When the world thinks of grit, resilience, and the refusal to quit, Lieutenant Brad Snyder’s story rises to the top as an extraordinary example of what it means to serve, overcome, and lead. A 2006 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Snyder has become one of the most inspiring figures in modern sports and military history. His journey from Navy officer to decorated Paralympic champion reminds us that leadership isn’t just taught at the Academy - it’s lived, tested, and proven long after graduation.
A Life of Service Before the Starting Block
Before Lieutenant Snyder earned international acclaim as one of the most celebrated Paralympic male swimmers, he served the country as a Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) officer - one of the most demanding and high-risk jobs in the military. EOD officers are trained to disarm or neutralize dangerous devices such as an IED bomb or other hazardous threats. Their work requires precision, judgment, and courage under immense pressure.
In 2011, during his service in Afghanistan, Snyder encountered an IED weapon while aiding fellow service members injured by another bombing. The explosion left him permanently blind. It was the kind of life-altering moment that could have ended dreams and closed doors. Instead, Snyder used it as the beginning of an entirely new chapter.
From Injury to Incredible Achievement
Remarkably, Snyder returned to the swimming pool just months after his injury. A standout swimmer and swim team captain during his time at the Naval Academy, he had always found confidence and clarity in the water. Now, it became both refuge and rallying point, a way to reclaim independence and channel his competitive spirit.
Lieutenant Snyder sustained complete vision loss as a result of the explosion, but did not suffer any other lasting wounds. As a part of his rehabilitation process he returned to the pool, and earned a spot on the U.S. Paralympic National Team for swimming after a few months of training.
Within a year of his injury, Snyder qualified for the 2012 Summer Paralympics in London. His performance there wasn’t just impressive, it was historic. He competed in seven events and earned three swimming medals - two gold in the 100-meter freestyle and 400-meter freestyle, and a silver in the 50-meter freestyle. His 400-meter victory occurred exactly one year to the date of his September 7th, 2011 life-changing injury.
In 2013, Snyder medically retired from Naval service and - three years later - was back in the pool at the Rio de Janeiro Paralympic Games, fighting for first in five events. There, he claimed three gold medals and one silver medal. Snyder also broke the 30-year-old plus world record for fully blind swimmers in the 100-meter freestyle in 2016. Hungry for more challenges, he turned his attention toward triathlons, taking gold at the Tokyo Games for Team USA. All told, he’s earned six gold medals, two silver, and a world record.
Lieutenant Snyder’s achievements set a new standard in adaptive athletics, showing the world what determination, discipline, and heart - qualities that were strengthened and shaped during his years at USNA - can accomplish.
Related: USNA Distinguished Graduate: Admiral James Stavridis
Why His Story Matters for Today’s Midshipmen
After retiring from active duty, Snyder continued to lead, not just by breaking athletic records, but by becoming an advocate for veterans, athletes with disabilities, and anyone striving to overcome hardship. Whether speaking to midshipmen or representing Team USA, he shows what it looks like to confront adversity with optimism and purpose. His legacy is not only in the medals he’s won or the records he’s set, it’s in the lives he inspires.
As midshipmen walk the Yard today - rushing to class, training on Worden Field, or preparing for their own future tours - they follow in the footsteps of graduates like Snyder. His journey shows them leadership is forged in challenge and the lessons learned at the Academy serve far beyond the walls of Bancroft Hall.
How You Can Support Future USNA Graduates
Supporting today’s midshipmen helps ensure the next generation can grow, learn, and lead with the same resilience Snyder exemplifies. Every time visitors come to the Yard (taking a USNA tour, enjoying a meal at our variety of restaurants, or shopping for unique gifts) they’re directly helping the Brigade. Revenue from these experiences funds extracurricular activities, club sports, leadership programs, cultural opportunities, and more. These are the very experiences that shape future U.S Navy and U.S. Marine Corps officers into leaders of character.
By visiting the Naval Academy, you’re doing more than sightseeing. You’re investing in the next wave of military leaders, athletes, innovators, and officers who will serve around the world. You’re helping to create an environment where future stories of courage, like Lieutenant Snyder’s, can begin.
Related: USNA Notable Graduate: Nicole Aunapu Mann
Come Be Part of the Legacy
Lieutenant Brad Snyder’s remarkable path from midshipman, to EOD officer, to Paralympic champion, staff member at the Stockdale Center, and USNA Distinguished Graduate, reminds us why the Naval Academy’s mission matters. When you walk across the Yard, cheer at a Brigade activity, or shop in support of midshipmen, you’re helping to sustain the programs that develop leaders capable of extraordinary things.
Visit the Yard. Celebrate the legacy. Support the future.
You never know - you may be helping launch the next legendary story.
