Rod is a WNC native serving in the United States Army from Private to Colonel from 1984 to 2021. Enlisting in 1984 and receiving a commission in 1991 through the University of South Carolina ROTC as a Quartermaster Officer with an Armor Officer branch detail. His education includes master's degrees in Logistics from the Florida Institute of Technology and Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College. During his 37 year career he commanded and served in multiple theaters and combat zones. Upon retirement, Rod and his wife, Lisa-Joy, returned to WNC with their three Sons, Noah (22, 2LT USAR), Gavin (21 WCU Police Officer), and Joahua (18 WCU Freshman). The family resides in Alexander, NC.