Former Pittsburgh Steelers running back Rocky Bleier will give a motivational talk in Lebanon on Thursday, May 23, as part of the 75th anniversary celebration at Cornwall Manor.
Bleier, a running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers, was finishing his rookie season in 1968 when the former Notre Dame standout was drafted by the U.S. Army for service in the Vietnam War. In combat the next year, he suffered injuries that reshaped his life.
Despite his injuries, Bleier fought his way back to a professional football career that spanned more than a decade and included multiple Super Bowl victories. He now uses his story to inspire others not to yield in the face of difficult circumstances.
He will be available for two events on May 23. The first is a meet-and-greet reception, where people can meet Bleier and enjoy light refreshments and a photo opportunity with the featured speaker. The event begins at 4 p.m. in Cornwall Manor’s Freeman Auditorium and is limited to 50 attendees. Cost is $100 and includes a ticket to his evening program at Good Shepherd United Methodist Church.
The evening event, which costs $30 per ticket, takes place at the church at 1500 Quentin Road. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the presentation titled “Be the Best You Can Be” begins at 7.
Proceeds for both events benefit technology and transportation enhancements for Cornwall Manor residents. Tickets are available online or by contacting Tracy in the Cornwall Manor Advancement Office at ttelesha@cornwallmanor.org or 717-675-1511.
Bleier is a member of the Congressional Committee for the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War and the Purple Heart Foundation. He is an active board member of the Warriors to Citizens Foundation, which is devoted to helping soldiers, police, firefighters, EMTs, and their families recover from the psychological harm caused by career-induced stress.
Cornwall Manor is home to nearly 600 people and is celebrating its 75th anniversary throughout 2024 with various events, including a fundraising concert at Fulton Theater by singer Jay Allen, a former contestant on “The Voice,” on Aug. 23, and a joint Founders Day and 75th birthday celebration for the facility on Oct. 15.
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