Meet Apollo Hernandez

Apollo Hernandez is a former Recon Marine, multi-tour Iraq combat veteran, cybersecurity expert, husband, father, and proud Texan running to bring strong leadership and real conservative values back to the Texas Senate.

Early Life & Texas Roots

Apollo grew up in a working-class Texas family where service and responsibility were woven into everyday life. His father is a retired police officer that has worn a badge for more than 40 years and still serves today as a sheriff’s deputy. His wife spent years in the classroom as a public school teacher before becoming a devoted stay-at-home mom to their daughter.

These experiences shaped Apollo’s belief in hard work, integrity, service to others, and protecting the place we call home.

Service in the United States Marine Corps

Apollo enlisted in the Marine Corps as an Infantry Rifleman (0311) and went on to earn a place in one of the most elite units in the U.S. military — Marine Recon (0321).

He served multiple combat tours in Iraq, and fought in some of the largest operations in Iraq, including the 1st Battle of Fallujah and Operation Steel Curtain. He operated side-by-side with some of America’s most elite warriors, leading Marines in some of the most intense environments of the Global War on Terror.

That experience forged the discipline, clarity, and courage he carries into every challenge today.

Professional Career in Cybersecurity

After leaving the military, Apollo transitioned into cybersecurity — protecting companies, governments, and communities from cyber criminals and nation-state threats.

He currently serves as a Security Advisor (Field CISO) with Splunk (now Cisco), helping organizations secure their systems, reduce risk, and stay ahead of rapidly evolving cyber threats.

His background gives him a unique perspective on safeguarding Texas’s power grid, water systems, schools, businesses, and hospitals — all of which are increasingly targeted by foreign actors.

Education & Training

Apollo is a lifelong learner who believes leaders should continually sharpen their skills and stay ahead of emerging challenges.

He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Middle Eastern Studies & History from the University of Texas at Austin, with a minor in Government.

He later earned a Master of Science in Technology Commercialization (MSTC) from the McCombs School of Business at The University of Texas at Austin, where he studied innovation, technology commercialization, entrepreneurial strategy, and how to bring cutting-edge solutions to market.

He also holds a Master of Jurisprudence in Cybersecurity Law & Policy from the Texas A&M School of Law, expanding his expertise into the legal, regulatory, and policy aspects of protecting critical systems and data.

Family and Faith

Apollo lives in Georgetown with his wife — a former teacher — and their young daughter. As a father, he is deeply committed to ensuring Texas remains a place where children can grow, thrive, and one day afford to build their own families. He and his family attend City Church in Georgetown, TX. 

His values are grounded in faith, family, service, and a belief that Texas is worth protecting.