Rocky Bleier

Can you imagine being shot in the Vietnam War and then doctors telling you that you will never walk again, but you prove them wrong and train until you play in a Superbowl? Rocky Bleier has. He was a Pittsburgh Steelers half back. He played in four Superbowls in the starting lineup. He began his NFL career in 1968, but was draft into U.S. Army in December of that year. In August 1969, his platoon was ambushed in a rice paddy and Rocky was shot and injured both legs. Only a year after his injury he returned to Steelers training camp even though he was still in pain. Yet, continued not only to play football, but running until he retired in 1980 after getting four Superbowl rings. Currently, he is sixty-six years old and continues to serve as a role model and public figure in the Pittsburgh area. Even though he was famous in mid-life, he was also an accomplished athlete and student in his early years.

Childhood: Rocky was born on March 5, 1946 in Appleton, Wisconsin. His dad's name is Bob Bleier and is mom's name is Ellen Bleier. His real name is Robert Patrick Bleier, but his dad had friends that called him "Little Rock" because he had lots of muscles as a baby. He has two sisters and one brother, Patty, Pam, and Dan. He went to Xavier High School, where he was a football and basketball start. He was a three-time All-State pick, and was chosen as an All-Conference linebacker and defensive back. He then played football at Notre Dame as running back, where he also got his degree Business Management. His early accomplishments were nothing compared to what he would later achieve.

Obstacles and accomplishments: Rocky was shot in the left leg in Vietnam War and had bomb fragments in his right leg. He won the Purple Heart and the Bronze Start for his bravery. Doctors in Tokyo said he might never walk again but he trained until he went to the Superbowl and ran with the champs.

Hero traits: Rocky is powerful because he can play football in pain, dedicated because he loved the sport and trained until he played, respectful because the coach said he has to stay out for a little bit. Even though we have not a lot in common we have some personal connections.

Personal connection: I chose Rocky because he accomplished a lot in his life and is not a "little rock", he is a boulder in my heart.