Guillermo Tejada

Retired U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant Guillermo Tejada embodies resilience, sacrifice, and the American dream. Originally from El Salvador, Guillermo’s family immigrated to the United States in pursuit of greater opportunity and a better life. Fueled by a deep desire to serve the country that had welcomed him, Guillermo enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1999, launching a career defined by dedication, courage, and leadership.

After completing boot camp in San Diego, California, he attended the School of Infantry, where he earned his designation as a Basic Rifleman. From 1999 to 2004, he served with distinction in the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, deploying twice to locations around the world.

Between 2005 and 2008, Guillermo served as a Canvassing Recruiter in Phoenix, Arizona, where he helped countless Americans realize their own dreams of military service—an experience that had changed his life just years earlier.

In 2008, he returned to the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, and in September 2010, deployed to Sangin, Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. On November 11, 2010—Veterans Day—GySgt Tejada was returning to base from a reconnaissance patrol when he was struck by an improvised explosive device (IED). The blast instantly claimed both of his legs and caused severe injuries, including a ruptured eardrum, concussion, trauma below the waist, and damage to his left arm and hand.

Despite his critical condition, Guillermo remained conscious, as his team—under intense enemy fire—worked to reach him. After over an hour of exposure, they were finally able to extract him and begin life-saving treatment.

Guillermo was stabilized in-theater and later transported to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, followed by extended recovery at National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, and Naval Medical Center San Diego (Balboa). He continues to receive ongoing care and rehabilitation at Brooke Army Medical Center.