Wilmer Valderrama reflects on a 'striking' encounter with an injured soldier: 'What can I do to help my nation?'

During his travels as a USO Global Ambassador, Wilmer Valderrama has encountered numerous service members. However, a particular meeting with a wounded soldier has left a lasting impression on him.

Fez, the actor known for his role as Fez from "That ‘70s Show," has released a new memoir titled "An American Story: Everyone’s Invited." The book recounts his childhood in Venezuela and his subsequent journey to Los Angeles and Hollywood stardom.

In 2007, the 44-year-old author visited Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany with Gen. James Cartwright to meet injured patients. Upon arrival, he encountered a soldier who was recovering from his wounds. Despite being awake, the soldier had not yet opened his eyes.

"Valderrama told Planet Chronicle Digital that it was a sobering experience to be in the room, feeling like standing on sacred ground."

"He explained that this is a trauma hospital where their service brothers and sisters have experienced combat. As he walked through the rooms and talked to them, he realized how incredibly brave and unbelievable our men and women are. Despite being wounded, they are so proud to have been serving."

The soldier tried to salute the four-star general when he realized he was in their presence.

"You've made our country very proud, son," the general said quickly, as quoted in Valderrama’s book. "Your new mission is to go home and get better."

Then the soldier turned his head and saw Valderrama. He was stunned.

"Fez?" he croaked.

Despite the moment being humorous, Valderrama also found it humbling. Even while in pain, the soldier told the general, "I just want to get back to my guys."

"As an entertainer, your purpose is to create a sense of calm that enables healing to occur and to provide a sense of belonging to your audience. As an ambassador, your role is to remind your audience that they are thought of, missed, and are incredibly proud of them, and to eagerly anticipate their return home."

The soldier, unaware that he was the sole survivor of his unit, learned from a book that his unit had been heavily attacked.

"Valderrama was moved by the pride of the soldiers who put on their uniforms again. He was not surprised by their patriotism, but their oath to the country touched his heart. The soldiers were willing to make the ultimate sacrifice to keep the flag flying, and this humbled Valderrama deeply."

""Those moments made me realize how I can serve my country and help those who ensure our freedom." He shared this passionately."

The "NCIS" actor has completed nearly 60 USO tours and engagements worldwide, including Afghanistan, Iraq, Greenland, and Bahrain, as well as a ship at sea. He actively participates in events for service members while raising awareness of the military's requirements. Additionally, his advocacy has helped educate Americans on how they can support veterans in their communities.

"It’s those moments that made me realize, ‘How can I serve my country?’ ‘How can I help those who reassure the freedom for us out here?’"  — Wilmer Valderrama

Valderrama received the calling on 9/11 while in his early 20s. He contemplated how he could use his entertainment skills to give back, and the answer eventually became clear to him.

"While strolling through an airport, Valderrama remembered seeing two young men in uniform. One of them approached him and asked for permission to speak. Valderrama granted permission, jokingly. However, the soldier explained that after a long day of their duties, watching Valderrama's show and movies provided a moment of levity. Valderrama was surprised to learn that the soldiers watched his content, and the soldier explained that there was a network at all the bases that showed entertainment to keep them updated."

Valderrama immediately called his agents.

"Valderrama said, "I wondered if it would be amusing to travel to different countries and say, 'What's up? I'm in Iraq,' while watching American movies and shows. My agents informed me about the USO, an organization that provides entertainment to military personnel worldwide. They arranged for me to visit Germany within a week and a half.""

During my USO tour, I decided that I didn't want it to be just a handshake tour. Instead, I wanted to bring something that would make them laugh. I wanted to bring a lightness to them. So, I came in and brought a comedy show. We also did karaoke. Seeing their faces, hearing their stories, and seeing them laugh so hard or just hearing them sing was such a moment that it touched me. It's simple, but it means a lot to me.

"I was thanked for coming, but I was the one who was grateful. It was a humorous interaction, but it sparked my interest. I thought to myself, "I must return." Although I never got to wear the uniform, this is the closest I can get to serving my country at the moment."

Valderrama has been moved by many experiences, including a memorable encounter with an 11-year-old in Miami. He inspired the child to chase his dreams as long as he worked hard. Years later, he was reunited with the fan, now a young man, serving in Bahrain.

"Those moments make you reflect on what you're leaving behind," said Valderrama, father of a 3-year-old girl. "People often only have two to three minutes of your time for the rest of their lives. What do you want them to remember?"

For Valderrama, "paying it forward" is his interpretation of the "American dream."

"He stated that the American dream is to give back to the country that has given him so much in various forms. He believes that the American dream is an idea and an opportunity, but it is a journey that only individuals can embark on. To achieve the American dream, one must put in the effort and time. What makes this country special is its willingness to dance with its citizens if they desire to do so."

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If you commit to giving back to your country and working hard, anything is possible," he said. "The key is to understand what we're all striving for and fight for. This unites us.

"What can we do to keep walking together? This is a time when we should be inspired by the thought that we can wave the same flag together."