By Miriam Rodriguez

WSMR Public Affairs

White Sands Missile Range Command Sgt. Maj. Jose Melendez and the Director Special Operations Forces – Training and Experimentation Center Col. Theo Unbehagen were guest speakers at a May 6 inaugural charity golf event in honor of Sgt. 1^st Class Antonio Rey “Rod” Rodriguez at the New Mexico State University Golf Course.

WSMR Leaders Attend Inaugural Charity Golf Event

Rodriguez, known by his teammates as “ROD,” was a member of the elite 75th Ranger Regiment falling under United States Army Special Operations Command (USASOC).

He was assigned to 3rd Battalion 7th Special Forces Group’s (ODA-7313) Military Intelligence Detachment. On Feb. 8, 2020, Rodriguez was killed in action while conducting combat operations in the Sherzad District of Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan.

His parents, Javier and Guadalupe Rodriguez Jaramillo, started the foundation to help raise funds to continue the mission of helping others.

“I wanted to make sure that everything he did (for others) continued. I wanted to make sure that it didn’t stop because of what happened to him,” said Guadalupe. “If I am standing in his place and giving in his place then he is still helping. His legacy is that he continues to give, and we are continuing that mission.”

CONTINUING THE MISSION

Mission Statement for SFC Antonio Rey “ROD” Rodriguez Foundation

“As a member of the 75th Ranger Regiment, SFC Antonio Rey Rodriguez aka “ROD” was the epitome of what it means to be a Ranger. ROD always put himself second to his teammates and was a constant reminder of what it means to “Lead The Way.” Our foundation is based upon the Ranger Creed. We understand the commitment it takes to be a part of Regiment and we honor our fallen by carrying on their legacy. We stand ready to assist Rangers and their families when they need it the most.”

In his speech, Unbehagen said he reached out to a few of Rodriguez’ teammates from the 7th Special Forces Group who served with Rod on his final mission.

“After hearing their words, I understood the huge positive impact Rod had on each of them and their unit,” Unbehagen said. “So, I’d like to read you a few of their comments and I’m confident you’ll also understand how Rod continues to have a positive impact on this world.”

Teammate and friend Chief David Fillbrandt said Rodriguez had a deep desire to take care of Soldiers.

“He was one of those guys that just knew how to lead. Rarely do you find someone that subordinates and peers look up to and superiors seek out for advice. Rod was that guy everyone trusted. It hurts knowing we don’t have Rod around the team room to keep the mood lighthearted, but I can say without a doubt that his memory will live on and that his leadership style will continue to impact the Army in positive ways through those who were fortunate enough to have served with him.”

His Commander, Maj. Corey Wynn, Alpha Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group said that when Rodriguez showed up to the company, everyone was immediately impressed by his presence.

“He was fit, professional, experienced, confident, and had a great sense of humor. He was passionate about helping the Company and leaned forward in every way to assist, even if it was outside the scope of his job. Rod brought a unique capability to the battlefield. He wanted to be on the ground with the teams fighting to defeat the enemy and offer his critical skillset to the mission,” Wynn said.

“Rod was a hero, a warfighter, and an outstanding American Citizen, serving for something greater than himself. Today, we still remember Rod and talk about him often. His legacy lives on in 7th Group and the 75th Ranger Regiment. We were blessed to serve alongside this Warrior.”

Unbehagen said Rodriguez was a man who sought out opportunities to make a positive impact on people and organizations.

“We are all here today surrounded by good people honoring an amazing man who continues to make the world a better place through those who knew him, so let’s continue to honor Rod by seeking opportunities to make a positive impact on the people we encounter.”

In attendance were some of Rodriguez’ teammates: Brett Turpin, Chuck Cogle, his little brother Christopher James Rodriguez Jaramillo, Ryan Streacker, Jordan Smith, and Elijah Nieves.

Also at the event were Civilian Aide to the Secretary of the Army for New Mexico Rick Jackson and New Mexico Lieutenant Governor Howie Morales.

“This is a great event, especially in the month of May, as we get ready to celebrate Memorial Day. Losing a fellow Soldier in arms is always hard. He paid the ultimate price,” Jackson said before observing a moment of silence.

“I am honored to be here to celebrate such a remarkable New Mexican, who has given so much to our state and to our country,” said Morales. “I had an opportunity to visit with the family and share how we can continue the mission and to remember the legacy that was brought to us by Rod.”

Rodriguez deployed 8 times with the 75th Ranger Regiment and twice with 7th Special Forces Group. His awards include the Bronze Star Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal (1 Oak Leaf Cluster), Army Achievement Medal (1 Oak Leaf Cluster), Army Good Conduct Medal (second award), National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal (two Campaign Stars), Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon (Numeral 2), Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Ranger Tab, Combat Infantry Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge and the Parachutist Badge. Rodriguez was posthumously awarded the Combat Action Badge, Bronze Star Medal, and Purple Heart.

For more information on the foundation go to ARRfoundation.org