Douglas Lee Slotten
Emblazoned in the hearts and memories of AAVIA members, family, friends and coworkers alike, Douglas Lee Slotten shall live on with his Purple Heart modestly tucked close to his chest. He will be proudly remembered for his unselfish service to our country on the wall of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. As an accomplished blinded veteran, successful attorney, and loving and caring friend and family member Doug earned our deepest respect, admiration, and recognition, well deserving a place amongst our best on the American Council of the Blind's Wall of Angels.
Stoic and modestly proud, humbled by his agrarian Iowa roots, and exceedingly honest and kind, Doug was a dedicated and hard-working, respected, admired and devoted lawyer with a 47-year legal career at the Federal Communications Commission. This lengthy career was highlighted by Doug's scrupulous untouchable ethics, and he was regularly looked to for his uncanny recall of every detail in the Commission's history.
Known for his dry wit and a deliberate but positive and reaffirming attitude toward life, Doug's will, courage and fortitude carried him forward through thick and thin. His professional accomplishments; well-learned skills and adjustment to blindness and the loss of a leg while unselfishly serving our country; both his determination and unbreakable "I can do it" and "I will do it" spirit. Success exemplifies every aspect of his life.
Neither detoured nor defined by the landmine which took his sight and his leg, Doug motivated his exemplary life into a course that changed his career and defined his remaining years to successfully fulfilling his dreams. As a loving and caring husband, father, son and brother, as a collaborative and dedicated colleague, and as a generously giving and caring friend, there were none better, none stronger, none more courageous, and none more proud of those he loved and cherished.
He is deservingly honored, and he will be missed. He will never be forgotten. Best said in the Veterans Day tribute by Paul Stephens, "Doug was blessed to be a blessing. Rest in peace, my dear friend. Your work is done."
Watch Douglas Slotten's Angels' Tribute video on YouTube here