Richard Rodriguez is currently serving as the Veterans Services Coordinator at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He was also the Ballistics Expert for the School Security Grant sponsored by the National Institute of Justice which was overseen by Professor Tom Foley. In May of 2018, he began his employment at ERAU directly after graduating with Honors from the University’s College of Aviation with a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics and his commercial helicopter license at the age of 55.

Rodriguez is a retired U. S. Navy SEAL Platoon Chief from SEAL Team Three, serving 20 years in Special Operations. He led Foxtrot Platoon in the initial invasion of Iraq in 2003, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. His actions as Assault Team Leader won him the Bronze Star with Combat “V” for valor
during the assault. Immediately following during the March to Baghdad, Foxtrot Platoon conducted numerous covert operations and multiple counter-insurgent engagements. While securing Baghdad, Richard was called on to give support to the U. S. Marine Corps as a Counter Sniper. He provided overwatch and cover during unit movement through the city along with hunting enemy snipers.
Throughout his Naval career, Rodriguez has served extensively in leadership and instructor positions, including teaching Land Warfare, Demolitions, and Weapons at BUDS the Basic Underwater Demolition School for AEALs, and developing a Tactical Ground Mobility Department in the Advanced Training
Detachment.

Upon retiring from the SEAL Teams, Rodriguez moved to Arizona and joined the Surprise Police Department, becoming a Traffic Motorcycle Officer. He immediately joined SWAT and his military experience quickly elevated him to the position of SWAT Team Leader. There he implemented new standards raising the efficiency and effectiveness of the SWAT Team. As Entry Team Leader, he led
numerous high-risk search warrants, successfully apprehending escaped fugitives, drug cartel associates, and violent gang members. Rodriguez’s tactical and leadership experience combined with his degree from ERAU provides unique
qualifications for the work he performs as the Veteran’s Services Coordinator. There he mentors the Student Veterans and oversees the Student Veterans Organization (SVO). Together they are the leading club on campus for community involvement and we are recognized as the “Outstanding Organization for Fall of 2022”. The SVO has volunteered in town for “Hope Fest 2022” in support of Veteran Suicide Prevention. They have raised and donated $400.00 in support of Breast Cancer Awareness during their Pink Friday BBQs in October, and have just raised another $600.00 during their POW/MIA 5K Run and
donated $400.00 from their own earnings to make a final donation of $1000.00 towards POW/MIA Society for the return of lost and missing servicemen.