
United States Army E-5 Sergeant Willard Hoyum was born in Bedford, Texas and grew up in the countryside of northern Illinois. Hoyum was the youngest of four children and as a child he enjoyed creek walking, swimming, hiking, boxing, kickboxing, and trail riding with his siblings.
Hoyum joined the Army in January of 2009 because he wanted to be challenged by the physical obstacles that military training would offer him. Hoyum served with A Co 307th BSB 1st BCT 82nd where he fostered a unique bond with his fellow soldiers. Hoyum was paralyzed from the waist down and recovery was a long and difficult journey for himself and everyone around him.
Currently, Hoyum lives in Coleman, Texas and passes the time by going on road trips, playing the ukulele, and shooting. He has also remained active with his friends from the Army unit he served in. Hoyum would like to extend his gratitude to his two older sisters who he says, “are amazing and I wouldn’t be here without their help.”