Jason Tabansky

Retired U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Jason Tabansky is a combat veteran, adaptive athlete, and advocate for resilience whose journey reflects courage in the face of life-altering adversity.

Born in Brownsville, Texas, Jason grew up straddling two cultures—spending his school days in Texas and afternoons with family in Mexico. This upbringing instilled a deep appreciation for faith, family, and service, values that would guide him throughout his life. A multi-talented musician, athlete, and outdoorsman, Jason’s path to military service was cemented by the Gulf War and the book Chickenhawk, which chronicled the experiences of helicopter crews during Vietnam. Inspired, he enlisted in the U.S. Army in December 2000 as a CH-47 Chinook helicopter repairer (67U).

Weeks after beginning basic training, the September 11th attacks occurred. Jason responded with resolve, volunteering to deploy in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (2002–2003) and again to Taji, Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom, where he played a key role in maintaining the Army’s fleet of CH-47D helicopters.

In September 2015, while in London, England, after a routine demonstration of a Chinook helicopter, Jason slipped while dismounting the aircraft and injured his shoulder. What began as a seemingly minor injury progressed rapidly. Days later, he awoke to find his body going numb. Within hours, Jason was paralyzed from the chest down, losing control of his trunk and hands. He was eventually medevacked to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, where he began the long road to rehabilitation.

Amidst recovery, Jason was inspired by fellow service members who exhibited courage and positivity despite devastating injuries. That spirit shaped his own approach: to live fully, to advocate fiercely, and to be a source of strength for others.

Since his injury, Jason has regained use of his hands through intense physical therapy and become a dedicated adaptive athlete, excelling in archery, hunting, saltwater fishing, and bass guitar performance at his church. He also coaches youth sports and aspires to earn a degree in education to continue mentoring the next generation.

Now living in a specially adapted smart home, Jason and his wife Courtney are focused on building a future together.