This week on Urban Valor, we sit down with U.S. Marine Rob Martinez, whose unbelievable story of perseverance through Scout Sniper and MARSOC selection is inspiring and heartbreaking. Raised in Kissimmee, Florida, Rob enlisted in the Marine Corps after a rough start in life. Originally signed up as a Motor Transport Mechanic, Rob’s ambition never stopped. While stationed in Kuwait, he qualified for Scout Sniper Indoctrination. Later, he passed all phases of the elite Marine Special Operations Command (MARSOC) Assessment & Selection—only to be denied selection without explanation.
In this interview, Rob opens up about the emotional toll of being passed over after pushing his body and mind to the limit. He also discusses his journey through divorce, injury, and transition to civilian life. Today, Rob dedicates himself to helping fellow service members through his nonprofit, All Clear Gear.
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Video Chapters:
00:00 – Rob’s Emotional Childhood & Troubled Start
02:38 – First Encounter with the Law
10:07 – Getting Kicked Out & Moving to Florida
20:13 – Misled Into Mechanic Role in the Marines
35:17 – A Life-Changing Piece of Advice
41:57 – Denied After Scout Sniper Success
45:30 – Vision Loss and Medical Setback
51:58 – Pushing Through MARSOC Selection
58:36 – Deployment & Injuries
1:04:45 – Altercation & Consequences
1:07:37 – Choosing MARSOC Over Soccer
1:13:52 – Surviving the Pool During ANS
1:23:46 – Feeling Left Behind Without Guidance
1:30:24 – Divorce & Taking Responsibility for a Child
1:37:16 – Losing 18 Friends After Service
1:44:06 – Founding All Clear Gear to Support Marines
1:50:55 – You're Not Alone
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