Army Major Turnbull’s Journey to the 2026 Warrior Games

San Antonio, Texas — Back in 2019, Major Jonathan Turnbull faced a life-threatening situation when an ISIS suicide bomber targeted his team in Manbij, Syria. After being given just 12 hours to live, he’s now preparing to compete in the 2026 Warrior Games in San Antonio, having undergone 23 surgeries over the past seven years.

At these Warrior Games, nearly 200 military athletes will engage in 12 adaptive sports. Each has some form of service-related condition, including physical injuries, traumatic brain injuries, visual impairments, or PTSD.

Major Turnbull enlisted in the U.S. Army in 2004 shortly after the September 11 attacks. Reflecting on that day, he remarked, “Everyone has a 9/11 story. Mine is pretty similar to many others. Following the attack, I felt shocked, appalled, and, truthfully, motivated to contribute to preventing another tragedy.” He wanted to make a difference.

For the next 15 years, Major Turnbull served as a civil affairs officer within the U.S. Special Operations Command, focusing on missions aimed at improving conditions in war-torn regions.

Interestingly, just a day before returning home from Syria, he decided to extend his stay. “My commander said, ‘John, you’re doing great. Would you consider staying a bit longer to help defeat ISIS?'” Turnbull recalled. “I didn’t hesitate. ‘Yes, absolutely. Let’s go for freedom and justice for America.’

This was just hours before a deadly attack. “It started with suicide vests, and it escalated from there,” he explained. “I could’ve left… but I would’ve never forgiven myself for not staying to protect our freedoms, especially our Constitution.”

His wife, Samantha, was understandably shaken when she saw CCTV footage of the incident, leading her to think, “Okay, John’s not here anymore.” Sadly, the explosion claimed four American lives and injured two, including Turnbull, who lost his right eye and suffered significant injuries to his left eye.

Doctors initially told him he had little chance of survival and that even if he did pull through, he would likely face debilitating limitations. Yet, nine months post-explosion, he astounded everyone by leading his unit on a 16-mile run. “I remember the doctors saying it was impossible,” he added. “They moved muscles around my eye socket. I just told them, ‘Don’t tell me what I can’t do. Show me what I can do.’”

“That moment really marked a significant part of his recovery,” Samantha noted. “Seeing him cross that finish line was incredibly emotional.” As she looked on, it settled in that things were going to be alright.

Now, as Major Turnbull approaches the 2026 Warrior Games, he will compete completely blind. Previously, he was recognized as Team SOCOM’s “Ultimate Champion,” participating in various events like archery, cycling, and swimming. “It’s inspiring to see him engage in activities he’s never tried before,” Samantha said, sharing her anticipation. “It’s like a comforting hug at the end of the finish line.”

Before the games, he collaborated with coaches to adapt his techniques for his visual impairment. “We joked about turning a 25-meter pool into a 100-meter one with some zigzags,” he said. “But we seriously discussed how to swim efficiently as a blind athlete—and we figured it out.”

The Warrior Games serve as an eight-day event for military members from various branches, celebrating their resilience. David Pascal, the Warrior Games director, emphasized their importance, stating, “I see them as a stepping stone towards returning to active duty.”

In a notable moment, Prince Harry visited the athletes, recalling his own experience in the games as a British Army pilot. His involvement inspired the creation of the Invictus Games, which includes competitors from 25 countries.

Pascal also mentioned that they plan to bring a strong team to the Invictus Games in Birmingham next year. He pointed towards a significant issue, sharing that about 17 veterans take their own lives daily, according to the VA. The Warrior Games highlight the capabilities and spirit of service members despite their injuries, often saving lives in the process.