Purple Heart Day Interview: Daniel Gade’s Story of War and Healing

Today is Purple Heart Day. The award serves as a solemn testament to the sacrifices made by those who serve their country. It is one of the oldest military decorations awarded to servicemembers wounded or killed in action—a medal no one willingly seeks.

In light of remembering Purple Heart recipients, US Army veteran Lt. Col. Daniel M. Gade shared his story with SOFREP.

Duty and Destiny: Gade’s Journey

Gade, 49, raised in a military-centric household in Minot, North Dakota, had a clear path laid out before him. His father’s Vietnam service and his two brothers’ subsequent Army careers fostered a deep-rooted respect for the armed forces. Not to mention, with a middle name like ‘MacArthur,’ military life felt like a natural fit.

His journey began in 1992 when he enlisted in the Army, followed by a rigorous academic pursuit at West Point, graduating in 1997. The subsequent years saw him honing his skills as a tank and scout platoon leader at Fort Carson, even opting for the Marine captain’s course over the Army’s.

Fate intervened when Gade commenced Ranger School on September 10, 2001, a day before the world-altering events of that infamous date—”…a piece of crazy timing,” as Gade describes it.

Post Ranger School, Gade served in Korea from 2001 to 2004, a prelude to the intense challenges that awaited him in Ramadi, Iraq, where he deployed with his tank company.

Leaving family behind for the demanding rigors of deployment was undoubtedly tough. Yet, Gade’s focus remained unwavering: his soldiers and his mission.

The reality of the situation, however, painted a starker picture than he had initially anticipated:

“I knew it was going to be hard, but I focused on my soldiers and my work. I didn’t think it was going to be as much fighting as we actually had,” Gade recalled.

In the Thick of It: Combat Deployment and the Purple Hearts

Gade’s deployment to Ramadi was a brutal baptism by fire.

“Tanks are the best – but they are very, very maintenance-heavy. For every hour of running around, you’re doing 20+ hours of maintenance,” Gade recounted.

“So, managing all that maintenance, deployment, gunnery, training, and so much more was a full-time job.”

The adrenaline rush of combat was initially shocking, but Gade quickly adapted.

“I think every gunfight I got in felt just like training,” he shared. “I was never scared, just really busy – managing the radios, the position of the troops, [and] the relevant enemy information.”

Regardless, he admits the surrealness of the experience the first time bullets flew.

“It’s pretty shocking the first time because you’ve really never fired real weapons at a real person before!”

That reality turned into a nightmare on November 10, 2004, when a deadly RPG struck Gade’s tank, killing his loader, Dennis Miller.

Gade was wounded in the chaos. It was the first of two traumatic injuries. An IED explosion later left him with severe wounds, including the amputation of his leg.

“I was in the hospital for about 6 months. I didn’t just have the amputation – it was lots of infections, other open wounds, etc etc,” Gade recounted. “Just took a long time… but I have a great wife and super support, so I just got back to it!”

Today, he’s a testament to human resilience. Jiu-jitsu, CrossFit, and bow hunting (although not as much of that anymore) are his passions, a physical manifestation of his determination.

His mental fortitude is equally impressive. “I just believe that God has a plan,” he said simply. “…you’ve just gotta go for it with his blessings.”

Gade received Purple Hearts for both his combat injuries in Iraq, as well as a Bronze Star and the Legion of Merit.

“President Bush pinned on both of my Purple Hearts,” Gade recalled. “He told me it was the first time he’d done two for one guy, and I said, ‘I make an excellent target.‘ He thought that was hilarious.”

Facing a Different Battle After Service

Gade retired from the Army in 2017, and transitioning from that structured world to civilian life is a challenge he knows intimately.

“You go from a certain kind of identity to another, better one,” he explained. “It’s hard, though.”

“The Army ‘goes rolling along‘ […] so it’s best not to look back constantly.”

Undeterred, Gade embraced new challenges. For a time, he was captivated by the exhilarating world of triathlon.

“I got hooked on triathlon for a couple of years, and I did lots of Half Iron and then Ironman Arizona in 2010. Pretty great stuff,” he shared.

Beyond personal triumphs, Gade has dedicated himself to advocating for veterans, especially those with disabilities.

His firsthand experience with the complexities of military service and the subsequent challenges of reintegration have fueled his passion for improving disability policies.

Gade’s voice has become a powerful catalyst for change, as he works tirelessly to ensure that those who have served their country receive the support and care they deserve.

On America’s Warrior Partnership

Gade is currently serving as an Advisory Council Member for America’s Warrior Partnership (AWP). He is dedicated to enhancing the lives of fellow veterans by coordinating essential local services.

AWP is a national nonprofit that empowers communities to support veterans by bridging the gap between veteran service organizations and nonprofits. It ensures vital resources reach those who need them most. Its programs strengthen nonprofit capacity, leading to better outcomes for veterans, their families, and caregivers.

When asked how AWP has changed over the last decade to better meet the needs of veterans, Gade stated that it has gotten “better and better every day.”

“AWP’s community-based approach really helps people where they are. It’s not flashy, but it’s SO important,” he added.

SOFREP questioned Gade further about AWP and his thoughts on the organization.

What specific programs or initiatives at AWP are you most passionate about?

 Gade: “I really like AWP’s data-driven approach to mental health. There are so many organizations (like the government) lying about it, and it’s great to have someone using data to tell the real story!”

What are some of the biggest challenges facing veterans today, and how is AWP addressing them?

 Gade: “I think there’s a crisis of worthlessness. People are so focused on ‘getting their disability rating‘ that they forget that they need to LIVE first. Getting a rating can and does actually impede a good life.”

How can the public get involved and support AWP’s mission?

Gade: “Donate a few bucks on a recurring schedule and go to their website to see how you can volunteer!”

As AWP marks its tenth anniversary this year, it reflects on a decade of service to over 60,000 veterans nationwide.

You can visit AWP here to learn more about its mission and program.

Again, the transition from military to civilian life can be overwhelming. But remember, you’re not alone.

Countless resources and support networks are available to help you navigate this new chapter. Don’t hesitate to reach out to fellow veterans, mental health professionals, or organizations dedicated to veteran well-being.

Your strength and resilience are invaluable, and with the right support, you can achieve anything.

“Don’t be a coward – get help if you need it and help others if you don’t need help yourself,” Gade remarked.

National Purple Heart Day, observed annually on August 7 since 1991, honors these brave individuals and their families.

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Disclaimer: SOFREP utilizes AI for image generation and article research. Occasionally, it’s like handing a chimpanzee the keys to your liquor cabinet. It’s not always perfect and if a mistake is made, we own up to it full stop. In a world where information comes at us in tidal waves, it is an important tool that helps us sift through the brass for live rounds.