Herm Edwards follows military father's footsteps

First-year Arizona State University football Head Coach Herm Edwards has earned a reputation throughout his career for being an inspirational leader, and he learned how from his dad.

Growing up in a military family with a German mother and a soldier father, Edwards credits his upbringing for who he became. His father, an Army master sergeant, joined the military at 17 and served more than 20 years. Edwards’ family instilled discipline and responsibility in him. 

“I understood that the most powerful possession I would ever inherit from my parents was my last name,” Edwards said. It is that valued possession that has driven Edwards to strive to get the job done and do everything well because “that represents who we are.” 

Edwards remains grateful for all who have served the nation.

“I am very honored and humbled to be a part of the culture of this university, of being the head coach. And the fact that there is a representation of the military here, and that’s a part of our DNA,” Edwards said. Service is important to the university, and it gets talked about and highlighted, he said.

“That’s a good thing, and I’m glad I am a part of it,” Edwards said.

In celebration of Veterans Day, Arizona State University proudly honors veterans and active members of the military through Salute to Service. Your support helps veterans succeed. Text ASUVets to 41444 to donate to the Veterans Education Fund or visit veterans.asu.edu to learn how you can honor a veteran.