Soldier Honored: Robert D. Odell

2018-Robert D. Odell
Dates:
Hometown:
Branch of Service: Army
Rank: Sgt. Maj.

Army Sergeant Major Robert D. Odell grew up with a dream of joining the Army. He was assigned to the Army Intelligence and Security Command out of Fort Belvoir, Virginia and was deployed in Mosul, Iraq when his base dining hall was attacked by a suicide bomber. He and 24 others died on December 21, 2004.


A California native, Robert Odell graduated from Apple Valley High School in 1984 and joined the Army in September 1985.  After completing the difficult and prestigious Ranger school, SGM Odell decided to join the Army Special Forces – the Green Berets – in 1989. Not only did he succeed in this endeavor, but he scored in the top 5% of his class. His high score, determination and professional manner allowed him to perform many secret missions during his 19 years of service. SGM Odell had an illustrious Army career that included the Bronze Star and Legion of Merit. SGM Odell married the love of his life, Cynthia in 1994. The couple had 3 children and the family resided in Virginia.


SGM Odell’s three children are Folds of Honor Children’s Fund Scholarship recipients.


Complete Soldier Honored Listing