Frank Cole serves as the Deputy Director of Development at Operation Healing Forces, bringing more than two decades of experience shaped by military service, intelligence roles supporting U.S. missions abroad, and a deep personal commitment to the Special Operations community. His career, spanning military operations, intelligence assignments with the Defense Intelligence Agency, and leadership positions in the defense industry, gives him a unique understanding of the challenges SOF families face and the support they deserve.
Frank’s journey of service began after 9/11, when he left the Merchant Marines to join the U.S. Air Force. Over the next 12 years, he served as a Combat Controller and Air Traffic Controller, supporting missions that demanded precision, teamwork, and resilience. He later contributed to intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations across Afghanistan, Iraq, and multiple regions of Africa, gaining firsthand insight into the realities faced by deployed service members. Frank continued his national security work as a civilian with the Defense Intelligence Agency, completing assignments at U.S. Embassies around the world.
After leaving government service, Frank transitioned into the private sector, where he helped lead business development and strategic growth efforts for both emerging technology firms and major defense contractors. His work centered on building partnerships, supporting complex programs, and connecting operational needs with innovative solutions. These experiences strengthened his belief that the people behind the mission, service members, veterans, families, and caregivers, deserve strong, consistent support long after service ends, especially when unseen wounds remain.
Frank’s connection to the SOF community is deeply personal. He has volunteered with organizations that support veterans and families and has remained closely tied to the community that shaped him. At Operation Healing Forces, he brings that same sense of purpose to his work every day, helping build the partnerships and resources that ensure SOF families have the stability, healing, and support they need to thrive.
