Description:
The epic story of Daniel Rodriguez, a soldier who fought in one of the bloodiest battles in Afghanistan and, against all odds, lived to pursue his dream of playing Division I college football
Brief description: DANIEL RODRIGUEZ was a wide reciever for Division I football, honors student, and decorated war hero. He has served tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan, rising through the ranks to sergeant. In 2009, he fought in the Battle of Kamdesh, one of the bloodiest battles in the Afghanistan conflict, earning a Purple Heart and the Bronze Star Medal With Valor Device. He has been interviewed by Dan Rather, profiled in the New York Times, Washington Post, Esquire, USA Today, and ESPN, and has gained internet fame for his viral YouTube video. He lives in Los Angeles.
Review Quotes:
"Daniel Rodriguez-a decorated combat veteran-doesn't sugarcoat the hard parts of his life. A warrior who fought on the battlefield, wrestled with PTSD, and now wins victories on the gridiron, his story reminds us that with grit and determination we can move through suffering to strength. Rise is an inspiring story of a resilient warrior who knows what it means to keep a promise." -Eric Greitens, Navy SEAL and author of New York Times bestseller, The Heart and the Fist "RISE is a surreal look at what today's youth should aspire to accomplish. From Virginia to Iraq, from Afghanistan to South Carolina, Daniel Rodriguez shows the grit and determination it takes to rise above the hardships life throws at you. Life is designed to beat you down. Daniel shows you how to kick its ass." -Major Rusty Bradley, U.S. Army (ret.), bestselling author of Lions of Kandahar "Daniel's service to his country and his ability to follow his dreams is what is truly right with America. His story, as movingly told in Rise, is a great example of where hard work, determination, and a never-quit attitude can get you." -Sal Giunta, Medal of Honor recipient and author of the New York Times bestseller, Living with Honor