Episode 15 - Michael Rodriguez: GWOT Memorial, Green Beret, and Veterans Advocate
Michael “Rod” Rodriguez: GWOT Memorial President/CEO, Green Beret, and Veterans Advocate
In this episode of Tipping Spears with Hannah Becker, we sit down with Michael “Rod” Rodriguez - retired Green Beret, nationally respected veterans’ advocate, and President & CEO of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation. With a career spanning more than two decades and ten combat deployments, Rod’s leadership is grounded in lived experience, deep reflection, and an unwavering commitment to honoring those who served.
From sniper instructor at Fort Bragg to national policymaker and thought leader, Rod brings hard-won insight to one of America’s most complex chapters—our longest war. Through his work on the Global War on Terrorism Memorial, he’s spearheading a mission to build a place of remembrance and healing in the heart of our nation’s capital.
In this episode, Rod shares:
His journey from Special Forces selection to ten combat deployments
Impacts of the longest war in American history on our military community
Overcoming multiple barriers to make the GWOT Memorial possible
Why the GWOT Memorial matters for veterans, military families, and our nation
Actionable advice for veterans struggling with post-war life and finding purpose
How Rod’s experiences in the SF shaped his approach to leadership
Inspiring words of wisdom from his veteran father to just “do more”
Reflections on the multi-generations of sacrifice required of post-9/11 veterans…plus so much more!
With honor, authenticity, and visionary purpose, Rod brings a powerful voice to the conversation around remembrance, resilience, and responsibility. Whether you’ve worn the uniform, loved someone who did, or care about our nation and its future, this episode will challenge and inspire you. Don’t miss this unforgettable conversation.
Catch the podcast episode on the following streaming channels:
YouTube - click here to listen
Spotify - click here to listen
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About the Guest:
Michael “Rod” Rodriguez is the President and CEO of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation. Rod joined the U.S. Army in 1992 and attended the Special Forces Assessment and Selection course to become a Green Beret in 1997. In 2013, he was medically retired due to numerous combat injuries. His last assignment as a Green Beret came as a Sniper Instructor assigned to the JFK Special Warfare Center (Range 37) at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. He has deployed ten times in service to our nation.
Rod’s involvement with the GWOT Memorial Foundation began in 2016, when he joined the organization as a board member in support of the Foundation’s sole mission to construct a Memorial on the National Mall that appropriately honors the profound service and sacrifices of all who served in America’s longest war. Rod later led the organization as President and CEO.
Rod served as a member of President George W. Bush’s Military Service Initiative Advisory Council, advising and supporting the President and leadership of the Bush Institute on strategies and programs to support veterans and their families. He was appointed as a Fellow of the Manhattan-based Explorers Club, an international organization dedicated to the advancement of scientific exploration and inquiry, for his research on traumatic brain injuries and post-traumatic stress.
Rod holds a B.S. in Strategic Studies and Defense Analysis and an M.A. in Diplomacy with a concentration in International Conflict Management, both from Norwich University.