Bob Wieland

Bob Wieland is a Vietnam War veteran who lost his legs to a mortar mine in 1969. After recovering from his injuries, he was inspired to become a motivational speaker, focusing on overcoming adversity and achievement despite significant challenges. Known as "Mr. Inspiration," Wieland has been a motivational speaker for over 35 years, addressing diverse audiences including businesses, organizations, and churches.

Over his lifetime, he has finished many marathons, often taking multiple days to finish. He is the only double amputee to finish the difficult Kona, Hawaii Ironman race without a wheelchair. He "ran" across America on his hands, taking three years, eight months, and six days to travel from coast to coast. Wieland's journey across America was propelled by his resilience and determination as he moved on padded knuckles.

Growing up in Wisconsin, Wieland attended the University of Wisconsin. A talented baseball player, he was negotiating a deal with the Philadelphia Phillies when he decided to join the Army as a combat medic. In Vietnam in June 1969, his squad walked into a mine field. When a member of his unit stepped on a booby-trapped mortar, Wieland rushed to give first aid but he, too, stepped on an 82mm buried mortar, a round designed to destroy tanks. It severely damaged his legs; they had to be amputated above the knee. After recovering from his injuries, he enrolled at California State University, Los Angeles majoring in education. After college, he joined the Green Bay Packers as a strength coach.

Wieland has authored the book "One Step at a Time," which shares his personal story of overcoming incredible odds. His speaking topics cover a wide range of subjects including motivation, overcoming adversity, success, and patriotism. He has received several honors including being named one of People Magazine's "One of the Six Most Amazing Americans of the Past 20 Years" in 1994 and receiving the prestigious Victory Award. Notably, Wieland also held the world record in the bench press with a lift of 507 pounds.

Today, Wieland continues to speak at conventions, corporate meetings, military bases, universities, high schools, and churches. His life experiences, both triumphs and tragedies, serve as a powerful source of inspiration for his audience.