Steelers Now
On Memorial Day weekend, former Pittsburgh Steelers running back and Vietnam veteran Rocky Bleier delivered the keynote address at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
“This day was meant to be a time for reflection and contemplation rather than for celebration. It’s an opportunity to honor the memory of those who gave their lives for their country, but also serves as a reminder of the cost of freedom and the dedication of those who have served,” Bleier said on Sunday, via WTAE.
The 2025 ceremony carried additional significance, marking 250 years since the American Revolution, 80 years since the end of World War II, and 50 years since the end of the Vietnam War.
“I’m always amazed at the number of people who show up and the support that they have shown, because each and every one of them — somebody has passed, somebody served our country, and died in combat. And to have them here to show up, that’s what this is all about—creating their memory,” Bleier said.
The four-time Super Bowl champion was the Steelers nominee for the NFL’s Salute to Service Award in 2024 presented by USAA. The award recognizes NFL players, coaches, personnel and legends who make a commitment to supporting the military community.
Bleier, who was awarded a Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart and Combat Infantryman Badge for his service in the Vietnam War, supports numerous veteran causes — including Operation Strong Vet, Victory Media, and Nationally Owned Veterans Business Association (NaVOBA). He has been involved with the Wounded Warriors Project, Warriors2Citizens, Veterans Job Fair, Operation Check Point, Homeless Vet Run, Vietnam Veterans of America, The Crucible, National Veterans Wheelchair Games, SW Veterans Center, and Veterans Leadership Program.
Bleier, 78, first joined the Steelers in 1968, but his time with the team was interrupted by his military service. Bleier was drafted into the Army on Dec. 4, 1968 and volunteered for infantry duty in South Vietnam.
Bleier was wounded twice in the Vietnam War, taking a bullet in the thigh and then a grenade blast damaged his lower right leg and foot. Despite being told he would not be able to play football again, Bleier rejoined the Steelers in 1970 and resumed playing in the 1971 season.
Bleier played 10 more seasons after his wounds, rushing for 1,036 yards in 1976 to join backfield-mate Franco Harris in the 1,000-yard club, the second time in league history two teammates rushed for 1,000 yards in the same season. Bleier was part of four Steelers Super Bowl wins and is a member of the team’s Hall of Honor.
“When I came here, especially trying to make a professional football team, I didn’t know what the future would hold,” Bleier said, via Steelers.com. “I know the biggest part of my life has been in Pittsburgh, with an organization and a family like the Rooney family and how they ran the organization. Whatever success I have is tied directly to...
