About Elias Hernandez, Jr.

Elias Hernandez, Jr. is a Senior Enlisted Leader, Tactical Specialist, and Navy Veteran with over 23 years of experience operating and managing mission-critical tactical and technical systems. A proven leader in high-value operations, inter-agency coordination, and strategic planning, Elias has led teams of over 150 specialized operatorsin dynamic, high-pressure environments. His expertise spans special operations, intelligence coordination, and training development, ensuring mission success through precision execution and elite-level instruction.

Fluent in Spanish and English, Elias holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Kinesiology and maintains a Top Secret SCI Security Clearance, making him a valuable asset in both military and civilian sectors.

Leadership & Tactical Operations

Throughout his military career, Elias has served in senior leadership roles, overseeing the training, equipment, and operational readiness of elite personnel across multiple geographically decentralized commands. His ability to adapt to high-stakes environments and lead cross-functional teams has resulted in the successful execution of complex tactical missions, joint exercises with allied nations, and enhanced interoperability between Special Operations Commands (SOCOM) and global security agencies.

Key highlights include:

• Leading and managing 495 military and civilian personnel, ensuring peak performance in mission execution and readiness.
• Coordinating with Special Operations Forces (SOF), the National Security Agency (NSA), and foreign agencies for covert operations and intelligence missions.
• Providing technical and tactical solutions to meet mission needs in alignment with USSOCOM policies and mandates.
• Enhancing partner force capabilities by advising NATO SOF units, strengthening their operational effectiveness.

Training & Development

As an elite instructor and mentor, Elias has trained over 650 SEAL and Special Operations personnel in advanced tactical skills, intelligence operations, and combat swimmer warfare. His instructional expertise has directly contributed to the development and deployment readiness of elite warfighters.

Notable contributions:

• Spearheaded the training of 350 SEAL Operators in high-level tactical skills and technical proficiency.
• Supervised combat swimmer training scenarios, involving cutting-edge equipment, tactics, and weapon systems.
• Provided mentorship and career guidance to junior SEALs, ensuring their professional growth and leadership development.
• Managed over 630 hours of instruction on land warfare, maritime operations, and irregular warfare leadership.

Education & Certifications

• Bachelor of Science in Biology & Kinesiology – University of Texas at El Paso
• Military Education & Leadership Training:
  • NATO SOCC Staff Project Management
  • Joint Special Operations University (JSOU) Irregular Warfare Leadership Course
  • Senior Leadership Course
  • Joint Fires Observer Certification
  • Navy Warfare Tactics & Operations Course
  • NSW Platoon Leaders Course
  • NSW Ground Force Commander Course
  • Rod Olson Leadership & Mentoring Course

Awards & Recognitions

Elias’ exceptional service and contributions have been recognized through multiple awards, including:

• Joint Service Commendation Medal
• Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal
• Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal
• Joint Service Achievement Medal
• Combat Action Ribbon
• Iraq Campaign Medal

Committed to Excellence

Elias Hernandez, Jr. is a leader, mentor, and tactical expert dedicated to enhancing operational effectiveness, training elite personnel, and driving mission success. His extensive experience in high-risk environments, strategic planning, and mentorship makes him a trusted advisor and force multiplier in both military and civilian sectors.