Lee Delgaudio
Army Special Forces Veteran | Husband | Father
Lee Delgaudio spent 26 years serving his country through the United States Army and California National Guard, most of that time on Active Duty. A retired Special Forces Warrant Officer, Lee’s military career took him around the world and placed him alongside some of the nation’s most elite service members.
Like many young boys growing up in the 1980s, Lee was inspired by stories of service, sacrifice, and heroism.
“I always wanted a challenge, a purpose, brotherhood, and an opportunity to serve my country.”
That desire led him into a career that would span more than two decades and more than twenty countries.
Throughout his service, Lee served alongside extraordinary individuals. Some came from unexpected backgrounds. Others made the ultimate sacrifice.
“I will always remember those who I served with who are no longer with us, killed in combat or from their invisible wounds suffered in combat and service.”
When asked what military service taught him, Lee points to lessons that continue guiding his life today.
“Service taught me discipline, resilience, accountability, and the importance of leading by example.”
For Lee, leadership is not about rank or recognition.
“Real leadership is not about being the loudest person in the room; it is about taking responsibility, making hard decisions, and caring about the people entrusted to you.”
Like many veterans, the transition from military service brought its own challenges. After spending much of his adult life in Special Operations Forces, retirement required finding a new identity beyond the uniform.
“One of the hardest parts after service is learning how to carry your experiences forward without letting them define your entire identity.”
Through that transition, Lee found strength in his faith, his family, and especially his wife.
“My wife has been my rock through the difficult pivot from the military.”
He also credits his service dog Odin, whom he describes as a Godsend.
Having traveled extensively throughout the world, Lee has seen firsthand what life looks like without freedom.
The Special Forces motto, De Oppresso Liber—”To Free the Oppressed”—holds special meaning for him.
“Freedom means the ability to raise your family, worship, work, speak, and live your life according to your values.”
Yet he believes freedom comes with responsibility.
“Freedom is a gift, but it is also a responsibility, and it should never be taken for granted.”
Today, when Lee reflects on his life and career, one word rises above all others:
“I am grateful.”
Grateful for his family. Grateful for those who served alongside him. Grateful for those who gave everything. Grateful for the opportunity to serve.
And for younger generations, his message is clear:
“Do hard things, be a part of something bigger than you, build strong character, be humble, have compassion, love your country while working to make it better, and never forget the cost paid by those who came before you.”