Although war took a toll, he gives back

Although war took a toll, he gives back
CharlotteObserver.com


By Joe Marusak
jmarusak@charlotteobserver.com
Posted: Friday, Aug. 21, 2009

Dale Wilson refused to feel sorry for himself when he returned from the Vietnam War with no right arm and no legs.

He lost them when a booby trap detonated as he led a squadron through a rice paddy.

He married, raised a family and held several jobs over the years.

Wilson, now 60, drives fellow veterans to medical appointments and talks with young soldiers and community groups about the importance of God and country.

“I don't look back at bad things, because I might stumble over and miss something good in the future,” he said.

That can-do spirit is why Wilson will be in Denver on Saturday to receive the outstanding disabled veteran of the year award at the Disabled American Veterans convention.

Wilson bested nominees from nearly every other state, not that he ever tried. So many others are far more deserving, he said.
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