Campus Connection

Vietnam Vet to share story on campus

A Vietnam veteran who returned to the Asian country to help his healing process will share his experience at UW-La Crosse. Bob Steenlage will speak on “Fighting Back: Bob Steenlage’s Story of Inspiration and Healing” at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 10, in the Cleary Alumni & Friends Center. Doors open at 9:30, the presentation is free and open to all. Parking with pay stations is nearby. Steenlage returned to Vietnam with four of his sons as a healing experience to help the family understand PTSD, which Steenlage has experienced. Steenlage has been a motivational speaker for many years, took a break, and now wishes to talk about his healing trip to Vietnam. Author Mike Chapman has written a book written about his life titled, “Fighting Back.” Four of his children are UWL alumni. The Bob Steenlage Iowa High School Wrestler of the Year Award is given annually to the top high school wrestler in the state. The award is named after Steenlage, Iowa’s first four-time state wrestling champion who competed for Britt High School, winning state titles in 1959 (95 pounds), 1960 (103 pounds), 1961 (112 pounds), and 1962 (120 pounds). Steenlage went on to wrestle at West Point Military Academy where he went four years without losing a dual meet. He was also a third-place finisher at the 1966 NCAA tournament at 123 pounds, and a Division I NCAA All-American. Steenlage is a graduate of West Point, Airborne & Ranger Schools. He was awarded the Bronze Star medal for his service in the Vietnam War. Get more information about Steenlage If you go— What: “Fighting Back: Bob Steenlage’s Story of Inspiration and Healing” When: 10 a.m. Thursday, May 10 Where: UW-La Crosse Cleary Alumni & Friends Center, 615 East Ave. N. Admission: Free