Dan Rooney - Speaker

Lieutenant Colonel Dan Rooney is a figure whose multifaceted career and dedication to service have made a significant impact. As a decorated F-16 Fighter Pilot, Dan is renowned for founding Folds of Honor, a prominent non-profit organisation that provides educational scholarships to the families of fallen or disabled military service members and first responders. Since its establishment in 2007, the foundation has awarded nearly 62,000 scholarships, amounting to approximately $290 million, with a notable 45% of recipients being minorities. Dan's commitment to inspiring others is evident through his diverse roles. He is a USA Today bestselling author, with works such as A Patriot’s Calling and Fly Into the Wind, and a sought-after motivational speaker who has addressed over 1,000 corporations and groups across the United States. His passion for golf led him to found two nationally acclaimed golf clubs, The Patriot Golf Club in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and American Dunes Golf Club in Grand Haven, Michigan, the latter in collaboration with Jack Nicklaus. Dan frequently appears on national media platforms, including podcasts, radio, and television, such as Fox News. His contributions have earned him recognition as one of People Magazine’s “Heroes of the Year” and ABC World News Tonight’s “Persons of the Year”. Continuing his military service, Dan has completed three combat tours in Iraq, flying the F-16 Viper. He currently serves at Headquarters Air Force Recruiting Service Detachment 1, at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas, where he acts as a US Air Force ambassador, inspiring the next generation of service members. His military accolades include the Top Gun award, Air Force Commendation Medal, and Air Medal, among others. For his service and patriotism, Dan has received the White House’s “Presidential Volunteer Service Award” and the Ellis Island “Medal of Honor”. His life’s work exemplifies a profound dedication to service and community.