johnnie yellock Archives -

As a college baseball player, Will was mentally tough and physically strong. After graduating college, he joined the Army and became a member of Special Forces (aka Green Beret). He shares the challenges of going through the pipeline and how the Army gave him much more than he ever gave it.

On his third deployment, he stepped on an IED and lost both legs above the knee. This IED also killed some teammates. He enlightens us with his road to recovery, mental toughness, and strain on his family. He now hunts, snowboards and serves as a motivator and inspiration to anyone dealing with adversity. He expresses how grateful he is to be alive and to live in this country.

Learn more about Will here:

http://poetsandquants.com/2015/10/19/meet-the-rice-jones-mba-class-of-2017/8/

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

In July 2011 Johnnie was 10 days into his second deployment to Afghanistan when his vehicle hit an IED. After applying two tourniquets to his legs and calling for air support and medical evacuation, he was eventually transferred to Brooks Army Medical Center for more surgeries, rehab and recovery.

He’s now had 30 limb-salvaging surgeries to his feet, he is 1-inch shorter in height, and his ankles are fused at a 90-degree angle, requiring him to wear braces on each leg.

He discusses the details of his injury and how he kept a positive attitude throughout his recovery and painful surgeries. He says there is nothing he can’t do.

Now medically retired from the Air Force, he speaks regularly to large groups and churches. He’s also been a two-time participant in Pres. George W. Bush’s Warrior Open Golf Tournament.

You’ll appreciate his advice and humor on overcoming adversity and always having something to look forward to.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Episode 006 – Maj Will Lyles, US Army (ret), Green Beret, bilateral amputee, OIF & OEF Veteran

Episode 001 – Johnnie Yellock II, Air Force Combat Controller (ret), Operation Enduring Freedom veteran, wounded warrior