Lt. Gen. Joshua M. Rudd graduated from Furman University in 1993 and was commissioned through ROTC. Beginning as a Quartermaster Officer, he joined Special Forces in 1996 and has commanded at every level. His leadership roles include Deputy Commanding General of the 25th Infantry Division and 1st Special Forces Command, Commander of JIATF-NCR, and Commander of Special Operations Command Pacific, overseeing operations across the Indo-Pacific. He has deployed in support of major combat operations, including Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.His numerous awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal and Bronze Star. On September 25, 2024, he became Deputy Commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, bringing extensive experience in strategic military operations.