United States Army Sergeant Anne-Marie Robinson was born in California and raised in Texas, where she and her younger sister grew up in a home lovingly built by their parents, right next door to their grandmother. Her childhood was filled with bike rides, softball and soccer games, and cherished moments at church. She found joy in Girl Scouts, drawing, and painting. Her parents opened every possible door for her, and she remains deeply grateful for a childhood rich in opportunity—experiences that shaped how she would go on to raise her own children with her husband, Harry, whom she’s been with since 1986.
Robinson’s dad, a World War II paratrooper who jumped into Normandy, was one of the biggest influences on her decision to join the military. Prohibitive college costs and limited opportunities in her town also played a part. In 1988, Robinson joined the Army, hoping for the opportunity to attend college afterwards to study Art. During her eight years as a soldier, she served in several units, including the 307th and 102nd Military Intelligence Battalions, the 15th FSB, and the 21st Signal Company. A natural leader and mentor, she thrived in team environments and took pride in preparing her soldiers—equipping them with knowledge, confidence, and the skills they needed to succeed. Her dedication earned her multiple awards, both at the National Training Center in California and in her roles as Rations NCOIC at Fort Hood and Fort Richardson.
On October 14, 1999, Robinson’s life was changed forever while on a training exercise in Alaska with the 21st Signal Company. Driving a 2 ½ ton truck and pulling an empty 400 gallon mobile water tank called a water buffalo, Robinson hit a patch of solid black ice on the road. Despite the very slow speed at which she was traveling, the truck spun around, whipping the water buffalo with it, and both plunged over the edge of a 20 foot embankment. After rolling three times, the truck came to a standstill with the driver’s side flat down. Robinson’s seatbelt had torn away from the cab, and she was partially ejected, the cab laying across her chest. She was airlifted to Providence Hospital in Anchorage, having suffered a broken neck at C4, C5, and C6, as well as several deep cuts on her scalp where the Kevlar webbing cut into her on impact. Robinson received the devastating diagnosis of incomplete quadriplegia; she was paralyzed from the chest down. At the time, she was the mom of two young children, Becca and Justin, and twelve years into her marriage.
Robinson’s recovery stands as the most challenging—and courageous—achievement of her life. During her six and a half months in rehabilitation at the Audie L. Murphy VA Spinal Cord Injury Center in San Antonio, Texas, her husband remained by her side every step of the way. Their children, lovingly cared for by Robinson’s sister an hour away, made weekend visits that lifted her spirits. Bolstered by the unwavering support of peer mentors, family, and close friends, Robinson pushed through each day with determination. She relearned how to breathe on her own, strengthening her lungs by singing with her children, and slowly regained enough movement in her arms to embrace them once again.
Robinson’s life today overflows with interests—more than time often allows—with her most cherished role being “Gigi” to her grandchildren. She enjoys writing, researching World War II history, cooking, and immersing herself in music and audiobooks. A ramp bowler and bocce ball enthusiast, she finds true purpose in advocating for fellow veterans, ensuring they receive the same opportunities she was given. Her dedication takes shape through her work with the Texas state legislature and her deep involvement in the Paralyzed Veterans of America, where she has held numerous leadership roles. She also serves as a peer mentor for the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, continuing to uplift and inspire others on their own journeys.
Support from Tunnel to Towers has given Robinson and her husband the sense of security they had long been searching for. She feels profoundly grateful knowing their home is not only safe and accessible, but thoughtfully designed to meet her needs—now and for years to come. Guided by the belief that God opens doors in the moments we need them most, Robinson holds dear the verse, “In the hands of Jesus, endings become new beginnings” (John 11:43). She hopes others understand that it was her unwavering faith, the love and strength of her husband, and her love for life that empowered her to embrace a new beginning—and run with it. Along the way, she continues to honor those who have made sacrifices so she can be where she is today.
The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has provided United States Army Sergeant Anne-Marie Robinson with a mortgage-free smart home through the Smart Home Program.