Episode 8 - COL (Ret.) Rafael Paredes (C4)

Ralph recently retired in August of 2017, and did not waste a second getting back in service of our country. We talk about the Army, being a Tac at West Point, 9-11 stories, Korea and more.  Rafael A. Paredes was born in El Salvador. At the age of 11, his family fled from the civil war and immigrated to the United States. Looking for opportunities to repay the country that provided his family safety, Rafael became a naturalized U.S. citizen when he turned 18 and attended the United States Military Academy at West Point. He graduated in 1991 (C4) and was commissioned as an Infantry second lieutenant in the U.S. Army. He retired as a colonel after 26 years of service, leading people and organizations at various levels. He served as a company commander in the 82d Airborne Division and battalion commander (OPFOR CDR) in Germany. His last leadership position in the Army was the Deputy Commander for Operations at US Army South in San Antonio, TX. Throughout his career, he led by example, building teams and partnerships, developing processes and systems that improved organizational effectiveness, and developing the next generation of leaders within the organizations he served. Rafael served overseas in Korea, Egypt, Somalia, England, Germany, and Afghanistan. His experience overseas and working with a variety of groups and organizations helped him gain an appreciation others’ cultures and diverse points of views. Rafael earned a master of science degree in counseling and leadership development from Long Island University, C.W. Post, as part of the Tactical Officer Education Program (TOEP). He then served as a TAC for Company G4. As he changes careers, Rafael is working to promote national service, getting Americans to serve our country and make positive contributions to their communities. His passion for service that stems from a sense of gratitude and responsibility. To this end, he has been volunteering for organizations like Service Year Alliance, The Mission Continues, Team Rubicon, New Politics Leadership Academy, Military Officers Association of America, community organizer at COPS/METRO, the Parent Teacher Association, and San Antonio Food Bank. He currently lives in San Antonio, but eventually plans to move to the Northeast with his sons, Zachary (9) and Alexander (7), and his wife Kathy.