ABOUT THIS EPISODE
Between prolonged war time, divisive politics and social controversy regarding the National Anthem, it’s hard to understand – much less embrace – the notion of true patriotism. Having been raised by a proud U.S. Marine, Jennifer is passionate about patriotism and equally frustrated by America’s political climate. Join her as she discusses the value and beauty of patriotism with Commander Doug Reinbold, who recently retired from active duty service after 21-years in the U.S. Navy. He’s currently in the Defense Industry in the Washington, DC area.
GUEST BIO
CDR Doug “Rhino” Reinbold, USN (ret.)
Commander Doug Reinbold, United States Navy (retired), was born and raised in Seymour, Indiana, and graduated from Purdue University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Aviation Technology. Upon selection and graduation from Officer Candidate School he was commissioned as a Naval Officer and was designated a Naval Aviator following completion of flight training. His first fleet service was in San Diego, California, piloting the SH-60B Seahawk helicopter and deploying twice to the Arabian Gulf on missions to conduct maritime interdiction operations. While completing his tour, his peers selected him as the squadron’s Pilot of the Year.
He then received orders to Pensacola, Florida, to serve as a T-34C Instructor Pilot for U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and international flight students. Obtaining all possible qualifications, he was selected as Instructor Pilot of the Year and chosen to be in the first class of instructors to fly the T-6A Texan II. After completion of this tour, he was ordered back to sea duty as a Catapult and Arresting Gear Officer (Shooter) aboard the USS CARL VINSON (CVN 70) nuclear aircraft carrier, deploying in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
His next fleet assignment was with the first-ever MH-60R Seahawk squadron, operating the Navy’s newest and most advanced combat helicopter. As Department Head, he served during the command’s maiden deployment embarked onboard the USS JOHN C. STENNIS (CVN 74) Carrier Strike Group, and he was named his squadron’s Officer of the Year upon completion of his orders.
He was then nominated to attend the U.S. Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island, graduating with a Master’s Degree in National Security and Strategic Studies. Subsequently he received orders to the Office of Naval Research where he was detailed to the Pentagon to serve as the Deputy for Operations for the Defense Science Board.
His final assignment was as the MQ-8 (Fire Scout) Officer-in-Charge, directing the introduction and fleet integration of the Navy’s first operational unmanned aircraft system. During his career he has accumulated more than 3000 flight hours in 10 different aircraft and is a Commercial-rated Airplane and Helicopter pilot. His military awards and decorations include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, the Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, as well as various unit, campaign, and individual ribbons.
He recently retired from active duty after more than 21 years of honorable service. Presently he serves in the defense industry in the Washington, D.C. area where he and his wife are the proud, but exhausted, parents of two awesomely energetic daughters.
