Combat Story

Gunnery Sergeant Timothy Colomer was a decorated EOD technician in Iraq when a daisy-chain IED detonated directly beneath his truck. The blast broke his helmet in half. It should have sent him home. Instead, he made a choice that defined his character—he stayed deployed to lead his team.

But the war wasn't over when the deployment ended. Back home, Timothy faced something harder than combat: uncontrollable rage, traumatic brain injury, and the struggle to find purpose. Then, unexpectedly, he picked up a paintbrush.

In this episode, AJ sits down with Timothy to explore his unlikely journey from bombs to canvas—and how a single painting of a female warrior reconnected a suicidal Marine with her daughter, leading her to therapy, recovery, and reconnection with her family. Timothy shares how his art went viral on cruise ships, how his work will be etched into marble at the Marine Corps EOD Monument at Quantico, and what it means when the tools that kept you alive in war become tools that destroy you in peace.

This is a story about transformation, the power of vulnerability, and finding a new way to serve.

Guest Information — Timothy Colomer

Gunnery Sergeant Timothy Colomer is a retired U.S. Marine EOD Technician who served multiple deployments including one combat deployment in Iraq. On December 11, 2006, he sustained severe blast injuries from a daisy-chain IED that fractured his helmet and caused traumatic brain injury—yet chose to remain deployed to lead his team. After leaving active duty, Colomer transitioned to professional artist, using his work to process trauma and support fellow veterans. His paintings have reconnected suicidal Marines with their families, gone viral globally, and will be permanently etched into marble on the EOD Obelisk at the Marine Corps Museum in Quantico, Virginia (unveiling May 2027).

Find Timothy online: Art Portfolio: www.littledogartstudios.com Instagram: @littledogartstudioshouston

Host Information — AJ Pasciuti

AJ Pasciuti is a retired Marine Force Recon Scout Sniper and Infantry Weapons Officer (Marine Gunner) with 21 years of service and multiple combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. He is the author of Darkhorse: Harnessing Hidden Potential in War and Life and the host and creator of the Combat Story Podcast, where veterans share honest, unfiltered stories of service, leadership, combat experience, and life after war. Through Combat Story, AJ's mission is to capture the real moments that shaped warriors—not invented drama, but the specific incidents and choices that define character—and to honor the lineage and lessons of military service.

Find AJ online: Book (Darkhorse): https://ajpasciuti.com/darkhorse Website: https://www.ajpasciuti.com Instagram: @ajpasciuti LinkedIn: /angelo-pasciuti Combat Story Podcast: https://combatstory.com

Alex Lemons survived the Battle of An Najaf without a scratch from the enemy — and nearly died from friendly fire instead, when a young Marine mistook him for an insurgent and put six rounds past him from fifteen yards away.

This is Part 2 with Alex Lemons, a former Marine Scout Sniper, Iraq War veteran, and co-author of Warbody with environmental historian Joshua Howe. We pick up in Najaf and Fallujah in 2004, follow Alex through two more deployments including a year advising Iraqi and Polish forces under General Petraeus, and then get into why he and Josh wrote the book: the case that concussions, PTSD, and toxic exposure — lead, burn pits, contaminated water at Camp Lejeune — compound on each other in ways the military has never fully accounted for, and what that means for how we treat veterans of every generation who've served since.

This one's long, and it's worth sitting with. Especially if you've served, or you're close to someone who has.

Subscribe and follow Combat Story wherever you listen.

Guest Information — Alexander Lemons

Alexander Lemons is a former U.S. Marine Scout Sniper and Bronze Star recipient who served multiple combat deployments during the Iraq War, including Nasiriyah and Fallujah. He is the co-author of War Body: A Marine Sniper and the Hidden Violence of Modern Warfare, a powerful look at the hidden physical and psychological costs of combat and what war leaves behind long after the shooting stops.

War Body: https://wwnorton.com/books/9781324066330 Featured Article: https://www.hcn.org/issues/57-2/a-veteran-transforms-a-legacy-of-violence-into-a-campaign-for-restoration/

Host Information — AJ Pasciuti

AJ Pasciuti is a retired Marine Force Recon Scout Sniper and Infantry Weapons Officer (Marine Gunner), author of Darkhorse: Harnessing Hidden Potential in War and Life, and host of the Combat Story Podcast, where veterans share honest, unfiltered stories of service, leadership, and life after combat.

Find AJ online: Book (Darkhorse): https://ajpasciuti.com/darkhorse Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajpasciuti/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelo-pasciuti/ Website: https://www.ajpasciuti.com/

Chapters 0:00 – One round, twelve inches from his face 2:37 – Chasing a flyer into the sniper platoon 13:14 – A guerrilla war nobody upstairs would admit to 17:29 – Sniper school, and the partner he lost before he ever deployed 48:38 – Into the Battle of An Najaf 58:36 – The 1,600-yard shot, and the tank he had to call in 1:12:17 – Losing Sergeant Rochas — then almost losing himself to his own side 1:22:45 – Two stories through a roof: the injury that started the clock 1:26:16 – A second deployment, and leadership that nearly got them killed 1:41:19 – Walking away from the Corps to advise generals in Iraq 1:50:26 – Coming home to a Marine Corps — and a body — that didn't fit anymore 2:00:24 – The anorexia, and the lead he didn't know he was wearing 2:44:37 – Three forces: concussions, PTSD, and toxicants 3:19:47 – "The war is continuing in everybody's body"

He thought he was accepting a routine IT contract.

Instead, Peter Moore disappeared into captivity for 946 days.

In 2007, British IT consultant Peter Moore traveled to Baghdad believing he would be helping rebuild Iraq's Ministry of Finance from the safety of the Green Zone. Days after arriving, he and four British security contractors were kidnapped by an Iranian-backed militia.

Peter would spend the next 946 days as a hostage.

For more than two and a half years, he endured isolation, psychological torture, repeated mock executions, and the daily uncertainty of whether he would ever see his family again. The four men kidnapped alongside him never made it home.

This is Peter Moore's only long-form interview about his captivity.

In this extraordinary conversation, Peter shares the full story—from accepting what he thought was a routine overseas contract to surviving one of the longest hostage ordeals of the Iraq War. He reflects on the mindset that carried him through captivity, the routines that kept him alive, the power of hope and humor in the darkest moments, and what it means to rebuild a life after unimaginable trauma.

This isn't simply a story about being held hostage.

It's a conversation about resilience, perspective, and the extraordinary strength of the human spirit.

00:00 Peter Realizes He's Been Kidnapped 02:00 Introduction 03:02 Peter Moore's Background 10:14 The IT Contract That Changed Everything 15:11 Why He Accepted a Job in Baghdad 25:52 Arriving in Iraq 32:39 Day One in the Green Zone 40:28 The Kidnapping Begins 53:37 Life as a Hostage 1:06:58 The Mock Execution That Changed Everything 1:15:47 Deciding to Survive 1:27:41 Building Routines to Stay Alive 1:44:26 The Interrogations 1:58:11 Humor as a Survival Tool 2:10:54 Learning the Fate of the Other Hostages 2:24:37 The Day He Was Released 2:39:15 Returning Home After 946 Days 2:46:22 The British Embassy & The First Taste of Freedom 2:52:18 Life After Captivity 3:00:46 Final Reflections on Survival & Resilience

Peter Moore is a British IT consultant who traveled to Iraq in 2007 to support reconstruction efforts following the Iraq War. Just days after arriving in Baghdad, he and four British security contractors were kidnapped by an Iranian-backed militia. Peter spent 946 days in captivity before being released in December 2009, making him one of the longest-held Western civilian hostages of the Iraq War. Today, he speaks about resilience, survival, and the mindset that carried him through one of the most extraordinary hostage experiences of the 21st century.

AJ Pasciuti is a retired Marine Force Recon Scout Sniper and Infantry Weapons Officer (Marine Gunner), author of Darkhorse: Harnessing Hidden Potential in War and Life, and host of the Combat Story Podcast, where veterans and extraordinary individuals share honest, unfiltered stories of combat, leadership, resilience, and life after adversity.

Find AJ Online:

Darkhorse: https://www.ajpasciuti.com/book Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajpasciuti/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelo-pasciuti/ Website: https://www.ajpasciuti.com/

Combat Story is a podcast featuring authentic, long-form conversations with veterans, intelligence professionals, first responders, and remarkable individuals whose experiences offer lessons in leadership, resilience, and service. Every episode goes beyond the headlines to explore the human stories behind extraordinary events.

Follow Combat Story wherever you listen to podcasts, and join us every other Sunday for conversations that preserve history, inspire leadership, and remind us what people are truly capable of when everything is on the line.

What happens after the writing is done and the book has to face the world?

Nearly two months after the release of Darkhorse: Harnessing Hidden Potential in War and Life, the microphone changes hands.

Combat Story founder Ryan Fugit returns to interview current host AJ Pasciuti in a candid conversation recorded in New York City just days after the launch of Darkhorse. Together, they reflect on the journey from manuscript to publication, the emotional weight of sharing deeply personal stories, and why the mission has always been bigger than a single book.

The conversation explores the lessons behind Darkhorse, the Marines and mentors who shaped AJ's life, the realities of publishing a memoir, and the future of Combat Story as a community dedicated to preserving the stories of those who have served while inspiring leadership, resilience, and service beyond the military.

Whether you've been with Combat Story since Ryan hosted the show or recently discovered it through AJ, this special episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes conversation about where Combat Story began, how it has evolved, and where it's headed next.

00:00 Intro 02:46 The Fear of Publishing a Memoir 04:46 Arnold Schwarzenegger's Endorsement 07:50 Writing a Memoir Without Sounding Like a Narcissist 10:20 Breaking Into Publishing 12:02 Who Is Darkhorse For? 13:50 Fact-Checked by the Director of the Marine Corps Museum 18:35 Cold Calling the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps 20:20 The Weight of Carrying Combat Story 22:10 The Desert Storm Podumentary 25:36 The Darkhorse Ethos 34:14 Reading the Comments After the Big Podcasts 36:10 The Push Behind Darkhorse 38:22 Ryan's New Podcast: Restricted Handling 40:07 Ryan Reveals His Book

AJ Pasciuti is a retired Marine Force Recon Scout Sniper and Infantry Weapons Officer (Marine Gunner), author of Darkhorse: Harnessing Hidden Potential in War and Life, and host of the Combat Story Podcast, where veterans share honest, unfiltered stories of service, leadership, and life after combat.

Find AJ Online:

📕 Darkhorse: https://www.ajpasciuti.com/book 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajpasciuti/ 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelo-pasciuti/ 🌐 Website: https://www.ajpasciuti.com/

Ryan Fugit is the founder of Combat Story, a former U.S. Army AH-64 Apache pilot, former CIA Operations Officer, and host of Restricted Handling, where he explores geopolitics, intelligence, and national security with experts from around the world.

Find Ryan Online:

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-fugit 🎙️ Restricted Handling: https://www.restrictedhandling.com

Follow Combat Story wherever you listen to podcasts, and join us for new episodes every other Sunday.

What does it take to lead one of the largest air assault operations in military history?

Retired Army Colonel Frank Hancock joins Combat Story to share a firsthand account of planning and executing the historic 101st Airborne Division air assault during Operation Desert Storm. From intelligence preparation and mission planning to leadership under fire and the evolution of Army doctrine after Vietnam, Frank provides an inside look at one of America's defining military campaigns.

AJ and Frank also discuss mission command, the role of intelligence in combat, how military leaders make decisions in uncertain environments, and why the lessons of Desert Storm continue to shape modern warfare today.

Whether you're interested in military history, Army aviation, leadership, or Special Operations, this conversation offers valuable insights from someone who helped lead one of the most significant operations of the Gulf War.

This episode is part of Combat Story, where veterans and leaders share the experiences that shaped them in combat and beyond.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction 02:34 Frank Hancock's path into Army Aviation 09:42 Learning leadership as a young officer 17:26 Building the 101st Airborne after Vietnam 27:11 Preparing for Operation Desert Shield 38:54 Planning the largest air assault of Desert Storm 52:37 Intelligence that changed the mission 1:05:48 Launching deep into Iraq 1:18:42 Leadership under uncertainty 1:31:57 Mission command and battlefield decision-making 1:44:23 Lessons from Desert Storm that still matter today 1:57:36 Advice for the next generation of leaders 2:05:18 Final thoughts

Guest — Frank Hancock Retired U.S. Army intelligence officer, Desert Storm veteran, and author of Operation Desert Storm: How Two Young Intelligence Analysts and an Infantry Battalion Changed the War in Iraq. Frank brings firsthand experience from one of the most successful military campaigns in modern history, offering a rare insider perspective on intelligence, leadership, and warfare.

📘 Operation Desert Storm https://www.amazon.com/dp/1036130437

✍️ Signed Copies https://www.whistlestopbookshop.com/operation-desert-storm

📘 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61579963121498

Host — AJ Pasciuti Retired Marine Force Recon Scout Sniper and Marine Gunner, author of Darkhorse: Harnessing Hidden Potential in War and Life, and host of Combat Story.

📕 Darkhorse https://ajpasciuti.com/Darkhorse

📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/ajpasciuti/

🔗 Website https://www.ajpasciuti.com/

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In Episode 2 of Reconnaissance Man, presented in partnership with Combat Story, we follow U.S. Marine Corps Lieutenant James "Jim" Steele through two defining Cold War flashpoints: the Cuban Missile Crisis and the Dominican Civil War.

After returning from Vietnam and serving at Parris Island, Steele finds himself watching the Cuban Missile Crisis unfold from stateside. Unsatisfied with secondhand reporting and eager to understand what American forces were actually doing at Guantanamo Bay, he carries out an unauthorized mission of his own making, sneaking onto a military transport bound for Cuba during one of the most dangerous moments in modern history.

What he finds at Gitmo surprises him.

Despite the world standing on the edge of nuclear war, Steele sees defensive preparations that fall far short of what he expected. The experience reinforces one of his lifelong lessons: reconnaissance means seeing for yourself.

The episode then follows Steele to the Dominican Republic during Operation Power Pack, where U.S. forces intervened during the Dominican Civil War. There, Steele serves as an aerial observer, helps locate a hidden enemy tank, calls in fires, and reflects on the poverty, instability, and human suffering beneath the larger Cold War struggle.

This chapter of Reconnaissance Man is about initiative, risk, Cold War tension, and the instincts of a Marine reconnaissance officer who was never content to stay on the sidelines.

CHAPTERS

00:00 The Cuban Missile Crisis Begins 01:44 Introducing James "Jim" Steele 03:01 A Hard-Charging Marine Instructor 07:29 Sneaking into Guantanamo Bay 11:20 Life Inside Gitmo During the Missile Crisis 13:53 What Steele Found Defending Guantanamo 16:52 Cold War Technology and Burst Communications 17:56 The Cuban Missile Crisis Comes to an End 19:43 The Court-Martial That Never Happened 21:40 Operation Power Pack Begins 24:23 Deploying to the Dominican Republic 27:58 Hunting an Enemy Tank from the Air 31:53 The Reality Behind the Headlines 34:17 Fighting Poverty, Not Just Rebels 36:02 How the Dominican Civil War Ended 36:54 Episode 3 Preview: Back to Vietnam

Created by investigative journalist Ashly McGlone in collaboration with the Marine Reconnaissance Foundation (MRF), and visually brought to life by Combat Story, Reconnaissance Man is a nine-part limited series following Steele's extraordinary 30-year military career through Vietnam, the Cold War, and beyond.

🎙️ Guest — James Lyle Steele

James Lyle Steele is a retired U.S. Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel whose 30-year career carried him through Vietnam, the Cold War, and beyond. A member of the original generation of Marine reconnaissance men, Steele's story offers a rare firsthand look at war, survival, and service across decades of American military history.

Ashly McGlone is an investigative journalist and the creator of Reconnaissance Man. As Steele's granddaughter, she pairs reporting, narration, and historical context with family connection to bring his extraordinary story to life with depth and care.

🔗 Find Reconnaissance Man and Ashly McGlone Online:

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reconnaissanceman/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashlyreports/ ✖️ X (Reconnaissance Man): https://x.com/ReconManPod ✖️ X (Ashly McGlone): https://x.com/AshlyReports

🎙️ Host — AJ Pasciuti

AJ Pasciuti is a retired Marine Force Recon Scout Sniper and Infantry Weapons Officer (Marine Gunner), author of Darkhorse: Harnessing Hidden Potential in War and Life, and host of the Combat Story Podcast, where veterans share honest, unfiltered stories of service, leadership, and life after combat.

🔗 Find AJ Online:

📕 Darkhorse: https://www.ajpasciuti.com/Darkhorse 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajpasciuti/ 📘 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelo-pasciuti/ 🔗 Website: https://www.ajpasciuti.com/

🔔 Watch. Listen. Follow.

If you value real stories and honest perspectives from those who lived it, follow Combat Story wherever you get your podcasts.

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Before Delta Force, before the Global War on Terror, and before the Berlin Wall fell, a small group of Green Berets operated inside one of the most dangerous cities on earth.

In this episode of Combat Story, AJ Pasciuti sits down with retired U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 4, former Green Beret, former U.S. Foreign Service Political Officer, military historian, and author James Stejskal to explore the little-known story of Special Forces Detachment A Berlin, a classified Cold War unit tasked with operating behind Soviet lines in the event World War III broke out.

James shares his journey from Nebraska to the 82nd Airborne, Special Forces selection, and 10th Special Forces Group before pulling back the curtain on life inside divided Berlin. He explains how Green Berets prepared for sabotage missions, resistance operations, intelligence gathering, clandestine identities, and counterterrorism missions while surrounded by Soviet and East German forces.

Along the way, we discuss Cold War espionage, unconventional warfare, the evolution of Special Forces after Vietnam, early counterterrorism operations before Delta Force, and the lessons modern operators can learn from a generation that spent decades preparing for a conflict that never came.

This is a fascinating look at one of the most secretive units in Special Forces history and the men who stood ready to fight World War III from behind enemy lines.

James Stejskal is a retired U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 4, former Green Beret, former U.S. Foreign Service Political Officer, military historian, conflict archaeologist, and author of 12 books.

He served 23 years in U.S. Army Special Forces and special mission units before continuing his government service overseas. He is the author of Special Forces Berlin: Clandestine Cold War Operations of the US Army's Elite, Masters of Mayhem, and The Snake Eater Chronicles Cold War espionage series.

Website: https://www.jamesstejskalauthor.com

Retired Marine Force Recon Scout Sniper and Marine Gunner, author of Darkhorse: Harnessing Hidden Potential in War and Life, and host of Combat Story.

Darkhorse: https://ajpasciuti.com/book Website: https://www.ajpasciuti.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajpasciuti/

00:00 Introduction 01:08 Meet James Stejskal 05:35 Growing Up in Nebraska 13:42 Becoming a Green Beret 24:10 Life in 10th Special Forces Group 34:22 The Road to Berlin 44:05 Special Forces Detachment A 56:48 Inside Cold War Berlin 1:08:14 Preparing for World War III 1:18:37 Sabotage and Unconventional Warfare 1:28:21 Espionage and Tradecraft 1:39:52 Resistance Networks Behind Enemy Lines 1:49:46 Counterterrorism Before Delta Force 2:00:33 The Soviet Threat 2:10:18 Lessons from the Cold War 2:18:55 From Green Beret to Historian 2:26:48 Preserving Hidden History 2:34:10 Leadership and Service 2:41:30 Final Thoughts

How does a West Point graduate and Army Ranger go from military service to winning The Apprentice and building one of the most successful veteran-focused venture capital firms in America?

In this episode of Combat Story, AJ Pasciuti sits down with Kelly Perdew to discuss leadership, service, entrepreneurship, and the lessons that carried him from the U.S. Army to the national spotlight and beyond.

Kelly shares his journey through West Point, Army Intelligence, and Ranger School before discussing the experience of competing on—and ultimately winning—Season 2 of The Apprentice. He reflects on the leadership lessons he learned in uniform, how military experience shaped his approach to business, and why veterans often possess unique advantages as entrepreneurs and leaders.

The conversation also explores startup failures, venture capital, the founding of Moonshots Capital, and the importance of backing mission-driven founders who can thrive in uncertain environments.

Throughout the discussion, Kelly offers practical insights on leadership, resilience, accountability, and what it takes to build successful teams both inside and outside the military.

In this episode, we discuss:

Whether you're a veteran navigating transition, an entrepreneur building a company, or simply interested in leadership and personal growth, Kelly's story offers valuable lessons from both the military and business worlds.

Chapters

00:00 Leadership Wins Everywhere 01:12 Meet Kelly Perdew: West Point, Ranger & Apprentice Winner 06:22 Why Military Leadership Translates to Business 12:54 Choosing West Point and the Path to Service 23:23 Ranger School and Learning to Embrace Hardship 29:56 UCLA, Entrepreneurship & Building His First Startup 48:10 Inside The Apprentice: How Kelly Won Season 2 58:39 From Reality TV to Venture Capital 1:05:42 The ID.me Story and Betting on Veteran Founders 1:18:23 Building Moonshots Capital 1:30:29 Why Veterans Make Exceptional Entrepreneurs 1:35:46 Transitioning Out of the Military Successfully 1:41:14 Leadership, Service & Leaving a Legacy 1:45:56 Final Advice for Veterans and Founders

🎙️ Guest — Kelly Perdew

West Point graduate, Army Ranger, entrepreneur, author, winner of *The Apprentice* Season 2, and co-founder of Moonshots Capital. Kelly has spent his career leading teams in the military, building and scaling companies, investing in founders, and helping veterans successfully transition into business and entrepreneurship.

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellyperdew

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellyperdew

𝕏: https://x.com/kperdew

🚀 Moonshots Capital: https://moonshotscapital.com

📘 Book — Take Command: Leadership Principles from the Military to Business:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1596980001

🎙️ Host — AJ Pasciuti

Retired Marine Force Recon Scout Sniper and Marine Gunner, author of Darkhorse: Harnessing Hidden Potential in War and Life, and host of Combat Story.

📕 Darkhorse: https://ajpasciuti.com/Darkhorse

📸 AJ Pasciuti Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajpasciuti

🔗 Website: https://www.ajpasciuti.com

What happens after the uniform comes off?

In this episode of Combat Story, AJ Pasciuti sits down with Army combat veteran, firefighter, MMA fighter, and author James McDevitt for one of the most honest conversations we've had about service, trauma, purpose, and the lifelong search for meaning after war.

James shares his journey from growing up in a military family to deploying to Iraq as an 18-year-old convoy gunner during some of the deadliest years of the war. He talks about football, failure, identity, and the difficult transition from combat deployments back into civilian life.

The conversation also dives deeply into the emotional realities of firefighting — including the lasting impact of trying to save a young child trapped in a house fire — and the psychological burden first responders and veterans often carry long after the moment ends.

AJ and James discuss:

James also discusses his debut novel, A Walk Among Heroes, a story inspired by true events that explores war, love, loss, and what it means to come home after conflict.

This episode is raw, reflective, and deeply human.

If you're interested in military service, combat psychology, firefighting, leadership, masculinity, veteran transition, or the emotional realities behind war stories, this conversation will stay with you long after it ends.

🎙️ Guest — James McDevitt Army combat veteran, firefighter, MMA fighter, and author of A Walk Among Heroes. James writes and speaks about war, brotherhood, trauma, resilience, and the lifelong search for purpose after service.

📸 Instagram: @JamesMcDevittAuthor

🎵 TikTok: @JamesMcDevittAuthor

▶️ YouTube: @JamesMcDevittAuthor

📘 Facebook: @JamesMcDevittAuthor

🔗 Website: JamesMcDevittAuthor.com

🎙️ Host — AJ Pasciuti Retired Marine Force Recon Scout Sniper and Marine Gunner, author of Darkhorse: Harnessing Hidden Potential in War and Life, and host of Combat Story.

📕 Darkhorse: https://ajpasciuti.com/Darkhors

📸 AJ Pasciuti Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajpasciuti/

🔗 Website: https://www.ajpasciuti.com/

CHAPTERS

00:00 – The House Fire That Changed Everything 01:06 – Introduction | James McDevitt 03:20 – Why James Wrote "A Walk Among Heroes" 07:40 – Growing Up in a Military Family 13:10 – Football, Identity, and Young Masculinity 18:45 – Joining the Army After 9/11 25:00 – Iraq at 18 Years Old 31:20 – Convoy Combat and Daily Violence 39:50 – Brotherhood in War 47:10 – The Addiction to High-Stakes Environments 54:20 – Coming Home from Combat 1:01:40 – Firefighting and Exposure to Death 1:09:15 – Trying to Save a Child in a House Fire 1:18:20 – PTSD, Suppression, and Emotional Numbness 1:26:30 – MMA Fighting and Finding Purpose 1:34:10 – Veterans, Suicide, and Isolation 1:42:00 – Why Failure Shapes Us 1:49:15 – Writing Fiction Inspired by Real Experience 1:56:30 – Advice for Young Men Considering Service 2:02:10 – Final Thoughts on Brotherhood and Purpose

Today on Combat Story, we hear the story of Joshua "Josh" Shores — Marine infantry combat veteran, Purple Heart recipient, former Marine Raider, retired firefighter, entrepreneur, and author of Counting on Death: A Marine Infantryman's Journey from the Front Lines of Combat to the Fight for Peace.

Josh served with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Marines during some of the hardest fighting in Ramadi before later deploying to Afghanistan with Marine Special Operations. In this conversation, he takes us through the reality of combat as a 19-year-old Marine, the burden of surviving when others did not, and the long fight to make peace with the memories that followed him home.

Although AJ and Josh never served together, this episode becomes a deeply relatable conversation between two Marines who carried similar experiences through different units, deployments, and years of war. There are moments where the interview gives way to recognition, where both men are able to sit inside the same memories, ask harder questions, and give language to parts of combat that are rarely spoken about clearly.

This episode goes far beyond firefights and deployments.

Josh speaks candidly about the culture inside the infantry during the height of the Iraq War, the emotional toll of losing friends to IEDs, the confusion of counterinsurgency warfare, survivor's guilt, shame, identity, suicide, and the struggle many veterans face trying to reconnect with life after combat.

This is a conversation about consequence. About brotherhood. About grief. And about trying to find peace after war.

🎙️ Guest — Joshua "Josh" Shores Marine infantry combat veteran, Purple Heart recipient, former Marine Raider, retired firefighter, entrepreneur, and author of Counting on Death. He served with Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Marines in Ramadi before later deploying to Afghanistan with Marine Special Operations.

🔗 Find Joshua Online:

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CountingOnDeath/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshuashoresofficial/ 🔗 Website: https://www.countingondeath.com 📕 Book (Counting on Death): https://www.amazon.com/Counting-Death-Marine-Infantrymans-Journey/dp/1636245706/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=8-1#detailBullets_feature_div 🎧 Audiobook: https://www.audible.com/pd/Counting-on-Death-Audiobook/B0F1Z1HJSG?source_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp

🎙️ Host AJ Pasciuti

AJ Pasciuti is a retired Marine Force Recon Scout Sniper and Infantry Weapons Officer (Marine Gunner), author of Darkhorse: Harnessing Hidden Potential in War and Life, and host of the Combat Story Podcast, where veterans share honest, unfiltered stories of service, leadership, and life after combat.

🔗 Find AJ Online:

📕 Book (Darkhorse): https://www.ajpasciuti.com/book

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajpasciuti/

📘 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelo-pasciuti/

🔗 Website: https://www.ajpasciuti.com/

🎧 Featured Combat Story Episodes with AJ

👉 Combat Story Podcast – Part 1 (USMC Sniper & Force Recon) - Battle of Fallujah | Shooting w/ Chris Kyle | American Sniper | AJ Pasciuti https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T4QI-5sNeCs

👉 Combat Story Podcast – Part 2 (Sniper vs Sniper Battle) - Killing the Enemy's Most Lethal Sniper | Force Recon | AJ Pasciuti https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p5Ggly1TGAU

Before Vietnam became the war America remembers, James Lyle Steele was already in it. In Episode 1 of Reconnaissance Man, "Good Morning, Vietnam," Steele takes us into the earliest days of America's involvement in the war, when the mission was still forming, the battlefield was still being understood, and the cost was already very real.

A retired U.S. Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel and one of the original generation of Marine reconnaissance men, Steele describes a brutal and fast-changing fight shaped by booby traps, poisoned bamboo, hidden tunnels, ambushes, helicopter assaults, and constant adaptation. This is not a distant retelling. It is a firsthand account from a man who was there before most Americans even understood the war had begun.

Created by investigative journalist Ashly McGlone in collaboration with the Marine Reconnaissance Foundation, and brought to life by Combat Story, Reconnaissance Man is a nine-part limited series following Steele's extraordinary 30-year military career through Vietnam, the Cold War, and beyond.

🎙️ Guest — James Lyle Steele James Lyle Steele is a retired U.S. Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel whose 30-year career carried him through Vietnam, the Cold War, and beyond. A member of the original generation of Marine reconnaissance men, Steele's story offers a rare firsthand look at war, survival, and service across decades of American military history.

Ashly McGlone is an investigative journalist and the creator of Reconnaissance Man. As Steele's granddaughter, she pairs reporting, narration, and historical context with family connection to bring his extraordinary story to life with depth and care.

🔗 Find Reconnaissance Man and Ashly McGlone Online: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reconnaissanceman/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashlyreports/ 🔗 X: https://x.com/ReconManPod 🔗 X: https://x.com/AshlyReports

🎙️ Host — AJ Pasciuti AJ Pasciuti is a retired Marine Force Recon Scout Sniper and Infantry Weapons Officer (Marine Gunner), author of Darkhorse: Harnessing Hidden Potential in War and Life, and host of the Combat Story Podcast, where veterans share honest, unfiltered stories of service, leadership, and life after combat.

🔗 Find AJ Online: 📕 Book (Darkhorse): https://www.amazon.com/Darkhorse-Harnessing-Hidden-Potential-Life/dp/1400254973 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajpasciuti/ 📘 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelo-pasciuti/ 🔗 Website: https://www.ajpasciuti.com/

🎧 Featured Combat Story Episodes with AJ 👉 Combat Story Podcast — Part 1 (USMC Sniper & Force Recon) Battle of Fallujah | Shooting w/ Chris Kyle | American Sniper | AJ Pasciuti https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T4QI-5sNeCs

👉 Combat Story Podcast — Part 2 (Sniper vs. Sniper Battle) Killing the Enemy's Most Lethal Sniper | Force Recon | AJ Pasciuti https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p5Ggly1TGAU

Chapters:

00:00 Reconnaissance Man Intro 01:42 The Cost of Fighting in Vietnam 02:46 Before Vietnam Became America's War 04:47 Meet James Lyle Steele 06:27 Good Morning, Vietnam 07:37 Learning How the War Was Really Fought 10:56 Tigers, Vipers, and the Terrain 14:41 Poisoned Bamboo and Booby Traps 16:27 The Ho Chi Minh Trail and Tunnel Warfare 21:16 Why the Enemy Was So Hard to Fight 22:03 Hidden Weapons, Firefights, and Guides 23:58 The South Vietnamese Forces He Respected 26:06 Why He Wanted to Stay 26:32 The Train Ambush That Should Have Killed Him 28:26 The First Helicopter Assault of the War 30:21 "General Taylor, Go Home" 31:43 The Helicopter Crash 34:00 What Americans Weren't Being Told 34:40 Next Episode: Cuba 35:37 Credits

Before the Iraq War officially began, a different fight was already underway.

U.S. Army Special Forces teams were operating in Northern Iraq, linking up with Kurdish fighters and preparing to open a second front against Saddam Hussein. What they built in those early months would shape the opening phase of the war.

In this episode, AJ Pasciuti sits down with retired Lieutenant Colonel Mark Grdovic, a Green Beret who led missions alongside Kurdish Peshmerga forces against Al-Qaeda affiliates in the mountains.

This conversation follows the full path, from early training and deployments, to the moment everything changed after 9/11, to the long preparation for a mission that had no clear timeline and no guaranteed support.

Mark shares what it looked like to plan in uncertainty, build trust with partner forces, and lead small teams in high-risk environments where decisions carried immediate consequences.

You'll hear how Special Forces teams executed a 570-mile infiltration into Iraq, fought in complex terrain, and helped create the conditions for the northern front to succeed. He also reflects on leadership, responsibility, and the realities of unconventional warfare that rarely make it into the broader narrative.

This is a story about more than combat.

It's about trust, preparation, and what it takes to operate in the space between intent and execution.

If you're interested in Special Forces, the Iraq War, unconventional warfare, or leadership under pressure, this episode gives you a grounded, firsthand perspective.

AJ Pasciuti is a retired Marine Force Recon Scout Sniper and Infantry Weapons Officer (Marine Gunner), author of Darkhorse: Harnessing Hidden Potential in War and Life, and host of the Combat Story Podcast, where veterans share honest, unfiltered stories of service, leadership, and life after combat.

🔗 Find AJ Online:

📕 Book (Darkhorse): https://www.amazon.com/Darkhorse-Harnessing-Hidden-Potential-Life/dp/1400254973

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajpasciuti/

📘 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelo-pasciuti/

🔗 Website: https://www.ajpasciuti.com/

What does it feel like to make a decision that saves your teammates… but stays with you forever?

In this episode of Combat Story, AJ sits down with Jeremy Rebmann, former FBI Special Agent, SWAT sniper, and author of Send Me, for a raw conversation about what really happens inside high-risk operations.

Jeremy spent over two decades in the FBI, including 21 years on SWAT, operating in some of the most dangerous environments in domestic law enforcement. From hostage rescues to manhunts to split-second lethal force decisions, he lived the responsibility of being the one others rely on when things go wrong.

This conversation goes beyond the action. It gets into the moments behind it.

From tracking a suspect through rugged terrain… to the instant a rifle comes up and there's no time left to think… to the weight that follows after the mission is over.

This is an honest look at the reality of the job.

We cover:

Jeremy also shares insights into the investigative side of the FBI, where the mission is not just to win the fight, but to find the truth and bring justice the right way.

This is a conversation about responsibility, restraint, and the cost of doing the job well.

If you've ever wondered what it's really like behind the scenes of elite law enforcement, this episode gives you a perspective few ever hear.

Jeremy Rebmann is a former FBI Special Agent and SWAT sniper with over 20 years of experience, including 21 years on an FBI SWAT team. He served as an operator, sniper, team leader, and instructor, working high-risk missions across the United States.

He is the author of Send Me: Chronicles of an FBI Sniper, where he shares an unfiltered look at the realities of the job, team culture, and life after service.

📕 Send Me (Book): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D38DNXRN 🎧 Audiobook: https://www.audible.com/pd/Send-Me-Audiobook/B0FVNW5H6B?source_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fbi_sniper/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556807893533 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-rebmann-aa9191203 🔗 Website: https://www.fbisniper.com

🎙️ Host Information — AJ Pasciuti

AJ Pasciuti is a retired Marine Force Recon Scout Sniper and Infantry Weapons Officer (Marine Gunner), author of Darkhorse: Harnessing Hidden Potential in War and Life, and host of the Combat Story Podcast, where veterans share honest, unfiltered stories of service, leadership, and life after combat.

📕 Book (Darkhorse): https://www.amazon.com/Darkhorse-Harnessing-Hidden-Potential-Life/dp/1400254973

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajpasciuti/ 📘 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelo-pasciuti/ 🔗 Website: https://www.ajpasciuti.com/

🎧 Featured Combat Story Episodes with AJ

👉 Combat Story Podcast – Part 1 (USMC Sniper & Force Recon)- Battle of Fallujah | Shooting w/ Chris Kyle | American Sniper | AJ Pasciuti: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T4QI-5sNeCs

👉 Combat Story Podcast – Part 2 (Sniper vs Sniper Battle) - Killing the Enemy's Most Lethal Sniper | Force Recon | AJ Pasciuti: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p5Ggly1TGAU

📺 Additional Features & Media

👉 Urban Valor Podcast Feature: https://urbanvalor.com/episode/marine-snipers-eliminate-enemy-sniper-reclaim-stolen-us-sniper-rifle/

👉 DVIDS – Infantry Marine Course Feature: https://www.nationalguard.mil/Leadership/Joint-Staff/Comptroller/Innovation/?dvpTag=imc&videoid=790758

Former U.S. Marine Scout Sniper Alexander Lemons joins AJ to talk about Iraq, the confusion and chaos of the initial invasion, and the hidden damage war leaves behind.

A Bronze Star recipient and co-author of War Body: A Marine Sniper and the Hidden Violence of Modern Warfare, Alex brings a raw, thoughtful perspective to combat, leadership, toxic exposure, and life after service.

In this episode of Combat Story, AJ and Alex unpack Alex's path into the Marines, what it felt like to enter war as a young infantryman, and how those early experiences shaped the questions that would later become War Body. This is Part 1 of a 2-part conversation, focused on his early life, Iraq, and the foundation of his story. Part 2 goes deeper into his path as a sniper, the long-tail health fight, and what veterans, leaders, and civilians should understand about the unseen costs of modern war.

A note for listeners: this episode was filmed in December 2025 and has a slightly different feel than the usual Combat Story format. It plays more like a true conversation between AJ and Alex than a traditional interview, which gives it a more personal and reflective tone.

🎙️ Guest Information — Alexander Lemons Alexander Lemons is a former U.S. Marine Scout Sniper and Bronze Star recipient who served multiple combat deployments during the Iraq War, including Nasiriyah and Fallujah. He is the co-author of War Body: A Marine Sniper and the Hidden Violence of Modern Warfare, a powerful look at the hidden physical and psychological costs of combat and what war leaves behind long after the shooting stops.

📖 War Body: https://wwnorton.com/books/9781324066330

📰 Featured Article: https://www.hcn.org/issues/57-2/a-veteran-transforms-a-legacy-of-violence-into-a-campaign-for-restoration/

🎙️ Host Information — AJ Pasciuti

AJ Pasciuti is a retired Marine Force Recon Scout Sniper and Infantry Weapons Officer (Marine Gunner), author of Darkhorse: Harnessing Hidden Potential in War and Life, and host of the Combat Story Podcast, where veterans share honest, unfiltered stories of service, leadership, and life after combat.

🔗 Find AJ Online:

📕 Book (Darkhorse): https://www.amazon.com/Darkhorse-Harnessing-Hidden-Potential-Life/dp/1400254973

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajpasciuti/ 📘 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelo-pasciuti/ 🔗 Website: https://www.ajpasciuti.com/

🎧 Featured Combat Story Episodes with AJ

👉 Combat Story Podcast – Part 1 (USMC Sniper & Force Recon) - Battle of Fallujah | Shooting w/ Chris Kyle | American Sniper | AJ Pasciuti https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T4QI-5sNeCs

👉 Combat Story Podcast – Part 2 (Sniper vs Sniper Battle) - Killing the Enemy's Most Lethal Sniper | Force Recon | AJ Pasciuti https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p5Ggly1TGAU

📺 Additional Features & Media

👉 Urban Valor Podcast Feature: https://urbanvalor.com/episode/marine-snipers-eliminate-enemy-sniper-reclaim-stolen-us-sniper-rifle/

👉 DVIDS – Infantry Marine Course Feature:

https://www.nationalguard.mil/Leadership/Joint-Staff/Comptroller/Innovation/?dvpTag=imc&videoid=790758

Chapters

00:00 Incoming artillery in Iraq 02:40 Introducing Marine Sniper Alexander Lemons 07:15 Joining the Marines after 9/11 18:30 Iraq invasion and early combat experiences 32:40 Lessons from combat leadership 51:00 The hidden physical cost of war 1:20:00 The chaos of modern warfare 2:09:00 War Body and life after the Marine Corps

A downed U.S. helicopter in Afghanistan. Forty-five knot crosswinds. No power margin.

In this episode of Combat Story, AJ Pasciuti sits down with Isaac G. Lee, a retired U.S. Marine Corps CH-53 heavy lift pilot with seven deployments and multiple combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Isaac flew more than 140 named combat missions, became a Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI), commanded a Marine helicopter squadron, and led one of the most dangerous recovery missions of the war — lifting a downed Night Stalker aircraft near the Pakistani border with almost no margin for error.

We talk about:

Flying CH-53s during the Iraq invasion

Losing an engine in a hot landing zone

Brownout landings with zero visibility

Working alongside Army Apaches and special operations units

The surge years and nonstop named operations

The mental shift required to survive repeated combat deployments

The cost of leadership on families at home

This conversation goes beyond tactics.

It explores responsibility, identity, the "robot mode" many combat leaders adopt, and what happens when you finally step away from the machine.

Isaac shares the deeper story behind his memoir Hangar 4, a candid look at Marine Corps aviation, brotherhood inside Hangar 4, and the transition from warfighter to civilian leader.

If you care about Marine Corps aviation, CH-53 helicopters, Iraq and Afghanistan combat stories, or leadership under pressure, this episode delivers.

🎙 Guest: Isaac G. Lee

Isaac Lee is a retired U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. CH-53 pilot, Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI), and former squadron commander with seven deployments and multiple combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan.

He is the author of Hangar 4 and founder of Ready Room Consulting, where he teaches leadership drawn from two decades of Marine Corps aviation.

🔗 Connect with Isaac:

🌐 Websites https://isaacglee.com https://readyroomconsulting.com

📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/isaacgleewriter

📘 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/IsaacGLee

🐦 X (Twitter) https://x.com/isaacglee

🎵 Book Soundtrack Playlist https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4x13aD07eDCCwF5TaSNyfT?si=mKzXXaHZTNCtyHss-MPTvA

🎙️ Host Information — AJ Pasciuti | Combat Story AJ Pasciuti is a retired Marine Force Recon Scout Sniper and Infantry Weapons Officer (Marine Gunner), author of Darkhorse: Harnessing Hidden Potential in War and Life, and host of the Combat Story Podcast, where veterans share honest, unfiltered stories of service, leadership, and life after combat.

🔗 Find AJ Online:

📕 Book (Darkhorse): https://www.amazon.com/Darkhorse-Harnessing-Hidden-Potential-Life/dp/1400254973

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajpasciuti/

📘 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelo-pasciuti/

🔗 Website: https://www.ajpasciuti.com/

🎧 Featured Combat Story Episodes with AJ:

👉 Combat Story Podcast – Part 1 (USMC Sniper & Force Recon) - Battle of Fallujah | Shooting w/ Chris Kyle | American Sniper | AJ Pasciuti https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T4QI-5sNeCs

👉 Combat Story Podcast – Part 2 (Sniper vs Sniper Battle) - Killing the Enemy's Most Lethal Sniper | Force Recon | AJ Pasciuti https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p5Ggly1TGAU

📺 Additional Features & Media

👉 Urban Valor Podcast Feature: https://urbanvalor.com/episode/marine-snipers-eliminate-enemy-sniper-reclaim-stolen-us-sniper-rifle/

👉 DVIDS – Infantry Marine Course Feature: https://www.nationalguard.mil/Leadership/Joint-Staff/Comptroller/Innovation/?dvpTag=imc&videoid=790758

0321 Day is more than a date. It's a gut-check, a brotherhood check-in, and a reminder that no Recon Marine (and no Recon family) is ever alone.

In this Combat Story Special Edition, AJ Pasciuti sits down for a two-way conversation with Randall Parks (USMC, Ret.) the West Coast organizer of 0321 Day—to break down what the day means, why it's grown into a tradition, and how the Marine Reconnaissance Foundation (MRF) directly supports Recon Marines, enablers, SARCs, and, most importantly, Gold Star families.

You'll hear the story behind the event's partnership with Ballast Point Brewing, why the Recon community shows up so hard for each other, and how this annual fundraising push funds the Gold Star Family Retreat connected to the Recon Challenge at Camp Pendleton and a week-long retreat afterward.

And yes… Randall also ropes AJ (and Sarah) into the most Recon fundraiser ever: The "Recondo Hundo": 100 miles in 30 days (Feb 20 → Mar 21) to raise money for the MRF. Run it, walk it, bike it, swim it; get involved and bring someone with you.

Support the Marine Reconnaissance Foundation: MRF website: reconfoundation.org

Donate to the Recondo Hundo: support.reconfoundation.org/ajpasciuti

Signup to participate in the Recondo Hundo: support.reconfoundation.org/https-support-reconfoundation-org-2026-recondo-hundo

In this episode:

- What "03" and "0321" mean in the Marine Corps

- What the MRF (Marine Reconnaissance Foundation) does and why it matters

- Gold Star vs Blue Star families and why Recon keeps them close

- How 0321 Day grew from texts to a major event

- The Recon Challenge and carrying a fallen brother's name

- The "Recondo Hundo" fundraiser and how to participate

If you're a Recon Marine (or served with Recon): On March 21, reach out to somebody and say: "Hey brother, I'm thinking about you."

That simple message can land heavier than you realize.

West Coast Event details:

📍 Ballast Point – Little Italy (San Diego)

🕕 March 21 | 6:00 PM

A night of camaraderie, community, and fundraising for the MRF mission.

To attend you must RSVP: support.reconfoundation.org/https-support-reconfoundation-org-0321day-Ballast-Point

Subscribe for more Combat Story: real conversations with warriors from every frontline; what combat feels like, what it takes to endure, and how it shapes life after the arena.

Before the first bombs hit Iraq in 1991, seven B-52s quietly lifted off from Louisiana on a mission so classified most of the crews hadn't known it existed months earlier.

In this episode of Combat Story, AJ Pasciuti sits down with Trey Morris, retired U.S. Air Force Colonel and former B-52 Electronic Warfare Officer, to break down Operation Senior Surprise—nicknamed Secret Squirrel—the 35-hour, 14,000-mile strike that helped launch Operation Desert Storm.

This wasn't just another bombing mission. It was the first combat use of GPS-guided cruise missiles, the longest combat sortie in history at the time, and a zero-fail test of endurance and leadership.

Minutes after takeoff, Morris' aircraft lost an engine. They nearly collided during night aerial refueling. On the return leg, they ran dangerously low on fuel over the Mediterranean.

What followed was problem-solving under pressure, trust inside the cockpit, and a culture that demanded accountability when it mattered most.

Morris later captured the full story in his book Doom 34, but this conversation goes beyond aviation. It's about earning the right to come home—and honoring those who have "gone west."

If you're interested in B-52 bombers, Desert Storm history, military aviation, long-range strike, or leadership under stress, this episode is for you.

🎙️ Guest Information — Trey Morriss | DOOM 34 | Retired U.S. Air Force Colonel | Former B-52 Electronic Warfare Officer

🔗 Find Trey Online:

📕 Book: DOOM 34 (Available globally — search "DOOM 34") 🛒 Amazon:https://a.co/d/aR2IujP

📘 Personal Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/trey.morriss/

📘 DOOM 34 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581295749907

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/treymorriss/?hl=en

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/treymorriss/

🎙️ Host Information — AJ Pasciuti | Combat Story AJ Pasciuti is a retired Marine Force Recon Scout Sniper and Infantry Weapons Officer (Marine Gunner), author of Darkhorse: Harnessing Hidden Potential in War and Life, and host of the Combat Story Podcast, where veterans share honest, unfiltered stories of service, leadership, and life after combat.

🔗 Find AJ Online:

📕 Book (Darkhorse): https://www.amazon.com/Darkhorse-Harnessing-Hidden-Potential-Life/dp/1400254973 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajpasciuti/

📘 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelo-pasciuti/

🔗 Website: https://www.ajpasciuti.com/

🎧 Featured Combat Story Episodes with AJ

👉 Combat Story Podcast – Part 1 (USMC Sniper & Force Recon) - Battle of Fallujah | Shooting w/ Chris Kyle | American Sniper | AJ Pasciuti https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T4QI-5sNeCs

👉 Combat Story Podcast – Part 2 (Sniper vs Sniper Battle) - Killing the Enemy's Most Lethal Sniper | Force Recon | AJ Pasciuti https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p5Ggly1TGAU

📺 Additional Features & Media

👉 Urban Valor Podcast Feature: https://urbanvalor.com/episode/marine-snipers-eliminate-enemy-sniper-reclaim-stolen-us-sniper-rifle/

👉 DVIDS – Infantry Marine Course Feature: https://www.nationalguard.mil/Leadership/Joint-Staff/Comptroller/Innovation/?dvpTag=imc&videoid=790758

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In this episode of Combat Story, AJ Pasciuti sits down with Matt Cavanaugh, retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel, combat veteran, strategist, endurance athlete, and living kidney donor, for a conversation about what service really looks like when nobody's watching.

Matt is the author of Best Scar Wins: How You Can Be More Than You Were Before, and his story goes far beyond combat. We start with his experiences in Iraq and the weight of leadership under pressure, then move into the harder-to-talk-about parts of life after war: grief, identity, responsibility, and the quiet choices that shape who we become.

Matt shares why he decided to become a non-directed living kidney donor, donating to a stranger and helping spark a chain that saved eight lives, including a fellow service member. Not long after surgery, he took on an endurance challenge called 1K4D (One Kidney, Four Deserts) — nearly 1,000 kilometers of self-supported racing across Namibia, Georgia, Chile, and Antarctica, including moments where the heat hit 131°F and the margin for error disappeared.

This episode isn't about highlight reels. It's about follow-through. It's about choosing discomfort for the sake of others, and what it takes to keep going when the "why" has to be bigger than you.

If you're interested in combat leadership, post-traumatic growth, endurance mindset, or service beyond the battlefield, this conversation will stick with you.

🎙️ Guest Information — Matt Cavanaugh | Best Scar Wins

Matt Cavanaugh, PhD, is a West Point graduate and retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel/Strategist who deployed to Iraq with the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment, earning two Bronze Stars and the Combat Action Badge. After the military, he became a living kidney donor who sparked an eight-life donor chain and has gone on to test his limits as an elite endurance athlete, including winning an ultramarathon across Antarctica.

🔗 Find Matt Online:

🐦 X (Twitter): https://x.com/mlcavanaugh

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mlcavanaugh1

📖 Book — Best Scar Wins: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Best-Scar-Wins/ML-Cavanaugh/9781637747742

🌐 Book Website: https://bestscarwins.com

🔗 Personal Website: https://mlcavanaugh.com

🎙️ Host Information — AJ Pasciuti | Combat Story | Darkhorse

AJ Pasciuti is a retired Marine Force Recon Scout Sniper and Infantry Weapons Officer (Marine Gunner), author of Darkhorse: Harnessing Hidden Potential in War and Life, and host of the Combat Story Podcast, where veterans share honest, unfiltered stories of service, leadership, and life after combat.

🔗 Find AJ Online:

📕 Book (Darkhorse): https://www.amazon.com/Darkhorse-Harnessing-Hidden-Potential-Life/dp/1400254973

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajpasciuti/

📘 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelo-pasciuti/

🔗 Website: https://www.ajpasciuti.com/

🎧 Featured Combat Story Episodes with AJ

👉 Combat Story Podcast – Part 1 (USMC Sniper & Force Recon)

- Battle of Fallujah | Shooting w/ Chris Kyle | American Sniper | AJ Pasciuti

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T4QI-5sNeCs

👉 Combat Story Podcast – Part 2 (Sniper vs Sniper Battle)

- Killing the Enemy's Most Lethal Sniper | Force Recon | AJ Pasciuti

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p5Ggly1TGAU

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In this episode of Combat Story, Joe Troutman takes us inside one of the most intense and least-documented firefights of the Iraq War — a 10-hour urban fight in Mosul where Blackhawk Company, 1-23 Infantry, held ground without air support, under sustained RPG, machine-gun, and IED attacks.

Joe served 18 years on active duty in the U.S. Army as a 13F Fire Support Specialist and Forward Observer, deploying multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan. From the early days after 9/11, through the birth of the Stryker Brigade, to the brutal street fighting that followed, Joe's story captures what combat actually looks like at ground level — confusion, exhaustion, courage, and decisions made under fire.

Much of this conversation centers on the events chronicled in Joe's book, Gods of War: The Legend of Blackhawk Company 1-23 Infantry, including:

- The first combat casualties in Stryker Brigade history

- A catastrophic vehicle rollover on Blackhawk Company's first patrol

- The August 4, 2004 Battle of Mosul, where insurgents launched a coordinated, city-wide ambush designed specifically to destroy Stryker forces

- Holding key terrain "at all costs" while outnumbered, undersupplied, and cut off

- Leadership, brotherhood, and survival when everything goes sideways

This episode isn't about politics or strategy on paper — it's about what it feels like to fight in an urban environment, to lose teammates before your first firefight, and to keep moving when fear, chaos, and responsibility collide. If you're interested in modern warfare, infantry leadership, combat decision-making, or true war stories told by the people who lived them, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

🎙️ Guest Information — Joe Troutman | Gods of War: The Legend of Blackhawk Company 1-23 Infantry Joe Troutman, a U.S. Army combat veteran with 18 years of service and multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. He's the author of Gods of War: The Legend of Blackhawk Company 1-23 Infantry, a firsthand account of combat and brotherhood from the streets of Mosul.

📘 Facebook (Personal): @joetroutmanauthor

📖 Facebook (Book): @Godsofwarbco123

📸 Instagram: @joetroutman_author

🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/joetroutmanauthor

🐦 X (Twitter): @JoeTroutman2

🎙️ Host Information — AJ Pasciuti | Combat Story AJ Pasciuti is a retired Marine Force Recon Scout Sniper and Infantry Weapons Officer (Marine Gunner), author of Darkhorse: Harnessing Hidden Potential in War and Life, and host of the Combat Story Podcast, where veterans share honest, unfiltered stories of service, leadership, and life after combat.

🔗 Find AJ Online:

📕 Book (Darkhorse): https://www.amazon.com/Darkhorse-Harnessing-Hidden-Potential-Life/dp/1400254973

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajpasciuti/

📘 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelo-pasciuti/

🔗 Website: https://www.ajpasciuti.com/

🎧 Featured Combat Story Episodes with AJ

👉 Combat Story Podcast – Part 1 (USMC Sniper & Force Recon) - Battle of Fallujah | Shooting w/ Chris Kyle | American Sniper | AJ Pasciuti https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T4QI-5sNeCs

👉 Combat Story Podcast – Part 2 (Sniper vs Sniper Battle) - Killing the Enemy's Most Lethal Sniper | Force Recon | AJ Pasciuti https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p5Ggly1TGAU

📺 Additional Features & Media 👉 Urban Valor Podcast Feature: https://urbanvalor.com/episode/marine-snipers-eliminate-enemy-sniper-reclaim-stolen-us-sniper-rifle/

👉 DVIDS – Infantry Marine Course Feature: https://www.nationalguard.mil/Leadership/Joint-Staff/Comptroller/Innovation/?dvpTag=imc&videoid=790758

In this episode of Combat Story, we sit down with Michael D'Angelo — a U.S. Marine Corps veteran who turned a turbulent childhood, military service, and hard-earned life lessons into a career built on laughter and connection. Raised in a rough environment where stability was never guaranteed, Michael found in the Marine Corps something he didn't have growing up: structure, purpose, and a way out. Serving as a Marine machine gunner, the Corps gave him direction — and later, perspective — on both pain and resilience. After leaving the military, Michael found a new mission through comedy, using humor as a tool for healing, truth-telling, and connection. He went on to found the Rapid Fire Comedy Tour, bringing stand-up comedy directly to troops, veterans, and first responders across the country — meeting people where they are and reminding them they're not alone. On this episode, we explore how the Marine Corps reshaped a young man searching for escape, how comedy became a second form of service, and why laughter might be one of the most underrated survival skills in the veteran community. While this episode doesn't focus on combat experiences, it stays true to our core mission of uplifting veteran voices and exploring the many paths of service after the uniform comes off. And fair warning — this one is absolutely hilarious. You won't want to miss it. 🎙️

Guest Information — Michael D'Angelo | Rapid Fire Comedy Tour Michael D'Angelo is a veteran comedian and creator behind the Rapid Fire Comedy Tour, a mission-driven comedy experience supporting military morale, connection, and veteran communities through humor.

🔗 Find Michael D'Angelo Online:

🎤 Rapid Fire Comedy Tour: https://www.rapidfirecomedytour.org

📸 Instagram (Tour): @rapidfirecomedytour

🎭 Character Monologues / Skits: @skitmos

👤 Personal Instagram: @michaeltheangelo

🎙️ Host Information — AJ Pasciuti | Combat Story AJ Pasciuti is a retired Marine Force Recon Scout Sniper and Infantry Weapons Officer (Marine Gunner), author of Darkhorse: Harnessing Hidden Potential in War and Life, and host of the Combat Story Podcast, where veterans share honest, unfiltered stories of service, leadership, and life after combat.

🔗 Find AJ Online:

📕 Book (Darkhorse): https://www.amazon.com/Darkhorse-Harnessing-Hidden-Potential-Life/dp/1400254973

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajpasciuti/

📘 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelo-pasciuti/

🔗 Website: https://www.ajpasciuti.com/

🎧 Featured Combat Story Episodes with AJ 👉 Combat Story Podcast – Part 1 (USMC Sniper & Force Recon) - Battle of Fallujah | Shooting w/ Chris Kyle | American Sniper | AJ Pasciuti https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T4QI-5sNeCs

👉 Combat Story Podcast – Part 2 (Sniper vs Sniper Battle) - Killing the Enemy's Most Lethal Sniper | Force Recon | AJ Pasciuti https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p5Ggly1TGAU

📺 Additional Features & Media 👉 Urban Valor Podcast Feature: https://urbanvalor.com/episode/marine-snipers-eliminate-enemy-sniper-reclaim-stolen-us-sniper-rifle/

👉 DVIDS – Infantry Marine Course Feature: https://www.nationalguard.mil/Leadership/Joint-Staff/Comptroller/Innovation/?dvpTag=imc&videoid=790758

In this episode of Combat Story, we sit down with Elliot Ackerman—former Marine infantry officer, CIA paramilitary operations officer, journalist, and bestselling author.

Elliot takes us inside some of the most intense moments of modern warfare, from the brutal urban combat of Fallujah in 2004 to special operations deployments in Afghanistan and later transitioning into the CIA. He walks us through a harrowing platoon-level fight where his unit was surrounded, badly wounded, and forced to blow their way out under fire—starting the day with 46 Marines and ending with just 21 combat effective.

But this conversation goes deeper than tactics and timelines.

Elliot reflects on leadership under pressure, the mental toll of combat, and how war shapes identity long after the fighting ends. He also shares a remarkable story of sitting down years later with a former al-Qaeda in Iraq fighter—two men who once hunted each other, now trying to understand the same war from opposite sides.

This is a powerful discussion about brotherhood, memory, storytelling, and why veterans become the custodians of history when wars end. If you're interested in Marine infantry combat, Fallujah 2004, special operations, the CIA, or the deeper human meaning of war—this is an episode you won't want to miss.

In this episode of Combat Story, we sit down with Azad, known overseas as "Mike," whose life represents one of the most extraordinary and unlikely journeys to come out of the post-9/11 wars.

Born Kurdish in Baghdad, Azad was still a child when the 2003 U.S. invasion of Iraq began. His first exposure to Americans didn't come from movies, television, or Western culture — it came from U.S. soldiers operating in his hometown, at a time when alliances were fragile and the cost of being seen as a collaborator could be fatal.

Driven by curiosity, survival, and a desire to understand the forces shaping his country, Azad taught himself English one word at a time. That determination led him to become a U.S. military interpreter, where he served shoulder-to-shoulder with some of America's most elite combat units, including the 101st Airborne Division, 82nd Airborne Division, Marine Special Operations, and multiple Navy SEAL teams — often in the most dangerous and remote areas of Iraq.

His service earned him a Special Immigrant Visa (SIV), a rare pathway granted to foreign nationals who risked their lives in support of U.S. forces. But Azad's journey didn't stop there.

After arriving in the United States, Azad did something almost unheard of: he raised his right hand again, this time to enlist as a U.S. Marine, transitioning from interpreter to infantryman and formally joining the ranks to continue to defend the country he had already sacrificed so much for.

Today, Azad continues to serve beyond the battlefield. He earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Maryland, is currently pursuing a master's degree in cybersecurity at the University of San Diego, and works with the nonprofit No One Left Behind, advocating for interpreters and wartime allies who stood with U.S. forces and now seek safety, recognition, and support.

This conversation explores war, loyalty, identity, immigration, service, and sacrifice, and asks a deeper question: What does it mean to belong to a nation you were willing to die for long before you were allowed to call it home?

To learn more about No One Left Behind visit https://www.nooneleft.org/

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The Second Battle of Fallujah — also known as Operation Phantom Fury — was one of the most intense urban combat engagements fought by U.S. forces since Vietnam. In this gripping documentary, real Marines, soldiers, and corpsmen recount the chaos, courage, and sacrifice that defined Fallujah, Iraq, in November 2004.

This is not a scripted Hollywood war story. These are the firsthand voices of men who fought house to house, clearing buildings block by block in what became a defining moment of the Iraq War. Through raw interviews and authentic battlefield audio, this film captures the human side of modern warfare — the camaraderie, the fear, the humor, and the heartbreak that only those who lived it can truly describe.

At its core, Battle of Fallujah II is a story of brotherhood under fire. The Marines of 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines (India Company) and their brothers from 1/8 and other units share what it was like to face an enemy that called Fallujah home — an insurgent stronghold fortified by foreign fighters, Al-Qaeda extremists, and jihadists determined to die there. From the first breach through the city's northern berm to the final house cleared along the Euphrates River, the battle tested every ounce of discipline, endurance, and faith these men had.

You'll hear the personal accounts of hospital corpsmen risking everything to save wounded Marines, snipers like Tony Scardino and Chris Kyle trading shots in the same building, and infantrymen recounting split-second decisions that meant life or death. The film also revisits the leadership and sacrifice of officers and NCOs who never came home — men like Maj. Sean Sims, Capt. Ed Iwan, and Sgt. Maj. Cavaiani, whose courage inspired those still fighting.

Each memory in this documentary is seared with authenticity:

The claustrophobic streets filled with traps and ambushes.

The roar of tanks and AAVs breaching into the city.

The eerie quiet before dawn as Marines wrote what they called "death letters" to their families.

The moment when a platoon found itself isolated and surrounded, fighting for survival until air support could reach them.

Battle of Fallujah II goes beyond tactics and timelines. It's about what happens after — how these veterans carried the memories of their fallen brothers, how they grappled with loss, and how they continue to honor those who never made it home.

This film also examines the broader historical context: the political timing after the 2004 U.S. presidential election, the symbolism of reclaiming Fallujah from Al-Qaeda in Iraq, and the strategic shift toward large-scale urban warfare. For many who served, Fallujah became their generation's Normandy — a defining battle that shaped the course of their lives and the legacy of the Marine Corps.

Throughout the documentary, voices like Elliot Ackerman, Travis Greenwood, and Justin Oliver bring depth to the narrative — reflecting on leadership, moral complexity, and what it means to serve in a fight where the lines between survival and sacrifice blur.

The film does not glorify war. It reveals it. From the grit of medevac missions and sniper overwatch to the quiet moments of remembrance years later, this is the raw, unfiltered story of those who stood shoulder to shoulder in one of the fiercest battles of the modern era.

🎖️ Featuring:

Elliot Ackerman | Travis Greenwood | Tony Scardino | Scott Prill | Justin Oliver | Chris Kyle | Doc Pell | and the Marines of 3/5 India Company

📅 Timeline: November 2004 – Operation Phantom Fury

📍 Location: Fallujah, Al Anbar Province, Iraq

💬 Themes:

Urban warfare and military brotherhood

Sacrifice and survival in modern combat

PTSD, resilience, and life after war

Firsthand veteran testimony and oral history

The human cost of the Iraq War

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Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro

01:00 – Preparing for Battle

03:00 – The Enemy's Stronghold

05:00 – The Invasion Plan and Forces Assembled

07:00 – Into the City: Breaching the Berm

09:00 – Snipers and Scouts: Eyes of the Battle

12:00 – Letters Before Combat: Facing Mortality

13:00 – The First Casualties

15:00 – Chaos and Courage in the Streets

17:00 – Mechanized Assault on the Government Center

20:00 – Snipers and SEALs: Chris Kyle's Overwatch

23:00 – Corpsmen in the Crossfire

27:00 – House-to-House Combat

30:00 – The Cost of Brotherhood

36:00 – "Be Advised, There's a War On"

41:00 – Holding the Line

45:00 – Breaking Through: The Candy Store Stronghold

50:00 – Urban Hell: Five Hours, 400 Meters

55:00 – Acts of Valor and Survival

1:00:00 – The Medal of Honor Fight

1:05:00 – Aftermath: A City in Ruins

1:10:00 – Reflections and Legacy

1:15:00 – The Human Cost of War

1:18:00 – Why We Fought

1:20:00 – Closing Thoughts: Remembering the Warriors

#BattleOfFallujah #Fallujah2004 #IraqWar #USMarines

This is an invite to watch the Premiere of a Combat Story special episode titled Dauntless Courage focused entirely on combat stories taking place during the Battle of Fallujah II.

To join the premiere later today, go to YouTube at https://youtu.be/iO0-BJXWWJE and click notify me. The Premiere starts on Nov 8 at 8pm EST / 5pm PST.

Ryan and AJ will be in the chat watching the video live with everyone, including other Marines who fought in Fallujah!

In this incredible episode, Mark Wales, a former Australian SAS officer, opens up about his military journey. From his initial days in the Australian infantry to transitioning into the elite Special Forces, Mark reflects on his most pivotal experiences, including dangerous combat missions and the mental and physical toll of war. He shares intimate details about his service, his motivation to join Special Forces, and the challenges of losing friends in combat.

Mark's story isn't just about the highs of military life; it's also about the realities, the struggles with PTSD, and the transition back to civilian life. He talks about what it means to have the courage to face adversity, the bonds formed between soldiers, and how he now uses his experiences to inspire others as a corporate speaker.

A must-watch for anyone interested in the warrior spirit, leadership, resilience, and the human side of combat.

🎙️ About Ryan Fugit: Ryan is the creator and host of Combat Story, a podcast that captures the firsthand accounts of combat veterans, and Restricted Handling, which explores authoritarian activity and international security through conversations with world-class experts.

🔔 Subscribe for more interviews with military veterans, intelligence professionals, and leaders shaping the future of national security.

Find AJ Online:

📸 Instagram: /ajpasciuti 📘 LinkedIn: /angelo-pasciuti 👉Combat Story Podcast (Part 1 – USMC Sniper & Force Recon in Fallujah): https://open.spotify.com/episode/4aqn

👉Combat Story Podcast (Part 2 – Sniper vs Sniper Battle): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast

👉Urban Valor Facebook Feature: / 602000529075284

👉DVIDS Video on Infantry Marine Course: https://www.nationalguard.mil/Leaders

Find Ryan Online:

🎙️ Ryan's Linktree 🔗 Merch: Bonfire Store 🛒 Email: ryan@combatstory.com 📸 Instagram @combatstory / combatstory 📘 Facebook @combatstoryofficial Link 🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction to Mark Wales

00:57 Joining the Special Forces

01:42 Life After the Military

05:30 Combat Experiences and Near Misses

09:35 Dealing with Loss and Grief

16:42 Mental Health and PTSD

19:43 Reflections and Traditions

23:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Sponsored by Veterans Help Group — supporting veterans navigating VA benefits.

In this incredible, unconventional story, Nate reveals how he discovered his life's purpose by taking a radical leap of faith.

In 2004, feeling adrift and disturbed by the ongoing genocide in Darfur, Sudan, Nate knew he had to do something. Rejected by countless NGOs due to his lack of a college degree and "special skills," he refused to accept "no" for an answer.

With nothing but determination and a bold elevator pitch, he bought a plane ticket to Chad and found a way onto a UN flight to the refugee camps. Despite being interrogated by local authorities, Nate's perseverance paid off, and he was put to work—an experience that transformed his life in ways he never imagined.

This powerful, two-month journey ignited Nate's passion for service and ultimately led him to enlist in the U.S. military. A must-listen story about the warrior spirit, rising to the occasion in a time of crisis, and choosing action over complacency.

🎙️ About Ryan Fugit:

Ryan is the creator and host of Combat Story, a podcast that captures the firsthand accounts of combat veterans, and Restricted Handling, which explores authoritarian activity and international security through conversations with world-class experts. Check out the Retricted Handling podcast at www.restrictedhandling.com

🔔 Subscribe for more interviews with military veterans, intelligence professionals, and leaders shaping the future of national security.

Find AJ Online:

📸Instagram: / ajpasciuti

📘 LinkedIn: / angelo-pasciuti

🔗Personal Website & Book Pre-Order ("Darkhorse"): https://www.ajpasciuti.com/

👉Combat Story Podcast (Part 1 – USMC Sniper & Force Recon in Fallujah): https://open.spotify.com/episode/4aqn

👉Combat Story Podcast (Part 2 – Sniper vs Sniper Battle): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast

👉Urban Valor Facebook Feature: / 602000529075284

👉DVIDS Video on Infantry Marine Course: https://www.nationalguard.mil/Leaders

Find Ryan Online:

🎙️ Ryan's Linktree https://linktr.ee/combatstory

🔗Merch https://www.bonfire.com/store/combats

🛒 Email ryan@combatstory.com

📸 Instagram @combatstory / combatstory

📘 Facebook @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial

Check out the Retricted Handling podcast at www.restrictedhandling.com

📖 Send us messages at https://m.me/combatstoryofficial

✔ Learn more about Ryan www.combatstory.com/aboutus

🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

📘 Chapters:

This episode is brought to you by DeleteMe. Go to www.joindeleteme.com/combat and use the code COMBAT to get 20% off your plan and keep your personal information online secure. This episode is brought to you by RocketMoney. Go to www.RocketMoney.com/combatstory and get help finding and canceling your unwanted subscriptions, monitor your spending, and help lower your bills—all in one place. Go to www.HelloFresh.com/combatstory50 and use code combatstory50 for 50% off plus free shipping to get delicious and healthy meals that you can make at home with your family in no time and add some variety to what you serve! Our family has used Hello Fresh for years!

Join our weekly Combat Check-In Newsletter (www.combatstory.com/newsletter) to get a short email from Ryan for people who love and support our veterans, service members, and their families. It has info on a significant event in military and/or intel history, a funny military joke, an update on a current event I'm following, something I'm doing that week in my life, a book I'm reading, a look at an upcoming interview, a reflection on a past episode and more!

======= Today we hear the Combat Story of former Navy SEAL and Naval Special Warfare Development Group (or DEVGRU) operator Chris White. Chris spent two decades in the Teams pre-9/11 and was in the first wave of contractors fighting in Afghanistan and Iraq with Blackwater and similar companies early in the war.

Chris hasn't shared his story previously and did so, in part, to set the record straight on the experience of contractors in the post-9/11 era who had often been painted in a particularly negative way by the media.

Chris now operates Tier One Tactical where he delivers expert training to people, particularly those in law enforcement, in shooting and tactical engagements.

I hope you enjoy this wide ranging and insightful look at Chris' experiences in both the elite levels of the Navy's Special Operations community and his experience as a contractor in some incredibly challenging fighting, as much as I did.

=======

Find Ryan Online: - Ryan's Linktree https://linktr.ee/combatstory - Merch https://www.bonfire.com/store/combats... - Instagram @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory - Facebook @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial - Send us messages at https://m.me/combatstoryofficial - Learn more about Ryan www.combatstory.com/aboutus - Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle Find Chris White Online: - Learn more about Chris https://aegisacademy.com/pages/instructors

======= Show Notes: 00:00 - Intro 00:52 - Guest Introduction (Chris White) 01:45 - Interview begins 02:14 - Learnings from battles 10:00 - Fight, Flight, or Freeze 15:37 - UDT days 18:13 - Childhood and path to the Military 21:24 - DeleteME 22:29 - Deliniation between Navy and Teams 26:53 - Deciding to join the Military 29:43 - Being molded by the Military 32:03 - Friends at BUDS 36:29 - Route to DEVGRU 41:23 - Callsign White Boy 43:15 - Rocket Money 44:08 - Chris's strengths 47:43 - Chris's weaknesses 49:27 - Army Navy game 55:29 - Honor of the Fu-manchu 53:34 - Future after 20 years 01:03:53 - Hello Fresh 01:05:11 - Being in Bahrain during 9/11 01:07:08 - First mission after 9/11 01:15:29 - A hairy situation 01:30:28 - Transition to Blackwater 01:45:08 - Upside of being a Contractor 02:24:13 - Sentimental Items 02:25:33 - Do it all again 02:26:13 - Final comments 02:27:41 - Listeners comments and shout outs

🎖️ From Marine Sniper to Army Special Operations Veteran | Erick Miyares' Unbelievable Combat Story 🇺🇸. In this powerful episode, we sit down with Erick Miyares — a retired Special Operations soldier who began his journey in the U.S. Marine Corps and went on to serve in the Army's 7th Special Forces Group and an Army Special Missions Unit under U.S. SOCOM. Eric takes us deep into the realities of war, from the jungles of Central and South America to the battlefields of Afghanistan and Iraq. He opens up about taking a life, losing brothers, living with post-traumatic stress, and finding healing and purpose after decades in the shadows. This is more than a combat story — it's about resilience, identity, and redemption. Eric's transition from elite soldier to PhD student in Cyber Psychology shows how warriors continue to serve even after the battlefield. 🔥 What You'll Learn in This Episode:

The truth about life inside Special Operations How elite warriors process trauma and rebuild What it's like to order a kinetic strike — and live with it Lessons in discipline, humility, and healing from a 30-year veteran The mindset of those who operate in the world's most dangerous environments

💡 About Eric Ez Miyares:

Retired U.S. Army Special Operations veteran Former Marine Corps sniper Served in Panama, Colombia, Ecuador, Afghanistan, Iraq, and beyond Now a PhD candidate in Cyber Psychology, studying cognitive resilience Advocate for mental health and veterans' reintegration

💬 Support & Resources: If you or someone you know is struggling with post-traumatic stress, reach out for help. You are not alone. 👉 Visit VeteransHelpGroup.com or call (855) 231-6144.

🎙️ About Ryan Fugit:

Ryan is the creator and host of Combat Story, a podcast that captures the firsthand accounts of combat veterans, and Restricted Handling, which explores authoritarian activity and international security through conversations with world-class experts. Check out the Retricted Handling podcast at www.restrictedhandling.com

🔔 Subscribe for more interviews with military veterans, intelligence professionals, and leaders shaping the future of national security.

Find Erick Miyares :

📘 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erick-miyares/

Find AJ Online:

📸Instagram: / ajpasciuti

📘 LinkedIn: / angelo-pasciuti

🔗Personal Website & Book Pre-Order ("Darkhorse"): https://www.ajpasciuti.com/

👉Combat Story Podcast (Part 1 – USMC Sniper & Force Recon in Fallujah): https://open.spotify.com/episode/4aqn

👉Combat Story Podcast (Part 2 – Sniper vs Sniper Battle): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast

👉Urban Valor Facebook Feature: / 602000529075284

👉DVIDS Video on Infantry Marine Course: https://www.nationalguard.mil/Leaders

Find Ryan Online:

🎙️ Ryan's Linktree https://linktr.ee/combatstory

🔗Merch https://www.bonfire.com/store/combats

🛒 Email ryan@combatstory.com

📸 Instagram @combatstory / combatstory

📘 Facebook @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial

Check out the Retricted Handling podcast at www.restrictedhandling.com

📖 Send us messages at https://m.me/combatstoryofficial

✔ Learn more about Ryan www.combatstory.com/aboutus

🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

📘 Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction: Meet Eric Ez Miyares 01:00 – Marine Corps beginnings & escaping the streets of Miami 02:00 – Lessons learned from the Corps: discipline and humility 03:00 – The weight of pulling the trigger and ordering strikes 05:00 – Facing death in the Middle East and processing fear 07:00 – Living with Post-Traumatic Stress (without the "D") 08:30 – Opening Pandora's Box: therapy and healing 10:00 – Rediscovering purpose through resilience and service 11:00 – Sacrifices of family life during decades of deployments 13:00 – Cognitive fatigue and the toll of 20 years at war 14:30 – Finding brotherhood, connection, and purpose after combat 15:30 – The dual life: operator and intelligence professional 17:00 – The veteran bond and the humor that keeps them going 18:00 – The lighter side: local food, culture, and MRE memories 20:00 – Healing, time, and reflecting on legacy 21:30 – Lessons learned and why he'd serve again 23:00 – Closing reflections on purpose, family, and discipline

Marine Raider LtCol Ivan Ingraham (USMC, Ret.) takes us deep inside one of the most intense firefights of the Afghanistan War — when his convoy rolled into the Green Zone and an RPG bounced off the hood of his Humvee before exploding behind him.

In this unforgettable episode of Combat Story, Ivan shares what it really feels like when all hell breaks loose. From the chaos of a full-blown ambush to the calm, deliberate decisions that saved his Marines' lives, this story captures the courage, clarity, and leadership forged only through combat.

Ivan spent 24 years in the Marine Corps, serving as both a conventional infantry officer and later as a Special Operations Marine Raider with MARSOC. Across five combat deployments to Afghanistan, he led elite units under fire, trained the next generation of Recon Marines, and later turned his hard-won lessons into writing, speaking, and leadership coaching.

This is more than just a war story. It's about courage under fire, the weight of command, and finding purpose after the battlefield.

🔗 Connect with Ivan Ingraham

🌐 Official Website: ➡️ https://ivanfingraham.com

📰 Substack Newsletter – The Log Book ➡️ https://ivanfingraham.substack.com

📘 Books by Ivan F. Ingraham

➡️ Once We Pledged Forever: A Novel of Combat, Marines and the War Within

https://www.amazon.com/Once-We-Pledged-Forever-Marines/dp/1958861669

➡️ Dream Job

https://www.amazon.com/Dream-Job-Ivan-F-Ingraham-ebook/dp/B0CW18V16F

➡️ Athena: Bravery Knows No Gender

https://www.amazon.com/Athena-Ivan-F-Ingraham-ebook/dp/B0BLT469Y4

➡️ 22: A Journey to The Edge of Darkness

https://www.amazon.com/22-Darkness-Ivan-F-Ingraham/dp/B0C2RYRYFW

➡️ The Patrol: A Story of MARSOC at War https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/137341905-the-patrol-a-story-of-marsoc-at-war

📚 Amazon Author Page (Full Catalog): ➡️ https://www.amazon.com/stores/Ivan-F.-Ingraham/author/B0BCL7NGS3

💬 Facebook: ➡️ https://www.facebook.com/IvanFIngraham

📸 Instagram: ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/ifi_writer

Find AJ Online:

📸Instagram: / ajpasciuti https://www.instagram.com/ajpasciuti/

📘 LinkedIn: / angelo-pasciuti https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelo-pasciuti/

🔗Personal Website & Book Pre-Order ("Darkhorse"): https://www.ajpasciuti.com/

👉Combat Story Podcast (Part 1 – USMC Sniper & Force Recon in Fallujah):

https://open.spotify.com/episode/4aqnKAUUOCDmJZPWrMf9NZ

👉Combat Story Podcast (Part 2 – Sniper vs Sniper Battle):

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sniper-vs-sniper-battle-killing-the-enemys-most/id1537933985?i=1000633686192

👉Urban Valor Facebook Feature:

https://www.facebook.com/UrbanValor/posts/retired-marine-chief-warrant-officer-3-aj-pasciuti-recounts-being-in-the-middle-/602000529075284/

👉DVIDS Video on Infantry Marine Course:

https://www.nationalguard.mil/Leadership/Joint-Staff/Comptroller/Innovation/?dvpTag=imc&videoid=790758

🧭 CHAPTERS / TIMESTAMPS

00:00 – Intro: RPG Ambush & Chaos in the Green Zone

03:15 – Ivan Ingraham's background and upbringing in a military family

07:20 – Why he joined the Marines and the recruiting story that changed everything

12:10 – Lessons from OCS and The Basic School: what makes a Marine officer different

18:00 – Becoming an Infantry Officer and early deployments with 1/4

25:30 – Transition to Recon and the path toward Force Reconnaissance

34:00 – September 11th: where Ivan was when the towers fell

37:45 – Early years of the Global War on Terror and Recon's evolving role

41:00 – The creation of MARSOC and Ivan's move to Marine Special Operations

51:30 – Inside MARSOC's first deployments: structure, culture, and combat readiness

1:07:00 – The firefight: RPG hits the convoy and "all hell breaks loose"

1:13:00 – What combat really sounds like and the chaos of leadership under fire

1:20:00 – Calling in air support and the A-10 Warthog strafing run

1:26:00 – The moment Ivan thought they wouldn't make it out alive

1:31:00 – Aftermath: reflection, loss, and lessons in leadership

1:47:00 – Writing, healing, and building "The Log Book" newsletter

1:54:00 – Life after MARSOC: leadership, loss, and finding purpose again

2:10:00 – Ivan Ingraham's advice on courage, humility, and leading through fear

🪖 ABOUT IVAN INGRAHAM

LtCol Ivan Ingraham, USMC (Ret.) is a former Marine Raider (MARSOC), combat veteran, and author. Over a 24-year career, he served in leadership roles across conventional and special operations units, deploying five times to Afghanistan and around the world.

⚡ WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

✅ How a Marine Raider leads through chaos when everything falls apart

✅ What it feels like to be ambushed by RPGs in Afghanistan

✅ The difference between leadership in combat vs. corporate life

✅ The emotional cost of war and how Ivan found meaning beyond the battlefield

✅ Lessons on humility, courage, and trust from 24 years of service

In this episode, we sit down with Ryan Fugit — former Army attack helicopter pilot, CIA Directorate of Operations officer, and host of Combat Story and Restricted Handling for an inside look at a life spent on the front lines of America's wars and intelligence operations.

Ryan shares raw and insightful stories from his time flying AH-64 Apache helicopters in Afghanistan and from his years conducting global operations with the CIA's Directorate of Operations. From the intensity of combat to the complexity of modern intelligence work, Ryan reflects on the lessons, challenges, and defining moments that shaped his approach to leadership, resilience, and purpose.

We also discuss his transition from public service to leading trust and safety investigations in Silicon Valley, and how his experiences inform his mission to protect people from harm in the digital age. Ryan has now created the Restricted Handling podcast featuring daily, curated insights and news on Russia, China, Iran, North Korea, the Middle East and more with weekly deep dives with Ryan and former CIA legends about what's going on in the world of geopolitics, international security, and military and intelligence operations. Subscribe for FREE daily insights at www.restrictedhandling.com.

🎙️ About Ryan Fugit:

Ryan is the creator and host of Combat Story, a podcast that captures the firsthand accounts of combat veterans, and Restricted Handling, which explores authoritarian activity and international security through conversations with world-class experts. Check out the Retricted Handling podcast at www.restrictedhandling.com

🔔 Subscribe for more interviews with military veterans, intelligence professionals, and leaders shaping the future of national security.

Find AJ Online:

📸Instagram: / ajpasciuti

📘 LinkedIn: / angelo-pasciuti

🔗Personal Website & Book Pre-Order ("Darkhorse"): https://www.ajpasciuti.com/

👉Combat Story Podcast (Part 1 – USMC Sniper & Force Recon in Fallujah): https://open.spotify.com/episode/4aqn

👉Combat Story Podcast (Part 2 – Sniper vs Sniper Battle): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast

👉Urban Valor Facebook Feature: / 602000529075284

👉DVIDS Video on Infantry Marine Course: https://www.nationalguard.mil/Leaders

Find Ryan Online:

🎙️ Ryan's Linktree https://linktr.ee/combatstory

🔗Merch https://www.bonfire.com/store/combats

🛒 Email ryan@combatstory.com

📸 Instagram @combatstory / combatstory

📘 Facebook @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial

Check out the Retricted Handling podcast at www.restrictedhandling.com

📖 Send us messages at https://m.me/combatstoryofficial

✔ Learn more about Ryan www.combatstory.com/aboutus

🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Chapters: 0:00 Intro 01:53 Introduction 08:12 The Impact of 9/11 17:04 Choosing the Aviation Path 26:37 The Competitive World of Aviation 30:02 Imposter Syndrome and Military Service 37:05 Pop Culture Influences 44:22 First Unit Assignment 44:56 Early Days in the Cavalry Unit 46:09 The Battle of March 23, 2003 48:00 Life in Germany and the Desire to Deploy 50:01 First Deployment to Afghanistan 54:25 Challenges of Command and Crew Rest 59:00 Navigating Leadership and Combat Decisions 01:23:26 Reflecting on a Tragic Incident 01:24:40 Sponsor Message: Protect Your Privacy with Delete Me 01:26:07 Making Tough Decisions in the Military 01:28:44 Transitioning to Civilian Life and the CIA 01:34:38 Starting a Podcast: Inspiration and Challenges 01:52:13 Highs, Lows, and Laughs of Podcasting 02:03:01 Future Plans and New Ventures

✈️ A-10 Fighter Pilot Combat Story – Kim "Killer Chick" Campbell

In this episode, we sit down with Col. Kim "KC" Campbell (USAF, Ret.), a decorated A-10 Warthog pilot and true combat veteran. Known by her legendary call sign "Killer Chick," Kim shares her incredible story of surviving a surface-to-air missile strike over Baghdad and pulling off a harrowing emergency landing that few pilots could ever attempt. This is a raw, inspiring deep dive into leadership, resilience, and what it takes to fly and fight in one of the most iconic aircraft in U.S. Air Force history.

🎥 Deep Dive with Kim "Killer Chick" Campbell

This episode features none other than Col. Kim "KC" Campbell (USAF, Ret.), who has one of the coolest call signs imaginable. A decorated A-10 Warthog pilot, she survived a surface-to-air missile strike and pulled off a landing few pilots have ever faced in real life.

📞 Support Veterans Help Group

Go to: http://www.veteranshelpgroup.com

Or call: 855-233-6144 and tell them your buddies Ryan and AJ from Combat Story sent you.

🔥 Find Kim "Killer Chick" Campbell Online

🎙️ Find AJ Online

🎧 Featured Content

⚡ Subscribe for more Combat Story episodes highlighting the courage, resilience, and leadership of warriors who've lived it.

In remembrance of the attacks on September 11th, 2001, we have a special guest on the show, and for the first time in our Combat Story community, we'd like to introduce Darin Kinder — Former Secret Service Agent • 9/11 Survivor.

Darin Kinder brings a rare blend of courage, clarity, and conviction from years spent navigating the world's most high-pressure moments. As a former Secret Service Agent and survivor of the 9/11 attacks, he uses his story to help individuals and leaders live with bold purpose and unwavering resilience.

Author of Bury Me in a Dirty Suit: Discovering Man's Valiant Purpose in the Aftermath of 9/11, Darin invites listeners to reframe how they live—seeing everyday work not simply as provision, but as purpose in motion. His own experience, assisting, evacuating, and enduring on that fateful day, embodies the idea that courage is always a choice.

Darin's story is one of heroism and humility—his actions during the 9/11 attacks earned him the Secret Service Medal of Valor. As the founder of Fierce Comms, based in Dallas, Darin empowers people to rediscover mission and meaning—not just in what they do, but why they do it. Through keynote talks and multi-session seminars, he challenges audiences to "get their suit dirty"—to choose the narrow, courageous path of sacrifice over comfort.

Join us as we sit down with Darin Kinder—a man who invites us to embrace the grit of life, unlock purpose in our work, and live courageously, even when the world tells us we can't.

Find Darin Kinder Online:

🔗 Website: https://www.darinkinder.com/

📸 Instagram / darinkinder

Find AJ Online:

📸Instagram: / ajpasciuti

📘 LinkedIn: / angelo-pasciuti

🔗Personal Website & Book Pre-Order ("Darkhorse"): https://www.ajpasciuti.com/

👉Combat Story Podcast (Part 1 – USMC Sniper & Force Recon in Fallujah):

https://open.spotify.com/episode/4aqn... 👉Combat Story Podcast (Part 2 – Sniper vs Sniper Battle): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast

👉Urban Valor Facebook Feature: / 602000529075284

👉DVIDS Video on Infantry Marine Course: https://www.nationalguard.mil/Leaders

Find Ryan Online:

🎙️ Ryan's Linktree https://linktr.ee/combatstory

🔗Merch https://www.bonfire.com/store/combats

🛒 Email ryan@combatstory.com

📸 Instagram @combatstory / combatstory

📘 Facebook @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial

📖 Send us messages at https://m.me/combatstoryofficial

✔ Learn more about Ryan www.combatstory.com/aboutus

🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Chapters:

00:40 Introduction 00:59 Meet Darren Kinder: 9/11 Survivor and Secret Service Agent 02:47 The Story Behind 'Bury Me In a Dirty Suit' 07:17 Darren's Path to the Secret Service 11:06 Inside the Secret Service: Training and Missions 24:20 First Days in New York: Pre-9/11 Assignments 30:58 Isolation and Law Enforcement Collaboration 31:24 AJ Pesi's Story and New Book Announcement 32:46 Recounting 9/11: Initial Impact and Evacuation 35:59 Heroic Efforts and Personal Sacrifices 45:55 Surviving the Collapse and Aftermath 56:02 Reflecting on the Day and Moving Forward 57:06 Veterans Help Group Sponsorship 58:28 Divine Intervention and Final Thoughts 01:01:47 Evacuation Efforts on 9/11 01:02:37 Returning Home and Reuniting with Family 01:04:32 Receiving the Secret Service Medal of Valor 01:05:31 Serving on the New York Joint Terrorism Task Force 01:06:23 Protecting President George W. Bush 01:07:38 Reflecting on 9/11 and Ground Zero 01:14:29 Traveling the World with the Secret Service 01:18:40 Memorable Moments and Close Calls 01:24:06 Leadership Lessons and Personal Reflections 01:30:28 Final Thoughts and Farewell

🌍 Welcome to the RH Podcast! In this special preview, host Ryan Fugit sits down with Glenn Corn — a veteran of 34 years in the CIA, State Department, and U.S. Army. Glenn has served as a multi-time Chief of Station and senior intelligence officer, bringing decades of experience from the frontlines of national security and diplomacy.

🚨 Want to get the full episode? This is just the beginning. Catch the rest of the conversation exclusively at 👉 https://restrictedhandling.com/youtube or head to our RH Spotify version here

Don't miss Glenn and Ryan's full take on geopolitics, foreign policy, and the realities of intelligence work — insights you won't find anywhere else.

🔥 Stay Connected & Support the Show:

Subscribe for more previews and exclusive content

Visit restrictedhandling.com for full-length episodes

Share this video with friends who want uncensored, real-world analysis

#RHpodcast #RyanFugit #GlennCorn #CIA #Intelligence #Geopolitics #ForeignPolicy #RestrictedHandling

Welcome to Combat Story. Today, I'm joined by retired Marine First Sergeant Randall Parkes—a parachute rigger in Recon, founding member of MARSOC, Drill Instructor extraordinaire, and now a leader in both real estate and defense tech—plus everyone's favorite podcaster, the man who started it all.., Ryan Fugit.

Randall's career spans from enlisting in July 2001 to a remarkable 20 years of service that took him to Iraq, Afghanistan, and Africa on four combat deployments. As a founding member of the 1st Marine Raider Battalion, he helped shape the early years of Marine Special Operations and was named MARSOC Support Marine of the Year in 2011. He later became a Parris Island Drill Instructor, shaping the next generation of Marines, and commanded 97 Marines and Sailors during a CENTCOM deployment in 2017.

In his final active-duty role, Randall returned to Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, capping his service before retiring on September 30, 2021. Since then, he's launched The Parkes Realty Group with his wife Heather—selling over $40 million in residential real estate—and now serves as Mission Operations Deployment Lead at Anduril Industries, helping drive innovation in modern defense technology. His academic credentials include a bachelor's in Business Management (magna cum laude) and an Master of Business for Veterans, an innovative and one of its kind program from The University of Southern CA.

Randall's combat stories are intense, unfiltered, and at times deeply personal—so much so that this is only part one of his Combat Story. We'll be sitting down with him again in the future to share his incredible role in saving lives during the chaotic fall of Kabul, a moment that speaks volumes about his leadership, grit, and unwavering commitment to others.

Let's dive in—here's part one of our conversation with Randall Parkes.

Find Randall Parkes Online:

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/randall_in_sandiego/?hl=en

📘 Linkedin : https://www.linkedin.com/in/randall-parkes

🔗 Official website: https://theparkesteam.com/agent/randall-parkes

Find Ryan Online:

🔗 Ryan's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/combatstory

🛒 Merch Store: https://www.bonfire.com/store/combats

📸 Instagram: @combatstory / combatstory

📘 Facebook: @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial

📖 Learn more about Ryan: https://www.combatstory.com/aboutus

🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Find AJ Online:

🔗 Official website: ajpasciuti.com

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajpasciuti/

📘 Linkedin : https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelo-pasciuti/

📕Personal Website & Book Pre-Order ("Darkhorse"): https://www.ajpasciuti.com/

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction 00:48 Introduction to Combat Story 01:12 Meet Randall Parks 02:59 Randall's Early Life and Military Beginnings 04:09 Joining the Marine Corps 13:31 Bootcamp During 9/11 33:41 First Deployment to Iraq 47:30 Loaded for Battle 47:52 A Close Call with a Civilian 48:45 Cultural Differences in Handling Disabilities 49:13 A Sergeant's Tough Love 49:37 The Reality of Deployment 50:57 IED Encounter and Aftermath 57:58 A Model Marine's Worries 59:10 The Impact of Movies on War Memories 01:00:10 Returning Home to Personal Turmoil 01:04:51 A New Assignment and a Change of Plans 01:07:21 Joining MARSOC 01:10:42 Deployment to Afghanistan 01:21:47 Facing the Taliban's Mortar Attacks 01:29:58 Spotting the Enemy 01:30:33 Engaging the Mortar Team 01:31:39 Aftermath and Reflections 01:34:32 The PX Gunny Story 01:43:58 Returning Home and Getting Married 01:44:53 Drill Instructor Duty 01:48:51 Challenges and Successes as a Drill Instructor 02:04:55 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Welcome to Combat Story. For the first time, I'm joined by my new co-host AJ Pasciuti as we sit down with Will Bardenwerper—former 1-36 Infantry and Civil Affairs Officer, Princeton grad, and acclaimed author.

Will shares his journey from a finance career in Manhattan, inspired to serve after 9/11 and the example set by Pat Tillman, to boots on the ground in the Sunni Triangle during a 13-month deployment in 2006. He opens up about the realities of war, the loss of close friends, and the challenges of Civil Affairs in Iraq.

After the Army, Will became a journalist and two-time author. His first book, The Prisoner in His Palace, offers a unique perspective on the American soldiers tasked with guarding Saddam Hussein. His latest, Homestand, explores the heart of small-town America through the loss of a minor league baseball team.

Will's work has appeared in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Harper's, and more. I first met Will through Pat Fagan, a close friend from ROTC, and we touch on that connection in our conversation.

I'm also excited to welcome AJ as co-host—many of you will remember him from his standout guest episodes, where his firsthand experience in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other hotspots brought unique insight and energy to our conversations. Having AJ alongside me as a regular presence will add even more depth and connection to the stories we share on Combat Story.

Let's dive in—here's our conversation with Will Bardenwerpe

Connect with Will Bardenwerper : Website: https://www.willbardenwerper.com/

The Prisoner in His Palace: Saddam Hussein, His American Guards, and What History Leaves Unsaid (https://www.amazon.com/Prisoner-His-P...)

Homestand: Small Town Baseball and the Fight for the Soul of America (https://www.amazon.com/Homestand-Smal...)

Will is a graduate of Princeton University, where he majored in English. His book The Prisoner in His Palace: Saddam Hussein, His American Guards, and What History Leaves Unsaid was published by Scribner in 2017. He has had Op Eds and feature articles published in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Harper's, Outside, Newsweek, The Spectator, The Hill, The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, The Denver Post, Huffington Post, The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and Task & Purpose.

Find Ryan Online:

🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:

🔗 Ryan's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/combatstory

🛒 Merch Store: https://www.bonfire.com/store/combats

📸 Instagram: @combatstory / combatstory

📘 Facebook: @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial

📖 Learn more about Ryan: https://www.combatstory.com/aboutus

🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Find AJ Online:

🔗 Official website: ajpasciuti.com

📸 Instagram: @ajpasciuti

📕Pre-Order AJ's Book Darkhorse: Harnessing Hidden Potential in War and Life https://www.amazon.com/Darkhorse-Harn

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction 00:43 Meet the Guest: Will Barden Warper 04:13 Will's Early Life and Education 08:34 The Impact of 9/11 and Decision to Serve 21:01 Joining the Military: Challenges and Training 28:54 The Mental Challenge of Military Training 29:40 Different Standards Across Military Branches 30:44 The Pressure of Military Exams 31:23 AJ Pesi's Story and New Book 32:44 Returning to Ranger School 35:03 Changes in Ranger School Over the Years 42:45 Deployment to Iraq: Initial Impressions 48:35 Challenges in Civil-Military Operations 52:45 The Reality of Combat and Civil Affairs 59:51 The Importance of Non-Kinetic Approaches 01:02:43 Sponsor Message: Protect Your Privacy with Delete Me 01:04:10 Honoring Fallen Comrades: Jason West and Travis Petr 01:08:47 The Impact of Tribal Relationships in Iraq 01:13:20 Writing and Reflecting on Military Experiences 01:16:31 The Story of Guarding Saddam Hussein 01:19:43 Exploring Americana Through Baseball 01:24:47 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Get a daily intel brief delivered directly to your email (for free) covering all things Russia, China, Middle East, and more at https://www.restrictedhandling.com/

In this episode of the RH Podcast, former CIA officer 🎖️ Ryan Fugit and multi-time Chief of Station Glenn Corn (34 years at CIA) break down the high-stakes Trump–Zelensky meetings in Washington, DC 🇺🇸 following Putin's Alaska summit 🇷🇺.

👉 Here's what you'll learn:

🔹 Why Putin skipped a key lunch with U.S. Treasury & Commerce officials 🍽️

🔹 The hidden "carrot & stick" strategy behind Trump's negotiations 🥕🔨

🔹 What Russia really wants before agreeing to a ceasefire 🚫🕊️

🔹 Ukraine's shocking openness to land swaps & the future of Crimea 🗺️

🔹 How the Russian Orthodox Church is used as a weapon of influence ⛪

🔹 Whether NATO membership for Ukraine is still possible 🌍

🔹 The threat of "gray zone warfare" ⚔️ (cyber attacks, propaganda & sabotage)

🔹 PLUS: Glenn's hot takes on spies, Cold War movies 🎬, and what history teaches us about de-escalation 📚

💡 Packed with real intelligence insight you won't hear in mainstream media. If you want to understand the future of Ukraine, Russia, and global security, this is a must-watch.

👇 Join the conversation in the comments – Do you think Putin will agree to meaningful guarantees, or is this just another stalling tactic?

📌 Timestamps

⚡ Don't forget to:

👍 Like this video if you enjoy deep-dive analysis

🔔 Subscribe for more CIA-level insights into global security

📢 Share this episode with friends who follow world events

#Trump #Zelensky #Putin #UkraineWar #RussiaUkraine #Geopolitics #CIA #Podcast #NATO #Security #InternationalRelations

In this unfiltered Combat Story episode, we go deep with Jason Lilley — Recon Marine, MARSOC Raider, CIA Global Response Staff, and co-creator of Savage Actual. Jason opens up about his path from a turbulent youth to serving in some of the most elite units in the U.S. military, facing the chaos of Iraq and Afghanistan, and building a new life as a creator and veteran advocate.

In this episode:

🌐 Connect with Jason:

In this episode, Jason Lilley shares his riveting journey from being a Marine grunt to working for the State Department and CIA. He details his intense experiences during the Iraq invasion, life-altering moments in Fallujah, and the camaraderie formed in the face of danger. Lily also opens up about his struggles with depression and finding purpose post-service, running a YouTube channel and podcast, Savage Actual. Watch as he discusses the highs and lows of military life and his ongoing journey to harness his experiences for a meaningful civilian life.

Timeline

📌 Tags & Keywords:

#MarineCorps #ReconMarine #MARSOC #GenerationKill #CIA #CombatStory #VeteranStories #SpecialOperations #SavageActual #Fallujah #IraqWar #WarriorMindset #MilitaryPodcast

🎙️ Time-Sensitive RH Intel: Trump-Putin Alaska Summit Analysis 🌍🇺🇸🇷🇺

Join Ryan Fugit and Glenn, both seasoned former CIA officers 🕵️‍♂️, as they unpack the high-stakes Trump-Putin meeting in Alaska 🏔️—a pivotal moment for US-Russia relations and the Ukraine conflict. This timely episode dives deep into international diplomacy, geopolitical tensions, and the shifting dynamics of the global security landscape.

Get a daily intel brief delivered to your email at https://www.restrictedhandling.com/ to get a curated set of insights and reporting on Russia, China, Iran, the MIddle East and more from a national security perspective.

With decades of intelligence experience, Ryan and Glenn offer unparalleled insights into:

🔹 The strategic implications of the Alaska summit

🔹 The battlefield realities shaping negotiations 🪖

🔹 The symbolic significance of the meeting's location

🔹 How this summit could influence NATO strategy and future diplomacy

You'll also learn the hidden history of Alaska's role in U.S.-Russia affairs, the motivations of key players, and the possible paths forward for Ukraine, Russia, and the West.

💡 Key Takeaways:

🤝 The summit is a rare, high-stakes opportunity for dialogue.

📍 Alaska offers strategic advantages, including fewer ICC challenges.

🎯 Russia's tactics aim to strengthen their bargaining position.

⚠️ Risks remain for Ukraine in potential negotiations.

🪢 U.S. strategy must balance pressure with incentives.

🕊️ Diplomacy is essential—some conflicts can't be won militarily.

💪 Ukrainian resilience will be a decisive factor.

📢 Sound Bites:

"This is a high-stakes meeting."

"Putin's actions serve the ego of one man."

"We need to incentivize the Russians to behave."

📌 Keywords: US-Russia relations, Ukraine conflict, Trump-Putin meeting, Alaska summit, NATO, international diplomacy, geopolitical tensions, global security.

🎧 Listen now for a gripping, no-spin breakdown of what's happening behind closed doors—and what it means for the future of international power.

Time sensitive RH intel: join Ryan Fugit and Glenn, both veterans of the CIA, as they navigate the intricate landscape of international diplomacy and geopolitical tensions. This is a timely episode focused on the pivotal meeting between President Trump and Vladimir Putin in Alaska, they explore the strategic implications for Ukraine and the broader global stage. Drawing from decades of experience, Ryan and Glenn provide an in-depth analysis of the current US-Russia relations, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and the potential outcomes of this high-stakes summit.

Discover the historical context behind Alaska's role in this meeting, the symbolic significance of the location, and the potential impact on future negotiations involving Ukraine, Russia, and NATO. As they dissect the motivations and strategies of key players, Ryan and Glenn offer unique insights into the challenges and opportunities facing international leaders today.

Whether you're interested in the nuances of diplomacy, the dynamics of power, or the future of global security, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the forces shaping our world. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that goes beyond the headlines to uncover the realities of international relations.

Connect with Glenn at https://greatsouthbayinc.com/

Chapters

🔥 New Podcast Drop! This exclusive crossover episode introduces my brand-new show Restricted Handling 🔒 — hosted by me - Ryan Fugit - and former CIA Chief of Station Glenn Corn 🕵️‍♂️.

🎯 Combat Story fans — don't worry. That show will continue strong under decorated Marine Sniper & Recon Operator AJ Pasciuti 🦅. But if you crave deeper dives into intelligence, military operations, and high-stakes geopolitics, Restricted Handling is your new must-listen.

In the Intelligence Community, "Restricted Handling" refers to certain intel only shared with those who absolutely need it. Here, you'll get human-enabled + AI-powered daily briefings plus exclusive deep dives with former CIA officers into:

Russia 🇷🇺 & Ukraine 🇺🇦 war updates

China's global ambitions 🇨🇳

Espionage & spycraft 🕵️‍♀️

Military strategy & special operations 🪖

Geopolitical flashpoints 🌍

Big economic power plays 💰

These aren't academic think pieces — they're firsthand accounts from those who've operated in the shadows shaping global events.

🇺🇦 Trump's evolving stance on Ukraine — and what it signals.

💰 Secondary sanctions targeting India and others to pressure Russia.

🏛️ Why summit locations reveal hidden diplomatic strategies.

⚰️ The human and psychological toll of the Ukraine war.

🌏 Armenia's pivot to the West and U.S. role in peace talks.

🇱🇧 Hezbollah's political struggles in Lebanon.

🇮🇷 Iran's limited ability to respond to recent conflicts.

🕵️ Rising global espionage activity.

🪖 Wagner Group's disruptive operations in Africa.

00:00 — Introduction: The Global Geopolitical Chessboard ♟️ 02:13 — Trump's Ukraine Policy Shift 04:53 — Sanctions, Allies, and Economic Warfare 07:30 — Russia's Economic Pressures 10:17 — The Politics of Summit Locations 14:22 — War's Human Cost 16:16 — Armenia & Azerbaijan Conflict 20:27 — U.S. Peace Negotiations Role 26:06 — Middle East Power Shifts 31:44 — Hezbollah's Declining Influence 34:26 — Iran's Regional Weakness 40:12 — Espionage & Counterintelligence Battles 44:08 — Wagner Group in Africa

🔗 Listen to Restricted Handling Daily: [Spotify Link]

#RestrictedHandling #CombatStory #CIA #Espionage #Russia #Ukraine #Geopolitics #MilitaryOps #Intelligence #NationalSecurity #SpyStories #GlobalSecurity

Today we have a great interview with 24 year retired Marine and best selling author of Echo in Ramadi, Scott Huesing. Scott led the "magnificent bastards" of 2/4 Marines during one of the most brutal periods of the post-9/11 war from 2006 into 2007 during the Surge.

Scott went from self-described terrible high school student to enlisted Marine to Mustang (a Marine Officer who was formerly Enlisted), serving on 10 deployments in multiple countries.

In this episode, Scott takes into an intense fight to extract several pinned down Marines that included bringing M1A1s along to losing his first casualty just weeks into the deployment.

Since leaving the service, Scott wrote the best selling book Echo in Ramadi, has helped others write their own books, run non-profits, and more. With that, please enjoy this wide ranging conversation with someone who made it through some of the hardest fighting in the war.

Check out our Combat Story Newsletter at www.combatstory.com/newsletter

EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/combatstoryTry it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee!

Find Ryan Online:

🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:

🔗 Ryan's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/combatstory

🛒 Merch Store: https://www.bonfire.com/store/combats

📸 Instagram: @combatstory / combatstory

📘 Facebook: @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial

📖 Learn more about Ryan: https://www.combatstory.com/aboutus

🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Today we have a once in a lifetime interview with Medal of Honor recipient Ryan Pitts, who truly earned this prestigious award in the mountains of Afghanistan fighting off a very dedicated, organized, and determined enemy force. Ryan and I connected thanks to the National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership, a non-profit helping to share lessons of leadership from Medal of Honor recipients and the values they live by with people who lead at any level.

In this episode, we dive into Ryan's near death experiences (there are several) while downrange but we never venture far from what leadership is all about, from a private in the foxhole to a Colonel at the TOC. Ryan earned the Medal of Honor in the Battle of Wanat in Afghanistan in July 2008 when I was flying Apaches in eastern Afghanistan out of Khost. Ryan made sure some of the gun pilots from the 101st like Jimmy Morrow and John Gavreau were at his award ceremony at the White House because he felt they were a part of this effort as much as anyone (which you know this gun pilot loves to hear).

Ryan is incredibly humble for having earned this amazing award and I was fortunate enough to spend a weekend in Chicago with him, the Center for Leadership executive staff, and another Medal of Honor recipient Col. Harvey "Barney" Barnum. They were treated like royalty at a Cubs game with everyone wanting a picture with these heroes. None of that has gone to his head, as you'll hear in this interview.

I'd also ask you to notice how he remembers the name of so many of the people he served with and how he speaks of this as a 'their' - collective - award and not his own. We need more leaders and people like Ryan out there and that's exactly what the Center is doing. Please have a look for a Center for Leadership event or course near you by going to mohcenterforleadership.org.

Special thanks to Andy, Elise, Tom, Forrest, John, and all the other folks who made this event possible. With that, please enjoy a detailed description of some of the most intense combat and true heroism from living Medal of Honor recipient, Ryan Pitts.

The National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership exists to inspire, develop and empower leaders through the values of courage, sacrifice, citizenship, integrity, commitment and patriotism. Through fellowship programs, onsite training and a nationwide digital platform, we're helping Americans of all ages learn what it means to lead with honor. Learn more at www.mohcenterforleadership.org and follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn at National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership, and on Instagram at @medalofhonorcfl and X at @MedalofHonorCFL.

Check out our Combat Story Newsletter at www.combatstory.com/newsletter

EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ https://nordvpn.com/combatstoryTry it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee!

Find Ryan Pitts Online:

🥉The National Medal of Honor Center for Leadership mohcenterforleadership.org

and https://mohcenterforleadership.org/exclusive-qa-with-the-nmohlec-education-director/

📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/medalofhonorcfl/

📘 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/MedalofHonorCenterforLeadership/

💡 X https://www.linkedin.com/company/national-medal-of-honor-center-for-leadership

Find Ryan Online:

🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:

🔗 Ryan's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/combatstory

🛒 Merch Store: https://www.bonfire.com/store/combats

📸 Instagram: @combatstory / combatstory

📘 Facebook: @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial

📖 Learn more about Ryan: https://www.combatstory.com/aboutus

🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Today we have a fascinating Combat Story with Jake Harriman who is one of those guys who makes you feel incredibly lazy for not helping hungry people in Africa (seriously) and helping to heal the divide in America, one person at a time. It's no surprise that Jake served alongside Todd Opalski (who long time fans of the show will know as the enlisted Marine Sniper who became a Marine officer, Force Recon leader, and was then invited to serve in the most elite unit in the US Military). You can't help but do great things if you worked with Todd!

Jake is truly an incredibly humble but accomplished combat veteran. He's a Marine officer who led a platoon during OIF I in Iraq where he had a life changing moment that altered the course of his life. It's a sad but very powerful moment that anyone can relate to. He would finally be admitted into the storied ranks of the Force Recon community where he conducted a mix of recon and surveillance and direct action missions downrange, including one that I'm sorry to say involves helicopter pilots that made one particular DA really hard for Jake, but also taught him a profound lesson.

Despite many of Jake's successes, he takes us through several moments of his life when he's truly humbled from getting turned down at a chance to be a SEAL to being turned away from his audacious attempt to join the Force Recon community to being punched in the face by his team sergeant on an LZ.

After leaving service, Jake continued to serve in a different way. He completed an MBA at Stanford and then started a non-profit that has helped over 300K people in remote areas of Africa and, at the same time, helped fight off extremism in these areas. More recently, he created the non-profit called a More Perfect Union that's mobilized 35K members across the US to heal deep divides in this country, looking to service members of all kinds to step in and lead, just from a different foxhole. You can find more and help at mpu.us (mike papa uniform dot us).

With that, I'm so excited for you all to hear this funny but powerful discussion with Jake Harriman.

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Our Combat Story today is former Navy SEAL officer Josh Thurman, who spent over 12 years serving in the SEAL Teams​, including at the elite level. Over the course of 11 deployments in the post-9/11 era​, Josh led high-stakes special operations missions and nearly lost his own life on countless occasions.

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Josh almost never joined the military and, instead, thought of becoming a religious leader, which we talk about in this episode. Instead, he would go on to lead some of the most lethal and intelligent veterans on the planet on successful counterterrorism and hostage rescue missions.

After his military service, Josh transitioned to the tech industry in 2023, co-founding AngelQ, an AI company to protect and prioritize the wellbeing of children in the digital age. With that, please enjoy this discussion with Josh Thurman.

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00:30 Introduction 00:49 Meet Josh Thurman: Navy SEAL Officer 03:20 From Potential Religious Leader to SEAL 05:54 Josh's Upbringing and Early Influences 10:27 Choosing the SEALs Over Other Paths 12:08 Mentorship and Inspiration 16:11 Angel Q: Protecting Kids in the Digital Age 18:45 BUD/S Training: Coldest Moments 30:31 Memorable Interactions with an Instructor 31:38 Challenges of OCS and Early Military Career 33:40 Humbling Experiences and First Deployment 36:56 First Combat Experience in Iraq 40:51 The Harrowing Vehicle Incident 47:12 Transitioning to Civilian Life and Entrepreneurship 50:04 The Mission and Vision of Angel Q 57:14 Challenges and Rewards of Starting a Company 59:25 Final Thoughts and Reflections 01:02:14 Sponsor Message: Delete Me

Today we sit down with Roberto Toncig, a retired Italian Army and former Government Executive with 40+ years of experience in the field of Defence and Security. He spent over two decades in steeped in International Relations and Security, most of them spent in challenging positions at various Italian Embassies abroad.

In addition to Italian and fantastic English, Roberto speaks German, French, Serbo-Croatian, and Russian. In his post-government work, Roberto is an advisor at Leonardo focused on Regional Security for this global defense, security, and aerospace giant.

We connected with Roberto thanks to friend of the show and longtime senior intelligence officer Glenn Corn. In this episode, we dive into Italy's security organizations and get Roberto's expert perspectives on Italy and Europe's positioning in light of conflict in Russia and Ukraine, energy security, China, the Mediterranean, and regional stability.

With that, please enjoy this deep dive into all things security-related in Europe.

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Show Notes:

In this episode, we sit down with statesman and Ambassador David Miller, who shares his expansive and storied career, starting from his early days surveying economic impacts in Vietnam to his intricate experiences with the National Security Council and various international postings. We're joined by Glenn Corn, who spent a career, much like Amb Miller, in service to the United States, but on the CIA side of the house and you get to hear what it's like when Chiefs of Station and Ambassadors truly work together.

Ambassador Miller recounts tales of working closely with influential figures such as Nelson Mandela and Brent Scowcroft, and discusses his involvement in developing the Diplomatic Studies Foundation, which is a fascinating approach that brings wargames to Country Teams with a different outcome: Peace. Miller reflects on the challenges of delivering unvarnished intelligence and narrowly avoiding any involvement in what he could sense was a scandal that was later Watergate!

Ambassador Miller also helped start the Special Operations Fund which directly supports some of America's most important families, those of fallen Tier 1 Special Operators, which I know people who listen to this show will appreciate.

With that, please enjoy this wide ranging and interesting discussion with two very storied leaders and patriots.

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Show Notes:

Today's Combat Story is a Frontline Perspective with Tamerlan Vahabov on Ukraine's Defense, Challenges, and Future. In this interview, Tamerlan tells us about his work as a former advisor to the Director of Defense Procurement and the Minister of Interior in Ukraine. He shares his compelling journey from Azerbaijan to Ukraine, highlighting his roles in government, law enforcement, and his direct experiences with the Russian invasion of Ukraine. We dig deep into drone warfare and the intricacies of defense procurement, the challenges faced by the Ukrainian defense industry, and his ongoing efforts to aid Ukraine's war effort. This episode offers a rare glimpse into the life of a man who has been at the forefront of Ukraine's struggle, providing valuable insights and personal stories that underscore the complexities of the conflict

Tamerlan Vahabov was the advisor to the Director of the Defense Procurement Agency of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, 2024, Head of the Reform Office and Advisor to the Minister of Internal Affairs of Ukraine, 2021-2022, has held government defense industry, economy, and law enforcement positions in Kyiv, Ukraine, Lyon France and Baku, Azerbaijan.

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Today we talk to CIA Senior Intelligence Service officer Glenn Corn who is calling in from Ukraine and dive into the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, with on-the-ground insights and analysis. We touch on Ukrainian concerns about being excluded from international peace talks, the mixed reactions to diplomatic efforts at the Munich Security Conference and in Saudi Arabia, and the potential implications of new Russian intelligence tactics.

We also hit on a new Russian intel covert unit, possible involvement of North Korean troops supporting Russia, recent prisoner swaps, and the evolving role of NATO and U.S. allies in the conflict. Additionally, there's a reflection on the human cost of the war, highlighting the emotional toll on Ukrainian families.

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Show Notes:

Today's Combat Story is with our first Navy Vice Admiral, Mike LeFever, who spent 38 years in uniform supporting US National Security across the world. Rising from an Annapolis wrestler to a surface warfare officer, Mike was selected to command a strike group, would serve at the US Embassy in Pakistan as the head diplomatic officer (during the Bin Laden raid), and finished his military career as the Director of Strategic Operational Planning at the National Counterterrorism Center, within the Office of the Director of National Intelligence.

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Mike has gone on to write a book about leading through crises titled End Game First: A Leadership Strategy for Navigating a Crisis, and, since leaving service, has stayed very busy with roles as a CEO for a cyber and tech company; a senior advisor and mentor at the McChrystal Group; Performance Ambassador and Speaker for Liminal Collective and Arena Labs; works on the Cipher Brief with friend of the show Glenn Corn and more.

This is a really and insightful discussion with an incredibly senior, accomplished, yet thoroughly humble leader and I hope you enjoy his sense of humor, honest talk, and experiences at the highest levels of both global affairs and military strategy as much as I did.

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End Game First: A Leadership Strategy for Navigating a Crisis

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Today is an amazing Combat Story as we sit down with the legendary retired three star General HR McMaster whose 34 years of service included everything from spearheading the last great tank-on-tank engagement in the famous Battle of 73 Easting to serving as President Trump's National Security Advisor.

McMaster has been a dream interview for our program for years and it does not disappoint. We cover so much in this episode from exactly what it felt like in the tanks on that fateful day taking on and destroying the Tawalkana Division of the Iraqi Republican Guard in minutes to leading a Cavalry Regiment that successfully and overwhelmingly destroyed Al Qaida in Tal Afar in Iraq in 2006 (it's an amazing description of combined arms warfare) to chance encounters with world leaders like Henry Kissinger.

We spend some time discussing the General's most recent book, At War With Ourselves about his time in Trump's White House. It's an amazing look inside what the West Wing is really like and the decisions that have to be made and personalities that need to be managed. Fans of this show will love this book.

We get McMaster's perspective from the Battle of 73 Easting but if you want an even more detailed description of that battle, check out our interview with McMaster's Platoon Leader Tim Gauthier who was a part of that fight https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O10yS95ak5M

I sincerely hope you enjoy this glimpse into one of our country's greatest and most selfless leaders as much as I did.

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Today we have a fascinating discussion with two CIA legends from the Directorate of Operations: Glenn Corn and Paul Kepp. Both served for over 30 years in the government, most of that with the CIA and both served as Chiefs of Station at some of the most important posts in the world, leading from the frontlines.

Glenn brought Paul on to discuss what's going on in Africa in terms of Russian and increasing Chinese influence, regional players like Turkey and UAE, and specifically recent flare ups in the Democratic Republic of Congo or DRC with Tutsi militia group M23 taking over Goma.

We cover what that means for the DRC, Rwanda, the people, regional players, global players, and the United States, particularly with a new administration in place.

Please enjoy this deep dive from two legends discussing a topic that both feel deserves our attention globally.

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Today we hear a Combat Story from our brothers across the pond with a veteran and sniper from the UK's elite Parachute Regiment or Paras, Hugh Keir. Hugh deployed to Iraq twice, Afghanistan three times, in addition to Northern Ireland and the Falklands.

Hugh survived the infamous siege of Musa Qala (you'll be fascinated to hear about this experience and it will make you appreciate just how brutal fighting can be at times) where he and his unit were infiled into a brutal fighting position in Afghanistan completely surrounded by the Taliban. He was also recognized with a gallantry award for his actions in Helmand Province in 200 in just one of his several Afghan deployments.

Since leaving the military, Hugh has worked as a Close Protection Officer in the Middle East and in the UK, and is the host of the H-Hour Podcast, a long form conversation hosted with guests that have included politicians, actors, psychologists, UFC fighters, authors, campaigners, veterans, and more.

I hope you enjoy this deep dive from our close partners over in the UK as much as I did.

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Show Notes:

00:00 Introduction 00:28 Introduction to Combat Story 00:47 Meet Hugh Heyer: UK Parachute Regiment Sniper 03:43 Growing Up in Wales 09:17 Joining the Military 26:00 Training Challenges and Selection 33:18 Bloody Sunday and Personal Connections 34:46 Marching Season in Ireland 37:34 Experiences in Iraq 42:40 Sniper Training and Promotion 49:20 First Firefight in Afghanistan 58:08 The Siege of Musa Qala 01:07:31 Facing Ammunition Shortages 01:09:35 Enduring Relentless Attacks 01:11:01 Casualties and Morale 01:15:31 Negotiating with the Taliban 01:16:18 The Unexpected Evacuation 01:18:43 Reflecting on the Siege 01:25:57 Gallantry Award and Strike Operations 01:35:28 Starting the H-Hour Podcast 01:38:39 Sentimental Keepsakes and Final Reflections 01:40:42 Conclusion and Podcast Promotion

In this special crossover edition of Combat Story and the Mad Minute, we discuss regional issues in the Middle East with 30 year CIA and State Department legend Glenn Corn. We delve into the significant recent developments in the Middle East, focusing on the ceasefire agreements involving Israel, Hamas, and Hezbollah, as well as Lebanon's election of a new president after a prolonged political deadlock.

Israel and Hamas reached a pivotal ceasefire agreement after 15 months of intense conflict. This truce, facilitated by international mediators including U.S. President Joe Biden, President-elect Donald Trump, and Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, aims to end hostilities and initiate the release of hostages and prisoners. The first phase, set to commence on January 19, 2025, includes a six-week truce during which Hamas will release 33 Israeli hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Subsequent phases will address the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and the reconstruction of the region under international supervision.

In Lebanon, the political landscape has undergone a transformative change with the election of army commander Joseph Aoun as president on January 9, 2025, ending a two-year vacancy. Aoun secured 99 votes in the parliamentary session, surpassing the required two-thirds majority. His election is seen as a diminishment of Hezbollah's influence, especially following the recent conflict with Israel and the assassination of veteran leader Hassan Nasrallah. In his victory speech, President Aoun emphasized a new phase for Lebanon, commitment to the ceasefire with Israel, and the establishment of a national security strategy. His presidency is viewed as pivotal for the country's postwar reconstruction efforts and economic recovery.

Join us as we analyze the roles of key figures such as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Hamas' interim political chief Khalil al-Hayya, and Egypt's General Intelligence Director Hassan Rashad in these negotiations. We also explore the implications of these ceasefires and Lebanon's presidential election on the geopolitical landscape, the challenges in implementing the agreements, and the prospects for lasting peace in the region.

Don't miss this comprehensive discussion on the dynamic and evolving situation in Lebanon and Israel, providing insights into the complex interplay of political and military strategies shaping the future of the Middle East.

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Show Notes:

00:00 Introduction 00:22 Lebanon's Political Landscape and Recent Changes 02:22 Hezbollah's Influence and Recent Developments 03:07 Impact of Israeli Actions on Hezbollah 08:40 Lebanese Armed Forces and Hezbollah Relations 10:27 Regional Winners and Losers 14:15 Advice for the New Administration 17:47 Personal Reflections on Lebanon 19:19 Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Agreement 22:10 Focus on Iran and Regional Dynamics 27:08 Global and Regional Concerns 28:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Today is a special edition of Combat Story where former guest and retired Sniper and Force Recon Marine AJ Pascuiti invited us to spend two days with the Marines of 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, some of America's finest, as they reunited 20 years after the infamous Battle of Fallujah II in November and December 2004.

This episode was designed to be seen on video so feel free to head over to YouTube to watch it here.

Special thanks to AJ for organizing and bringing this together for these Marines from Darkhorse. It's amazing to think of these men who just walk the streets today with their families like any other American but were once the men we sent into the arguably the hardest fighting of the post-9/11 era to clear rooms and buildings for days on end against a determined enemy.

Thank you to the Marines of 3/5 for what you did in 2004 for the rest of us. Semper Fi.

Today we have a Combat Story first as we hear firsthand from Rob Peters who spent almost 30 years in the Navy on submarines from the mid-1990s to just this year. Rob served on five different subs and commanded twice. In this episode we cover some of the different types of subs, the training, and the mission sets, to include special operations forces support and delivery, attack parameters, missile launches and more.

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We found Rob thanks to a former guest and forever friend of the show Todd Opalski, the Marine sniper and recon operator invited into Delta. He and Rob met in an unusual way and Todd, a decorated combat leader himself at the highest level, suggested I interview Rob not just for some unique and humorous insights from a life underwater, but also for the leadership experiences and learnings Rob shared with Todd. That's high praise in my book.

With that, please enjoy this deep dive into the deep ocean of submarines with Rob Peters.

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Show Notes:

00:00 Intro 00:46 Meet Rob Peters: A Navy Submariner 01:48 The Unlikely Meeting of Rob and Todd 02:58 Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail 08:36 Rob's Military Background and Family Influence 10:21 Joining the Navy and Discovering Submarines 15:10 Submarine Training and Challenges 27:23 Understanding Submarine Operations 37:29 Qualification Process for Submarine Officers and Enlisted Personnel 40:09 Roles and Responsibilities on a Submarine 41:13 Watch Rotations and Qualifications 42:17 Submarine Systems and Operations 45:32 Practical Jokes and Hazing on Submarines 47:44 Missile Launch Procedures and Experiences 56:00 Challenges of Operating a Submarine in Rough Seas 01:12:13 Training and Preparation for Submarine Missions 01:22:33 3D Battle Space and Torpedo Mechanics 01:24:46 First Command Experience 01:26:43 The Burden of Command 01:28:49 Lessons from a Near Miss 01:36:45 Funny Mishap Stories 01:44:30 Integrating Women on Submarines 01:53:52 AI and the Future of Submarines 01:57:31 Reflections on a Military Career

Welcome to a breaking-event interview on the extraordinary and rapidly unfolding developments in Syria, covering late November to the present. In this special episode, we're joined by retired CIA Senior Intelligence Service Officer and former State Department Diplomat Glenn Corn. This conversation is part of The Mad Minute — Glenn's series delivering sharp geopolitical analysis and expert interviews on critical global issues.

Glenn brings unmatched expertise to this discussion, with over three decades of service in the US government, including assignments in Turkey, Russia, and extensive work on Middle Eastern affairs and counterterrorism. If you're curious about Glenn's remarkable career, we previously explored his experiences in both the CIA and State Department on Combat Story.

In today's episode, we dive into the key events leading to Assad's departure from Damascus, the swift advances of HTS and SDF forces toward the capital, the broader implications for regional players, and what strategic moves the US should consider next.

Now, let's get into this essential analysis with Glenn Corn.

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Show Notes:

00:00 Introduction to the Breaking Event 01:16 Timeline of Recent Events in Syria 02:57 Key Players and Their Roles 03:52 Russia's Strategic Moves 04:44 Understanding Hayat Tahrir al Sham (HTS) 07:17 Demographics and Historical Context 08:55 Implications for Regional Stability 13:10 Potential U.S. Strategies 17:59 Challenges and Opportunities 25:58 Global Interconnections and Final Thoughts

Today we have a fantastic Combat Story with former Navy SEAL Officer Rob Sarver. Rob had more fun than most on his path to becoming a SEAL, originally with a detour as a surface warfare officer that he very skillfully managed to curtail, and leveraged a really interesting network to get a shot at the Teams.

This episode is chalked full of both great stories from down range but also really practical explanations for getting ahead and succeeding, much of which has made it into his book, Warrior to Civilian: The Field Manual for the Hero's Journey.

In this episode, Rob covers some amazing stories of ingenuity in combat like using innertubes to float quietly on an assault to using copper wire to make two different radio sets compatible for field use. And despite Rob's obvious successes from attending the Naval Academy to his time in the Teams and then graduating from Wharton and working in Private Equity, he also hits on the tougher moments, covering tough topics of loss, fear, and desperation, including losing someone on day one of a deployment. Don't worry, though, there are plenty of laughs and hilarious anecdotes like the story behind the phrase 'moderation is for cowards'.

With that, please enjoy this Combat Story with Rob Sarver.

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Warrior to Civilian: The Field Manual for the Hero's Journey (Link: Hachette Books: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/robert-sarver/warrior-to-civilian/9781538769966/

Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Warrior-Civilian-Field-Manual-Journey/dp/1538769964)

Author Site - https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/contributor/robert-sarver/

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Show Notes:

00:00 Intro 00:44 Introduction to Combat Story 01:03 Meet Rob Sarver: Navy SEAL Officer 01:37 Rob's Journey to Becoming a SEAL 02:19 The Book: Warrior to Civilian 03:54 Rob's Military Background and Early Life 09:31 High School Adventures and Military Aspirations 14:06 Academy Life and Challenges 15:25 Path to the SEAL Teams 22:49 First Deployment Experiences 29:18 BUD/S Training and Beyond 35:16 Reflecting on Early Military Experiences 36:22 First Mission and Initial Challenges 36:56 Language School and Unexpected Adventures 38:41 Deployment Stories and Combat Encounters 41:19 Leadership and Team Dynamics 42:33 Loss and Resilience 44:43 Bronze Star with Valor: The Story Behind the Honor 48:53 Creative Tactics and Overcoming Obstacles 01:01:14 Transitioning to Civilian Life 01:01:42 Writing the Book: Purpose and Process 01:09:19 Seeking Help and Finding Balance 01:12:57 Memories and Reflections 01:14:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

On today's episode we sit down for round two with Darrell Utt in an episode that is chalked full of combat experiences from his time in 2006 in Iraq and then some stories from his time in 2007 which, one day, will hopefully be a sequel to his book that's coming out shortly: Grit to Glory.

If you didn't catch round one last week, Darrell grew up in a really tough home where he stopped his mother from shooting his father at one point and vividly remembered watching his mother walk out of the home for the last time. He found his way to the Army and became a Green Beret, serving in a host of different places but was able to serve as a Team Sergeant for the first time in 2006 taking a fairly junior team into Iraq.

We left off at the very beginning of 2006 where he had just relieved one member of his team on arrival and was almost relieved himself, given a second chance by the commander. Their first successful mission is nothing short of amazing and made for the big screen so sit back and relax as you hear some amazing Combat Stories!

Check out our Combat Story Newsletter at www.combatstory.com/newsletter

Find Darrell Online:

@darrell.utt on Instagram

darrell-utt on LinkedIN

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🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Show Notes:

00:00 Intro 00:55 Introduction to Combat Story 01:15 Meet Daryl Utt: Green Beret and Master Sergeant 03:28 First Combat Mission: A Significant Capture 04:24 The Honey Trap Operation 15:34 Executing the Plan: Daylight Hit 28:34 Morgue Day: A Heart-Wrenching Experience 44:03 The Day Everything Changed 45:00 Dustwind: A Soldier's Worst Nightmare 46:23 The Al Qaeda Rat Nest 57:16 A Mission Denied 01:12:28 The Grit Code: Principles for Life 01:15:33 Courage is Contagious 01:22:08 Book Release and Future Plans

Today we have round one of a fantastic two-part Combat Story with a former guest: Darrell Utt, a long time Green Beret and retired Master Sergeant.

Darrell just finished writing a book (Grit to Glory) going into great detail about one deployment when he was a Team Sergeant with ODA 043 in 2006 to Iraq that includes all the highs and lows of leading a team of elite Green Berets.

We met with Darrell two years ago for an episode (#74) watched by over a 100K+ people and this time around we get into more of the moments, experiences, and emotion in some of the fighting that Darrell has unearthed while writing the book.

If you pre-order his book before Veterans Day (2024), you get a signed copy of the book and one of the coolest challenge coins you'll find. Pre-order the book at ballastbooks.com/purchase/grit-to-glory/. You can find Darrell on the socials at darrell.utt on Instagram or darrell-utt on LinkedIN.

If you haven't seen the first episode, don't worry, you'll get all the context you need in this one to be up and running and I'm sure you're going to enjoy his very real, raw, and down to earth storytelling as much as I did.

Darrell on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/darrell.utt/?hl=en

00:00 Intro

00:35 Darrell Utt Bio

03:09 Writing the Book: Challenges and Inspirations

10:12 Morgue Day: A Haunting Memory

19:26 Growing Up: Building Grit and Resilience

21:15 Family Struggles and Finding Strength

32:44 Military Path: From Humble Beginnings to Special Forces

44:53 The First Marine in the Family

45:16 Mentorship and Military Service

45:48 Challenges in Joining the Marine Corps

47:48 Receiving the Green Beret

50:28 Reconnecting with Influential Figures

54:08 Operation Ugly Baby: The Initial Invasion

01:06:05 Cultural Encounters and EPW Camp

01:18:03 Navigating Mosul and Military Strategy

01:26:13 Strategic Reflections and Military Planning

01:27:18 Looted Infrastructure and Insurgency

01:29:04 Early Signs of Trouble in Iraq

01:31:11 The Ba'ath Party Dilemma

01:33:22 WMDs and Misconceptions

01:35:27 2006: A New Team and Mission

01:47:20 Challenges and Leadership Decisions

02:03:57 Owning Up and Moving Forward

02:07:44 Conclusion and Upcoming Content

#usarmy #veterans #combat #specialforces

Today we have our second account of the brutal fighting within the Arghandab Valley in Afghanistan from Will Yeske, a former 82nd Airborne RTO at the time. Will went on to write the book Damn the Valley: 1st Platoon, Bravo Company, 2/508 PIR, 82nd Airborne in the Arghandab River Valley Afghanistan.

Will recounts his experiences fighting and surviving in this brutal location in Afghanistan which takes place at the same time (and just across the river) from the same experience faced by our former guest Andrew Bragg who was in Charlie Company. The IEDs, the suicide bombs, and more come to life in both this interview and the book.

Since leaving the service Will has gone on to write two books and, despite initially dropping out of college, now has an Ivy League degree. When many other kids in their mid-20s were partying and living it up, he elected to serve and, one year later, found himself fighting for his life. I'm sure you're going to enjoy the multiple combat experience Will shares with us in this episode and, if you're like me, will be getting your own copy of the book.

Check out our Combat Story Newsletter at www.combatstory.com/newsletter

Find William Yeske Online:

Book https: https://www.amazon.com/Damn-Valley-Airborne-Arghandab-Afghanistan/dp/1636243657

@damnthevalley on social

William Yeske on LinkedIN

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🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Show Notes:

00:00 Intro 00:28 Introduction to Combat Story 00:47 Will Yeske's Background and Book 02:09 Connecting with Andrew Bragg 02:42 Experiences in the Argandab Valley 04:10 Writing and Sharing War Stories 06:35 Memorable Artifacts and Stories 08:55 The Brutality of the Argandab Valley 15:03 Joining the Military: Will's Journey 26:42 First Combat Experience 39:56 Mission Overview and Initial Challenges 40:29 Controversies and Unpublished Accounts 41:26 Hard Moments in Argandob 42:23 IED Incidents and Minefields 49:27 Command Changes and Midtour Leave 01:00:26 Courage and Bravery in Combat 01:03:59 Writing the Book: Challenges and Reflections 01:08:03 Sentimental Items and Lucky Charms 01:10:27 Final Thoughts and Future Projects

Today we hear a Combat Story from Marine Officer and US Army Special Operations Command (or USASOC) leader Varpas de Sa Pereira (de SA Pur-rare-a). His book Warrior Withdrawal: When BAMF No Longer Means Bad*$$ M^ther#u@!er is a great read for anyone trying to understand why so many of veterans - myself included - face challenges transitioning out of the military outside of just PTSD.

Varpas faced combat many times, deploying time and again with a variety of units in search of some "thing" he was missing. He was finally fully engrossed in the 'system' and had trouble pulling himself out of it. After 15 years of service, including time in USASOC at the tip of the spear, he finally retired and went back to school to study clinical psychology, where he realized what he had experienced was not abnormal. Many veterans, for whom being a warrior is ingrained in their psyche, struggle to adapt to life outside the military, often leading them to mental health challenges. Varpas coined this as Warrior Withdrawal Syndrome and now works as a psychotherapist to help veterans facing difficulties in their newfound lives.

In this episode we talk through several of his combat experiences in Iraq and some really challenging experiences that officers often face in making life and death decisions in very ambiguous environments.

He is currently a staff psychologist at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), where he provides mental health care to veterans and their families. You can get his book Warrior Withdrawal on Amazon. With that, please enjoy this unique interview with Varpas.

Check out our Combat Story Newsletter at www.combatstory.com/newsletter

Find Varpas Online:

Instagram, LinkediN, X : @drvarpas

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🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Show Notes:

00:00 Intro 00:49 Introduction to Combat Story 01:08 Meet Varpus Desaparara 01:56 Warrior Withdrawal: Understanding Veteran Challenges 02:40 Varpus' Unique Background 02:59 The Meaning Behind the Name Varpus 04:45 Family History and Military Service 07:45 The Concept of 'Left of Boom' 09:38 The Transition from Military to Civilian Life 15:30 The Making of a Marine Officer 18:16 First Deployment Experiences 28:00 General's Aide and Beyond 37:13 Reflecting on Regret and Mental Health 38:38 Memorable Events from the First Deployment 40:35 Taking Initiative and Facing Challenges 41:47 Combat Realities and Leadership Decisions 43:28 Navigating Friendly Fire and Tactical Decisions 48:32 Moral Dilemmas and Command Conflicts 55:44 Career Progression and Special Ops Aspirations 01:06:31 Leadership Reflections and Personal Growth 01:12:25 Leadership Challenges in Fallujah 01:14:01 IED Strikes and Quick Reaction Force 01:16:03 Engaging the Enemy and Emotional Toll 01:24:47 Transitioning to Regiment and Family Sacrifices 01:29:07 Special Operations and Missed Opportunities 01:33:42 Warrior Withdrawal and Psychological Impact 01:45:38 Reflections and Moving Forward 01:50:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

On today's Combat Story we have a deep dive into intense fighting that took place in Afghanistan in the treacherous Arghandab River Valley with Andrew Bragg, a former Army infantryman who served back to back tours to two distinct places in Afghanistan, both with plenty of kinetic activity.

Andrew's book The Devil's Playground is about one of his deployments with the 82nd Airborne to the Arghandab River Valley where his unit experienced 50% casualties, including 6 KIA. Andrew traveled the country in his car to interview members of his unit from 12 years prior, many of whom had not seen each other since. Their common bond was the impact that the Valley had on each of them.

I think you're going to really enjoy this recounting of some incredibly challenging fighting experienced by just one of several units to survive the 'Dab with Andrew Bragg.

Check out our Combat Story Newsletter at www.combatstory.com/newsletter

Find Andrew Bragg Online:

Book The Devil's Playground: The Story of Two Charlie and The Arghandab River Valley https://www.amazon.com/Devils-Playground-Charlie-Arghandab-Valley/dp/1636244718

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🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Show Notes:

00:00 Intro 00:30 Introduction to Combat Story 00:49 Meet Andrew Bragg 02:06 The Devil's Playground 02:59 Andrew's Journey to Reunite with His Unit 04:16 The Heavy Toll of Combat 04:57 Andrew's Early Life and Military Beginnings 05:45 First Deployment with the 173rd 06:35 The Impact of 9/11 07:14 Writing the Book: A Collective Effort 07:38 Reuniting with Fellow Soldiers 12:50 The Argandab River Valley Deployment 14:34 The Harsh Realities of War 22:12 The Aftermath of Combat 32:40 A New AO: The Argandab River Valley 41:08 Arrival During Hibernation 42:09 Learning the Terrain and Locals 43:07 The Return of Conflict 43:49 Escalation and IED Threats 45:30 Close Calls and Ambushes 48:47 Operation: Loveless Shot in the Face 54:29 The Valley's Grip 59:05 Reflections and Reunions 01:11:08 The Healing Process 01:20:15 Final Thoughts and Book Release

Today we have our first Combat Story from a Swedish Special Operations soldier and intelligence professional, Max Lauker. Max spent 20 years in the elite Swedish forces and was a plank holder for one of the predecessor units to what later became Sweden's Special Operations Group.

Check out our Combat Story Newsletter at www.combatstory.com/newsletter.

He served multiple deployments that we cover in this episode in what I've coined as four missions and a funeral to dig into more of the combat experiences and lessons while also touching on loss that comes with this line of work.

Max takes us through time fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan, solo and team deployments to Latin America, doing full cycle cross-border reconnaissance missions in the Balkans, to lonely and frankly frightening intel work in Eastern Europe and Russia. This is just a bit of the action that Max writes about in his upcoming book that he co-wrote with Antonio Garcia titled 'Number 788: My experiences in Swedish Special Operations - preparing for NATO and the War on Terror.'

I think you're really going to enjoy this chat with our first Swede on this show, Max Lauker.

Find Max Lauker Online:

https://www.amazon.com/Number-788-experiences-Operations-preparing/dp/1804514233

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📘 Facebook: @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial

📖 Learn more about Ryan: https://www.combatstory.com/aboutus

🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Show Notes:

00:00 Introduction 00:36 Welcome to Combat Story 00:56 Meet Max Lauker: Swedish Special Operations 03:53 Growing Up in Sweden and Military Service 06:48 Choosing the Ranger Path 08:06 Swedish Special Operations Community 11:20 Joining the Arctic Rangers 15:34 Selection Process for Special Purpose Units 22:41 First Deployment: Latin America 29:16 Unexpected Mission in Venezuela 33:38 Team Deployment in Colombia 38:09 Official Mission in Kosovo 40:01 The Full Circle Mission in Kosovo 41:19 Reconnaissance and Surveillance Operations 44:22 Cross-Border Tensions and Discoveries 47:30 Reflections on the Kosovo Mission 49:22 Transition to Iraq: A Dangerous Deployment 52:50 Afghanistan: Intel and Direct Action 57:26 Lonely Intel Work in Eastern Europe 01:10:54 The Challenges of Counterintelligence 01:15:27 Writing the Book: A New Mission 01:20:06 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Today on Combat Story we have our second interview with 32 year veteran and retired Special Forces Sergeant Major Randy Surles, who entered the Army in 1987 and retired in 2019. In round one we covered Randy's jump into Panama where he broke his leg and had to crawl for seven hours to safety, his transition into Special Forces from the Ranger Regiment, and attending Lancero school in Colombia, which you can think of as a more dangerous Ranger School (entirely in Spanish!).

Check out our Combat Story Newsletter at www.combatstory.com/newsletter

In this episode, we dive into his time leading Green Berets in the post-9/11 era in Afghanistan where he saw mulitple combat deployments. Randy now helps veterans write their own memoirs as a ghostwriter with the aptly titled website The Military Editor. With that, please enjoy our second interview with Randy Surles.

Find Randall Surles Online:

https://militaryeditor.com/

https://thestoryninjas.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/randall-surles-military-editor-mfa-creative-writing-5bbbbb66/?trk=public_post_main-feed-card_reshare-text

Find Ryan Online:

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🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Show Notes:

00:00 Intro 00:34 Introduction to Combat Story 00:53 Randy Searles' Military Journey 01:49 Lancero School Challenges 02:38 Jungle Survival Training 12:10 Mission in South America 17:34 Early Deployment to Afghanistan 41:19 Adapting to New Equipment and Strategies 42:16 Unexpected Challenges and Base Management 44:56 IED Encounters and Tactical Adjustments 49:20 Leadership and Tactical Raids 54:30 Hostage Rescue in Colombia 01:10:51 Military Editor and Skill Bridge Program 01:19:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Today on Combat Story we have our first of two interviews with 32 year veteran and retired Special Forces Sergeant Major Randy Surles, who entered the Army in 1987 and retired in 2019. Randy saw combat early on in Operation Just Cause as a Ranger and then again for several rotations post-9/11.

Check out our Combat Story Newsletter at www.combatstory.com/newsletter.

In this episode, we cover Randy's experience in Panama and attending Lancero training in Colombia which you can think of as something like Ranger school without any safety nets!

In round two, we dive into his time leading Green Berets in the post-9/11 era. Randy now helps veterans write their own memoirs as a ghostwriter with the aptly titled website the military editor. With that, please enjoy our first interview with Randy Surles.

Find Randall Surles Online:

🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:

Show Notes:

00:00 Intro 00:29 Introduction to Combat Story 00:48 Meet Randy Searles: Special Forces Veteran 01:21 Randy's Transition to Ghostwriting 11:36 Randy's Early Life and Military Aspirations 12:13 Evacuation from Iran 20:00 Joining the Military 25:17 Ranger Training and Sniper School 29:35 Life in the Barracks 31:01 Ranger School Challenges 35:37 Operation Just Cause 44:23 Injury and Recovery 52:32 Transition to Green Beret 01:03:44 Struggles with Weapon Assembly 01:05:14 Facing the Q Course Challenges 01:06:12 Mastering Mortars and Anti-Aircraft 01:06:52 Language Course and Deployment 01:07:11 Unexpected Armor Duties 01:10:08 Volunteering for Lancero School 01:20:38 Surviving Lancero School 01:32:04 Combat Stories and Future Plans 01:33:04 Listener Feedback and Closing Remarks

In this episode of Combat Story, we hear from Beth Sanner, a former senior CIA analyst and President's Daily Brief (PDB) briefer to President Trump. Beth previously served as the Deputy Director of National Intelligence for Mission Integration, the Director of the PDB and as Vice Chair of the National Intelligence Council.

Check out our Combat Story Newsletter at www.combatstory.com/newsletter

Beth also held several senior leadership positions in the CIA's Directorate of Analysis, including leading the analytic effort on South Asia and serving as the deputy for analysis for Russian and European affairs. In this episode, we cover her time as a briefer to Trump, her stint with the NSC, her position at CIA covering Russia and Eurasia shortly after the fall of the Soviet Union, and leading the Career Analyst Program (the training program for all CIA analysts).

The PDB Briefer is a prestigious position and not a political appointee. We also interviewed former military analyst and PDB Briefer to President Obama Michelle DiGruttolo if you're interested in hearing her perspective as well.

With that, I hope you enjoy this fascinating inside look at the upper echelons of the analytic side of the CIA as much as I did.

Find Ryan online:

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📘 Facebook: @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial

📖 Learn more about Ryan: https://www.combatstory.com/aboutus

🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Show Notes:

00:00 Introduction and Host Background 00:57 Guest Introduction: Beth Sanner 02:18 Beth's Career and Analytical Process 05:49 Consultancy and Expertise 09:41 Early Life and Influences 13:51 Career Path and Key Positions 32:15 Mentorship and Leadership 38:05 Logistics and Program Growth Challenges 39:13 The Role of Note Takers in High-Stakes Calls 41:17 Experiences Aboard Air Force One 43:04 Becoming a Presidential Daily Briefer 53:36 Building Trust with the President 55:47 Handling Personal and Professional Challenges 01:00:01 The Human Side of Intelligence Work 01:11:36 Reflections and Final Thoughts

Today we have round two of our incredible Combat Story with John Dailey, the former Marine Force Recon operator who was one of the very few selected to help stand up what was known as "Detachment One," which would lead to the creation of the Marine Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC) that we know today.

Check out our Combat Story Newsletter at www.combatstory.com/newsletter.

If you missed Round 1, John grew up on the east coast hunting and shooting and, in the ninth grade, visited a Marine recruiter who took him under his wing until it was time to enlist. He went straight into a sniper unit and then served as a Marine Security Guard at Embassies in Hungary and Argentina before joining Force Recon. On 9/11, John was in a bar in Australia with a Marine Expeditionary Unit when he saw the towers come down. He and his Force Recon unit were sent directly to Afghanistan where they took the fight to the Taliban months after the attacks.

This second round interview picks up after John returns from this first deployment and sets the ground for his book that will be released in August 2024, aptly titled 'Tough Rugged Bastards: A Memoir of a Life in Marine Special Operations' that describes both John's experiences and the beginning of MARSOC from his perspective on the ground. I hope you enjoy this experience of combat and the weight of the Marine Corps on the shoulders of a small group of men like John, as much as I did.

Find John Dailey Online:

https://www.amazon.com/Tough-Rugged-Bastards-Special-Operations/dp/163758735X

Find Ryan Online:

🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:

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📘 Facebook: @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial

📖 Learn more about Ryan: https://www.combatstory.com/aboutus

🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Show Notes:

00:00 Dramatic Baghdad Arrival 00:48 Introduction to Combat Story 01:07 Meet John Daly: Marine Force Recon Operator 01:21 John Daly's Early Career and 9/11 Experience 05:26 Training the Next Generation of Marines 07:46 Forming Detachment 1: The Birth of MARSOC 10:22 First Deployment Challenges and Intel Operations 17:27 Hunting High-Value Targets in Iraq 30:45 Guarding the Vice President 31:32 Interrogation and Intelligence Gathering 34:43 The Final Mission 38:42 Reflections on Service 41:39 Writing the Memoir 48:04 The Sniper Story 57:03 Sentimental Keepsakes and Final Thoughts 59:36 Conclusion and Listener Comments

Today we have round one of a fascinating Combat Story interview with John Dailey, a former Marine Force Recon operator who was one of the very few selected to help stand up what was known as "Detachment One," which would lead to the creation of the Marine Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC) that we know today.

Check out our Combat Story Newsletter at www.combatstory.com/newsletter.

The eighty-six-man "Detachment One" was formed with a two-year charter to train and deploy as a "proof-of-concept" to assess the viability of a larger Marine Special Operations contribution in support of the Global War on Terror. The Commanding Officer—Colonel Robert J. Coates, a Marine Force Recon legend—was given his pick of personnel and one of the four team leaders he selected was Gunnery Sergeant John Dailey. Their sole stipulation in finding the right recruits was that they be: "Tough, rugged bastards with strong backs and hard feet." We know they got it right because we've interviewed some of those early warriors on this show, like Elliot Ackerman and Jason Lilley, to name a few.

John has written a book that will be released in August 2024, aptly titled 'Tough Rugged Bastards: A Memoir of a Life in Marine Special Operations' that describes both John's experiences and the beginning of MARSOC from his perspective on the ground. I hope you enjoy this experience of combat and the weight of the Marine Corps on the shoulders of a small group of men like John, as much as I did.

Find John Dailey Online:

https://www.amazon.com/Tough-Rugged-Bastards-Special-Operations/dp/163758735X

Find Ryan Online: 🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:

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📸 Instagram: @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory

📘 Facebook: @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial

📖 Learn more about Ryan: https://www.combatstory.com/aboutus

🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Show Notes:

00:00 Intense Combat Introduction 00:33 Meet Your Host: Ryan Fugit 00:52 Introducing John Daly: Marine Force Recon Operator 01:45 John Daly's Book: Tough Rugged Bastards 04:16 A Marine's Perspective on Writing 05:29 Colonel Robert Coates: A Marine Legend 09:32 The Formation of MARSOC 14:39 John Daly's Path to the Marine Corps 20:44 Early Days in the Marine Corps 28:45 Sniper School Challenges 35:30 Reflecting on the Simplicity of the Past 36:24 Joining the Sniper Platoon 37:30 Marine Security Guard Duty 38:34 Life at the Embassy 42:38 Meeting My Future Wife 46:41 Returning to the Infantry 47:13 First Force Recon Company 51:01 Deployment During 9/11 55:32 First Engagement in Afghanistan 01:05:11 Analyzing Combat Experiences 01:10:29 Listener Comments and Reviews

Today we have a unique Combat Story with F-16 Fighter Pilot and co-founder of the Defense Innovation Unit Experimental (DIUx), Raj Shah. Raj was handpicked to stand up an organization that would strengthen our armed forces through contractual and cultural bridges between Silicon Valley and the Pentagon, to include accelerating the contracting process and getting the newest technology from Silicon Valley and tech into the hands of the warfighters faster.

Check out our Combat Story Newsletter at www.combatstory.com/newsletter.

Raj is one of these guys who seems to have more time in a day than the rest of us. He is the Managing Partner of Shield Capital, a venture capital firm focused on technologies at the nexus of the commercial and defense markets; chairman of Resilience Insurance, a start-up powering new approaches to cyber insurance; he was CEO of Morta Security, which was acquired by Palo Alto Networks; and he reported directly to the Secretary of Defense while running DIUx for two years. Raj led DIUx in its efforts to strengthen U.S. armed forces through contractual and cultural bridges between Silicon Valley and the Pentagon. He attended Princeton and got an MBA from Wharton at UPenn.

He and Christopher Kirchhoff recently published 'Unit X: How the Pentagon and Silicon Valley Are Transforming the Future of War,' which takes you inside AI labs, drone workshops, and battle command centers—to include Ukraine's frontline – for a fascinating picture of what it takes to stay dominant in a fast-changing and often precarious geopolitical landscape.

With that, please enjoy this short but interesting episode with Raj Shah.

Book Unit X: How the Pentagon and Silicon Valley Are Transforming the Future of War: https://www.amazon.com/Unit-Pentagon-Silicon-Valley-Transforming/dp/1668031388

Website https://www.unitxbook.com/

https://www.unitxbook.com/?pgid=lvhhykmv-0822ea78-348c-4d11-bbad-0625206ad7dd

Find Ryan Online:

🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:

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📘 Facebook: @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial

📖 Learn more about Ryan: https://www.combatstory.com/aboutus

🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Show Notes:

00:00 The Power of an Individual in Combat 00:30 Introduction to Combat Story and Raj Shah 01:15 Raj Shah's Background and Achievements 02:21 The Future of Warfare: Ukraine and Israel 04:56 Rapid Technological Advancements 06:55 Raj Shah's Military Journey 08:25 Joining the Air National Guard 09:49 Experiences and Challenges in Flight School 16:21 First Deployment and Technological Disparities 18:13 The Role of Software in Modern Warfare 23:24 The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) 27:11 Setting Up DIU and Overcoming Bureaucracy 31:23 Negotiating the Term Sheet 31:54 Connecting with Todd Park 32:28 Setting the Vision 33:54 Facing Budget Challenges 36:21 Overcoming Bureaucratic Hurdles 39:07 Evaluating Success and Achievements 41:20 Innovative Contracting with Startups 45:09 Technological Innovations and Wins 51:42 Strategic Cost Considerations in Warfare 53:59 Book Recommendations and Reflections 58:15 Final Thoughts and Listener Comments

A Tribute to Our Veterans | Combat Story Podcast

In this heartfelt episode of the Combat Story podcast, we pay tribute to the brave men and women who have served our country. This special video features President Reagan's iconic July 4th, 1986 address to the Nation, seamlessly blended with powerful responses from veterans about whether they would choose their military careers again.

Join us as we honor their courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to protecting our freedoms. Their stories remind us of the true meaning of patriotism and the profound impact of their service on our nation's history.

🎖️ Featured Veterans (in order of appearance):

Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from our nation's heroes. Share this tribute to honor those who have given so much for our country.

Don't miss out! Subscribe to our Combat Story Newsletter for more compelling interviews and updates at www.combatstory.com/newsletter.

For more about Sean Hagerty, visit: https://bluehandlepublishing.com/sean-hagerty

Find Ryan Online:

#Veterans #MilitaryService #Patriotism #CombatStoryPodcast #ReaganAddress #IndependenceDay #Tribute #HeroStories

Today we have an interview with a former Ranger Regiment soldier turned US Army Special Operations Command Sergeant Major, Sean Hagerty. Sean fought in both Afghanistan and Iraq with Ranger Regiment and then spent many years in the very secretive side of the Army in places all over the world.

After retiring, Sean wrote a psychological thriller called Jones Point that has a great plot line focused on a father taking revenge after losing a daughter but in a far more creative and compelling way. Sean self-published that first book but was then picked up by Blue Handle Publishing for another set of books because the first one was so successful.

Sean is an incredibly accomplished soldier and leader and I hope you enjoy this discussion of both the Special Operations world and more secretive USASOC experience as much as I did.

Check out our Combat Story Newsletter at www.combatstory.com/newsletter.

Find Sean Hagerty Online: https://bluehandlepublishing.com/sean-hagerty

Find Ryan Online: 🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story: 🔗 Ryan's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/combatstory 🛒 Merch Store: https://www.bonfire.com/store/combatstory/ 📸 Instagram: @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory 📘 Facebook: @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial 📖 Learn more about Ryan: https://www.combatstory.com/aboutus 🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Show Notes: 00:00 Intro 01:04 Introduction to Combat Story 01:23 Meet Sean Haggerty: Ranger to Author 02:20 Writing Process: From Notebooks to Tablets 06:46 Jones Point: A Psychological Thriller 08:40 Early Military Fascination and Career Beginnings 16:31 Ranger Regiment Life Pre-9/11 19:32 9/11 and the Aftermath 30:28 Camaraderie and Trust in the Platoon 30:47 First Mission Outside the Wire 31:14 Ambush on Route Purple 35:05 Decompression and Team Building 36:53 Invasion of Iraq 39:20 Early Impressions of War 41:16 Advice for Aspiring Rangers 44:38 Transitioning to a New Role 00:11 Surviving a Coup 48:29 Joining a Secretive Unit 58:49 Life After the Regiment 01:01:43 The Living, Breathing Nature of Society and Selection Processes 01:02:30 Holistic Approach to Soldier Care 01:03:40 Aging Athletes and Deployment Stories 01:05:11 Mental Performance Coaching Techniques 01:07:01 Amazing Training Environment and Helicopter Adventures 01:09:04 Defense Science Board and Technological Innovations 01:16:49 Writing Journey and Inspirations 01:23:09 Sentimental Items and Reflections on Service 01:27:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

🪖 Today's Combat Story dives deep into the career and combat experiences of former infantryman turned Cavalry officer turned Special Forces Green Beret, Dan Pace. Dan retired after over two decades of service in the military, seeing combat in both Iraq and Afghanistan on both the enlisted and officer sides of the house.

📬 Stay Updated: Subscribe to our Newsletter https://www.combatstory.com/newsletter

💪 Support Us: Join our Patreon https://www.patreon.com/combatstory

📚 Dan recently wrote a book titled "It Was What It Was: A Tale of the 1st Infantry Division in Iraq (2006-2008)" where he details his experiences, particularly those with the 1st ID in Iraq during a pivotal moment in the war. In this episode, we dive into the transition from enlisted to officer and conventional to SF, some of the tougher moments in combat, and how perspective may change from that of a soldier to an officer.

🎖️ General Petreus on the book: "...the timeless tale of a young leader and his soldiers on the ground seeking to find meaning and purpose in the gritty, visceral reality of war at the small unit level.

🎧 Enjoy this wide-ranging conversation with retired Special Forces officer, Dan Pace.

🔗 Guest Online Information:

📧 Contact Dan: contact@grey-zone-ethics.com

📘 It Was What It Was: A Tale of the 1st Infantry Division in Iraq (2006-2008) https://www.amazon.com/Was-What-Infantry-Division-2006-2008/dp/B0CW3MH7KT

📚 Grey Zone Ethics Courses https://danielvpace.com/courses.html

👨‍✈️ Join host Ryan Fugit in a gripping episode of Combat Story as he delves into the remarkable military career of Dan Pace, a former infantryman, cavalry officer, and special forces Green Beret. Dan shares his intense experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan, from frontline battles to coordinating medevacs. Explore his journey from enlisted to officer roles, the evolution of military strategies, and the personal toll of long deployments. The episode also addresses innovative countermeasures against IED threats, fortified vehicles, and ethical dilemmas faced by troops and leaders. This raw and insightful look into Dan's life and the complexities of modern warfare sheds light on the creativity, resilience, and moral challenges within the military.

🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:

🌐 Ryan's Linktree

🛒 Merch Store

📸 Instagram: @combatstory

📘 Facebook: @combatstoryofficial

🔍 Learn more about Ryan

🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Today we have a great Combat Story that ranges from the military intelligence tactical front lines of counterterrorism and the Korean peninsula to the most strategic of all, serving as the PDB briefer to the President of the United States (POTUS) with senior intelligence officer Michelle DiGruttolo.

👀 Don't miss out! Check out our Combat Check-In for exclusive updates, fascinating historical snippets, and much more! Visit combatstory.com/newsletter.

I strongly encourage you to listen to the end of this podcast to get a full appreciation of Michelle's experience as the President's briefer, to include her role as the briefer during the Benghazi Consulate attack (you can, of course, listen to our previous interview with Kris "Tanto" Paranto who was on the ground during that attack to hear both the front lines and halls of leadership perspectives on that pivotal day).

Michelle began her career as an Army intelligence officer and then transitioned to the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) where she would eventually lead a division of 40 fellow analysts. While at DIA, she was handpicked to compile and deliver the President's Daily Brief (also known as the PDB) to then President Obama and his Chief of Staff Jack Lew.

The PDB role to POTUS is not a political appointment and is only entrusted to the elite of the intel community's analytic core, which Michelle is. As always, we do not get political in this podcast, however, to ensure we hear both sides, we also have former President Trump's PDB briefer booked for later this summer to understand what her experience was like in the Oval Office under another administration.

Michelle also briefed and/or worked closely with retired senior leaders Petraeus, McChrystal, Clapper, and several household names across her career, exposing her to leadership at the very highest levels.

After service, Michelle went on to found Sage Raven Advisors, where she leverages an extensive network of local advisors, partners, and affiliates and couple them with cutting-edge technologies and data analytics, to provide actionable and timely insights to clients in complex and dynamic geopolitical landscapes.

I hope you enjoy this very interesting deep dive into the life of a career military intel officer and the life of a PDB Briefer to the President as much as I did.

🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:

🔗 Ryan's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/combatstory

🛒 Merch Store: https://www.bonfire.com/store/combatstory/

📸 Instagram: @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory

📘 Facebook: @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial

📖 Learn more about Ryan: https://www.combatstory.com/aboutus

🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Key Highlights:

Military Intelligence to Presidential Briefings: Michelle's journey from an Army intelligence officer to leading a division at the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA).

The President's Daily Brief (PDB): Discover the intricacies of compiling and delivering the PDB to President Obama and Chief of Staff Jack Lew, including her crucial role during the Benghazi Consulate attack.

Leadership Insights: Michelle's interactions with renowned leaders like Petraeus, McChrystal, and Clapper, and her exposure to leadership at the highest levels.

🔔 Subscribe for More Combat Stories: https://www.youtube.com/combatstory

👍 Like, Comment, and Share: Your support helps us bring more incredible stories to light!

#CombatStory #MilitaryIntelligence #PDBBriefer

Show Notes:

Today we have a fascinating deep dive on Chinese intelligence structure, tactics, capabilities, and threats with long-time China expert Nicholas Eftimiades. Nick spent 34 years in the US government with DIA, CIA, State, DHS and more with an intense focus on China and high tech space programs.

👀 Don't miss out! Check out our Combat Check-In for exclusive updates, fascinating historical snippets, and much more! Visit combatstory.com/newsletter.

In the 90's, Nick wrote the book Chinese Intelligence Operations, which is an examination of the structure, operations, and methodology of the Chinese intelligence services and widely regarded as the seminal work in the field. To give you an idea of how impactful this work was, Nick was immediately labeled by the Chinese government as an 'enemy of the state,' 100+ Chinese intel assets were recalled to China, and he was asked to appear before Congress and personally brief political leaders on both sides of the aisle.

Nick served overseas in Vienna, Frankfurt, Moscow, London, and Tokyo after studying in China and Taiwan in college where he picked up the language. His long career in DIA includes senior assignments as the Chief of Counterterrorism Operations, Transnational Issues Division, Futures Division, and Space Division. He has been awarded the National Intelligence Council Achievement Award and DIA Director's Intelligence Award - that agency's highest recognition of achievement. He is also a nonresident Senior Fellow at the Forward Defense practice of the Atlantic Council's Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security.

He is a professor at Penn State and a frequent lecturer and public speaker on future technology, space, and national security issues. His company Shinobi Enterprises offers confidential consulting and training with specific and in-depth expertise on China's domestic environment, national security, and commercial espionage operations and tactics.

With that, please enjoy this deep dive on all things Chinese intelligence and threat-related from an expert in the field.

🎙️ Find Nick Online:

Professor Site:

Visit Nick's faculty page at Penn State for more information about his academic work. Penn State Faculty Page

Shinobi Enterprises:

Explore Nick's consulting company for confidential consulting and training on China's national security and espionage operations. Shinobi Enterprises

Books by Nicholas Eftimiades:

Chinese Espionage Operations and Tactics: Dive into Nick's detailed analysis of Chinese espionage. Chinese Espionage Operations and Tactics on Amazon Chinese Intelligence Operations: Discover the seminal work that examines the structure, operations, and methodology of Chinese intelligence services. Chinese Intelligence Operations on Amazon

🌟 Stay informed and connected with Nick's expertise on Chinese intelligence and global security!

🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:

⏰ Show Notes:

In today's Combat Story, we sit down with Kevin Seiff, a former Marine officer turned Navy SEAL who now leads the Vet Collective and co-hosts the Harder Not Smarter Podcast with Green Beret Greg VanDyne. 🦅🎙️

👀 Don't miss out! Check out our Combat Check-In for exclusive updates, fascinating historical snippets, and much more! Visit www.combatstory.com/newsletter.

In this episode:

We dove into several challenges in Kevin's route to become a Marine and SEAL, including two attempts to get into the Naval Academy and two attempts at Hell Weak in BUD/S. We also dive into great reads, why there's no such thing as shortcuts when it comes to BUDS or Selection, overcoming swimmer induced pulmonary edema, the strange and slippery ritual that is Climbing Herndon Monument at the academy, stronger mindset, how some SEALs to stop chaffing in the more sensitive regions, and tough transitions out of the military into civilian life.

Kevin's Vet Collective is making waves with 80 members and a newsletter boasting over 6K subscribers! 🌊📬 He's on a mission to help fellow vets find purpose after service. Kevin spent 12 years in service 'chasing the dragon' as he calls it trying to find his way into combat which can even be a challenge within the Marines and SEALs. That said, he's been undeterred in trying to help other vets navigate the transition out of uniform and find renewed purpose.

With that, please enjoy this episode with Kevin Seiff.

Join us as we dive deep into Kevin's story of determination, resilience, and dedication to helping others. 💪

🔗 Links:

🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:

📢 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more incredible Combat Stories! 👍🗨️🔔

#CombatStory #KevinSeiff #VetCollective #HarderNotSmarter #NavySEAL #MarineCorps #MilitaryTransition #Veterans #Podcast

Show Notes

Today we have a round two Combat Story with Kent Hillhouse where we recorded the episode with a screen available to look and talk through some more of his combat experiences with maps and photos from his time in service. Kent is a retired Major General who spent a year as a Platoon Leader and Tank Commander in Vietnam from August of 1967 to August of 1968.

👀 Don't miss out! Check out our Combat Check-In for exclusive updates, fascinating historical snippets, and much more! Visit www.combatstory.com/newsletter.

We wanted to do a Round 2 with Kent after I spent some time with him following our first interview looking over some of his photos from his year in 'Nam and bringing some of the stories to life. In this episode, we dive into the Tet Offensive, which Kent was a part of as his platoon was sitting close to the Cambodian border when it kicked off in late January 1968.

We cover Kent's months fighting in the Iron Triangle - an area notorious for being controlled by the enemy in dense vegetation and triple canopy jungles. We also hear a story of a fellow platoon leader who would go on to become a member of the storied SOG outfit following their initial rotation.

If you didn't catch Round 1 with Kent, he grew up in California and Georgia and attended San Jose State while part of ROTC. He ended up in tanks (Armor) thinking he'd see little combat given how challenging the terrain in Vietnam was for tanks. Little did he know he'd be in a fight for his life, emerging on the other side with a purple heart and two Silver Stars. He would go on to become a two star general and continues to support the veteran community leading our local Veterans Memorial and Support Foundation of Los Gatos.

If you're just listening to this episode and not watching on YouTube, you may want to take a peak at the video version on YouTube to see some of the images we talk through to get a better feel for what it was really like. With that, please enjoy this second round discussion with Kent Hillhouse.

You can support the Los Gatos Veterans Memorial & Support Foundation at https://honoravet.org/

Thanks to our sponsor - Mad Rabbit for taking care of your tattoos : For 25% off your order, head to MadRabbit.com/COMBATSTORY25 and use code COMBATSTORY25.

#vietnamwar #veterans #army #combat

🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:

⏰ Show Notes:

Vietnam,Vietnam War,SOG,Special Operations,Tanks,Silver Star,Purple Heart,Cavalry,M48,M109,Veteran,Stories,Action,Adventure,Images,combat story,Tet Offensive,Cambodian border,Iron Triangle,platoon leader,tank commander,Major General,veteran community,combat experiences,RPG,AK-47,screen available,maps and photos,Nam

Today we have a Combat Story first with Greg Shaffer, who spent a career in the FBI as an Agent, SWAT member, and Hostage Rescue Team (HRT) operator. He also started his career leading a patrol boat team in the Coast Guard before moving over to the Bureau.

👀 Don't miss out! Check out our Combat Check-In for exclusive updates, fascinating historical snippets, and much more! Visit combatstory.com/newsletter.

In this episode, we talk about the selection and entry process to both the FBI and HRT, the origins and mission of the HRT - which numbers fewer than 500 members since its inception in the early 1980s, one of the most successful surveillance and bust operations you'll ever hear against the Bicycle Bandit, Operation Black Widow, border security, taking down targets and the hunting the deck of cards in Iraq with Delta Force and more.

Greg now runs Shaffer Security Group that provides executive protection, active shooter response, investigations, firearms training and more. He also wrote Stay Safe: Security Secrets for Today's Dangerous World, which provides practical lessons on mindset, situational awareness, and self-defense.

It took us too long to have our first Bureau agent and HRT operator on the show and we'll absolutely be looking to have more. With that, please enjoy this hilarious but inspiring discussion with former FBI Agent and HRT operator Greg Shaffer.

🎙️ Find Greg online:

🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:

⏰ Show Notes:

Greg is a former FBI agent, SWAT team member, and HRT operator. Discover the intensity of his career, including in-depth insights into high-stakes operations such as the Bicycle Bandit and DC Sniper cases. Greg discusses the complexities of HRT selection, major national security concerns, especially regarding border security, and the adrenaline-fueled world of elite FBI missions. Learn about his background, transition from the Coast Guard to the FBI, and the indispensable qualities required in law enforcement. This narrative provides a compelling look at true crime, FBI operations, and military strategies.

Today we have a unique Combat Story where we hear about the armored cavalry in Vietnam from then Platoon Leader with the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment Kent Hillhouse. Kent would go on to retire as a Major General in the Army Reserve and has continued to support veterans leading his community's Veterans Memorial and Support Foundation of Los Gatos.

👀 Don't miss out! Check out our Combat Check-In for exclusive updates, fascinating historical snippets, and much more! Visit combatstory.com/newsletter.

Many will likely be surprised to learn we had tanks in Vietnam given how the war has so frequently been depicted as a fight by infantrymen in the jungles. Kent's firsthand accounts of commanding an M48 platoon from 1967 to 1968 provide an inside look at the way these tanks were employed, leveraged, and targeted.

In this episode, we get into battling for your reputation, pushing through complex ambushes, near death experiences, trusting and leaning on your NCOs, taking the initiative, the responsibility of command, and never giving up.

With that, please enjoy this amazing piece of history as we look at the age and employment of tanks in Vietnam with retired Major General Kent Hillhouse.

#vietnamwar #warzone #combat #army

Check out the Veterans Memorial & Support Foundation of Los Gatos at https://honoravet.org/

🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:

⏰ Show Notes:

This interview combines the compelling experiences of Vietnam War veterans, including Kent Hillhouse's leadership in armored warfare with the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment and another veteran's close-quarters combat and survival instincts against the Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army. It portrays the harrowing and unpredictable nature of the Vietnam War, detailing initial combat encounters, leadership challenges, intense ambushes, and the adaptation required to navigate the difficult terrain and psychological impacts of warfare. It also highlights moments of courage, quick decision-making, and the importance of camaraderie. Additionally, the narrative touches on post-war efforts to honor the sacrifices of veterans, weaving together personal stories of combat, survival, and the enduring bonds formed in the crucible of war.

This episode dives deep into the challenges and conditions dubbed 'Operator Syndrome' faced by veterans and active-duty members of the military, exploring both psychological and physical facets, including traumatic brain injury, PTSD, hormonal imbalances, low testosterone, existential issues, and more.

👀 Don't miss out! Check out our Combat Check-In for exclusive updates, fascinating historical snippets, and much more! Visit combatstory.com/newsletter.

The episode features insights from Dr. Chris Frueh, a clinical psychologist with extensive experience treating thousands of veterans, on the complexity of these issues and the effects on individuals and their families. It also highlights the importance of a holistic approach to treatment, covering proper diet, sleep, medical care, and the support structures provided by organizations like the Warrior Health Foundation.

Additionally, it addresses the unique experiences of female operators and the broader implications of these syndromes across different nations and military roles.

Check out our interview with Derek Nadalini - former Delta Force operator featured in this video - at https://youtu.be/IjaGelOdV6U

Special thanks to Mad Rabbit for sponsoring this video: For 25% off your order, head to MadRabbit.com/COMBATSTORY25 and use code COMBATSTORY25.

🎙️Find Chris Online:

🔗 Website https://chrisfrueh.com/

📘 Book Operator Syndrome https://www.amazon.com/Operator-Syndrome-PhD-Chris-Frueh/dp/1962202070

📖 White Paper https://chrisfrueh.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Frueh-et-al-2020-2.pdf

📸 Instagram: drchrisfrueh

🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:

🔗 Ryan's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/combatstory

🛒 Merch Store: https://www.bonfire.com/store/combatstory/

📸 Instagram: @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory

📘 Facebook: @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial

📖 Learn more about Ryan: https://www.combatstory.com/aboutus

🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

#veterans #operatorsyndrome #ptsd #specialoperations

⏰ Show Notes:

What is Operator Syndrome?

From Chris' Research paper: We identified a consistent pattern of health-care difficulties within the special operation forces community that we and other special operation forces health-care providers have termed "Operator Syndrome." This includes interrelated health and functional impairments including traumatic brain injury effects; endocrine dysfunction; sleep disturbance; obstructive sleep apnea; chronic joint/back pain, orthopedic problems, and headaches; substance abuse; depression and suicide;

anger; worry, rumination, and stress reactivity; marital, family, and community dysfunction; problems with sexual health and intimacy; being "on guard" or hypervigilant; memory, concentration, and cognitive impairments; vestibular and vision impairments; challenges of the transition from military to civilian life; and common existential issues.

"Operator Syndrome" may be understood as the natural consequences of an extraordinarily high allostatic load; the accumulation of physiological, neural, and neuroendocrine responses resulting from the prolonged chronic stress; and physical demands of a career with the military special forces. Clinical research and comprehensive, intensive immersion programs are needed to meet the unique needs of this community.

🔥 Dive deep into the heart of armored combat in this gripping interview with Tim Gauthier, a Platoon Leader during the iconic Battle of 73 Easting in Desert Storm! 🎖️

🚀 From the tactical viewpoint of both a scout platoon leader and a tank commander, discover the intense preparation, reconnaissance, and combat strategies that shaped this pivotal tank-on-tank clash. 🛡️

🤝 Experience the high-stakes world of M1A1 Abrams and Bradleys as they faced off against Iraqi T-72s and armored vehicles. Learn about the tactics, challenges, and crew dynamics that define the fierce realm of armored warfare. 🌍

💥 Uncover the critical lessons in leadership, speed, and initiative that emerged from the battlefield. Reflect on the broader impact of this battle on modern combat doctrine and the enduring bonds forged in the fires of conflict. 📚

👥 Join us as we explore the real stories of courage, strategy, and teamwork that secured a decisive victory, and delve into the profound human elements of warfare, from handling POWs to the deep camaraderie among soldiers. 💪

#tankwarfare #combat #military #M1A1 🌟 Don't miss out on this powerful recount of history and heroism!

Show Notes:

🎯🔥 Today's Combat Story Features Mark Greene, an Elite Navy SEAL Sniper! 🔥🎯

Join us as we dive deep with Mark Greene, a courageous former Navy SEAL who has experienced the sharp edge of battle as both an officer and enlisted sniper. 🎖️💥 Mark's extensive service spans the pivotal moments of our time, from the intense pre-9/11 missions to the high-stakes post-9/11 operations where his sniper skills were put to the ultimate test.

👀 Don't miss out! Check out our Combat Check-In for exclusive updates, fascinating historical snippets, and much more! Visit combatstory.com/newsletter.

In this gripping episode, Mark shares heart-wrenching stories of loss and thrilling near-misses that define the SEAL brotherhood. 🌊🔫 Plus, get a sneak peek into his compelling book, "UNSEALED: A Navy SEAL's Guide to Mastering Life's Transitions", where he offers invaluable advice on navigating life's many challenges, whether in military or civilian life. 📖➡️ Grab your copy here!

🏈🏊‍♂️ From tackling college football to conquering the grueling BUD/S training, and from surviving close calls to engaging enemy targets as a lethal sniper, Mark's journey is nothing short of extraordinary.

📹 Enjoy this expansive discussion and walk a mile in the boots of a true warrior with Mark Greene.

🌟 Find Mark Online:

🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:

🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

⏰ Show Notes:

💬 We value your thoughts! Drop a comment, like this video, and don't forget to subscribe for more unmissable stories from the front lines! 🌟📽️

#NavySEALs #MilitaryStories #CombatStory #VeteranAdvice

Today we have a once in a lifetime Combat Story with one of the few living Medal of Honor recipients from the war in Afghanistan: Earl Plumlee. Earl was a Marine infantryman, Force Recon team leader, and Special Forces Weapons Sergeant in the pre- and post-9/11 era.

Earl would deploy multiple times with the Marine Corps and the Army, to include combat deployments with Force Recon and a historic deployment in 2013 with the his ODA where he would earn the Medal of Honor.

In this episode, we touch on both of Earl's Recon deployments but spend a considerable amount of time walking through the battle in which he earned the Medal of Honor and in which his fellow Green Berets earned other medals for valor. It's an amazing story to hear firsthand that includes a coordinated and lethal attack of a US installation in Ghazni, Afghanistan; suicide bombers; injured Americans; and several Green Berets who had never fought together operating as one element to repel the attack.

Earl's work during this assault is amazing and almost impossible to imagine he didn't get more gravely wounded. He had over 300 rounds of enemy fire directed at him from very close range, dozens of grenades lobbed his direction, and suicide vests detonating meters away.

He now speaks out about civic duty and service and provides motivational and public speaking for customers around the world. Please enjoy this selfless story of a rare and living Medal of Honor with Earl Plumlee.

Join hundreds of others with our weekly Combat Check-In Newsletter (www.combatstory.com/newsletter) to get a short email from Ryan each week about the show, life, and the military.

For 25% off your order, head to MadRabbit.com/COMBATSTORY25 and use code COMBATSTORY25.

🔗 Find Earl Online: - Guest Speaker Website www.earlplumlee.com - Instagram earl_plumlee_official https://www.instagram.com/earl_plumlee_official/ 🔗 Find Ryan Online: - Ryan's Linktree https://linktr.ee/combatstory - Merch https://www.bonfire.com/store/combats... - Instagram @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory - Facebook @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial - Send us messages at https://m.me/combatstoryofficial - Learn more about Ryan www.combatstory.com/aboutus - Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Join hundreds of others with our weekly Combat Check-In Newsletter (www.combatstory.com/newsletter) to get a short email from Ryan each week about the show, life, and the military.

👇 Show Notes: 00:00 - Introduction 01:02 - Guest Profile: Earl Plumlee 02:25 - Start of Interview 02:33 - Life As Medal of Honor Recipient 07:02 - Childhood 12:38 - Military Family History 14:07 - Deciding to Serve 16:33 - Recruitment Story 22:26 - Basic 24:58 - Mad Rabbit Tattoo Ad 26:22 - Graduation from Marine Corps. 31:14 - First Time Down Range 39:14 - S.E.A.R. School 39:42 - New Guy In Recon Unit 43:04 - First Time Outside The Wire 45:08 - Give Legacy Ad 46:30 - Formative Moments 53:38 - Losing Teammates 55:35 - Hindsight Advice 59:49 - Second Deployment 01:0:52 - Second Deplyoment Difficult Moments 01:01:52 - Special Forces 01:07:21 - First Special Forces Deployment 01:12:36 - Having Kids At Home While Deployed 01:14:25 - Medal OF Honor Story 02:06:58 - Battle Afterthoughts 02:16:49 - Sentimental Items 02:17:35 - Would You Do It All Again 02:19:33 - Listener Feedback

Today we have a Combat Story where we bring two F-15E Strike Eagle aviators - a front seater and backseater - together to talk about what it was like flying at the same time and some of the adventures that come with that life. Both Tom "Gunny" Moser and Mike "Pako" Benitez are decorated aviators, both Fighter Weapons School qualified and both former Marines (Tom an 0311 and Mike a helicopter aircrew member and door gunner). We interviewed both Gunny and Pako individually if you're curious about their other near misses and danger close shots (or the origins of their call signs…Pako shared his call sign origin story with us on air for the first time!).

Pako now distributes The Merge newsletter that provides an inside and more fun look at the defense industry with over 20K subscribers and hosts The Merge podcast. Gunny is now a commercial airline pilot flying domestic routes across the US.

Special thanks to Ryan "Stinger" Fishel for connecting us with these two vets and with that, please enjoy this rare opportunity to hear from two combat aviators together! Join hundreds of others with our weekly Combat Check-In Newsletter (www.combatstory.com/newsletter) to get a short email from Ryan each week about the show, life, and the military.

This episode was sponsored by Give Legacy. Listeners can use the code COMBATSTORY to get 10% off everything on the site You can find out more by going to www.givelegacy.com. That's givelegacy.com.

🔗 Find Mike Online: - The Merge https://themerge.co/ - The Merge Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@TheMergeMedia

🔗 Find Ryan Online: - Ryan's Linktree https://linktr.ee/combatstory - Merch https://www.bonfire.com/store/combats... - Instagram @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory - Facebook @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial - Send us messages at https://m.me/combatstoryofficial - Learn more about Ryan www.combatstory.com/aboutus - Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Join hundreds of others with our weekly Combat Check-In Newsletter (www.combatstory.com/newsletter) to get a short email from Ryan each week about the show, life, and the military.

👇 Show Notes: 00:00 - Introduction 00:55 - Guest Profile: Mike Benitez 00:19 - Marines Becoming Friends 03:28 - Mike and Tom First Meeting 10:32 - Teachings in Fighter Weapons School 22:25 - Mike's Close Calls 31:09:12 - Tom's Close Calls 41:44 - Flying Together Down Range 51:16 - Working With Foreign Forces 01:00:56 - Dropping Bombs 01:28:09 - What Do You Miss Most 01:36:48 - Listener Feedback

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Today I'm so excited to share this Combat Story with a legend from the CIA spanning the First Cold War battling the Soviet Union, to the fall of the Berlin Wall, to the Counterterrorism refocus, and then the second Cold War with Putin's Russia: Glenn Corn.

Glenn recently retired after 34 years of US government service that included time with the Army and State Department but, primarily, was with the CIA as Case Officer, Russia expert, and multiple time Chief of Station in some of the most important countries in the world for America's security.

In this interview, we delve into Glenn's experience at the Agency, to include close calls, lessons learned, his command of foreign languages (Glenn's a fluent Russian speaker) and where the Agency is going today, but we spend the entire second half digging into everything Russia, to include Putin's motivations, Navalny's death, the experience of the Russian people from the late 1980s until today, and what it would take for Putin's reign to finally stop and give the Russian people a just leader.

I'm good friends with Glenn's brother, Gavin, who was sitting just off-screen during this interview, who also spent many years in government service with the Department of Justice. They come from a family that has given so much to this country and I'm so excited for you all to hear Glenn's story for the first time.

Join hundreds of others with our weekly Combat Check-In Newsletter (www.combatstory.com/newsletter) to get a short email from Ryan each week about the show, life, and the military.

🔗 Find Ryan Online: - Ryan's Linktree https://linktr.ee/combatstory - Merch https://www.bonfire.com/store/combats... - Instagram @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory - Facebook @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial - Send us messages at https://m.me/combatstoryofficial - Learn more about Ryan www.combatstory.com/aboutus - Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

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👇 Show Notes: 00:00 - Introduction 00:56 - Guest Profile: 02:13 - Start of Interview 2:43 - Getting Out of CIA 04:46 - Thoughts To Return To Russia 06:09 - Interest In Government Service 10:00 - Learning Languages 15:29 - Time in Soviet Union 19:55 - Challenging Moments 22:19 - Bolotor Ad 23:32 - Experience During 9/11 27:26 - Children Going Into the Military 29:00 - Mentorships 33:10 - Losing Teammates 40:37 - Planning and Executing 45:25 - Misunderstandings of the Agency 47:18 - First Time Outside the Wire 50:44 - Give Legacy Ad 52:05 - Aftermath of the First Mission 59:27 - Pre and Post 9/11 CIA 01:05:31 - Toughest Moments 01:08:34 - Thoughts on Russia/Soviet Union 01:23:47 - American/Russian Proxy Wars 01:29:50 - Second Cold War 01:34:11 - Russian Propaganda 01:41:50 - Putin's Motivations 01:45:29 - Theoretical Changes in Russia 01:56:04 - Glenn's Book 02:01:54 - Sentimental Items 02:030:06 - Would You Do It All Again? 02:04:57 - Listener Feedback

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In this second round interview with Mike "Pako" Benitez, we dig deep into a series of combat experiences in the air that you won't believe, including a low pass to danger close strafing run covering two troops-in-contact almost simultaneously to Pako's description of the operation where he earned his Distinguished Flying Cross (you'll feel like you were in the cockpit with him).

Mike now creates and distributes The Merge (themerge.co) newsletter - which has 20K subscribers - and podcast - which has 40 episodes as of this airing. The Merge brings defense and tech news and insights in a more lighthearted and interesting approach that I'm confident most listeners of Combat Story will appreciate!

We only found Pako thanks to former guest Ryan "Stinger" Fishel who was a beneficiary of the tough love and tutelage of Pako (listen to the end to hear Pako's commentary on Stinger - it will come as no surprise to those who listened to Stinger's interview). Stay tuned for a follow-on episode next week with Pako and Tom "Gunny" Moser interviewed together about their experiences in Afghanistan and Syria leading units.

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This episode was sponsored by Give Legacy. Listeners can use the code COMBATSTORY to get 10% off everything on the site You can find out more by going to www.givelegacy.com. That's givelegacy.com.

🔗 Find Mike Online: - The Merge https://themerge.co/ - The Merge Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@TheMergeMedia 🔗 Find Ryan Online: - Ryan's Linktree https://linktr.ee/combatstory - Merch https://www.bonfire.com/store/combats... - Instagram @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory - Facebook @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial - Send us messages at https://m.me/combatstoryofficial - Learn more about Ryan www.combatstory.com/aboutus - Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Join hundreds of others with our weekly Combat Check-In Newsletter (www.combatstory.com/newsletter) to get a short email from Ryan each week about the show, life, and the military.

👇 Show Notes: 00:00 - Introduction 00:55 - Guest Profile: Mike Benitez 01:52 - First Fatality During Deployment 13:20 - Tough on New Recruits 20:47 - Harrowing Flights 28:23 - Give Legacy Ad 29:45 - Earning The DFC 01:00:57 - Time in Syria 01:09:54 - The Merge Newsletter and Podcast 01:15:10 - Sentimental Items 01:16:32 - Would You Do It All Again? 01:16:55 - Story About Ryan Fishel 01:18:20 - Closing Thoughts 01:18:49 - Listener Feedback

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Today we hear Round 1 of a two part Combat Story with former F-15E Strike Eagle Weapons Systems Officer (WSO) Mike "Pako" Benitez. In this episode, we follow Mike's very unlikely path to the cockpit that begins with a career in the Marine Corps as a helicopter mechanic and aircrew member in the very first push into Afghanistan to fighting in Iraq during Fallujah II.

Mike's path is anything but direct as he found his way to becoming an expert tactician and aviator in the F-15E. Since retiring, Mike has gone on to create The Merge (themerge.co) newsletter - which has 20K subscribers - and podcast - which has 40 episodes as of this airing. The Merge brings defense and tech news and insights in a more lighthearted and interesting approach that I'm confident most listeners of Combat Story will appreciate!

We only found Pako thanks to former guest Ryan "Stinger" Fishel who was a beneficiary of the tough love and tutelage of Pako (Stinger mentions a crusty older Weapons Officer during his interview who made Stinger look info up as opposed to handing it to him - that was Pako). Stay tuned for a follow-on episode after Rounds 1 and 2 with Pako to hear both Pako and Tom "Gunny" Moser be interviewed together about their experiences in Afghanistan and Syria leading units together.

Join hundreds of others with our weekly Combat Check-In Newsletter (www.combatstory.com/newsletter) to get a short email from Ryan each week about the show, life, and the military. This episode was sponsored by HelloFresh! Go to www.HelloFresh.com/combatstoryfree and use code combatstoryfree for FREE breakfast for life! Thanks to our sponsor, Mint Mobile. To get the new customer offer and your new 3-month unlimited wireless plan for just $15 a month, go to www.mintmobile.com/combatstory. Additional taxes, fees, & restrictions apply.

🔗 Find Mike Online: - The Merge https://themerge.co/ - The Merge Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@TheMergeMedia

🔗 Find Ryan Online: - Ryan's Linktree https://linktr.ee/combatstory - Merch https://www.bonfire.com/store/combats... - Instagram @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory - Facebook @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial - Send us messages at https://m.me/combatstoryofficial - Learn more about Ryan www.combatstory.com/aboutus - Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Join hundreds of others with our weekly Combat Check-In Newsletter (www.combatstory.com/newsletter) to get a short email from Ryan each week about the show, life, and the military.

👇 Show Notes: 00:00 - Introduction 00:52 - Guest Profile: Mike Benitez 02:13 - Start of Interview 02:37 - PAKO Callsign 07:45 - Finding Aviation 10:03 - Family Military Background 11:17 - Recruitment 13:43 - Bootcamp 21:29 - Time in Marines 23:43 - 9/11 33:23 - Hello Fresh Ad 34:37 - Time As A Mechanic 40:15 - First Raid Outside the Wire 50:25 - Reenlistment to Weapons Officer 01:06:30 - Mint Mobile Ad 01:07:51 - Transition From Marines to Air Force 01:11:12 - Path to Strike Eagle 10:18:24 - Welcome to First Air Force Unit 01:20:00 - First Operational Squadrant 01:39:07 - First Danger Close 01:42:02 - First Fatality 01:42:03 - Listener Feedback

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Today we hear round two of our two-part Combat Story from seasoned F-15E Strike Eagle fighter pilot Tom "Gunny" Moser. Moser would go on to be a Weapons Fighter School graduate (the Air Force's Top Gun), in addition to a Squadron and Wing Weapons Officer, and Squadron Commander.

In this episode, we dig into several combat experiences from the F-15's front seat and what makes this aircraft so lethal. This includes the very first strikes into Syria in 2014 taking on ISIS where Gunny helped plan these missions and lead some of the first attacks into theater.

If you didn't hear round one with Gunny, he's finally made it to his Squadron after three years as a Marine infantryman (hence the call sign!) and a stint as a Police Officer (something he loved). He's got an incredibly supportive spouse who told him to not come home if he didn't get F-15s because there are only winners in their house!!

Gunny is good friends with both former guest Ryan "Stinger" Fishel and our next guest coming in one week - Mike "Pako" Benitez - another F-15E Strike Eagle aviator. Stay tuned after our interviews with Pako to hear Gunny and Pako interviewed together about their time downrange as a front seater and back seater as standard bearer Weapons Officers!

Join hundreds of others with our weekly Combat Check-In Newsletter (www.combatstory.com/newsletter) to get a short email from Ryan each week about the show, life, and the military.

🔗 Find Ryan Online: - Ryan's Linktree https://linktr.ee/combatstory - Merch https://www.bonfire.com/store/combats... - Instagram @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory - Facebook @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial - Send us messages at https://m.me/combatstoryofficial - Learn more about Ryan www.combatstory.com/aboutus - Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Join hundreds of others with our weekly Combat Check-In Newsletter (www.combatstory.com/newsletter) to get a short email from Ryan each week about the show, life, and the military.

👇 Show Notes: 00:00 - Introduction 00:55 - Guest Profile: Tom Moser 02:17 - Start of Interview 03:10 - After Mission Debrief 06:06 - '07 Deployment 20:25 - Providing Cover for Marines on the Ground 25:54 - Home Life 29:24 - '09 Deployment pt. 1 32:20 - Verstreppo Inspiration 37:00 - '09 Tough Missions 51:34 - Moral After Losing A Teammate 54:40 - The Officer's Club 56:20 - '14 Deployment 01:15:00 - After The Last Deployment 01:20:50 - Cutting Edge Technology 01:23:49 - Deciding to Retire 01:29:04 - New Career Path 01:31:28 - Miss Most About The Military 01:32:03 - Most Courageous Act 01:33:48 - Favorite Role 01:38:42 - Sentimental Items 01:40:38 - Would You Do It All Again? 01:41:23 - Listener Feedback

Join our weekly Combat Check-In Newsletter (www.combatstory.com/newsletter) to get a short email from Ryan for people who love and support our veterans, service members, and their families. It has info on a significant event in military and/or intel history, a funny military joke, an update on a current event I'm following, something I'm doing that week in my life, a book I'm reading, a look at an upcoming interview, a reflection on a past episode and more!

Today we hear Round 1 of a two part Combat Story from seasoned fighter pilot Tom "Gunny" Moser who flew the F-15E Strike Eagle, served as a Squadron and Wing Weapons Officer, was a Fighter Weapons School graduate (akin to the Navy's Top Gun), commanded a Squadron, and more.

In this episode, we follow Gunny's circuitous route into the military first as a Marine 0311 (Infantryman), followed by a stint as a Police Officer, followed by a very decorated career in the Air Force.

Since retirement, Gunny has gone on to a career flying for the commercial airlines which we should all be grateful to know that we've got this seasoned combat aviator at the controls on our regular domestic flights!

Special thanks to former guest Ryan "Stinger" Fishel for helping us find Gunny!

And with that, please enjoy this first round discussion with someone who found his way to his dream job.

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🔗 Find Ryan Online: - Ryan's Linktree https://linktr.ee/combatstory - Merch https://www.bonfire.com/store/combats... - Instagram @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory - Facebook @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial - Send us messages at https://m.me/combatstoryofficial - Learn more about Ryan www.combatstory.com/aboutus - Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Join hundreds of others with our weekly Combat Check-In Newsletter (www.combatstory.com/newsletter) to get a short email from Ryan each week about the show, life, and the military.

👇 Show Notes: 00:00 - Introduction 00:59 - Guest Profile: Tom Moser 01:57 - Start of Interview 02:26 - Callsign 'Gunny' 04:02 - Growing Up 04:55 - Path to Military 11:26 - Love of Flying 12:25 - Choosing Enlistment Route 16:46 - Exiting the Marines 20:40 - Law Enforcement Career 23:02 - Path to Aviation 28:52 - Law Enforcement to Pilot Experience 31:08 - Family Life 35:09 - Close Calls 39:00 - Mindset during Dangerous Jobs 41:29 - Flight School 47:25 - Getting Assigned Strike Eagle 51:52 - Responsibility as an Aviator 57:40 - Strike Eagle Mission Set 01:02:05 - Weapon Loadout for F-15 01:08:53 - Hazing Stories 01:12:11 - Schedule for Pilots 01:14:24 - Weapons Officer 01:21:06 - Why Not Marine Corps. 01:22:17 - First Unit 01:26:58 - First Deployment 01:30:30 - First Flying Operation 01:38:49 - Listener Feedback

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This is our first JOINT Combat Story where we bring two combat veterans on the show to talk about combat operations they were part of together. This time we're fortunate to have Sam Mackey and Joel McGuire, both former SEALs, who speak about some of the toughest moments they had deployed to Afghanistan.

I always wanted to have two guys who fought side by side to see what they remember, where they each have gaps and to watch the bond firsthand that was forged in those difficult moments downrange.

For those who listened to the individual interviews with both Sam and Joel, you'll recall that Sam was somewhat of a free agent SEAL being shipped to various teams to support operations for weeks or months at a time given his unique sniper skill set. Joel was leading a team at a smaller FOB that needed all the help they could get and welcomed Sam with open arms.

Please enjoy two seasoned vets get down to what actually happened on particular ops when they were downrange together.

This Combat Story was sponsored by Factor, America's #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Delivery Service. Use FACTORMEALS.com/combatstory50 and use code combatstory50 to get 50% off!

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👇 Show Notes: 00:00 - Introduction 00:42 - Guest Profile: Sam Mackey and Joel McGuire 01:40 - Start of Interview 02:13 - Joel and Sam post deployment relationship 05:50 - How Joel and Sam met 21:28 - Factor Meals Ad 22:45 - Deploying A Sniper in Battle 31:40 - Sam and Joel Reminiss Same Gun Fight 42:12 - Hairy Engagements 47:29 - Deployment During Bin Laden Raid 49:54 - Favorite MRE 51:59 - Favorite Part About Teams 01:02:44 - Joel Grazed In The Range 01:10:31 - Advice to A Future SEAL 01:12:34 - Outsider Mugs 01:13:08 - Listener Feedback

We sit down with previous guest and former Ranger and Delta Force operator Brad Thomas as he sets the record straight about what happened back in Mogadishu and how his recollection of one event (as he shared back on Episode 58) was different than what another person remembered.

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In the former interview, Brad describes a "jackass lieutenant" running around during the battle collecting fastropes because they were an accountable item. The individual in question listened to the interview and contacted Brad to explain what was actually going on.

Being the standup guy that he is, Brad immediately wanted to acknowledge this new information and share that we often don't recall things as they were.

Many will recall Brad gave up a promising musical career to serve, first with Ranger Battalion and then finding his way into Delta Force. His first combat experience was in Mogadishu in what we know as Black Hawk Down as part of 3rd Ranger Battalion in a true baptism by fire.

Since leaving the military, Brad returned to his passion: music. He gathered a group of veterans who now make up the band "Silence and Light" and saw far more success than they expected on their debut album.

We sit down today to discuss misinterpretations on the battlefield and clarify a situation discussed in Brad's interview from two years ago (Ep58).

🔗 Find Brad Online: - Instagram @bradthomas_official - Silence and Light Website https://www.silenceandlightmusic.com/ - Silence and Light Merch http://www.silenceandlightmusic.com/

🔗 Find Ryan Online: - Ryan's Linktree https://linktr.ee/combatstory - Merch https://www.bonfire.com/store/combats... - Instagram @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory - Facebook @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial - Send us messages at https://m.me/combatstoryofficial - Learn more about Ryan www.combatstory.com/aboutus - Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Join hundreds of others with our weekly Combat Check-In Newsletter (www.combatstory.com/newsletter) to get a short email from Ryan each week about the show, life, and the military.

Join our weekly Combat Check-In Newsletter (www.combatstory.com/newsletter) to get a short email from Ryan for people who love and support our veterans, service members, and their families. It has info on a significant event in military and/or intel history, a funny military joke, an update on a current event I'm following, something I'm doing that week in my life, a book I'm reading, a look at an upcoming interview, a reflection on a past episode and more!

Today we have our second round Combat Story with Sam Mackey, who overcame a challenging and rebellious youth to successfully earn his SEAL Trident, carrying him to SEAL Team Eight where we left off at the end of round one.

In this second round interview, Sam's deployments continue as he faces defining moments, including the loss of a close friend in a helicopter crash and intense firefights in Afghanistan. This includes a brief morbid but hilarious story of Sam nearly breaking the longest sniper shot record.

Transitioning from the military, Sam partnered with former pro-football QB Jay Cutler to launch Outsider, focusing on high-quality outdoor lifestyle products. This venture reflects his entrepreneurial spirit, shaped by his time in the SEALs. Sam's story, from a troubled past to military excellence and business success, is a testament to the power of resilience and adaptability. It's an inspirational tale for those who admire the military, combat, and life's challenges.

For those who heard our recent Combat Story interview with Joel McGuire, you'll recall Joel mention that he and Sam served together in Afghanistan. Stay tuned next week to hear Joel and Sam interviewed together talking about the same battles and what it takes to earn the trident (and recommendations to aspiring SEALs and Special Operators).

Many thanks to Ari for connecting us with Sam!

And now, please enjoy this wide ranging discussion with retired Navy SEAL and entrepreneur, Sam Mackey.

👇 Show Notes:

00:00 - Introduction 01:04 - Guest Profile: Sam Mackey 02:33 - Start of Interview 02:40 - First Hairy Operation 11:26 - Specialties Within Teams 13:13 - Sniper School 14:35 - Respect In Teams 18:33 - Challenging Moment 1 20:31 - Mint Mobile Ad 21:38 - Challenging Moment 2 32:54 - After Op De-Brief 34:07 - Working With Lithuanians 39:03 - Lithuanian Operation 48:06 - Most Courageous Act 51:20 - Responsibility For The Team 52:09 - Marriage Throughout Teams 55:07 - Outsider Company 01:08:25 - Entrepenurialship in Teams 01:21:58 - Sentimental Items 01:23:10 - Would You Do It All Again? 01:24:47 - Listener Feedback

🔗 Find Ryan Online: - Ryan's Linktree https://linktr.ee/combatstory - Merch https://www.bonfire.com/store/combats... - Instagram @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory - Facebook @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial - Send us messages at https://m.me/combatstoryofficial - Learn more about Ryan www.combatstory.com/aboutus - Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle 🔗 Find Sam Online: - Outsider https://shop.outsider.com/

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Today we have our first of a two round Combat Story as we delve into Sam Mackey's extraordinary journey from a rebellious youth to a Navy SEAL and, after retiring with 20 years in the service, to a successful entrepreneur. His early years were marked by selling drugs and legal troubles, finding purpose in a love for boxing and eventually joining the military. This decision, fueled partly by a need to escape legal issues, led Sam on a transformative path of discipline and self-discovery.

Sam's time in the military was challenging yet formative. His first attempt at BUD/S training was unsuccessful, leading to a stint in Italy where misadventures and personal growth went hand in hand. However, Sam returned to BUD/S more mature and focused, eventually joining SEAL Team 8. His first combat experience comes in Iraq, where he first grappled with the harsh realities of warfare with an intense gunfight marking a significant shift from training to real-world operations, highlighting the need for quick, tactical decision-making and adaptability.

Stay tuned for Round 2 where we cover even more of Sam's time downrange and the entrepreneurial skills he develops in the teams that translate into his current work on Outsider, an outdoor lifestyle brand with high quality products, alongside former NFL QB Jay Cutler.

Many thanks to Ari for connecting us with Sam! And now, please enjoy this inspiring episode with retired Navy SEAL, Sam Mackey.

👇 Show Notes:

00:00 - Introduction 00:31 - Guest Profile: Sam Mackey 01:48 - Start of Interview 05:32 - Fighting Growing Up 10:31 - Legal Troubles 14:17 - Joining the Military 16:50 - Mentors 21:46 - Hello Fresh Ad 23:09 - Taking Accountability 24:03 - Deciding Branch of Service 27:47 - Boot 33:26 - Path to Teams 41:00 - BUDS 49:47 - Time In Italy 01:01:45 - 2nd BUDS 01:04:29 - West Coast Team 01:15:29 - First Call After Making Teams 01:23:12 - First Time Downrange 01:29:51 - Loadout Advancements 01:32:25 - Feeling Coming Back Home 01:33:08 - Listener Feedback

🔗 Find Ryan Online: - Ryan's Linktree https://linktr.ee/combatstory - Merch https://www.bonfire.com/store/combats... - Instagram @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory - Facebook @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial - Send us messages at https://m.me/combatstoryofficial - Learn more about Ryan www.combatstory.com/aboutus - Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle 🔗 Find Sam Online: - Outsider https://shop.outsider.com/

This episode was sponsored by HelloFresh! Go to HelloFresh.com/combatstoryfree and use code combatstoryfree for FREE breakfast for life!

To help us support our Veterans, Subscribe, Like, and Comment on this video. It helps us get more people to watch and bring more guests on!

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Today we hear a Combat Story with former Navy SEAL Joel McGuire, who completed multiple combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, in addition to deployments to Europe and South America over a 20 plus year career. We were introduced to Joel when scheduling an upcoming interview with Sam Mackey, another SEAL.

Sam was deployed with Joel and we'll have a combat story with both individuals together talking about a few of their battles they fought in. In this episode, Joel goes into detail about his multiple attempts to finally get through BUD/S, his battlefield experiences, managing short-term memory loss, sleep deprivation, and emotional challenges of losing close-knit community members in action.

Joel also talks through the challenges of Maritime Interdiction Operations (or MIO), which many have likely seen in the news recently as an MIO tragically claimed the lives of two Navy SEALs in the past month, and it's helpful to better understand what goes into these operations and what makes them so risky.

With that, please enjoy this conversation with Joel McGuire, a tough old frogman (stay tuned for a future episode for our joint interview with Joel and his fellow SEAL, Sam)!

👇 Show Notes:

00:00 - Introduction 00:43 - Guest Profile: Joel McGuire 01:51 - Start of Interview 02:22 - First Time In California 03:49 - Childhood 05:47 - Javolina 08:05 - Fighting As A Kid 17:29 - Path To Teams 26:37 - NordVPN Ad 28:14 - BUDS 32:39 - Teammates in Teams 35:32 - Team 2 Reputation 43:36 - Maritime Interdiction Operations 52:20 - Specialties Within Team 53:53 - Leadership and Platoon Relationships 59:18 - FIrst DA Op. 01:04:27 - Being A Parent While Deployed 01:11:33 - Team 10 Petty Officer 01:14:33 - Relationships With Squad 01:19:30 - A Memorable Op. 01:23:34 - 2011 Deployment 01:39:34 - Post Deployment 01:51:49 - Losing A Teammate 02:08:10 - Deciding To Get Out 02:13:05 - Sentimental Items 02:14:25 - Would You Do It All Again 02:15:42 - Listener Feedback

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In this second round Combat Story with Jack Beaumont, we pickup with Jack being forced to walk away from flying jets after wrecking his back in a hard landing. His back was too injured to handle the Gs and an ejection from the aircraft, making him a liability to his fellow fighter pilots.

He found his way over to fly planes in the French COS or Special Operations Command in some amazing circumstances, to include evading radar and landing to unimproved runways at night in bad weather (it's really amazing piloting), followed by a transition into the very secretive world of the French External Security Service or DGSE, which is the French version of the CIA and a very capable service.

In this episode, Jack shares some of the challenging experiences in the cockpit and in the shadowy world of the intelligence community, including the unthinkable moment of losing a human source and his family. This tragic story forms the basis of the book that Jack wrote - The Frenchman - which was picked up for TV by the people who delivered True Detective, The Night Manager, and A Most Wanted Man. His next book, Dark Arena, comes out in February 2024.

Please enjoy this very insightful Combat Story that goes deep into the experiences of a French special operator and intelligence professional!

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👇 Show Notes:

00:00 - Introduction 00:52 - Guest Profile: Jack Beaumont Round 2 02:14 - Start of Interview 02:44 - SOCOM and Life After Plane Incident 12:46 - Serbian Mission 19:06 - Jack's Books 25:53 - Nord VPN Ad 24:33 - DGSE Reputation and Rainbow Wire 32:04 - Getting Accepted To DGSE 46:40 - Factor Ad 48:05 - Spy Training 01:08:24 - Truth To The Frenchman Opening 01:18:50 - Toll of Intelligence Officers 01:26:25 - Sentimental Items 01:27:19 - Would You Do It Again? 01:28:24 - Making of The Frenchman 01:31:48 - Listener Feedback

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🔗 Find Jack Beaumont Online: - Website https://jackbeaumontofficial.com/ - Purchase The Frenchman or Dark Arena https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jack%20Beaumont/author/B0034O2UHA

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Join our weekly Combat Check-In Newsletter (www.combatstory.com/newsletter) to get a short email from Ryan for people who love and support our veterans, service members, and their families. It has info on a significant event in military and/or intel history, a funny military joke, an update on a current event I'm following, something I'm doing that week in my life, a book I'm reading, a look at an upcoming interview, a reflection on a past episode and more!

Today we have round one of an incredible two part Combat Story and our first from a member of the French military and intelligence services, Jack Beaumont. Jack was an elite fighter pilot in the French Air Force flying single seat Mirage2000's, designed for dog fighting, in combat operations.

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He would go on to fly Special Forces aircraft in unbelievable conditions (blacked out, bad weather, to unimproved runways), and then found himself running covert intel operations across the globe with the French DGSE (the French version of CIA and an incredibly capable service as I know very well!). He went on to write a spy thriller called The Frenchman that was recently picked up for a TV show by the people who delivered True Detective, The Night Manager, and A Most Wanted Man!

In this first round interview, we hear about Jack's storied family military history that goes back to Napoleon's generals and a member of the French resistance in WWII. Jack would carry that lineage forward by competing with 3,600 other would-be fighters pilots and becoming just one of only three men who made it through that gauntlet.

We also hear one of the most challenging experiences for any recruit during training in terms of loss that really hits home, followed by an unprecedented hazing for someone arriving at a new unit that I've ever heard that will leave you crying with laughter.

We end this episode when Jack wakes up in a hospital after a very hard landing with a surgeon telling him he'd never fly again. He was back in the cockpit three months later.

Stay tuned for Round 2 where Jack has to change flying roles as he moves into the secretive French Special Operations aviation community doing things in the air you can't imagine and eventually finding his way into the French DGSE.

With that, please enjoy this very interesting and unique Combat Story from our close partners across the pond!

👇 Show Notes:

00:00 - Introduction 01:05 - Guest Profile: 02:48 - Start of Interview 04:26 - The Frenchman and Dark Arena 06:20 - Childhood 21:52 - Path to the Military 28:22 - HelloFresh Ad 29:35 - Flight School 43:18 - Tough Part of Flight Curriculum 52:11 - Induction Into First Unit 01:03:46 - Timeline of Career 01:04:29 - First Combat Flight 01:20:16 - The Crash 01:38:42 - Continuing To Fly 01:39:55 - Listener Feedback

🔗 Find Ryan Online:

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Go to www.HelloFresh.com/50combatstory and use code 50combatstory for 50% off plus free shipping to get delicious and healthy meals that you can make at home with your family in no time and add some variety to what you serve! Our family has used Hello Fresh for years!

Join our weekly Combat Check-In Newsletter (www.combatstory.com/newsletter) to get a short email from Ryan for people who love and support our veterans, service members, and their families. It has info on a significant event in military and/or intel history, a funny military joke, an update on a current event I'm following, something I'm doing that week in my life, a book I'm reading, a look at an upcoming interview, a reflection on a past episode and more!

Today we have the second round of our two part Combat Story with Mike Edwards, a former Regimental Reconnaissance Company (RRC) operator and longtime Ranger with 18 combat deployments.

Mike was one of the few to serve in the Omega Program, which the Washington Post described as "units comprising CIA personnel and troops with JSOC…using co-mingled bases in Iraq, Afghanistan and Yemen" and "mostly designed against specific high-value targets." Effectively, Omega was some of the best and most elite operators and intelligence officers paired up downrange to bring the full weight of both JSOC and the Agency.

Mike served alongside former Combat Story guest Rodney Brown, a former Navy SEAL and member of the Navy's Special Warfare Development Group (or DEVGRU which is often referred to in the press as SEAL Team Six). In this episode, Mike describes an operation taking on an entire Taliban camp with Rodney that Rodney also described in his interview. Be sure to go back and listen to Rodney's and Mike's account of this same operation to get a more complete picture of the event from two vantage points!

If you missed round one I would highly recommend listening to hear about Mike's start as an 11M and transition into Ranger Regiment, his combat jump into Iraq, and how he earned a Purple Heart and Silver Star. Once again, special thanks to our brothers Jack, Dave, and Dee at the Team House for introducing us to Mike! And with that, please enjoy this second interview with Mike Edwards.

For more information on the Omega program, check out the Washington Post (https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/checkpoint/wp/2015/06/06/seal-team-6-the-cia-and-the-secret-history-of-u-s-kill-missions/) or Wired Magazine (https://www.wired.com/2011/09/cia-killing-machine/).

👇 Show Notes:

00:00 - Introduction 00:57 - Guest Profile: Mike Edwards Round 2 02:33 - Start of Interview 02:41 - Route to Regimental Reconnaissance Company 06:43 - Tough Ops. in Rangers 07:51 - Training and Selection for (RRC) 12:30 - Difficulties During Selection 20:14 - Skydiving and Freefalling 23:31 - Human Tracking 28:23 - Relationship with Rodney Brown 37:30 - Mike's MI-47 Helicopter Crash 41:54 - Interrogations 44:08 - Difference Deploying With A Child 46:39 - Mike's MP7 Op. 58:06 - Challenges With Mental Health and Religion 01:04:40 - A Tough Op. 01:12:15 - Battlefield Interogations 01:17:20 - Most Courageous Act 01:20:58 - Post Service Recovery 01:23:46 - Religious Community 01:26:54 - Exedous Relief 01:30:01 - Plans for the Future 01:34:18 - Sentimental Items 01:36:00 - Would You Do It All Again? 01:36:38 - Listener Comments and Feedback

🔗 Find Ryan Online:

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🔗 Find Mike Online: Project Exodus Relief Afghanistan https://www.proexodusrelief.com/

Join our weekly Combat Check-In Newsletter (www.combatstory.com/newsletter) to get a short email from Ryan for people who love and support our veterans, service members, and their families. It has info on a significant event in military and/or intel history, a funny military joke, an update on a current event I'm following, something I'm doing that week in my life, a book I'm reading, a look at an upcoming interview, a reflection on a past episode and more!

This episode was sponsored by HelloFresh! Go to HelloFresh.com/combatstoryfree and use code combatstoryfree for FREE breakfast for life!

Today we have part one of a two part Combat Story with Mike Edwards, a former special operations soldier and leader with 18 combat deployments with the Ranger Regiment, Regimental Reconnaissance Company (RRC), and as part of the Omega Program where JSOC and CIA personnel were paired together to form lethal operational units downrange.

The Washington Post described the Omega Program as "units comprising CIA personnel and troops with JSOC…using co-mingled bases in Iraq, Afghanistan and Yemen" and "mostly designed against specific high-value targets."

In this first interview, we dive into Mike's entry into the military as an 11M and his first round of deployments with Ranger Regiment post-9/11, including earning what is often referred to as the mustard stain on his jump wings after a static line jump to seize an airfield at the outset of the Iraq war (he ends up very much like Shrek did on his first combat jump!). We dig into hunting the deck of cards, earning an EIB, then CIB, losing friends to a female suicide bomber, and then the intense operation in which Mike was awarded a Purple Heart and Silver Star.

Stay tuned for part two with Mike where we dive into some of Mike's more intense combat experiences, low vis tactical work, and fighting in Omega and RRC.

Special thanks to our brothers Jack, Dave, and Dee at the Team House for introducing us to Mike! And with that, please enjoy this first episode with Mike Edwards.

👇 Show Notes:

00:00 - Introduction 00:48 - Guest Profile: Mike Edwards 02:06 - Start of Interview 02:38 - Childhood 05:15 - Serving with Family 09:53 - Path to the Military 10:55 - Decision to Enlist 14:50 - Start of Career and Korea 22:35 - HelloFresh Ad 23:50 - Switching to Ranger Battalion 27:06 - Overlap of Special Forces and Regiment 30:35 - Welcome into the Ranger Community 36:40 - Welcome into the Unit 41:42 - First Deployment 47:57 - First Combat 52:30 - Coming Back After First Deployment 54:07 - Injury During Operation 01:08:25 - Realizing Invinciblity 01:15:25 - Learning from Gunfights 01:17:25 - Strykers 01:18:30 - Snot Story 01:20:46 - Listener Comments and Feedback

🔗 Find Ryan Online:

- Ryan's Linktree https://linktr.ee/combatstory - Merch https://www.bonfire.com/store/combats... - Instagram @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory - Facebook @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial - Send us messages at https://m.me/combatstoryofficial - Learn more about Ryan www.combatstory.com/aboutus - Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

This episode was sponsored by HelloFresh! Go to HelloFresh.com/combatstoryfree and use code combatstoryfree for FREE breakfast for life!

On today's Combat Story we dive into stories of a handful of the brave men who were at Pearl Harbor during the tragic December 7th, 1941 attack that changed the course of history. These are stories of action, selflessness, and courage that few of us can imagine, but sound right at home with the stories we often hear on Combat Story and should not be forgotten.

[Join our weekly Combat Check-In Newsletter (www.combatstory.com/newsletter) to get a short email from Ryan for people who love and support our veterans, service members, and their families.]

This episode includes Joe George, who was locked in the brig of a ship when the attack started and was released to save himself and then became a hero when he disobeyed orders to save the lives of other sailors.

We also hear about a long term friendship between a US sailor (Richard Fiske) who was attacked and a Japanese service member on the other side. Then we hear about a family member of a longtime Combat Story listener who was there at Pearl Harbor during the attack.

In this episode, we start by setting the context for the events of Dec 7th and the lead up to the war so we can better appreciate the very unique stories of service members who step up when the attack starts.

To help bring these stories to life, we went to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial in Hawaii and sat down the National Park Service's David Kilton, who is the Chief of Interpretation at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial (his job is to bring these stories to life).

Prior to the Pearl Harbor Memorial, David worked at Rocky Mountain National Park, Carlsbad Caverns National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and Golden Spike National Historic Site, and Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site (which memorializes the desegregation of that school).

Please enjoy these intimate stories of service and sacrifice in one of the most momentous days in American history.

Find Ryan Online: - Ryan's Linktree https://linktr.ee/combatstory - Merch https://www.bonfire.com/store/combats... - Instagram @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory - Facebook @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial - Send us messages at https://m.me/combatstoryofficial - Learn more about Ryan www.combatstory.com/aboutus - Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

Learn More About Pearl Harbor Online: - Joe George and Don Stratton https://www.nps.gov/perl/learn/historyculture/joe-george.htm - Pearl Harbor Background https://www.nps.gov/perl/index.htm

Show Notes: 00:00 - Intro 00:49 - Guest Introduction (David Kilton) 01:53 - Interview begins 02:15 - WWII Political background 05:22 - Japanese Preparation for Pearl Harbor attack 11:10 - Sunday morning on Oahu 16:00 - Pearl Harbor Geography 17:29 - Security before Pearl Harbor 21:26 - Pearl Harbor Attack 27:12 - The Joe George Story 31:41 - The Richard Fisk Story 43:14 - The Walter Sealock Story 49:50 - Closing Thoughts 51:23 - Listener comments and shout outs

Join our weekly Combat Check-In Newsletter (www.combatstory.com/newsletter) to get a short email from Ryan for people who love and support our veterans, service members, and their families. It has info on a significant event in military and/or intel history, a funny military joke, an update on a current event I'm following, something I'm doing that week in my life, a book I'm reading, a look at an upcoming interview, a reflection on a past episode and more!

🎙️ Today's Combat Story: Training Dogs for SEAL Teams and Founding the Warrior Dog Foundation🎙️

Today we have the second portion of a two-part crossover Combat Story with former Navy SEAL, NY Times Best-Selling Author, Trikos Founder, and founder of the Warrior Dog Foundation: Mike Ritland. Many will, of course, know Mike as the host of the long-running Mike Drop podcast. I traveled out to Texas to interview Mike in-person and then he returned the favor.

For those who missed part one, Mike described growing up in Iowa and, while still undersized, was bullied at school and had to sit in the same class as his attackers. He vowed to never let that happen again and immersed himself in a Karate Kid-like experience in the martial arts studying under an old school sensei who helped send him on his path to the Teams. In the Teams, Mike would largest operation in the history of Naval Special Warfare when SEAL Team 3

Mike would contract an illness that would take him out of the door-kicking side of the teams but also allowed him to follow a passion training dogs for west coast SEAL teams. He followed this path to build a successful business in Trikos training working dogs for clients and creating the Warrior Dog Foundation, among other ventures.

Mike has done so much to find purpose and continue serving after hanging up the uniform in a way that will, undoubtedly, be motivating to people seeking their own purpose and next chapter. With that, please enjoy this episode with Mike Ritland.

👇 Show Notes:

00:00 - Introduction 01:04 - Guest Profile: Mike Ritland 02:09 - Interview Begins 02:14 - Background of Navy Seal Dogs book 3:55 - Aftermath of Oil Rig Operation 13:36 - New Mission Cycles 15:52 - Gulf War Veterans for Iraq War 20:36 - First Leave and Becoming a K-9 Trainer 25:54 - Contracting Fungal Lung Infection 30:36 - Interest in K-9 Handling 32:51 - Mentors and Experience in K-9 Training 43:19 - Human and Dog Psycology 50:03 - Proudest Accomplishment 53:53 - Biases Against Former Warrior Dogs 57:16 - Sentimental Items 58:11 - Would You Do It All Again? 01:01:04 - Downtime 01:08:05 - Listener comments and shout outs

🔗 Find Ryan Online:

- Ryan's Linktree https://linktr.ee/combatstory - Merch https://www.bonfire.com/store/combats... - Instagram @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory - Facebook @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial - Send us messages at https://m.me/combatstoryofficial - Learn more about Ryan www.combatstory.com/aboutus - Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

🔗 Find Mike Online:

- Warrior Dog Foundation https://warriordogfoundation.org/about-us/

- Navy SEAL Dogs: My Tale of Training Canines for Combat https://www.amazon.com/Navy-SEAL-Dogs-Training-Canines/dp/1250049695 - Mike Drop Podcast https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNZR15cy3w1fzGXgI5oy5aA

Join our weekly Combat Check-In Newsletter (www.combatstory.com/newsletter) to get a short email from Ryan for people who love and support our veterans, service members, and their families. It has info on a significant event in military and/or intel history, a funny military joke, an update on a current event I'm following, something I'm doing that week in my life, a book I'm reading, a look at an upcoming interview, a reflection on a past episode and more!

🎙️ Today's Combat Story: Training Dogs for SEAL Teams and Founding the Warrior Dog Foundation🎙️

Today we have a cross over Combat Story with former Navy SEAL, NY Times Best-Selling Author, and Trikos Founder Mike Ritland who many will also know as the host of the Mike Drop podcast. I traveled out to Texas to interview Mike and then he returned the favor.

For those who don't know Mike, he earned his Trident pre-9/11 and found himself on the largest operation in the history of Naval Special Warfare when SEAL Team 3 simultaneously took control of two oil terminals and a control facility on sea and land as the Iraq war kicked off.

Mike would contract an illness that would take him out of the door-kicking side of the teams but also allowed him to follow a passion training dogs for west coast SEAL teams. He followed this path to build a successful business in Trikos training working dogs for clients and founding the Warrior Dog Foundation, among other ventures.

Mike has done so much to find purpose and continue serving after hanging up the uniform in a way that will, undoubtedly, be motivating to people seeking their own purpose and next chapter. With that, please enjoy this episode with Mike Ritland.

👇 Show Notes:

00:00 - Introduction 01:04 - Guest Profile: Mike Ritland 02:05 - Start of Interview 03:05 - Settling in Texas 07:45 - Leaving the SEALs 11:20 - Transition to Dog Training 12:57 - Confidence and Success 23:25 - Siblings and Military Path 25:49 - Fighting During Youth 36:11 - Martial Arts Training 43:53 - Path to joining the Teams 47:00 - Ultra Competitive Nature 54:13 - Almost Quitting 59:26 - Largest Naval Special Warfare Op. 01:11:19 - Kicking off the Iraq War 01:19:37 - Listener Feedback

🔗 Find Ryan Online: - Ryan's Linktree https://linktr.ee/combatstory - Merch https://www.bonfire.com/store/combats... - Instagram @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory - Facebook @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial - Send us messages at https://m.me/combatstoryofficial - Learn more about Ryan www.combatstory.com/aboutus - Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

🔗 Find Mike Online: - Warrior Dog Foundation https://warriordogfoundation.org/about-us/

- Navy SEAL Dogs: My Tale of Training Canines for Combat https://www.amazon.com/Navy-SEAL-Dogs-Training-Canines/dp/1250049695