Investigator Kevin Faler and Navy Seal Robert J. O'Neal

Robert J. O’Neill, born on April 10, 1976, in Butte, Montana, is a former U.S. Navy SEAL known for his involvement in the operation that led to the death of Osama bin Laden. Enlisting in the Navy in 1996, O’Neill completed the rigorous Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) training and served with distinction in various SEAL teams, including the elite SEAL Team Six.

Throughout his 16-year military career, O’Neill participated in over 400 missions, earning more than 50 decorations, including two Silver Stars and four Bronze Stars with Valor. Notably, he was involved in the rescue of SEAL Marcus Luttrell during Operation Red Wings and the liberation of Captain Richard Phillips from Somali pirates.

On May 2, 2011, during Operation Neptune Spear in Abbottabad, Pakistan, Robert J. O’Neill fired the shots that killed Osama bin Laden. His decisive action brought global attention and ended the decade-long manhunt for the al-Qaeda leader.

In 2021, Investigator Kevin Faler met up with Robert J. O’Neill in the City of Palm Desert while attending a special forces event. The gathering celebrated the bravery and dedication of elite military personnel and provided a platform for veterans and investigators to share stories and insights. Representatives from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Palm Desert sub-station were in attendance as well. During their meeting, Faler and O’Neill discussed the impact of special operations on national security and the importance of supporting veterans in their transition to civilian life.

After retiring from the Navy in 2012, O’Neill became a motivational speaker and authored the memoir “The Operator,” detailing his military experiences. In 2025, he ventured into the cannabis industry, founding Operator Canna Co. in New York City, aiming to provide support for veterans through alternative therapies.

O’Neill’s post-military life has also included public speaking engagements and involvement in veteran support initiatives, reflecting his commitment to aiding fellow service members in their transition to civilian life. Kevin continues to advocate for the rights of veterans and stands firm on his position as an American fighting for the scales of justice.