About this episode
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. 👍 Like this video to support and show appreciation. 🗣️ Comment your support or ask any questions. Sometimes, our interviewees respond, and we at Urban Valor will do our best to respond as well! ✅ SUBSCRIBE to support Urban Valor and the courageous Veterans who tell their stories AND so you NEVER miss a weekly episode of our veteran stories. New stories every Sunday! Your engagement greatly supports our mission to share authentic and impactful veteran stories. 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 #military #warstories #urbanvalor #marines