From Immigrant to Command Sergeant Major 🇺🇸

Life After Boots S2E2 Immigrant to Command Sergeant Major 🇺🇸 – an extraordinary journey of resilience, service, and leadership. Retired Command Sergeant Major Armando Alfaro shares his powerful story on the Swaggy Vet Podcast, detailing his rise from humble beginnings as an immigrant to becoming a decorated leader in the U.S. military. With nearly three decades of service, Alfaro reflects on the challenges he faced, the leadership lessons he learned, and the sacrifices he made to serve his country.

In this episode, you'll hear about his transition to civilian life, his unwavering commitment to his soldiers, and how he turned obstacles into fuel for success. Alfaro offers a masterclass in leadership under fire, the value of discipline, and the unbreakable bond of loyalty. Whether it’s his firsthand accounts of combat, mentoring soldiers, or life lessons shaped by the Army, his story inspires and sheds light on what it means to be an American hero.

This isn’t just a conversation—it’s a tribute to the sacrifices of our veterans and a call to support those who have served. Don't miss this compelling episode! Hit the subscribe button, like, and share to honor our veterans and hear more stories that embody courage, purpose, and leadership. Let's honor the unyielding spirit of those who serve. Stay swaggy, stay strong. 🇺🇸 #VeteranCrisisLine #MilitaryCareer #AmericanHero #SupportOurVeterans #MilitaryTransition #LeadershipLessons #VAResources #SwaggyVetPodcast

#fortcarson #discipline #fortriley #leadershipskills #leadership

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Swaggy Vets Podcast Disclaimer:
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by guests on the Swaggy Vets Podcast are solely those of the individuals speaking and do not necessarily reflect the views or official positions of Swaggy Vets, its affiliates, or any military branch, unit, or organization that the guests may have served with in the past or present. Swaggy Vets provides a platform for open conversation and storytelling, and while we support honest dialogue, the brand is not responsible for any claims or representations made by podcast participants. Listener discretion is advised.

Why Watch: This episode isn't just a celebration—it's a powerful reflection on the impact veterans are making beyond the uniform. From raw, unfiltered stories to surprising milestones and future plans, this anniversary special shows how Swaggy Vets is changing the narrative for veterans everywhere.

CHAPTERS:
00:00 - Intro
02:26 - Immigrant Background and Challenges
06:23 - Thoughts on Quitting and Resilience
11:25 - Combat Experience and Lessons Learned
13:50 - Mental Preparation for Combat Situations
15:59 - Life or Death Decisions in the Field
18:00 - Hard Goodbyes Before Deployments
19:25 - Influential Leaders in CSM Velez's Career
24:10 - Learning from Failures in Leadership
25:25 - Balancing Standards and Discipline in the Army
27:30 - Good Advice Given to Soldiers
28:40 - Rescuing Soldiers from Self-Destructive Behaviors
30:50 - Personal Motivation and Purpose
32:10 - Most Valued Army Principles
33:34 - Turning Disadvantages into Motivation
35:00 - Overcoming Doubts and Challenges
36:30 - Support from the 82nd Airborne Division
38:10 - Meaning of 'Veteran' to CSM Velez
40:18 - Moments Worth Reliving
41:43 - Finding Space Away from Soldiers
45:18 - Service to Country: A Personal Reflection
46:50 - Challenges in Transitioning to Civilian Life
50:10 - Short-Term and Long-Term Goals Post-Military
51:24 - Lessons from Military Experience Applied Today
53:10 - Reminders of Purpose in Daily Life
55:35 - Advice for Young Armando Alfaro
56:45 - Staying Grounded in Life
58:49 - Legacy: How You Want to be Remembered
59:57 - Message for Those Seeking Purpose After Service
01:01:10 - OUTRO