Wounded Afghan soldiers take part in Invictus Games in Britain

LONDON, Sept. 10 (UPI) -- The Invictus Games began Wednesday in the United Kingdom, bringing together 400 armed service members and veterans from 13 nations, including six from Afghanistan.

Prince Harry, inspired by his visit to the Warrior Games in Colorado in 2013, was the catalyst for bringing the Invictus Games to the U.K. this year.

According to the organization's website, the objective of the Games is to "spotlight the sacrifices these men and women made serving their country, and their indefatigable drive to overcome."

"We have fought alongside nearly all of the nations that are taking part in the Invictus Games," observed Afghan delegation head Col. Mohammad Ashraf.

Afghanistan's six-member team is comprised of four officers and two non-commissioned officers. They will participate in a variety of competitions, including running, javelin, power lifting and cycling.

Lt. Col. Nasrullah Safi, who was injured 10 years ago and will participate in the Javelin event, said, "I am very happy to participate in the games and to meet other injured soldiers, and compare experiences and see if there is anything that can help us in Afghanistan."

Team interpreter and facilitator Lt. Col. Surosh Aslamudin echoed Safi's hope to "meet and exchange experiences with other nations and those involved with helping wounded warriors," noting that "in Afghanistan we may not enjoy the support, facilities and resources that other nations do."