Wieland to share motivational message at NIC

COEUR d'ALENE - More than 20 years ago, Dan Pinkerton invited Bob Wieland to speak at a client appreciation event.

"He was a huge inspiration," said Pinkerton, founder of Pinkerton Retirement Specialists. "If someone with the tragedy that's happened in his life can do so much good for others, it encourages us all to do the same."

This month, Pinkerton will once again bring Wieland back to the Lake City to share his motivational message during a free event at the Schuler Performing Arts Center at North Idaho College. The event begins at 6:30 p.m. on July 25, and is scheduled to last until 8 p.m.

Pinkerton told The Press that Wieland will speak to his company's clients on July 24 at The Coeur d'Alene Resort.

"We figured since he's here, we should allow the whole community to enjoy an amazing legend while he's still with us," he added.

Wieland turned down a professional baseball contract with the Philadelphia Phillies, and instead joined the Army as a combat medic. In 1969, he and his squad walked into a minefield in Vietnam.

When a member of Wieland's unit stepped on a mortar, he rushed to give first aid to the wounded soldier. However, Wieland stepped on a mortar round designed to destroy tanks, which severely damaged his legs and required them to be amputated above his knees.

Wieland returned home and worked as the physical trainer for the Green Bay Packers. In 1986, Wieland began a three-year journey, "running" on his hands from coast to coast to raise money for Vietnam War veterans.

The event is hosted by the Idaho Character Foundation, a nonprofit organization that describes its mission as: "To work together as citizens to encourage good character in ourselves, each other, our families and our communities."