Was Rocky Bleier in the military?
After his rookie season with the Steelers, Bleier was drafted into the U.S. Army on December 4, 1968, during the Vietnam War.
What happened Rocky Bleier?
On August 20, 1969, Bleier was on a routine patrol in Heip Duic when his platoon was ambushed in a rice paddy, wounding his left thigh. He was also seriously injured when an enemy grenade sent shrapnel into his right leg.
What rank was Rocky Bleier in the army?
Specialist 4
While down, an enemy grenade landed nearby after bouncing off a fellow soldier, sending shrapnel into his lower right leg. He was later awarded the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star. His rank was Specialist 4.
Is Rocky Bleier in the HOF?
Bleier is already a part of the Hall, not just with his player record, but with as part of the Hall’s “American Spirit” exhibit with his football gear and artifacts from his service in Vietnam.
What injuries did Rocky Bleier have in Vietnam?
While on patrol in Hiep Duc in August 1968, Bleier was shot in the left thigh by an enemy bullet. A nearby grenade sent shrapnel into his lower right leg. Bleier, who served as a squad grenadier, also lost part of his right foot.
When did Rocky Bleier serve in Vietnam?
Service in Vietnam After his 1968 rookie season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Bleier was drafted into the U.S. Army in December 1968. He volunteered for duty in the Vietnam War and shipped out in May 1969, serving with the 196th Light Infantry Brigade.
What does Rocky Bleier stand for?
Robert Patrick “Rocky” Bleier ( ˈblaɪər, BLAI-yer, born March 5, 1946) is an American former professional American football player. He was a National Football League (NFL) halfback for the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1968 and from 1970 to 1980.
What lessons did Rocky Bleier learn from fighting back?
The hard lessons Rocky Bleier learned early in his life that helped him overcome adversity and reach his goals, have paid off after football. These lessons are seen between the lines in the popular book on his life, “Fighting Back” and on stages of speaking appearances around the country.
What is Rocky Bleier Field?
The football stadium at Xavier High School was renamed Rocky Bleier Field on the Knights of Columbus Sports Complex on October 12, 2007. Bleier tossed the coin to start the high school football game that day. He had spoken earlier in the day to students at an assembly.
What does Rocky Bleier do for a living?
He runs Bleier Zagula Financial with his business partner Matt Zagula. The football stadium at Xavier High School was renamed Rocky Bleier Field on the Knights of Columbus Sports Complex on October 12, 2007. Bleier tossed the coin to start the high school football game that day.