Anti-war activist among host of aftermath heroes

A cowboy-hat wearing anti-war activist who once tried to take his own life has emerged as the face of hope to Americans in the aftermath of the Boston blasts

Carlos Arredondo made headlines in 2004 when — upon hearing of his son’s death while serving in Iraq — he locked himself in a van with five gallons of gasoline and a propane torch, and set the van on fire.

The Costa Rican immigrant survived and on Monday was at the marathon supporting runners who had dedicated their race to fallen soldiers.