"It was unreal for both of us to participate, standing there next to Vanna White and Pat Sajak knowing people are going to be watching," said the assistant operations officer in charge, 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team. "It was a lot of pressure but it was a fun experience being a part of their military themed show that will air on Veteran's Day."
A fan since a little boy, Dan felt proud to represent the Army and 3 IBCT during the course of the taping.
After Sept. 11, Dan said he joined the Army because he knew he wanted to pull his fair share of weight to his country through military service.
"I initially wanted to enlist because that was the quickest and most straightforward way of getting involved," said Dan. "But the unexpected opportunity that presented itself in going to West Point was something I couldn't resist."
After five years of service, Dan has had to work as part of a team of Soldiers. However, participating on Wheel of Fortune gave him the opportunity to work as a team with Catherine, who said it was definitely a learning experience.
"Teamwork, I didn't think we had it," said Catherine. "I knew we worked well together but we really had to work together under the pressure. We went with the attitude not to win money or anything like that, but that Dan's representing the Army, and we're here to have fun. I was proud to stand next to my husband and support him… and I was very proud represent our Army family."
Although Dan had a rough month prior to participating on the show because of a rotation at the National Training Center in Fort Irwin, Ca., he said he was fortunate his chain of command supported him and gave him the opportunity to attend.
"I competed against a lieutenant colonel in the Air Force and an E6 in the Marines, me and my wife versus them and their wives," said Dan. "And it was an honor to be wearing my uniform in front of program knowing million of people were going to be watching as I represent the Army."
Social Sharing