[August 1, 2015] The message of optimism and perseverance is what Scotty Smiley shares with us in his personal journey from an explosion in Iraq that blinded him to Ironman competitor. Now a retired U.S. Army veteran, Scotty continues to give back to his country by encouraging us to overcome obstacles through grit and determination. These are just a few of the lessons of leadership he has gained from his quest as an Infantry officer and soldier who fought the enemies of freedom.
Occasionally I will highlight someone who inspires me personally and this young man certainly has done that. There are many young people today who would rather show an attitude, act privileged, or talk on their cellphones ignoring the many of us in their community. Scotty is the anti-thesis of them and is giving hope to a younger generation of men and women who are on a mission to do good things.
It is true that this is about leadership under difficult circumstances but more importantly Scotty’s story is about how one man can make a difference in the lives of others. He does this by being a speaker, adventurer, and writer. A family man and religious person, Scotty brings his message to anyone who will listen. Simply being in the same room with him is an inspiration to many of us; knowing what he has gone through.
I recommend watching the short video of him in his website at www.hopeunseen.com. As an active duty service member … and the nation’s first blind active duty officer1 … he continues to bring important lessons to those who aspire to be better than are today. He deserves our respect and appreciation for what he has done and what he will continue to do. Can we learn from a blind veteran? Yes!
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