As Memorial Day approaches, retired Navy SEAL and wounded warrior Jason Redman reflects on his military career — how a near-death experience impacted his view on faith and life — and the significance of observing Memorial Day. “Throughout our history, it has been our military members who are willing to fight and sacrifice to preserve that freedom,” Redman told the Washington Examiner. “So, as citizens, I think it’s important to recognize that, and to also honor that. Live a life worthy of the sacrifice of millions of Americans who literally laid down their lives. Memorial Day is that day to think about [it]. If you know anybody in your community who may have made that sacrifice, take the time to honor it.” Redman served 21 years in the Navy. He spent 11 years as a SEAL and 10 more years as an officer, where he led combat operations in the Middle East, particularly in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Military career
Redman comes from a military family and said that from a young age, he wanted to join the Navy SEALs.
“I grew up with stories of my grandfather – he was a decorated B-24 pilot in World War II, [he received a] distinguished flying cross, [and had] multiple air medals. My dad went on to serve in the army. My great uncle was shot down in the Pacific in WWII. So, I just had this love of service. My dad told me about the SEAL teams when I was young, and from a young age, about 15, I was like that’s what I want to do, and that’s what I went after.”
