COLONEL LUIS “FRED” ORTIZ, USA, RETD.
JULO Advisor
Originally from Mexico City, Mexico, he obtained a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of Kansas, a master’s degree in continuing adult education from Kansas State University, and a master’s degree in strategic studies from the Army War College.
After college, Fred worked as a Quality Control Technician for Century Oils Inc. in Kansas City for two years. He then joined the Army, serving for 35 years in various roles. During his time as an Enlisted Soldier and Non-commissioned Officer (NCO), he was deployed for combat operations in the Gulf War. Throughout his military career, Fred held command positions at different levels, including Squad, Platoon, Company, Battalion, and Brigade. He commanded diverse organizations, ranging from Logistical and Recruiting Companies to Chemical Ammunition Plants and Arsenals, overseeing both military personnel and civilian contractors.
At the staff level, Fred provided specialized support in positions such as Observer/Trainer, preparing commanders and staff for deployment to Iraq and Afghanistan. He also served as an Operations Officer at different levels within the Army system. In 44 months of combat (Desert Storm / Desert Shield; Operation Enduring Freedom – OEF IX, XI, and XIII), he fulfilled roles such as squad leader, staff planner supporting Afghan security forces, and Current Operations Officer for Combined Joint Task Force-1.
Throughout his career, Fred has excelled in team building and leadership, guiding teams through challenging situations with positive outcomes. Examples include successful recruitment efforts during the early stages of the War on Terrorism (OIF/OEF), fostering productive negotiations between Pakistani and Afghan Soldiers, and overseeing pre-deployment training for combat operations. He has also led teams during natural disasters, supported the Afghanistan withdrawal, and deployed forces in support of NATO during the conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
Fred’s accomplishments have earned him numerous awards, including the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and many more. He is married to Stacey Morris from Overland Park, Kansas, and they have four children and 12 grandchildren.
JOHN BUESE
PATRICIA (TRISH) MURPHY