praise to Military, Veterans and Their Families

Jon Stewart’s humor is world-renowned, but what some people may not appreciate is his devotion and gratitude for our country’s military, veterans and their families, as well as for first responders. For the fourth year in a row, Jon has emceed the Warrior Games— this year in Tampa, FL. His mix of humor and compassion touched the audience, evoking both laughter and tears.

“Thank you very much for coming out to the Warrior Games,” Stewart said. “We have had a tremendous day or two of competition. The athletes are finding out what it is like to be in a city that was built inside a humidifier.”

Ken Fisher, Chairman and CEO of Fisher House Foundation, which helps sponsor the Warrior Games Family Program, acknowledged Stewart’s work with wounded warriors and first responders.

“Before I say another word, I want to say a special thanks to Jon Stewart for being here year after year,” said Fisher. “There is no bigger supporter of our service members and our first responders than Jon—and he does it with no cameras and no fanfare. It is so good to see him here again. Thank you, Jon.”

The acknowledgement had the crowd of thousands on their feet and cheering. Stewart responded by saying, “We are here to celebrate these unbelievable athletes from all of the branches of the military. These are men and women who refuse to allow themselves to be defined by their worst day, but define themselves by their reaction to that day. Their lives are built on resilience, perseverance, dedication and camaraderie.”

Stewart stated the athletes have gone through a lot to get to the Games, but no one got there by themselves. “The families and the caregivers so often work as hard as the athletes to get them prepared and to get them going and to be there,” said Stewart.

The highlight of all Stewart’s Warrior Games ceremonies comes at the end of the show, when he jumps offstage and makes the rounds taking selfies with all the athletes and their families. He calls it “my favorite part.”