Colonel U.S. Army Douglas Sheldon

Colonel Douglas Sheldon, U.S. Army (Retired), 82, husband of Susan McCauley Sheldon, passed away Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at his home.
Born January 16, 1943, in Des Moines, Iowa, he was the son of the late James and Mildred McNay Sheldon. A 1961 graduate of Roosevelt High School, he earned his degree from the University of Iowa in 1965.
Colonel Sheldon was commissioned a Second Lieutenant of Military Intelligence in 1966 and began a distinguished 30-year career in the United States Army. A veteran of two tours in Vietnam and service in Panama, his assignments took him from the jungles of Southeast Asia to Fort Bragg, the Pentagon, and ultimately to the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM). In every post, he left a lasting legacy for generations of military professionals who followed him.
During his first assignment in Vietnam, Colonel Sheldon advised an Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) clan collection unit, establishing a strong partnership that resulted in vital intelligence on enemy operations in the Central Highlands. Returning to Vietnam three years later to advise the same unit, he expanded operations into tribal territories, significantly increasing critical reporting.
Upon returning stateside in 1972, he was assigned as S2 for the 3rd Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division, where he pioneered tactics, techniques, and procedures for tactical intelligence collection operations. He also developed and tested the first employment methods for unattended ground sensors within the continental United States.
In 1976, Colonel Sheldon became an Operations Staff Officer at U.S. Forces Command, where he developed the intelligence force structure to support general war plans in Europe. He was later selected as the trusted intelligence agent in the assessment of what became the U.S. Army's elite Delta Force, leading to his selection as one of the founding members of the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC). As Deputy J2 for Operations (CHOPS), he played a vital role in building the military's premier intelligence capability and establishing the foundation of joint special operations intelligence.
Colonel Sheldon went on to serve as G2 of the 82nd Airborne Division from 1984–1985 and later as Commander of the 313th Military Intelligence Battalion. In 1987, he was chosen by LTG Sidney T. Weinstein, the Army's Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence, to assist in developing the intelligence structure for the emerging USSOCOM. He subsequently served as Deputy J2 for the U.S. Southern Command during Operation Urgent Fury in Grenada and the early stages of counter-narcotics operations in South America, later commanding the Army's Office of Military Support.
He concluded his military service as J2, USSOCOM, and continued his dedication to the defense community for another 15 years as a civilian intelligence leader with USSOCOM. His efforts expanded intelligence capabilities and strengthened support for Special Operations Forces around the world.
Colonel Sheldon's career was marked by innovation, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to mission success. His leadership and vision influenced Military Intelligence and Special Operations communities for decades. His awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, the USSOCOM Outstanding Civilian Service Medal, and the Master Parachutist Badge. In 2015, he was inducted into the Military Intelligence Hall of Fame.
In addition to his devoted wife of 56 years, he is survived by a daughter, Kristen Sheldon of Charlotte, NC; a son, Scott (Aundria) Sheldon of Atlanta, GA; two grandsons, Nolan and Grant Sheldon; and two beloved granddogs, Oscar and Tater.
No services are planned at this time. Interment with full military honors will take place in Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.
Memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/