Rise

A Soldier, a Dream, and a Promise Kept

By: Daniel Rodriguez

Narrated by: Andrew Eiden

The unforgettable story of a young soldier who survived one of the bloodiest battles in Afghanistan and lived to pursue his dream of playing Division I college football

At 5-foot-8, 175 pounds, Daniel Rodriguez was an unlikely recruit for the gridiron. But on the battlefield, under the daily rain of sniper fire, he made a promise to his best friend. "When I get out of this shit hole, I'm going to play college football."

Daniel had joined the Army just weeks after graduating from high school, having recently suffered a devastating loss. At age nineteen he had no idea what war really was; he just wanted to get out of town. Almost immediately, he was deployed to Iraq, and he would later serve in Afghanistan. And he grew up fast - stopped sleeping, started smoking. Killing became second nature. He fought in the infamous Battle of Kamdesh, and for his bravery he was awarded a Purple Heart and the Bronze Star. But his best friend was not so lucky.

Against all odds, Daniel returned home - broken but still alive. Stuck in the clutches of PTSD, Daniel remembered the promise he made to his friend and knew he had to make good on it. He embarked on a grueling training regimen, and when he posted a video of his efforts, it went viral overnight. By some mix of grit, determination, and the power of the Internet, he earned a spot on the Clemson University football team.

A powerfully delivered narrative of a young soldier, his unlikely dream, and how he found his way out of darkness, Rise is inspiring, quintessentially American, and will resonate with anyone who has ever fought for what they wanted.

©2015 Daniel Rodriguez (P)2015 Blackstone Audio, Inc.

Amazing !!!

All I can say is “AMAZING!!!” It is am amazing storytelling!!! I will share it with all my family and friends

I couldn’t recommend this enough!

This is a great book! Thoroughly enjoyed listening. Interesting insight into life, and I truly felt it when he was speaking about his dad.

Loved it!

Great insight on military life and collegiate sports. It was also inspiring and educational. I highly recommend it.

AMAZING

This is a free book and and exceeded all my expectations. I’ve been listening to a lot of Afghan, Iraq war books and this is one of my favorites… He’s not a stud Navy Seal, but a regular infantry guy who performed with heroism and honor.

As far as college football, even greater story than Rudy!!

Inspiring and Affirming!

Well-written and narrated account of a transformed and successful life, overcoming so many obstacles.