Sergeant Major Matt Parrish, a name synonymous with dedication and commitment, has stood at the helm of preserving the essence of Special Operations Command (USSOCOM)’s most invaluable asset: its people. As the Senior Enlisted Leader of the Preservation of the Force and Family (PoTFF) program at USSOCOM, located at MacDill Air Force Base in Florida, Sergeant Major Parrish orchestrated a global, multi-million dollar initiative that harmonized efforts to care for the warriors and their families standing on the frontline of safeguarding our nation.
With a passion for service that extends beyond the administrative realm, his own journey began in 2003 when he answered the call to duty and entered the United States Army, earning his Green Beret in 2005. As a member of the Special Forces Regiment, he went on to serve as Special Forces Engineer Sergeant on Operational Detachment Alpha (ODA) 782, embarking on multiple deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Inherent Resolve.
Diverse roles marked his journey’s chapters. From Assaulter to Breacher to Assault Force Team Leader within the 7th Special Forces Group Crisis Reaction Force (CRF), Sergeant Major Parrish’s path of service embodied adaptability and growth. Whether serving as a Sniper, Reconnaissance Team member, or Sniper Team Leader, his commitment to excellence was unwavering.
In January 2018, the journey’s compass pointed him toward USSOCOM Headquarters at MacDill Air Force Base. As the First Sergeant, Sergeant Major Parrish assumed responsibility for over 3,500 individuals. His domain encompassed care, welfare, discipline, security, logistics, and training, ensuring the nurturing and protection of those under his charge.
Sergeant Major Parrish’s dedication to service has been etched with a constellation of accomplishments, including earning the Leadership Award in both Joint Special Operations Senior Enlisted Academy and the SF Senior Leaders Course. His awards, including the Defense Superior Service Medal, multiple Bronze Stars, Defense Meritorious Service Medals, Army Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Commendation Medals, and the Combat Infantryman Badge, symbolize his commitment to both the Special Forces Regiment and to the nation. In addition, his service to his fellow Green Berets was recently recognized by his induction into the Bronze Order of St Philip Neri by the Special Forces Association.
During his time at USSOCOM, Sergeant Major Parrish had the opportunity to produce and co-host the highly acclaimed “SOFcast,” USSOCOM’s first official podcast, which rapidly gained popularity among listeners interested in the intricacies of special operations and military life. With a career in Special Forces spanning diverse experience and roles, Sergeant Major Parrish brought a unique, relatable, and engaging voice to the podcast that rapidly earned a large following, expanding awareness surrounding current issues pertinent to both the SOF and SF communities.
Beyond the accolades and the titles, Sergeant Major Parrish’s story finds its roots in his family and faith. Happily married for over 16 years to his wife, Kali Parrish, he is the proud father of three young children. His journey is a testament to the resilience, dedication, and unity that defines the spirit of our nation’s Green Berets and the lives they live of sacrifice, commitment, and enduring spirit.
