The Amazing Journey of American Hero and WSO Ambassador, Bob “Mr. Inspiration” Wieland
Mr. Inspiration: The Bob Wieland Story
An Unstoppable Spirit. A Hero for the Ages.
In 1968, Bob Wieland was a 21-year-old left-handed pitching phenom from Milwaukee, regularly striking out over 17 batters per game. Major League Baseball scouts from the Twins, Mets, and Phillies were knocking at his door. A promising career in the big leagues seemed all but certain.
But life had other plans…
A Dream Interrupted by Duty
In early 1969, Bob’s dream of playing professional baseball was put on hold when he was drafted into the United States Army. Soon, he found himself deep in the jungles of Vietnam—where his faith, courage, and character would face the ultimate test.
On June 14, 1969, during a mission meant to ambush enemy forces, Bob’s unit was caught in a deadly counterattack. As explosions rained down, the soldiers took cover and called for airstrikes. But when Bob saw a wounded comrade lying exposed in the field, he didn’t hesitate—he ran into the line of fire to save him. That selfless act would change his life forever.
Bob stepped on a pressure-triggered mortar. In an instant, his legs were gone. He was torn in half, declared dead on arrival, zipped in a body bag, and transported to the evacuation hospital. Two doctors pronounced him Death on Arrival.
But God wasn’t finished.
A Life Resurrected
Amidst a stack of fallen soldiers, someone noticed movement. Bob was clinging to life. Against all odds, he survived. Within six weeks, with no legs and a body broken by war, Bob began his comeback—armed not with limbs, but with unyielding faith, unrelenting spirit, and an unstoppable vision.
He would not only survive—he would soar.
Redefining Human Potential
In the years that followed, Bob Wieland rewrote the limits of what was possible:
Broke multiple world records in powerlifting
Became a national triathlete and marathoner
Cycled across America six times
Earned two degrees in Physical Education
Became one of the most sought-after motivational speakers in the nation
Made history as the only double amputee ever appointed to an NFL coaching staff (Green Bay Packers ’89–’90; Indianapolis Colts ’94)
Bob has inspired Olympians, world leaders, professional athletes, Fortune 500 executives, churches, veterans, and students across the globe. Yet his greatest and most iconic feat was still to come.
Walking Across America—On His Arms
In an act of staggering endurance, Bob embarked on a 2,784.1-mile journey from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C.—on his arms.
That’s right. No wheelchair. No legs. Just grit, faith, and relentless determination.
3 years, 8 months, and 6 days.
Over 4.9 million steps.
One man. One mission. One miracle.
When Bob reached the steps of the White House, he was greeted by President Ronald Reagan, who named him:
“Mr. Inspiration.”
This journey remains one of the most astonishing athletic and mental achievements in human history—a true testament to divine purpose and personal perseverance.
Not a Movie Character—A Living Legend
Bob Wieland is not a Hollywood creation. He’s not a fictional figure like Forrest Gump.
He is real.
He is alive.
He is still changing lives today.
Bob’s story is one of unshakable faith, unimaginable sacrifice, and unmatched resilience. From the ashes of tragedy, he has built a life of triumph—a life still bearing fruit in the lives of veterans, civilians, young people, and communities across America.
Be Part of the Movement
“Mr. Inspiration” is more than a documentary. It is a global call to courage, compassion, and Christlike character.
Let Bob’s life move you from passive admiration to purposeful action.
