Lieutenant General Francis Beaudette Joins Operation Healing Forces National Advisory Council
Operation Healing Forces (OHF), a dedicated organization focused on supporting the well-being of service members and their families, has recently announced a significant addition to its National Advisory Council. Retired Lieutenant General Francis "Fran" Beaudette, who previously led the U.S. Army Special Operations Command, has accepted this pivotal role. His extensive military experience and unwavering dedication to service members make him an invaluable asset for OHF as it continues to expand its impact nationwide.
For over three decades, General Beaudette has been recognized as one of America’s most esteemed military leaders. His career encompasses decades of notable service, particularly within the realms of Army Special Forces and Joint Special Operations Forces, where he shaped the future of U.S. military strategies. As the Commanding General of the U.S. Army Special Operations Command, he oversaw more than 33,000 individuals—Soldiers and civilians alike—who undertook some of the nation’s most complex military missions globally.
General Beaudette's exemplary leadership resonated throughout the Army and the broader military community, earning him not only respect for his operational acumen but also for his deep-rooted compassion and commitment to the well-being of service members and their families. He embodies the ideals that OHF stands for, encouraging healing and resilience for wounded warriors and their loved ones. Through his partnership with OHF, he aims to provide dedicated support for military families, caregivers, and Gold Star families, reinforcing the core mission of the organization.
In a statement, Kerry Irvin, CEO of Operation Healing Forces, emphasized that General Beaudette personifies the essence of a true leader. "General Beaudette earned trust and admiration not only for his military success but for the positive influence he had on the lives of those he led. We honor his commitment to our cause and are thrilled to have him on board," he said. Irvin highlighted the importance of strong leadership in driving OHF’s mission forward, especially during these challenging times for many military families.
The contributions of General Beaudette extend beyond military strategies; they focus on meaningful lives, reinforcing the notion that effective leadership is measured by the positive impact one has on others. With a wealth of experience in military operations and leadership development, he is poised to guide OHF toward innovative programs that emphasize rehabilitation, resilience, and the long-term well-being of service members and their families.
Alongside his wife, Liz, whom he has supported for 36 years, General Beaudette exemplifies a genuine commitment to advocacy for military families. Together, they are raising three children, one of whom continues the family legacy of service in the U.S. Army Special Forces. This personal connection to military life underlines General Beaudette's dedication to enhancing the lives of military families across the nation.
Operation Healing Forces, headquartered in Tampa, Florida, is a nonprofit organization committed to serving the U.S. Special Operations Forces community. Since its inception in 2011, OHF has positively impacted over 15,000 individuals through various programs, including therapeutic retreats and mental health support. By focusing on recovery, relationship strengthening, and the rebuilding of lives affected by military service, OHF continues to bring hope to many.
With General Beaudette as part of the National Advisory Council, OHF is set to further its mission of healing and empowering service members, veterans, and their families. His strategic insights and compassionate approach are expected to open new avenues for support and transformation within the Special Operations Forces community, ensuring that they receive the comprehensive care they deserve. For more information about Operation Healing Forces, visit
www.operationhealingforces.org.