Rafael J. Colon Hernandez is a retired Command Sergeant Major, combat veteran, educator, and lifelong storyteller whose career spanned more than 28 years of military service. Born in Hato Rey, Puerto Rico, and raised between Puerto Rico and Boston, Massachusetts, Rafael's journey reflects resilience, service, sacrifice, and perseverance.
Throughout his military career, he served as a Combat Medic, leader, instructor, and senior enlisted advisor, deploying to Kuwait, Iraq, Afghanistan, and humanitarian missions supporting communities affected by natural disasters. His service earned numerous awards and distinctions, including the Combat Medical Badge, Expert Field Medical Badge, Sergeant Audie Murphy Award, and induction into the Order of Military Medical Merit.
After retiring from active duty in 2025, Rafael transitioned into civilian leadership roles while pursuing his passion for writing. His work draws from real-life experiences, offering readers an authentic look at military service, family, leadership, adversity, and personal growth. Through his writing, he seeks to preserve the stories of those who served, honor the sacrifices of military families, and inspire others to overcome life's challenges.
Rafael holds a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics and Natural Sciences from Thomas Edison State University and a Master of Arts in National Security Studies from the University of Texas at El Paso. He lives in the Texas Hill Country with his wife, Adriana, and their family.
When he is not writing, Rafael enjoys spending time with family, mentoring veterans, exploring military history, outdoor cooking, and cheering for his favorite New England sports teams
