from 1998 to 2013
Few leaders have shaped the modern Special Operations community as profoundly as General Carl Stiner.
A visionary commander, decorated combat leader, and steadfast advocate for Special Operations families, General Stiner’s life of service reflects the very values that define Special Operations Warrior Foundation.
Commissioned in 1958 after graduating from the United States Military Academy at West Point, General Stiner served in elite Airborne and Special Operations units throughout a distinguished 35-year Army career. He completed multiple combat tours in Vietnam and held numerous leadership positions that demanded courage, precision, and innovation.
In 1989, he became the first Army officer to serve as Commander in Chief of United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM). Under his leadership, USSOCOM matured into a fully operational unified combatant command—integrating Special Operations Forces (SOF) across the services and ensuring they were properly resourced, trained, and strategically employed.
Leadership During the 100-Hour Ground War
General Stiner commanded Special Operations Forces during Operation Desert Storm, the decisive campaign that included the historic 100-hour ground war.
During Desert Storm, Special Operations units conducted critical missions deep behind enemy lines, targeting Scud missile sites, gathering intelligence, conducting combat search and rescue, and disrupting Iraqi command and control. Their success demonstrated the strategic impact of SOF in modern warfare and reinforced the importance of a unified Special Operations command.
The precision, speed, and coordination displayed in the Gulf War became a defining model for future operations, underscoring why Special Operations Forces remain indispensable today.
A Champion for Special Operations Families
After retiring from active duty in 1993, General Stiner continued his commitment to the Special Operations community. In 1998, he became Chairman of Special Operations Warrior Foundation, a role he held with dedication until 2013.
During his 15 years as Chairman, SOWF experienced significant growth and national recognition. General Stiner understood that behind every Special Operator stands a family who shares in the sacrifice. He championed SOWF’s enduring promise to the children of fallen Special Operations Personnel, which later expanded to include children of active-duty Special Operations Personnel whose spouse has died, and all children of Medal of Honor Recipients.
SOWF staff reflect that his leadership served as a guide to strengthen SOWF’s stewardship, visibility, and long-term stability, ensuring SOWF would remain faithful to its mission for generations to come.
A Legacy of Vision and Integrity
General Stiner often spoke about leadership as a matter of character, accountability, and service beyond self. He believed that elite units demand elite standards—not only in combat, but in caring for their own.
His life reminds us that the strength of the Special Operations community is not measured solely by battlefield success, but by the “promises made, promises kept” long after the fighting ends.
As we reflect on the swift and decisive victory of the Gulf War’s 100-day campaign, we also honor leaders like General Carl Stiner, whose vision helped shape modern Special Operations and whose stewardship helped ensure that SOWF continues to stand beside the families with unwavering commitment.
His legacy lives on in every student we support and every promise we keep.
