Colonel Gregory Gadson: Army Commander

  • He speaks to the interplay of an assertive self-reliance and the importance of teamwork.
  • “You are in control of your own destiny, but you need to figure out how to work together to protect yourself and the people close to you.”
  • Gadson shows how the careful organization and training of his infantry battalion resulted in his own life-saving rescue.
  • He relates how these principles of preparation and trust can be implemented to calm the storm of the ever-changing workplace.

Travel & Fee Range:**

  • Travels from: Richmond, Virginia, United States
  • **Fee range: $10,001 - $20,000

Keynote Topics

“You don’t get to pick your circumstances.”

This, according to Greg Gadson, is the lesson that he had to learn anew when he faced the toughest circumstances of his life.

With unprecedented events affecting organizations all over the country and the world, Gadson imparts not only an inspirational message but he also shows how his real-life Army training and leadership experience can help organizations overcome their biggest challenges.

Through personal anecdotes from his career and his own challenges, he shows organizations that hurdles and obstacles are placed in front of us everyday, but we do not have to be defined by them.

He speaks to the interplay of an assertive self-reliance and the importance of teamwork, which was crucial in his own survival: “You are in control of your own destiny, but you need to figure out how to work together to protect yourself and the people close to you.”

Gadson shows how the careful organization and training of his infantry battalion resulted in his own life-saving rescue, and he relates how these principles of preparation and trust can be implemented to calm the storm of the ever-changing workplace.

  • Overcoming Adversity
  • Dealing with Change (Change Movement)
  • Leadership: Leading Change
  • Creating Winning Culture
  • Veteran Related Programs
  • Disability Employment & Awareness

Colonel Gregory Gadson , a Chesapeake, Va., native; served our nation in the United States Army for more than 26 years. Col. Gadson’s service culminated as the Garrison Commander of Fort Belvoir, where he oversaw the daily operations of the post, a strategic sustaining base where more than 50,000 military personnel and employees provide logistical, […]

Colonel Gregory Gadson , a Chesapeake, Va., native; served our nation in the United States Army for more than 26 years. Col. Gadson’s service culminated as the Garrison Commander of Fort Belvoir, where he oversaw the daily operations of the post, a strategic sustaining base where more than 50,000 military personnel and employees provide logistical, intelligence, medical and administrative support, and command and control for a mix of more than 140 commands and agencies for the Department of Defense.

A 25-year career Army officer, Col. Gadson’s life is a portrait of courage in the face of great adversity. In May 2007, as commander of the 2nd Battalion, 32nd Field Artillery, Col. Gadson’s greatest challenge came in Iraq, where an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) attack cost him both legs above the knees and normal use of his right arm and hand.

Despite this, Colonel Gregory Gadson remained on active duty in the Army and continued to inspire many with his message of courage, perseverance, determination and teamwork. Refusing to be defined by the proverbial “hail of bullets,” he has since drawn upon the lessons of Pride, Poise and Team, learned as a West Point linebacker, and applied them to his life, career and family.

Commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant of Field Artillery in 1989 from the United States Military Academy at West Point, Colonel Gregory Gadson served in every major conflict of the past two decades, including Operations Desert Shield/Storm in Kuwait; Operation Joint Forge in Bosnia-Herzegovina; Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Colonel Gregory Gadson | Authentic Army Commander

Colonel Gregory Gadson served in various assignments throughout the world.  He dedicated himself to leading the Soldiers, civilian employees and family members in living the Army Values of Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity and Personal Courage. Greg is a passionate advocate for wounded warriors, veterans and those with disabilities; sharing his experience and perspectives on several board of directors and advisory committees.

In 2007, Tom Coughlin, New York Giants head coach, asked Gadson to meet with the then-struggling team. Gadson talked to the players about service, teamwork, duty, perseverance and adversity.

His message resonated and the New York Giants defeated the 18-0 New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLII. Greg made his silver screen debut in 2012 as a lead actor in the blockbuster movie Battleship; where he portrayed a war-injured veteran that helped save the world from an alien invasion.

In 2015, he completed season one of The Inspectors, an educational television series on CBS. 

Colonel Gregory Gadson continues a very energetic and dynamic lifestyle where he continues to serve his nation as an entrepreneur and managing partner of Patriot Strategies, LLC, a government services company. He is also an accomplished photographer/artist and remains active in cycling, skiing, skydiving and scuba.

Greg’s military awards include the Distinguished Service Medal; Legion of Merit (2); Bronze Stars (3); Purple Heart; the Meritorious Service Medal (3) and the Army Commendation Medal (3). He is a graduate of Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas; and holds masters degrees in Information Systems from Webster University; and Policy Management from Georgetown University. He holds an honorary Doctorate of Laws from Webster University.

Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on Twitter

Videos

Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry

Speaker Contact Form

Enquiry Form

In order to view the below you must be logged in.

  • Powerpoint Slide – For meeting and event planners
  • Gallery Images
  • High Resolution Images
  • PDF Files
  • Books and Magazine Links
  • Music List
  • Podcast Shows
  • Courses
  • + more

You may be interested in...

  • (16)
Phillip Koontz

Phillip Koontz, a former Navy SEAL with over six years of service, stands as a beacon of resilience, leadership, and adaptability. Through the crucible of SEAL training, Koontz honed his skills and acquired invaluable life lessons that he now imparts to others, helping them navigate the challenges of their personal, professional, and family lives. Phillip […]

  • Travels from: Colorado Springs, CO
  • Military Speakers
  • (+5)
  • (10)
Dan Cnossen

At Speakers Inc, we are honored to present Dan Cnossen, a remarkable individual whose journey exemplifies resilience, courage, and the indomitable human spirit. As an inspirational speaker, Dan captivates audiences with his gripping narrative of overcoming life-altering challenges and emerging as a decorated Paralympic athlete, a distinguished Navy SEAL, and a beacon of hope for […]

  • Travels from: Natick, MA
  • Inspirational Speakers
  • (+8)
  • (3)
Mark Noon

Mark Noon is a distinguished speaker, executive coach, and author with over 25 years of expertise in military and civilian healthcare leadership. Renowned for his ability to inspire and empower leaders at every level, Mark has transformed organizations by equipping them with the tools and strategies needed for success. His career, which began as an […]

  • Travels from: Pensacola, FL
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (+7)
  • (8)

Mary Kelly is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy and spent over 20 years on active duty in intelligence and logistics. She retired from the Navy as a commander. She has master’s degrees in history and economics, and a PhD in economics. Mary Kelly has EXPERIENCE, and it’s this experience that helps your […]

  • Travels from: Dallas, TX
  • Finance Speakers
  • (+5)
  • (14)
  • (4)
Lt. Col. Waldo Waldman

Lt. Col. Waldo Waldman is known as the The Wingman and a Hall of Fame leadership speaker, executive coach, and author of the New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestseller Never Fly Solo. He teaches organizations how to build trusting, revenue producing relationships with their employees, partners, and customers while sharing his experiences as a combat decorated F-16 […]

  • Travels from: Atlanta, GA
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (+2)
  • (19)
Cady Coleman - MISSION INTERPLANETARY

Former NASA Astronaut and Air Force Colonel Cady Coleman is a veteran of two Space Shuttle missions and a six-month expedition aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Onstage, Coleman draws from her time at NASA and in extreme “remote work” situations to discuss team building, leadership, and innovation. With her extraordinary photos and videos, Coleman delivers a […]

  • Travels from: Washington, DC
  • Military Speakers
  • (+6)
  • (20)
  • (1)
Melissa Stockwell

Melissa Stockwell may appear to be the quintessential Midwestern All-American girl, but her story goes far beyond the surface. She is an American war hero, a Paralympic medalist, a World Champion, and a beacon of inspiration for countless individuals around the world. Melissa’s journey is one of resilience, determination, and unwavering dedication to turning adversity […]

  • Travels from: Denver, CO
  • Inspirational Speakers
  • (+10)
  • (19)
Tim Collins

Colonel Tim Collins OBE is a former officer in the British Army. He is best known for his role in the Iraq war and his rousing eve-of-battle speech in March 2003. “If you are ferocious in battle, remember to be magnanimous in victory” Colonel Tim Collins OBE delivered the now infamous speech to his troops […]

  • Travels from: London, UK
  • Military Speakers
  • (+1)
Disclaimer
The profiles and images embedded on these pages are from various conference entertainers and other talent.

These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.

Fee ranges where listed on this website are intended to serve as a guideline only.

All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.

Subscribe to our Newsletter and get connected:

Our Mission:

We are your partner creating memorable and engaging experiences that go beyond the event itself.

© All rights reserved 2025.  Designed using Voxel