Peter Vodenka

The author, Peter Vodenka, was born in 1955 during the cold war, living his life behind the Iron Curtain under the grip of the oppressive communist government of Czechoslovakia. In 1983, after 10 critical years of secretively gathering information and ideas, he believed he now knew how to escape from his country and fulfill his dream of a life of freedom in America. His journey faced many dangerous and dramatic events. The most critical and life-threatening one happened on the dark rainy night of June 21st, 1983 as he was crossing the boarder between Communist Yugoslavia to Western Austria. He was spotted and was immediately pursued by soldiers with AK-47's, dogs, and spot lights. With his two-year-old son clinging desperately to his chest, and his wife and four-year old daughter racing behind him, they ran with all their strength, hoping to stay ahead of the approaching danger, while praying to cross the invisible border in the unknown distance ahead of them. They succeeded and crossed the border with only seconds to spare.

Peter and his family are proud to now call America home. He currently owns a successful construction company. His true passion is sharing his life story and love for America as a Professional Public Speaker. He is helping Americans understand what a magnificent country we live in and how fortunate we are to live in the land of the free and unlimited opportunities.