Michael Edwards: Military Leader & VIP Security Expert

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David Michael “Mike” Edwards is a distinguished military veteran and security expert with a career spanning elite U.S. Army units, including the 75th Ranger Regiment and the Regimental Reconnaissance Company (RRC). After serving in various leadership roles, earning accolades like the Silver Star and Purple Heart, Edwards transitioned to training and consulting, specializing in Military Free Fall (MFF) tactics for top special operations units. He currently serves as the Director of VIP Security for USPA Nationwide Security, managing high-profile events and protecting prominent figures such as Madonna and Leonardo DiCaprio. Edwards is also the founder of Project Exodus Relief, advocating on issues like the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. His insights have been featured in major media outlets, and he remains a sought-after commentator and podcast guest for his expertise in military operations and security.

A Distinguished Military and Post-Military Career

A Legacy of Military Excellence and VIP Security Leadership

David “Mike” Edwards, a highly decorated U.S. Army veteran, has made a significant impact both on the battlefield and in the field of VIP security. His career is marked by leadership in elite military units, training of top special operations forces, and management of security for high-profile clients and events.

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Military Career and Leadership

Edwards began his military journey at Marion Military Institute, excelling in Military Science through the ROTC program. After two years, he chose to enlist in the U.S. Army, driven by a desire to serve in Special Operations. His early service included three years in the conventional Army, with a pivotal moment occurring during the September 11th, 2001 attacks, prompting his re-enlistment with the 75th Ranger Regiment.

Throughout his time with the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Edwards held key roles, including rifleman, fire team leader, and assault squad leader. His bravery was recognized when he was wounded in Tal-Afar, Iraq, earning him the Silver Star and Purple Heart. His leadership extended further as he served as a cadre in the Ranger Indoctrination Program, evaluating and training future members of the 75th Ranger Regiment.

Regimental Reconnaissance Company (RRC)

Edwards’ skills and dedication led to his selection for the Regimental Reconnaissance Company (RRC), the U.S. military’s most secretive Special Mission Unit. After completing an 11-month operator training course, he participated in numerous clandestine missions, working closely with the CIA and other agencies. As a senior military advisor, he commanded a force of 700 fighters in the Horn of Africa, demonstrating his exceptional leadership and tactical acumen.

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Transition to VIP Security and Consulting

Following his military career, Edwards applied his expertise to training and consulting, specializing in Military Free Fall (MFF) tactics. He trained elite special operations units, including the development of the MARSOC Advanced MFF course, accumulating over 5,000 jumps. His work also involved training SEAL teams in surveillance techniques.

In his current role as Director of VIP Security for USPA Nationwide Security, Edwards oversees the safety and protection of high-profile individuals and events. He has managed security projects for clients such as Google and Yves Saint Laurent, and led USPA’s Titanium Service team during events like Art Basel, protecting celebrities including Madonna, Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn, and Tom Brady.

Public Advocacy and Media Presence

Beyond his security work, Edwards is the founder of Project Exodus Relief, where he has passionately advocated for assisting allies in safely escaping Afghanistan after the U.S. military’s withdrawal. His efforts have been recognized across various major media platforms. Additionally, his experiences with the CIA’s Hunter Killer teams were featured in “Zeroed Out: How JSOC’s Omega Teams Enabled the CIA’s Afghan Militia” by Jack Murphy and Sean Naylor.

Edwards continues to share his insights through podcasts, including The Team House and Combat Story, where he discusses his extensive military and security experiences.

David Michael Edwards exemplifies a legacy of service, leadership, and expertise. From his distinguished military career to his current role in VIP security, Edwards continues to contribute to national security and public discourse, making him a respected figure in both military and civilian spheres.

Guest Appearances

Contact Information

David “Mike” Edwards

VIP Security Director

Email: medwards@uspasecurity.com

Office: 601 Brickell Key Dr, Ste 700, Miami, FL 33131