Jim Roddy (Rod) Paschall was a United States (U.S.) Army officer, military historian, editor, researcher, consultant, defense analyst, and college instructor. He graduated from the United States Military Academy (USMA) in 1959 and received training in infantry, airborne, and ranger areas. Between 1959 and 1968 Paschall commanded special operations and infantry units in Laos, South Vietnam, and South Korea, including a platoon of the 101st Airborne Division.
From 1971 to 1974, Paschall was an assistant professor of history at USMA. In 1974, he was transferred to Cambodia to work in special operations. From 1975-1979, he commanded the 3rd Battalion of the 5th Special Forces Group and had staff assignments in special operations. He recommended the formationof U.S. Central Command (USCENTCOM) and wrote papers on joint special operations topics.
From 1980 to 1982 Paschall commanded Delta Force and then served at the U.S. Army Special Warfare Center where he worked on peacekeeping doctrine. From 1984 to 1989, he was the director of the U.S. Army Miltary History Institute (USAMHI) and retired from the military in 1989. After 1989, he served as a consultant and wrote many papers, articles, and books.
From the description of Jim Roddy Paschall papers, 1959-1999. (US Army, Mil Hist Institute). WorldCat record id: 52507510
