Sean Parnell
Assistant to the Secretary of War for Public Affairs and Senior Advisor
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Sean is a combat veteran and leader who commanded one of the most decorated units in the history of the Afghanistan War. During his 16-month deployment, he was awarded numerous honors for his extraordinary service, including two Bronze Stars (one for valor) and the Purple Heart. Eighty-five percent of his platoon received Purple Hearts for wounds incurred in battle, but his men gave far more than they received. His platoon killed over 350 enemy fighters in some of the biggest firefights of the Afghan War.
In addition to leading soldiers through heavy combat, Sean helped lead diplomatic negotiations on the ground in one of the most hostile & unforgiving geographic locations on the planet — the Af/Pak border.
Following his medical retirement due to combat injuries, Sean transformed his experiences into Outlaw Platoon, a New York Times bestseller and a widely acclaimed account of his time in Afghanistan. The book not only honors the sacrifices of his fellow soldiers but also serves as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
In the political sphere, Sean has been a tireless advocate for veterans and a driving force behind transformative policy changes. As a senior advisor for Concerned Veterans of America and a trusted consultant to members of the House and Senate, he played a pivotal role in the passage of the Mission Act — signed into law by President Trump in 2018 — which represents the most significant VA reform in a generation. His efforts have directly improved the lives of countless veterans, ensuring they receive the care and support they deserve.