Gabe Lee, Board Member

Gabe Lee joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 2001 and was attached with the newly formed anti-terrorism battalion, formerly the 3rd Battalion 8th Marines Infantry Regiment (3/8).  It was the Nation’s first military-unit-based response to terrorism. From 2001-2005, this highly-specialized group was on-call and available 24/7 as an anti-terrorism rapid response force. 

In December 2001, the unit was deployed to a semi-isolated Marine Corps Base in Okinawa, Japan to continue training in advanced Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Defense, Close Quarter Battle, and advanced infantry/special tactics. From Okinawa, the unit continued train in areas such as Fuji, Japan, and with elite units like the Republic Of Korea “ROK” Marines near the DMZ in South Korea.

After returning to the USA from its first training deployment, Gabe’s unit continued its advanced training. In 2003, it was called to Port-Au-Prince Haiti as a Quick Reaction Force. In less than 24 hours following news reports of potential US involvement in Haiti, Gabe’s unit was on the ground and securing the Port-Au-Prince Airfield. For six months, Gabe’s unit maintained security for the city and conducted humanitarian outreach for thousands of citizens in crisis.

In 2004, Gabe’s unit retired the specialized roll of the Marine Corp’s Anti-Terrorism Battalion and was sent to Fallujah, Iraq where he spent the remainder of his enlistment.  Gabe’s consistent and steady leadership during this time rendered him an honored and valued Marine.  He was promoted to Sergeant (E5), the highest rank allowed by the U.S. Marine Corps after just one four-year active duty tour. In addition, he was recognized and rewarded with over 15 medals and commendations. 

After serving 4 years active duty, Gabe returned to Boulder to attend the University of Colorado. In 2011, he graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelors Degree in Public Relations and Mediation.  Following enlistment, he taught martial arts and small-arms tactics in the USA and Colombia as well as self-defense classes for women and adolescents. 

Since 2005 Gabe has lived and traveled worldwide and has worked with a variety of clients in digital marketing and communications, including start-ups, non-profits, and The Economist. He is currently lives in Denver, Colorado and is employed as a marketing manager for a professional services firm.