

353: If You Have The Wherewithal To Do Things, Then You Should Do Things. Congressman Candidate (WI) Derrick Van Orden
Sep 28, 2022
Derrick Van Orden, a retired Navy SEAL with 26 years of service, shares his powerful journey from a challenging upbringing to military and political aspirations. He discusses the importance of personal responsibility in overcoming obstacles and how rigorous military training shaped his leadership style. Compelling stories from his deployments illustrate the bonds formed among SEAL teammates, while he highlights the significance of American manufacturing and civic engagement. Van Orden emphasizes resilience, community connections, and proactive decision-making as keys to success.
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Early Childhood and Family
- Derrick Van Orden was raised in poverty by a single mother after his father abandoned them.
- His mother, Carol Ann Mulligan, transitioned from sports reporting to a successful career in insurance, eventually focusing on cybersecurity.
Uncle Bob's Influence
- Van Orden's uncle, Robert Francis Mulligan, served in WWII, the Navy, and later the Marine Corps.
- Uncle Bob became a father figure to Van Orden, instilling in him a sense of service and resilience.
Posture and Perspective
- Van Orden was ostracized in school due to his poverty, leading him to walk with his head down.
- At 17, someone pointed this out, prompting him to change his posture and engage more with the world.