Robert Irvine Foundation
Amanda Strimel
Army 82nd Airborne
Strength in Every Mission
Amanda proudly served in the 82nd Airborne Division, one of the most storied and elite units in the U.S. Army. She deployed to Afghanistan twice—in 2012 and again in 2017—where she ran combat missions in challenging, high-risk environments. Her service demanded not only physical endurance but also mental fortitude, as she navigated the constant threat of danger and the weight of responsibility for those around her.
Her injuries began during a training jump at Fort Bragg, when a hard landing left her with lasting damage that would require long-term mobility assistance. Despite the physical pain, Amanda continued to serve, driven by the same commitment and resilience that defined her military career. Over time, however, the toll of her service extended beyond the visible wounds. Like so many combat veterans, Amanda carried the unseen weight of trauma—memories, losses, and moments from war that follow her into civilian life.
Wellness Program _
Service Dog Vinnie Recipient
Today, she faces those challenges with the help of her service dog, Vinnie. Specially trained to provide both physical assistance and PTSD support, Vinnie is more than a companion—he’s Amanda’s steady anchor. He helps her with daily mobility tasks, interrupts moments of anxiety, and creates a calming presence that allows her to re-engage with the world on her own terms.
With Vinnie by her side, Amanda has found more than independence—she has rediscovered a sense of purpose. Together, they navigate life’s obstacles with resilience, reminding everyone around them that moving forward is always possible, even when the path is difficult.