Rocky Bleier: Fighting Back

There is perhaps no better known Vietnam War combat veteran in Pittsburgh than Rocky Bleier. The Pittsburgh Steelers running back was drafted twice in 1968 – first by the Steelers and then by the U.S. Army. Seriously wounded by rifle and grenade fire while serving in Vietnam, Bleier returned to the Steelers. After two years of rehabilitation, Bleier worked himself from injured reserve, to the taxi squad, to the active roster and then, in 1974, to a starting position in the Steelers backfield. He helped the franchise win four Super Bowl championships.

Join Rocky Bleier and friends and associates from throughout Bleier’s career for an evening program focused on his story of service and celebration of the new edition of his well-known book, “Fighting Back.”

Special guests will include:

·         Larry Richert, host of KDKD Radio Morning News

·         John Banaszak, three-time Super Bowl champion defensive end for the Pittsburgh Steelers and former head coach at Robert Morris University.

·         Jon Kolb, four-time Super Bowl champion and former Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman (1969-1981).

·         Dr. Ben Stahl, President and CEO of the Veterans Leadership Program of Western Pennsylvania.

Doors for the program will open at 6 p.m., and admission includes access to the History Center’s The Vietnam War: 1945-1975 exhibition ahead of the program. Following the program, Bleier will sign copies of his book, “Fighting Back,” which will be available for purchase.

Admission to this program is $15 for general admission and free for veterans, active-duty service members, and History Center members.