Religion

Decorated Vietnam veteran Patrick Cleburne “Clebe” McClary will be sharing his inspirational story of faith and courage under fire next Thursday, May 18, at 6:30 p.m., at Buena Vista Baptist Church. He is a recipient of the Silver Star, Bronze Star and two Purple Hearts.

A first lieutenant in the Marine Corps, McClary was a platoon leader of the 1st Reconnaissance Battalion in Vietnam in 1968. On his 19th reconnaissance mission, deep in hostile territory, McClary and his unit were engaged in hand-to-hand combat with the enemy when he was seriously injured. He lost his left arm and left eye but continued to lead his men.

He subsequently engaged in a valiant battle with his injuries, spending more than two years in hospitals and undergoing over 30 major surgeries and countless hours of physical therapy. Since then, McClary has taken his story of courage, determination, strength and faith to numerous audiences all over the world.