Glen Mason joined the U.S. Army in 1997 and retired in 2020, culminating a distinguished 23-year career with 18 years as a Green Beret in Special Forces. Throughout his service, Glen demonstrated exceptional leadership and abilities, having been part of or led Special Forces Operational Detachments Alpha (ODA) teams on deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, Southern Philippines, and numerous Joint Combined Exercise Training (JCET) missions within the United States Pacific Command (USPACOM).
He is a recipient of the Purple Heart Medal for wounds received during combat action in Afghanistan.
As a vital member of the Operation Healing Forces team, Glen currently serves as a Retreat Project Manager. In this role, he is instrumental in facilitating therapeutic retreats that provide Special Operations Forces (SOF) members and their families with opportunities for mental, physical, and emotional healing. Glen’s unique perspective as a wounded member of the Special Forces community drives his ambition to provide life-changing therapeutic retreats specifically designed to help SOF couples reconnect, strengthening their bonds and enhancing their resilience amidst the unique challenges they face.
Glen’s work involves not only the logistical planning and execution of these retreats but also the cultivation of a supportive community where SOF warriors can forge deep, healing bonds with their peers. These connections are crucial in addressing the visible and invisible wounds of war, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual support that extends beyond the retreat experience.
Through his consistent efforts, Glen reinforces and builds new relationships, establishing trust and rapport with SOF units worldwide. He collaborates closely with SOF unit leadership to identify and prioritize the needs of service members and their families, ensuring those with the greatest need receive the support and resources they deserve.
Glen’s commitment to the well-being of the SOF community reflects his deep understanding of the sacrifices made by these elite warriors and their families. His work with OHF is a testament to his dedication to their ongoing journey of healing and reintegration into family and civilian life.
