Meet Sal

Sal Gonzalez enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps after the 9/11 attacks, inspired to give back to the country that had given his family so much. In 2004, while serving in Iraq, his truck was hit by an IED, resulting in the loss of his left leg below the knee, PTSD, and a traumatic brain injury. While recovering in a Maryland hospital, Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) helped change his outlook on life.

Determined to thrive and honor his fallen comrades, Sal began sharing his experiences to encourage other veterans to seek help. Music played a crucial role in his recovery, allowing him to process emotions and inspire others. His talent gained national attention, leading to appearances on “America’s Got Talent” and “Nashville,” and the release of his EP, “Heroes,” in 2020. Sal continues to support his family through his music career, living his dream and showing other veterans that it’s possible to follow their passions and lead fulfilling lives.

More about Sal

Inspirational Insights

Sal captivates audiences nationwide with his inspiring talks on these and other topics.

Music as Therapy

 

Radical Gratitude

Overcoming Self-Doubt

The Power of Storytelling

Mental Health & Suicide Awareness

 

Teamwork

Where He’s Spoken

Sal has spoken at a variety of events — from casual community gatherings to team building retreats to formal receptions for our corporate partners, and just about everything in between.

  • Cava
  • Chicago Steel Hockey
  • CSX
  • Goldman Sachs
  • Grand Ole Opry
  • Johnson & Johnson
  • KPMG
  • Microsoft
  • Natl Science Foundation
  • NFL
  • Nissan
  • Staples
  • TikTok
  • UPS
  • USDA
  • Walmart

Here’s What People Are Saying

Hear from attendees who felt energized, inspired, and motivated by Sal.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

“Sal brings his audience along with him during his rollercoaster journey through an impressive combination of candor, gifted storytelling, humor and song.  Regardless of the audience, Sal is sure to connect and keep them engaged.”

Goldman Sachs

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

“Our audience members are mental health professionals, and as a whole they were very moved by Sal Gonzalez's keynote on radical gratitude and how he used music in his healing journey.”

PESI

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

“I cannot say enough good things about Sal Gonzalez.  I received so many compliments after the event about how meaningful his speech was, and how much of a positive impact it provided.”

American Family Insurance

See Sal in Action

Experience the genuine voice and heartfelt impact Sal brings to every conversation and engagement.

Wounded Warrior Sal Gonzalez With Guitar No Background

“When you learn to be grateful for everything that you have, including the air you breathe, any adversity life throws your way becomes just another bump in the road of life.”

Wounded Warrior
Sal Gonzalez

Making Headlines

Learn more about Sal Gonzalez and how he helps raise awareness for the needs of injured veterans and their families.

Wounded warrior Sal Gonzalez performs on stage at the Grand Ole Opry.

Marine Veteran Makes Music Debut at Grand Ole Opry

Wounded warrior Sal Gonzalez performs in a suit with a guitar around his neck against a blue backdrop that says “Benefit for the Brave”.

From U.S. Marine to Artist, Singer, Songwriter

Wounded warrior Sal Gonzalez is backlit by the sun while holding a guitar against the backdrop of a blue sky and palm trees.

Sal Gonzalez Performs on America’s Got Talent