Retired Agent
Ambassador with LightHouse Health and Wellness
Raul Rivas grew up in the Orlando area. After graduating
high school, he attended college and obtained an Associate Degree in
business. Raul then enlisted in the Army Reserve, and served overseas
during Desert Storm.
Raul was sworn into the Orlando Police Department in 1992. He was first
assigned to midnight patrol. Then he had stints on the bicycle squad and
gang unit, before moving on to a multi-agency undercover drug task force
named the Metropolitan Bureau of Investigation (MBI). Raul was a field
training officer and developed an interest in investigations and Swat.
Raul spent 12 years in the robbery unit with cross sworn duties with FBI
Safe Streets and ATF Violent Crimes task forces. At the same
time, Raul was an assault team member on the Swat team. Raul moved to
the Fugitive Investigations unit and was cross sworn with the
U.S.Marshal's.
Raul has received numerous awards and accolades to include the Award of
Valor, Field Training Officer of the Year, and Swat Operator of the Year,
and Florida Governors Award. Raul currently sits on the Florida Swat
Association, Swat Roundup International committee.
Raul Rivas served 18 yrs with Swat team and served as an Assistant Team
Leader. Raul was one of the Swat team members involved during the
"Pulse night club incident" shooting in Orlando, Florida. Raul received an
Award of Valor for his actions and involvement in the Pulse
Incident. Raul retired from the Orlando Police department in 2019. Raul
went through his own mental health challenges and with the help of others,
found ways to cope with his inner demons.
He then joined the Trauma Behind the Badge (TBTB) team in 2020. TBTB
helps to raise the awareness to first responders, veterans, and their
families about mental health resources. Raul is part of the TBTB weekly
webinar that consist of 4 first responders discussing all aspects of PTSD in
first responders and veterans.
Raul also sits on the board of the Survive First Foundation. Survive First
Foundation provides support to first responders, veterans, and their
families navigating mental health challenges.
Raul is also a product ambassador with Lighthouse Health & Wellness. A
100% confidential health and wellness app platform at no cost to public
safety agencies.
GS VI-2 - Life After the Pulse Incident
Friday, May 5, 2023
10:30am – 11:45am EST