John Register excelled in track and field and football at Oak Park River Forest High School, setting records in hurdles and contributing to his football team’s state success. At the University of Arkansas, he became a three-time All-American, six-time National Championship team member, and earned a degree in communications. In 1988, he competed in the Olympic Trials, showcasing his talent in the 110- and 400-meter hurdles.

After serving as a U.S. Army single-channel radio operator in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, a hurdle injury led to the amputation of his leg. John transitioned to the Paralympic Swim Team in 1996 and later resumed track and field, setting an American long jump record and earning a silver medal at the 2000 Paralympic Games. His groundbreaking achievements include becoming the first American Paralympian to jump over five meters on an artificial limb.

John’s contributions extend to leadership, earning the Paul G. Hearne Leadership Award for distinguished achievement by a person with a disability. He founded the U.S. Olympic Committee Paralympic Military Program, inspiring injured service members through sports and rehabilitation.