Joe Woodard : “Skydiving Reunited Us: A Family’s Journey”

BILLINGS — At the age of six, Joe Woodard showed early signs of exceptional talent, catching the eye of a diving coach who predicted a bright future for him as an athlete, possibly even an Olympian. By the time he was 13, Woodard found himself at the Olympic trials, standing alongside renowned athletes like Amy Grant and Greg Louganis. However, his diving career was cut short when he suffered a head injury during a practice session, requiring seven stitches and preventing him from competing further.

Undeterred by this setback, Woodard’s life took many unexpected turns, as he transitioned from a potential Olympic diver to a decorated military veteran. Following his high school graduation, Woodard faced a pivotal decision presented by his father: work in a local restaurant, attend college, or join the military. Opting for the latter, Woodard embarked on a 22-year service in the Marines and later the Army, where he experienced the harsh realities of war and its lasting impact on his mental health.

In 2016, Woodard reached a breaking point, like many of his veteran peers, and attempted to take his own life. Saved by a friend named Phil, Woodard was given a new lease on life through an unexpected outlet: skydiving. The thrill and freedom he experienced while skydiving provided him with a sense of peace and purpose that he had been missing.

Woodard’s newfound passion for skydiving led him to join the U.S. Parachute Team, where he excelled in national competitions and found a supportive community that helped him heal from his past traumas. However, a parachute failure in 2022 left Woodard with a serious spinal injury, forcing him to give up competitive skydiving for the sake of his health.

Despite the challenges he has faced, Woodard remains grateful for the positive impact that skydiving has had on his life, bringing him closer to his family and providing him with a sense of purpose. Today, he enjoys a quieter life in Montana, working on transmissions and ranching on the weekends.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues or suicidal thoughts, help is available. Contact the National Suicide and Crisis Hotline at 988 or reach out to organizations like the Montana Veteran Alliance and Warrior Wishes, Montana for support. For veterans seeking assistance, the VA is also available to provide resources and guidance.

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