On eve of deployment, a Y member looks ahead … to giving back
Gabriel McMahon is a bundle of contained energy as he stands at the front desk of the Rye YMCA. Having just finished a work out in the Fitness Center, he can be overheard asking for a temporary freeze to his Y membership. Uh oh… a victim of the economy looking for ways to save? A dissatisfied member?
Not quite. With flashing blue eyes, beads of sweat forming across his forehead, Gabe is a military officer in the making. An impressive 25 year old, Gabe proudly tells the Y that he is leaving within 72 hours for Texas, the first of many stops that will eventually lead to deployment in Afghanistan. For the past 5 months, Gabe has trained rigorously at the Rye Y in preparation for an elite fitness exam administered by the Special Operations division of the Air Force. Known as the Physical Ability and Stamina (PAS) test, Gabe required twice daily training in swimming, running, and calisthenics in order to meet the stringent requirements of this elite squad.
Aware that he could be deployed at any time under the military’s “Quick Ship” program, Gabe had to find a place to train that was close to home with flexible hours and membership rules. The youngest of 5 children, Gabe initially heard about the Y through his father, Thomas, already a member of the Y and a court officer with the Rye City Courthouse. Gabe says he found what he needed at the Y -- a pool, weight room and fitness center all under one roof -- plus the added bonus of a supportive environment where people are “laid back and well wishing, a place where people want to help.”
He further explains, “My military recruiter told me that the YMCA has a special program for military and their families – free or discounted use of the Y and its programs while in service. I felt appreciated here – and I appreciate that!”
When asked how he felt about leaving the community, McMahon explained, “I know that I’m ready to go, but I’ll be back. In the meanwhile, this is my way of giving back to the community. I feel honor in serving my country.”
Gabriel McMahon, it was our honor to have you here at the Rye YMCA.
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The YMCA and the Military One Source program offers free or discounted memberships to active members of the armed services and their families while deployed or away from home.
