Robert O’Neill, the former Navy SEAL known for his role in the operation that took down Osama bin Laden, is now stepping into a completely different industry.
The decorated veteran has launched a cannabis company called Operator Canna Co, which aims to provide high-quality marijuana products while also supporting veterans struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other challenges.
His company plans to distribute cannabis products in New York City dispensaries, with a portion of the revenue directed toward helping disabled veterans through a charitable organization.
A New Mission for a Former Navy SEAL
After years of service in one of the most elite military units in the world, O’Neill has found a new purpose in the cannabis industry. His decision to enter this business stems from his personal experiences in the military and the difficulties he witnessed among veterans dealing with PTSD, anxiety, and other mental health issues.
He believes that cannabis can offer a safer and more effective alternative to alcohol and prescription medication, which are often used to cope with stress and trauma.
During an interview with the New York Post, O’Neill expressed his belief that cannabis could be a game-changer for veterans and others struggling with psychological stress.
He emphasized that marijuana helps take the edge off and quiets the mental noise that many veterans experience after combat. With this in mind, he founded Operator Canna Co, using his military background and personal experiences to shape the brand.
The ‘Operator’ Brand and Military Influence
Operator Canna Co draws heavily from O’Neill’s military roots. The brand name itself is a nod to his background as a Navy SEAL and is also the title of his memoir and podcast.
The company’s website reflects this military theme, featuring a green color scheme reminiscent of military fatigues, while the cursor is designed to resemble a sniper’s bullseye. The cannabis strains offered by the company continue this theme, with names such as ‘Healer-Indica,’ ‘Warrior-Sativa,’ and ‘Shooter-Hybrid.’
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The company’s products are cultivated at an upstate New York farm and will initially be available in select dispensaries, including The Flowery cannabis stores in Staten Island, Queens, the Upper West Side, and SoHo in Manhattan.
O’Neill is confident that his brand will not only provide premium-quality cannabis but also help remove the stigma surrounding marijuana use, particularly among those who have served in the military.
Cannabis as a Tool for Healing and Social Change
O’Neill acknowledges that, during his time in the military, marijuana use was strictly prohibited. However, now that he is a civilian, he has come to appreciate its benefits. He argues that cannabis can help veterans transition into civilian life, offering a healthier alternative to substances like alcohol and opioids, which have led to addiction crises in many communities.
Beyond the veteran community, O’Neill also sees cannabis as a means of fostering better communication and reducing societal divisions. He even jokingly suggested that marijuana could help ease political tensions and promote world peace, as it encourages open conversations and relaxation.
His company’s mission statement aligns with this vision, emphasizing a commitment to helping individuals find healthier alternatives to harmful substances and empowering those who have sacrificed for their country.
From the Battlefield to the Cannabis Industry
Robert O’Neill gained global recognition for his role in the 2011 raid on Osama bin Laden’s compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan. As a member of the elite SEAL Team 6, he played a pivotal role in one of the most significant military operations in modern history.
O’Neill has spoken openly about the intense emotions he experienced during the mission, recalling how he initially believed that bin Laden was wearing explosives that would detonate and kill the entire team. However, the operation was successfully completed, and O’Neill considers himself fortunate to have survived.
Now, over a decade later, he has transitioned from a military career to entrepreneurship, using his platform to advocate for veterans’ health and well-being. While his new venture may seem like a drastic shift from his past life, O’Neill views it as a continuation of his mission to serve and support those who have dedicated their lives to protecting others.
With Operator Canna Co, O’Neill hopes to make a lasting impact in the cannabis industry while also providing meaningful assistance to veterans in need. His story is a testament to the evolving perceptions of cannabis and its potential role in mental health treatment, particularly for those who have experienced the pressures of combat and high-stress environments.
let’s enjoy few years on earth with peace and happiness….✍🏼🙏