Retired Navy SEAL Jason Redman Discusses Service and Memorial Day

Retired Navy SEAL Jason Redman spoke with the Washington Examiner about his 21-year Navy career and the approach of Memorial Day. He described how a 2007 firefight near Fallujah, Iraq, in which he was shot eight times, changed his outlook on life and faith.

Redman grew up in a military family. His grandfather was a decorated B-24 pilot in World War II, his father served in the Army, and a great uncle was shot down in the Pacific during the same war. He said he decided at age 15 to pursue the Navy SEALs.

Redman spent 11 years as a SEAL and 10 years as an officer. He led combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. On Sept. 13, 2007, his assault team was attacked outside Fallujah. Redman was wounded eight times, including once in the face, during a 40-minute firefight.

He said the experience gave him greater appreciation for life and for those who did not return. Redman credited his survival to teammates, an Air Force AC-130 gunship, and his faith.

U.S. history. He encouraged people to study stories of fallen service members, including Medal of Honor recipients Lt. Michael Murphy and Petty Officer Mike Monsoor. He plans to attend a candlelight tribute organized by Freedom 250 on Memorial Day. The event will highlight stories such as that of Vietnam Medal of Honor recipient Rocky Versace.

Redman said his faith strengthened after the 2007 incident. He noted that faith can include doubt and pointed to biblical accounts of the disciples. He retired from the Navy in 2013 and has written four books, delivered more than 700 speeches, and teaches a leadership course called Overcome Mindset.