Former Action Guys Podcast

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Former Action Guys Podcast is a way for veterans, first responders and others to share their stories that the world has never heard in a casual, conversational format that allows a snatural flow of information about their career and lives. These blunt, in-your-face stories are ones of adventure an…

Justin Cramer


    • May 12, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekly NEW EPISODES
    • 1h 47m AVG DURATION
    • 281 EPISODES

    5 from 162 ratings Listeners of Former Action Guys Podcast that love the show mention: yut, 2 10, jtac, semper fi, marines, civilian, command, military, served, justin, army, heroes, transition, patrick, reminded, memories, former, matt, great to hear, throughout.


    Ivy Insights

    The Former Action Guys Podcast is an exceptional podcast that brings together a diverse group of military veterans to share their stories and experiences. Hosted by Justin, the podcast does an excellent job of extracting the stories that need to be told in a way that many people can enjoy them. It offers a sense of being surrounded by people from one's own tribe, which can be especially valuable for those who have served in the military and may find themselves missing that sense of camaraderie. The interviews are engaging and relatable, allowing listeners to understand the lingo and reminisce on their own experiences while also learning from the lessons shared by these warfighters.

    One of the best aspects of The Former Action Guys Podcast is its broad range of guests who offer unique points of view into the military and life within it. Whether you are currently serving, thinking about joining, or simply a regular civilian, there is something for everyone in this podcast. The guests come from various ranks and roles within the military, providing a comprehensive perspective on what it means to serve. From strategic corporals to commanding majors, these guests bring the last 20 years (and sometimes even further back) to life through their stories.

    Additionally, Justin does an outstanding job as an interviewer. He directs and steers the podcast in a way that allows viewers to get the most out of each episode. He is easy to talk to and genuinely interested in hearing each guest's story. The variety and depth of his interviews are truly impressive, covering everything from everyday life in the military to making command decisions in combat. This podcast offers real knowledge for anyone who has transitioned out of the military or is seeking self-improvement.

    While it is difficult to find any major drawbacks to The Former Action Guys Podcast, some listeners may feel that certain episodes focus too much on specific branches or roles within the military. However, given the wide range of guests featured on this podcast, this is a minor concern. It still manages to offer a well-rounded view of military life.

    In conclusion, The Former Action Guys Podcast is an outstanding platform for sharing the stories and lessons of OIF/OEF veterans. It provides a realistic take on what servicemen and women have been through and continue to go through. Whether you have served in the military or have never experienced it firsthand, this podcast offers a wealth of knowledge and real-life stories that will entertain and inspire everyone. Justin's dedication to sharing these stories and providing a record for family and friends is truly admirable. This podcast deserves all the praise it receives, and I highly recommend giving it a listen.



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    Latest episodes from Former Action Guys Podcast

    Ep. 233 | Brandon & Chris | I Came With Fire Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later May 12, 2025 111:06


    Brandon is a veteran of the Air Force Security Forces Chris is an Army Special Forces soldier. They are both part of the I Came With Fire Podcast and we get into artificial intelligence, foreign conflicts, and debate the alleged decline of America.Support the showhttps://www.jcramergraphics.comhttps://www.ANGLICOshop.comhttps://www.patreon.com/formeractionguysI Came With Fire linkhttps://rumble.com/user/I_Came_With_Fire_Podcast

    Ep. 232 | Blayne Smith | Special Forces, West Point, Armor Officer

    Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2025 109:40


    Blayne Smith is a former Special Forces soldier that started his career off as an Armor Officer after graduating from West Point. Blayne deployed to both Iraq and Afghanistan before leaving the service and writing Perseverance Is Greater than Endurance.Support the showhttps://patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://jcramergraphics.comhttps://ANGLICOshop.comBlayne's linksCompany: https://www.appliedleadershippartners.com/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/Perseverance-Endurance-Resilience-Adversity-Together/dp/163774627X00:00:00 J Cramer Graphics Ad00:00:30 Journey to West Point00:06:08 The History and Heritage of West Point00:11:59 Transitioning to the Army and Armor Branch00:14:47 Pre-9/11 Military Training and Mindset00:20:56 Iraq Combat Ops and Recon Missions00:35:27 Surveillance and EOD Escort Missions00:42:32 Combined Arms00:46:54 Special Forces Selection Process00:52:50 Moral Ambiguity in Special Operations00:59:15 Insights from the Qualification Course01:10:23 Building Team Cohesion | Team Dynamics and Training01:14:48 Deployment Decisions and Responsibilities01:19:09 Mission Objectives and Local Forces01:24:53 Engagements and Tactical Challenges01:32:22 Ambush Experiences and Lessons Learned01:38:18 Leadership Under Pressure01:43:09 Reflections on Loss and Moving Forward

    Extra Episode | Bart Womack | US Army Old Guard, 101st Airborne, Invasion of Iraq

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2025 130:16


    Retired Army Command Sergeant Major Bart Womack shares his journey from basic training in 1977 to deployments in Korea, Turkey, and Germany. He recounts a firefight in the Korean DMZ, his service at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and his experiences during the September 11th attacks and an insider attack in Iraq.Support the showhttps://www.patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://www.jcramergraphics.comhttps://www.ANGLICOshop.com

    Ep. 231 | Brandon Young | 75th Ranger Regiment

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2025 118:57


    Brandon Young joined the Army and immediately tried out for a spot in the 75th Ranger Regiment when the opportunity presented itself at the Basic Airborne Course. Brandon's unit was one of the first to respond to the 9/11 attacks and he deployed to Afghanistan 3 more times.Support the showhttps://www.patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://www.jcramergraphics.comhttps://www.ANGLICOshop.comBrandon's linksBook: https://www.perseverancebook.com Website: https://www.applieleadershippartners.com00:00:00 J Cramer Graphics Ad | Military Gear Discussion00:03:11 Volunteering for the Army Rangers00:06:08 Ranger Indoctrination Program00:09:11 Evolution of Ranger Training and Readiness00:12:01 Deployment Experiences: The Reality of Combat00:18:01 75th Ranger Regiment Structure00:20:48 Life Events During Military Service00:26:56 Connecting Veterans with Civilian Communities00:44:28 Navigating Military Responsibilities and Personal Life00:47:06 Understanding Moral Injury in Combat00:49:41 The Complexity of Combat Decisions00:56:01 Reflections on the Afghanistan Withdrawal01:04:19 The Struggles of Mental Health in Veterans01:10:00 The Value of Journaling and Reflection01:26:15 Understanding the Battlefield01:27:57 First Deployment to Afghanistan01:32:21 Chasing Ghosts: The Reality of Combat01:36:46 The Evolution of Combat Experience01:39:44 The Impact of Casualties01:52:58 The Weight of Loss and Reality

    Clip 047 | Will Drones Steal Pilot Jobs? | F16 and F35 Pilot | "Hasard" Lee

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2025 16:14


    Justin "Hasard" Lee is a F35 and F16 test pilot who makes social media content that focuses on the life of a fighter pilot. We discuss the future of fighter pilots as drones become more advanced in this clip taken from Ep. 170.Support the showhttps://www.patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://www.jcramergraphics.comhttps://www.ANGLICOshop.com

    Clip 046 | IED Attack on April 9th | US Army Infantry and NYPD Detective

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2025 11:18


    On April 9th, 2005, Matt Klein, a retired NYPD detective and US Army infantryman, was struck by an IED while patrolling a cemetery in Samarra, Iraq. After the strike, the other members of his unit located and captured the triggerman.In this clip taken from Ep. 180, Klein shares his incredible story of survival and resilience. He talks about the moment of the attack and the aftermath.Support the showhttps://patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://jcramergraphics.comhttps://ANGLICOshop.com

    Ep. 230 | Brennan Morton | Marine Recon and Sniper

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2025 112:40


    Brennan Morton is a former reconnaissance Marine who served with 2nd Recon Battalion during two deployments to Iraq. Brennan is also the author of Valhalla Boys, a book about his service.Support the showhttps://www.patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://www.jcramergraphics.comhttps://www.ANGLICOshop.comBrennan's Linkshttps://www.facebook.com/Brennan.Morton.Authorhttps://www.facebook.com/paladinpresspublishing/https://www.instagram.com/paladinpresspublishinghttps://amzn.to/4jq4ixy00:00:00 J Cramer Graphics Ad00:00:29 Intro | Joining the Marines00:05:07 Marine Corps Tattoos00:08:28 Call-To-Arms00:12:19 Recon and SEAL Contracts as Recruiting Tools00:16:15 Are SEALs Better Swimmers than Marine Recon?00:20:42 Prepping Your Feet for Rucking00:25:04 Marine Snipers | Organizational Changes00:29:50 From Marine Infantry to Recon ARS00:38:54 Work-Up and 1st Iraq Deployment00:59:17 Over Worked and Underutilized01:10:49 Grooming Standards | Advisor Teams01:20:12 Sniper School01:29:07 2nd Deployment to Iraq with 2nd Recon01:35:04 Occupying Compounds01:40:59 Valhalla Boys

    Clip 045 | Climbing Mount Everest | Brian Dickinson

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2025 25:10


    Brian Dickinson is a former Navy Aviation Rescue Swimmer and alpinist that has climbed the highest peak on each continent. Check out our entire interview on Ep. 211.Support the showhttps://jcramergraphics.comhttps://ANGLICOshop.comhttps://patreon.com/formeractionguysBrian's Sitehttps://briandickinson.net/00:00:00 Tibet Route vs Nepal Route00:04:09 Acclimating to Everest00:07:27 Summit Day00:09:59 Gear Malfunction00:13:52 The Final Push | Summiting Everest00:19:57 Verifying a Summit

    Ep. 229 | Merryl Tengesdal | U-2 Spy Plane Pilot

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2025 118:37


    Merryl Tengesdal had a dream to reach space and believed her best chance was as a Naval Aviator. She began her career flying H-60s, moved on to training students flying the T-34c and T-6a, then applied for an inter-service transfer to screen to become a U-2 spy plane pilot.Support the showhttps://www.jcramergraphics.comhttps://www.ANGLICOshop.comhttps://www.patreon.com/formeractionguysMerryl's siteshttps://merryltengesdal.com/shop-book/https://www.youtube.com/@UC_RCb3DfyEaWv80aQlKooRg00:00:00 J Cramer Graphics Ad00:00:40 Intro | mIRC Chat00:04:47 1st Deployment | 1st Females on Ship00:10:00 I Wanted to Be an Astronaut00:14:40 Flight School00:19:59 Landing SH-60s in Rough Seas00:32:24 SH-60 Roles00:34:40 2nd Deployment | South America00:46:58 Different Cultures00:56:44 Applying to be a U-2 Pilot01:01:38 U-2 Spy Plane Pilot Selection and Training01:16:54 U-2 Pilot's Custom Space Suit01:23:04 Operating at High-Altitude01:32:58 First High Altitude Flight | Food During Missions01:37:02 Foreign Navies and Life on US Ships01:42:33 Reality Checks | Casualty Assistance Officer01:52:46 Extreme Ross

    Ep. 228 | Aren & Cody | Stranger by the Hour Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2025 151:12


    Aren Brandfass & Cody Anderson are former MARSOC plank holders who also worked as government contractors before starting the Stranger By The Hour podcast. We dive into some current events and controversies in this episode!Support the showhttps://www.jcramergraphics.com/collections/infantryhttps://www.patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://www.ANGLICOshop.comStranger By The Hour Linkhttps://open.spotify.com/show/5Webs3ny2aEpe7AuKp6rPv00:00:00 J Cramer Graphics Ad00:00:40 Intro | Podcasting00:09:00 Information Operations00:15:50 Who is "They"00:24:30 Epstein00:29:49 Ukraine vs Russia00:50:43 Immigration00:57:35 Drones01:03:37 Assassination Attempt01:17:46 OnlyFans01:33:43 Tech Overlords01:45:04 Not Caring About Overseas Conflicts02:09:43 Keeping Perspective

    Ep. 227 | Travis Harless | Invasion of Iraq

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2025 130:42


    Travis Harless is a former 0311 Marine Rifleman who joined when he was 17 and linked up with C 1/7 in Kuwait only weeks after graduating from the School of Infantry. Because his first deployment began so soon into his enlistment, Harless was able to deploy three times during his four year enlistment.Support the showC 1/7 Flags: https://www.jcramergraphics.com/search?q=charley Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/formeractionguysANGLICO Gear: https://www.anglicoshop.com Travis's podcasthttps://youtube.com/@badgesbulletsblunders 00:00:00 J Cramer Graphics Ad00:00:40 Intro | Joining the Marines00:06:48 Police Academy vs Marine Boot Camp00:10:06 Infantry Training | Deployment with C 1/700:26:51 First Engagement00:35:02 Rockets00:45:03 The Infantry | From Iron Sights to Optics00:56:55 Hillbilly Armor01:11:13 Pre-Deployment Training01:25:38 Is Iraq Safer Now?

    Ep. 226 | Fred Apgar | Air Force Intelligence and Secret War in Laos

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 28, 2025 104:59


    Fred Apgar worked in Air Force intelligence during the Vietnam War. However, he was part of the clandestine war in Laos that was not acknowledged at the time. We talk fire support, electronic warfare, and Fred's return to the country to close that chapter of his life. Support the showhttps://www.patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://www.jcramergraphics.comhttps://www.ANGLICOshop.comFred's Bookhttps://www.amazon.com/Return-Plaine-Jarres-Fred-Apgar/dp/196430003700:00:00 J Cramer Graphics Ad00:00:40 Intro | Joining the Air Force00:04:07 Treatment of Veterans | Deployment Cycles00:14:08 Individual Augments to Vietnam | Joining the Air Force00:17:49 Vietnam Vet Reacts to Afghanistan Withdrawl00:29:31 Airborne Intelligence in Laos and Vietnam00:32:20 What are the JTAC and FAC Jobs?00:41:28 Operations in Laos and the Naming of the Podcast00:44:43 Laos ELINT Missions | TF Alpha00:53:27 First Paveway Bombs | Dragon's Jaw Bridge01:00:46 "We Weren't In Laos"01:07:22 Redemption01:18:11 Keep Your Honor Clean | POWs

    Ep. 225 | Scott Lyng | Army Tanker, Firefighter, and OIF Veteran

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 6, 2025 117:10


    Scott Lyng served in the US Army with the 3rd Infantry Division, 3rd Heavy Brigade Combat Team, 2-69 AR. Scott deployed to Iraq two times during his enlistment, then became a firefighter following his military service.Support the showCustom flags: https://jcramergraphics.com/collections/flagsANGLICO Gear: https://www.ANGLICOshop.comExclusive Content: https://www.patreon.com/formeractionguys00:00:00 J Cramer Graphics Ad00:00:40 California Fires00:11:37 Joining the Army00:22:11 The M1A1 Experience00:30:57 M1A1 Abrams and M88 Hercules00:39:38 Tank Weapons and Loadout00:51:30 Do Medics Ride in Tanks?00:56:28 Tank Training | Provisional Infantry Deployment01:06:57 Hitting an IED in a Tank01:23:08 Naming Tanks01:30:37 Armor and Drones in Ukraine01:39:47 A Tanker's Thoughts on Fury

    Ep. 224 | Ben Fortier | Marine Infantry, Musician, and Poet

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2025 90:05


    Ben Fortier served in two deployments to Iraq as a mortarman with 1st Battalion 25th Marine Regiment. Ben plays guitar, drums, and uses poetry to inspire song lyrics. His collection of poems Phantom was the 2024 winner of the Robert A. Gannon award. Support the showhttps://www.jcramergraphics.comhttps://www.ANGLICOshop.comhttps://www.patreon.com/formeractionguysBen's Linkshttps://www.instagram.com/thebenfocreates/https://www.amazon.com/Phantoms-Benjamin-Fortier/dp/B0CF42W6CV/

    Ep. 223 | Dr. David Walton | Green Beret and Author

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 18, 2024 116:10


    David Walton is a former Green Beret and has written multiple books for people interested in attending Special Forces Assessment and Selection. Check out David's previous interview on Ep. 188.Support the showhttps://jcramergraphics.com/collections/flagshttps://www.ANGLICOshop.comhttps://www.patreon.com/formeractionguysDavid's sitehttps://www.tfvoodoo.com00:00:00 J Cramer Graphics Ad00:00:40 Intro00:06:57 What a Special Forces Soldier Real Job Is00:11:16 Mission Creep | MARSOC and SFAB as Advisors00:17:44 First Deployment | Combat Replacement00:21:18 Marines Going to Special Forces00:33:47 18X and Other Selection Drop Outs00:47:37 Recruiting Levels01:01:32 Women In Combat Arms01:29:58 Tim Kennedy Drama

    Ep. 222 | Daniel Rodriquez | Battle of Kamdesh

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 3, 2024 88:30


    Danny Rodriguez is a former Army mortarman that served in Iraq and Afghanistan. His unit was involved in the 2009 Battle of Kamdesh and he earned a Purple Heart and Bronze Star for his actions. Following his enlistment, he used his GI Bill to attend college and walk-on to the Clemson football team.Support the showhttps://www.jcramergraphics.com/collections/flagshttps://www.ANGLICOshop.comhttps://www.patreon.com/formeractionguys00:00:00 J Cramer Graphics Ad00:00:40 Intro | Afghanistan Combat Video00:09:55 Joining the Army00:12:46 Army Infantry | 11C00:17:44 First Deployment | Combat Replacement00:32:00 Give and Take Relationship00:42:16 Deployment to Afghanistan00:53:32 Battle of Kamdesh01:10:39 After the Battle01:17:12 The Oupost | Book and Movie

    Ep. 221 | Fallujah Bodies | Hanthorne, Moran, Ites

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 13, 2024 110:49


    Michael Hanthorne served as a motor transport operator, but during the Second Battle of Fallujah, his primary responsibility was as the 'body bag guy.' Brian Moran, a third-generation Marine radio operator, was tasked with coordinating the pickup of fallen fighters and logging all radio traffic to and from the Potato Factory. Cheryl Ites, who joined the Marine Corps in 1974, led this motley crew, overseeing the retrieval and burial of nearly 600 enemy fighters. This is their story.Support the showhttps://www.jcramergraphics.comhttps://www.ANGLICOshop.comhttps://www.patreon.com/formeractionguys00:00:00 Intro00:02:12 Brian's Intro00:09:37 Cheryl's Intro00:19:50 Mike's Intro00:22:39 Mortuary Affairs Mission Planning00:29:51 Coordinating Body Recovery00:36:02 First Night in Fallujah00:42:03 A Typical Day01:12:15 Burying Hundreds of Dead Fighters01:24:45 Fallujah Leaflets01:36:12 After the Battle

    Clip 044 | Army Ranger Reconnaissance Detachment and Snipers | Jack Murphy

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 25, 2024 11:28


    Jack Murphy is a former Green Beret and Army Ranger Sniper that has served on multiple combat deployments. He also hosts the Team House Podcast and has written multiple books.Support the showhttps://www.jcramergraphics.comhttps://www.ANGLICOshop.comhttps://www.patreon.com/formeractionguysThe Team House Podcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@TheTeamHousePodcast 

    Flying the AH-6 Little Bird | Greg Coker | 160th SOAR

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 23, 2024 12:25


    Greg Coker is a 160th SOAR AH-6 "Little Bird" pilot and says the platform is the greatest helicopter ever created. Greg Has 6200 hours of night vision google flying time and 1500 hours of combat flight hours under his belt. Listen to the entire interview on Ep. 168!Support the showhttps://www.jcramergraphics.comhttps://www.ANGLICOshop.comhttps://www.patreon.com/formeractionguys

    Ep. 220 | Round 2 w/ Kirk Spradley | Blackwater Contractor and Paramilitary Officer

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2024 97:30


    Kirk Spradley is a former Force Recon Marine that has also served as a Blackwater Contractor and as a paramilitary officer in clandestine operations. His clandestine operations include buying the stinger missile launcher used in the shoot-down of FLIPPER 75. Check out his book War Junkie: A Cautionary Tale.Support the showhttps://www.patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://www.jcramergrpahics.comhttps://www.ANGLICOshop.comKirk's linkshttps://www.kgspradleyauthor.com/https://www.reconsniperfoundation.org/00:00:00 Intro | Blackwater Team Organization00:07:29 Driving Blackwater Vehicles00:17:14 Meeting Erik Prince00:24:25 Military Industrial Complex00:32:10 I Quit | It's Not For Everyone00:37:38 Paramilitary Officer00:42:40 Diplomatic Cover for Espionage Operations00:47:03 Buying a Stinger Missile | Flipper 7500:56:01 QRF on Undercover Missions01:05:29 From Bar Bouncer to Paramilitary Officer01:12:21 Maintaining a Cover Identity01:19:16 The Hangover

    Ep. 219 | Kirk Spradley | Force Recon & Blackwater Contractor

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2024 112:58


    Kirk Spradley is a former Force Recon Marine that has also served as a Blackwater Contractor and member of the National Guard. Kirk was in Ramadi as a Blackwater contractor during some of the heaviest fighting in 2005 and authored the book War Junkie: A Cautionary Tale.This video is sponsored by Southern New Hampshire University. Click the link  to learn more about their benefits for active duty service members, veterans, and spouses!https://www.snhu.edu/formeractionguysSupport the showhttps://www.patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://www.jcramergrpahics.comhttps://www.ANGLICOshop.comKirk's linkshttps://www.kgspradleyauthor.com/https://www.reconsniperfoundation.org/00:00:00 Intro Ad00:01:26 Military School00:10:55 Marine Corps Boot Camp00:23:21 Marine Corps Radio Operator00:30:26 Joining Marine Recon00:39:07 BRC vs ARS00:43:34 Recon Team Missions00:52:36 Wanting More | Tier 1 Options01:03:54 Joining Blackwater01:12:41 Blackwater Logistics01:16:44 First Time in Combat | Ramadi 200501:20:08 Juba the Sniper01:25:24 The Kill Video01:35:30 What Happens When a Contractor is Killed01:45:40 Becoming the Hunter | Special Mission Unit

    Invasion of Iraq | K 3/7 Assaultman | Cody Anderson

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 13, 2024 16:36


    Cody Anderson is a former Marine infantry assaultman and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Tech that took part in the invasion of Iraq with Kilo Company 3rd Battalion 7th Marine Regiment. In this clip taken from Ep. 129, Cody details the opening hours of the invasion of Iraq.This clip is sponsored by Southern New Hampshire University. Check out their education benefits for active duty military, veterans, and dependents here: https://www.snhu.edu/formeractionguysSupport the show: https://www.patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://www.jcramergraphics.comhttps://www.ANGLICOshop.com

    Clip 041 | MARSOC DET 1 Snipers in Iraq | John Dailey

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2024 19:18


    John Dailey is a former member of the experimental MARSOC Detachment 1 who was hand selected to create the Marine Raider sniper program. Prior to Det 1, John served with the 3rd Battalion 7th Marines Surveillance and Target Acquisition platoon and 1st Force Recon Battalion.This video is sponsored by Southern New Hampshire University. Click the link  to learn more about their benefits for active duty service members, veterans, and spouses!https://www.snhu.edu/formeractionguysSupport the showhttps://www.patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://www.jcramergraphics.comhttps://www.ANGLICOshop.comJohn's sitehttps://www.jadailey.com/00:00:00 Intro00:04:39 Setting Up the Urban Hide Site00:09:03 Adapting to Patterns of Life Changes00:12:12 Urban Hide Site Security00:14:07 Lessons Learned00:17:12 MARSOC Det 1 Sniper Rifles

    Ep. 218 | Mick Hawkes | 22 SAS & 29 Commandos

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2024 118:14


    Michael "Mick" Hawkes is a retired member of the UK's B Squadron 22 Special Air Service (SAS). Mick also served with 29 Commandos and 2 Para. His deployments included fighting in the Falkland War, surveillance operations in Northern Ireland, and counter-terrorism missions around the world.More than 20 minutes of extra content from this interview available on PatreonSupport the showhttps://www.patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://www.jcramergraphics.comhttps://www.ANGLICOshop.comMick's site:https://www.hawkesandco.uk/00:00:00 Security Consultant00:07:38 Undercover in Northern Ireland00:28:03 Junior Parachute Regiment00:35:02 Flaklands War00:51:54 British All Arms Commando Course00:56:41 Special Air Service (SAS) Selection01:08:41 Setting SAS Selection Time Standards01:13:37 Jungle Warfare Phase of SAS Selection01:22:37 Combat Survival (SERE) | SAS Selection01:30:27 Anti-Terrorist Training | Joining an SAS Squadron01:35:34 Breaching Blast Injury01:44:24 Post-Combat Decompression01:47:05 Is SAS or Delta Force Better?

    Foreign Commando Courses | Delta Force Operator Tom Satterly

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 15, 2024 10:44


    Tom Satterly retired as a Delta Force Operator but began his Army career as an engineer stationed in Europe. Tom took advantage of opportunities to attend commando courses hosted by both the French and German militaries. Hear the entire conversation on Ep. 176 available now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts or ad free on Patreon.Support the show:https://patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://jcramergraphics.comhttps://ANGLICOshop.comTom's Linkshttps://linktr.ee/allsecure

    Ep. 217 | John Dailey | MARSOC Det 1 Chief Sniper

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2024 138:15


    John Dailey is a retired Marine sniper who served with the experimental MARSOC Detachment 1 as the Chief Sniper. He was an original member of the unit and helped build their Sniper program from the ground up. In 2004, he and his team served in Iraq as part of a Navy Seal task unit and the snipers were successfully used to eliminate targets in Najaf.Support the showhttps://www.jcramergraphics.comhttps://www.ANGLICOshop.comhttps://www.patreon.com/formeractionguysJohn's sitehttps://www.jadailey.com00:00:00 Intro | First Recon Unit in Afghanistan00:18:44 Recon Gear Upgrades00:26:15 Gen Mattis and Camp Rhino00:29:29 Military Free Fall Parachute Ops00:45:38 Combatant Diver00:50:31 Math for Marines00:55:26 Special Operations Training Group01:04:13 Sniper, Ranger, and Recon Challenges01:13:33 Recon & Sniper Legacy01:21:36 The Mental Health Toll01:34:04 MARSOC Det 1 Training | Precision Shooters01:44:15 MARSOC Det 1 in Iraq01:49:19 Sniper Mission in Najaf02:00:36 Urban Hide Site Security02:06:13 Sniper Rifles and Technology

    Clip 039 | First Deployment with Australian Special Operations | Troy Knight

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 11, 2024 8:59


    Troy Knight is a retired Australian combat controller (CCT), private military contractor, and author of Havoc-06. In this clip taken from Ep. 147 of the Former Action Guys Podcast, Knight talks about his first deployment as a CCT and how his team hit the ground running with kinetic operations on his first day in country.Support the showhttps://www.jcramergraphics.comhttps://www.ANGLICOshop.comhttps://www.patreon.com/formeractionguys

    Ep. 216 | Jason Angell | ANGLICO Officer and Marine Infantryman

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2024 112:14


    Jason Angell was an enlisted Marine infantryman that left the service after an injury and came back as an officer. He participated in the invasion of Iraq and also served as an ANGLICO Firepower Control Team leader during a deployment to Ramadi. Check out Jason's book through the link below!Support the showhttps://www.jcramergraphics.comhttps://www.ANGLICOshop.comhttps://www.patreon.com/formeractionguysJason's sitehttps://www.jason-angell.com/

    Clip 038 | Delta Force Operator Training Course

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2024 10:16


    Robert Keller is a former Army Ranger, Green Beret, and Delta Force Operator. Robert now owns Range Werx Florida and provides tactics instruction across the country.Support the showhttps://www.jcramergraphics.comhttps://www.ANGLICOshop.comhttps://www.patreon.com/formeractionguysRobert's sitehttps://www.rangewerx.com/

    Clip 037 | Attack on PB Orbi and FOB Shir Ghazi | ANGLICO Marine Clay Nygard

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 26, 2024 12:55


    Clay Nygard is an ANGLICO Marine and artillery officer supporting the Georgian Liaison Teams working with the Republic of Georgia forces that were attacked at Patrol Base Orbi and Forward Operating Base Shir Ghazi with two separate car bombs in the summer of 2013.The full interview (Ep. 179) is available now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more!Support the showhttps://patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://jcramergraphics.comhttps://ANGLICOshop.comClay's sitehttps://knockitoffdesigns.com/00:00:00 Intro | Fake 152 IED00:01:53 Scoring Opium on Deployment00:03:04 SVBIED Attack on FOB Shur Gazi00:08:41 FOB Orbi Is Vaporized00:11:37 Medevacs Arrive

    Ep. 215 | Doug Petersen | Vietnam Dustoff Pilot & UH-60 Instructor

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2024 94:25


    Doug Petersen was a dustoff pilot in the Vietnam War and was shot down two times during his tour. Doug earned the callsign DUSTOFF 34 after becoming an aircraft commander for the Bell UH-1H Iroquois (Huey) and flew over 950 combat hours. Support the showhttps://www.jcramergraphics.co...https://www.anglicoshop.comhttps://www.patreon.com/former... Doug's TedTalkhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?... 00:00:00 Intro | Virginia Military Institute 00:06:59 From High School to Flight School 00:24:20 Training Helicopters to Hueys 00:28:04 Early Huey Models 00:32:41 Flight School to Vietnam 00:46:25 Dustoff's Impact 00:51:30 A Day in the Life of a Dustoff Pilot 01:01:38 First Time Getting Shot Down 01:13:25 Second Time Being Shot Down 01:19:45 Hanoi Hilton Stories 01:24:24 Leaving Vietnam

    Clip 036 | Shot Down in Vietnam | Capt Jerry Geller

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 26, 2024 18:59


    Marine F-4 Phantom pilot Jerry Geller was shot down in Vietnam while conducting a bombing run on an enemy mortar position. This clip is taken from Ep. 012 which is available now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts or ad free on Patreon. Support the showhttps://patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://jcramergraphics.comhttps://ANGLICOshop.com

    Ep. 214 | Ken Kraus | Marine Taken Hostage in Iran

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 25, 2024 196:54


    Kenneth Kraus is a former Marine embassy guard that was sent to Tehran to reinforce their posts during the Iranian Revolution. After terrorists breached the embassy walls, Ken and two other Marines fought back and ensured the safety of civilians before Ken was taken hostage and sent to the notorious Evin Prison for torture sessions.Support the showhttps://www.jcramergraphics.comhttps://www.ANGLICOshop.comKen's sitehttps://sites.google.com/view/kenkraus/home00:00:00 Intro00:12:13 70's Marine Corps00:14:05 World At War00:22:01 The Draft | Women in the Draft00:38:39 Meeting Carlos Hathcock00:46:43 Marine Security Guard Duty00:57:20 Stationed in Cypress01:07:46 Iranian Situation | Arriving in Iran01:22:28 The Embassy Assault Begins01:31:56 The Embassy is Breached01:41:44 The Last Stand02:04:29 Initial Capture02:10:50 Moved to an Iranian Hospital02:19:45 Mevin Prison02:24:56 Introduction to the Torture Chair02:34:39 Trial and Execution Order02:44:55 Red Cross Arrives02:55:08 Heading Home

    MSOT 8212 | Joining the Team

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 21, 2024 7:35


    Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTAC) at Marine Special Operations Command (MARSOC) attach to Marine Special Operations Teams (MSOT) for deployments after being trained and evaluated by some of the best fire supporters in the US military. This clip is taken from Ep. 142 with Ryan Stevens and is available on YouTube or ad free on Patreon. Support the showhttps://patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://jcramergraphics.comhttps://ANGLICOshop.comRyan's Sitehttps://fullarmorfarm.com

    Ep. 213 | Eric Sauvé | Canadian Infantry Officer and Military Blogger

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2024 107:11


    Eric Sauvé is a retired infantry officer that served with Canada's Royal 22e Régiment. Eric's military journey spanned from his entry into the Royal Military College of Canada to being an intelligence liaison with the Defense Intelligence Agency in Washington, DC.Support the showhttps://www.jcramergraphics.comhttps://www.ANGLICOshop.comhttps://www.patreon.com/formeractionguysEric's linksBlog with articles in French and English: http://www.esauveca.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-sauv%C3%A9-cd-45753a58/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ericsauve2Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericsauve2/

    Clip 034 | Delta Force Operator | Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail and Appalachian Trail

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 14, 2024 18:17


    Todd Opalski is a retired United States Marine Corps reconnaissance man and JSOC Delta Operator that thrives in the outdoors. In this clip taken from Ep. 166, Todd details his experience on two of the worlds hardest hiking trails.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://www.jcramergraphics.comhttps://www.ANGLICOshop.comTodd's sitehttps://www.zencommando.com/

    Ep. 212 | John Dailey | MARSOC Detachment 1 and Recon Sniper

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2024 122:23


    John Dailey is a former member of the experimental MARSOC Detachment 1 who was hand selected to create the Marine Raider sniper program. Prior to Det 1, John served with the 3rd Battalion 7th Marines Surveillance and Target Acquisition platoon and 1st Recon Battalion.Support the showhttps://www.jcramergraphics.comhttps://www.ANGLICOshop.comhttps://www.patreon.com/formeractionguysJohn's siteshttps://www.jadailey.com/https://jdailey.substack.com/https://rtfu.substack.com/00:00:00 Intro00:10:35 Failing BRC | Drown Proofing00:13:05 Passing Out During HAHO Jump00:16:28 Assigned to 3/7 STA00:22:33 Upholding the Legacy00:32:17 STA Platoon Weapons and Training00:45:23 Marine Security Guard (MSG) Duty00:56:54 Empowering Young Leaders01:05:57 Combat Technology01:12:00 Orders to Recon Battalion01:17:36 1st to Respond to 9/1101:25:39 First Engagement in Afghanistan01:34:42 Proper Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance01:39:57 MARSOC Detachment 1

    Clip 033 | MARSOC JTAC | Never Stop Learning

    Play Episode Listen Later May 24, 2024 13:13


    Marine Special Operations Command (MARSOC) joint terminal attack controller (JTAC) Tony Musselman and host Justin Cramer discuss JTAC technology and Tony's pre-deployment training for his second Raider Battalion deployment. Check out the entire interview on Ep. 104!Support the showhttps://patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://jcramergrpahics.comhttps://ANGLICOshop.com.

    Ep. 211 | Brian Dickinson | Navy Rescue Swimmer and Everest Summiteer

    Play Episode Listen Later May 21, 2024 120:06


    Brian Dickinson is a former Navy aviation rescue swimmer who is also a mountaineer that has summited Everest. After summiting the world's highest peak solo, Brian lost his sight to snow blindness and completed his descent with the ability to see. His trek from the summit was expected to take 2-3 hours and ended up taking 7 hours of feeling his way down.Support the showhttps://patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://jcramergraphics.comhttps://ANGLICOshop.comBrian's Sitehttps://www.briandickinson.net/00:00:00 Wagner Loves What?00:07:16 US Navy Rescue Swimmer00:13:53 Airliner Goes Down00:20:07 Iraqi Fishermen Eaten By Sharks00:26:27 Getting into Mountaineering00:33:46 Advice for New Climbers00:37:41 Mountain Bodies00:43:49 High Altitude Climbing is a Lifestyle00:50:34 Climbing the Highest Peak on Each Continent00:58:04 Sherpa Culture01:06:28 How Long it Took | Base Camp to Summit01:09:45 Summit Day01:22:14 Verifying a Summit | Himalayan Database01:30:17 The Blind Descent01:46:10 Snow Blindness

    Ep. 210 | Nick Aicardi | Military Police and Afghan Advisor

    Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2024 78:28


    Nick Aicardi is a former US Marine who was Military Police and an Afghan Police Advisor. Nick also hosts the Hard to Kill Podcast where he interviews veterans from all backgrounds and it's available on most platforms.Support the showhttps://patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://jcramergraphics.comhttps://ANGLICOshop.com

    Clip 032 | Marjah Combat Operations | 1st Battalion 6th Marines | Brandon Harris

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 25, 2024 17:12


    Brandon Harris is a Marine infantryman that deployed to Afghanistan three times. He served with 1/6 during the Battle of Marjah and describes some of his experiences in this clip taken from Ep. 163.Support the showhttps://patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://jcramergraphics.comhttps://ANGLICOshop.com

    Clip 030 | Ambush of April 7th | 1st Recon Marines Rise to the Challenge | Jason Lilley

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 12, 2024 21:07


    Jason Lilley and other Recon Marines of 2nd Platoon, Bravo Company, 1st Recon Battalion were ambushed while moving on the dangerous roads around Fallujah, Iraq. The fight that ensued would end with bodies littering the battlefield after Lilley and the other Recondos fought back with devastating results.Support the showhttps://patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://jcramergraphics.comhttps://ANGLICOshop.comJason's Linkshttps://linktr.ee/savageactual

    Ep. 209 | Isaac Lee | CH-53 Weapons and Tactics Instructor

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2024 100:45


    Isaac Lee is back for round two of our conversation. We talk about his 3 other deployments to Iraq, working with the special operations task force, and some leadership lessons learned along the way.Support the showhttps://patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://jcramergrpahics.comhttps://ANGLICOshop.comIsaac's sitehttps://www.isaacglee.com/00:00:00 Intro00:05:32 Smuggled Booze Causes a Problem00:17:49 Alcohol Related Incidents00:22:23 Preparing to Go Back to Iraq00:26:04 Dignified Transfer of Remains00:29:29 Asshole Marine00:35:53 No Dwell Time for the Weary00:40:58 All Officer's Meeting | Is the CO too Risky?00:46:11 Flying in a Sandstorm at Night | When Pilots Quit00:56:12 Operation Rawah01:00:28 3rd Deployment to Iraq01:06:03 Attending the Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI) Course01:13:11 4th Deployment | Working with Task Force Operators01:32:59 Special Operations MH-53 PAVE LOW

    Clip 029 | Attack on One Tree Hill | Tommy Kerley

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 5, 2024 17:55


    Tommy Kerley is a former Marine fire support man and Joint Fires Observer (JFO) that served in Afghanistan with 1st Battalion 2nd Marines. Tommy describes an attack on their second day in country in this clip taken from Ep. 190. Tommy also runs the Raise the Black Instagram account that advocates for military mental health.Support the showhttps://patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://jcramergraphics.comhttps://ANGLICOshop.comRaise the Blackhttps://raisetheblack.live

    Ep. 208 | Jeremy Stalnecker | 1st Battalion 5th Marine CAAT Platoon Commander | Iraq Invasion

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2024 110:58


    Jeremy Stalnecker is a former United States Marine Corps Infantry Officer that served with 1st Battalion 5th Marines during the invasion of Iraq. He speaks bluntly about his deployment. From the first javelin shot in combat to the impact on the civilian populace. Don't miss this conversation!Support the showhttps://patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://jcramergraphics.comhttps://ANGLICOshop.comJeremy's sites:https://www.jeremystalnecker.com/https://www.mightyoaksprograms.org/00:00:00 Intro00:07:23 Officer Candidate School | Platoon Leader's Course00:16:04 Checking into 1/500:30:49 1/5 Prepares to Deploy00:42:16 The Invasion Begins00:50:16 CAAT Platoon Composition | First Javelin Shot00:56:55 Enemy Encounters01:03:43 Innocent Civilians in Baghdad01:08:33 Platoon Commander in Combat01:20:04 Reflecting on the War01:33:46 Deciding to Leave the Marines01:43:29 The Mighty Oaks Foundation

    Ep. 207 | Michael Golembesky | MARSOC JTAC and Level Zero Hero Author

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 26, 2024 107:27


    Michael Golembesky is a former Marine JTAC that served with Kilo Battery 2nd Battalion 10th Marines and 2nd Marine Special Operations Battalion. After serving with Marine Special Operations Team 8222, Michael wrote Level Zero Heroes and the follow-up Dagger 22 to detail the heroics of the Marine operators and enablers in the Bala Murghab valley.Support the showhttps://patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://jcramergraphics.comhttps://ANGLICOshop.comMichael's sitehttps://levelzeroheroes.com00:00:00 Intro00:06:54 French Artillery Training | Expeditionary Fire Support System00:11:45 The Best Billet for Field Artillerymen00:17:07 Artillery Maintenance in Combat00:20:00 Effects of Max Charge Artillery Shots00:24:02 Tube Artillery vs HIMARS00:26:40 Modern Fire Support and Emergence of Tactical Drone Warfare00:37:12 Disinterested Public00:40:32 Air Drops in Gaza00:46:33 MSOT 8222 | Aerial Resupply was the Only Option00:56:10 MSOT 8222 | Fire Support in Afghanistan01:04:02 MSOT 8222 | Taliban Tunnel Systems01:10:37 War Porn01:19:06 MSOT 8222 | No One Is Coming01:23:33 Level Zero Heroes01:33:52 Military Recruiting and Retention

    Clip 028 | Prisoner of War | Michael Durant and the Black Hawk Down Incident

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 9, 2024 20:48


    Michael Durant is a former pilot with the 160th Special Operation Aviation Regiment and flew Super 64 during the Black Hawk Down incident of Operation Gothic Serpent. Mike was briefly held as a Prisoner of War after his UH-60 crashed. Hear his entire interview on Ep. 202 of the Former Action Guys Podcast.Support the showhttps://patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://jcramergraphics.comhttps://ANGLICOshop.comMike's Bookhttps://www.amazon.com/Company-Heroes-Personal-Story-Behind/dp/045121993700:00:00 After the Crash00:03:16 SERE Kicks In00:05:44 Somali Doctor Arrives00:07:06 Visit From the Red Cross00:09:48 Receives a Radio00:13:13 Treatment as a POW00:15:27 Letters From a Warlord

    Ep. 206 | Isaac Lee | CH-53E Pilot and WTI

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2024 106:50


    Isaac Lee is a retired CH-53 pilot and WTI that served in both Iraq and Afghanistan. Following his retirement, Lee wrote his memoir Hanger 4 based on his more than two decades of service as a Naval Aviator.Support the showhttps://patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://jcramergraphics.comhttps://ANGLICOshop.comIssac's Sitehttp://isaacglee.com/00:00:00 CH-53 Crash in California00:08:03 How an Accident Investigation is Handled00:11:10 Path to Becoming a Pilot00:26:43 CH-53 Upgrades00:34:01 Learning to be a Better Pilot00:40:22 Night Systems Instructor Qualification00:43:20 Terrain Flying Instructor00:48:26 Air Threats in Iraq00:51:03 UDP | Iwo Jima00:59:22 Sketchy Helo Flight01:13:49 Preparing for OIF-101:19:33 First Combat Flight01:30:51 The Danger of Being Too Good

    Ep. 205 | Jeff Bodell | Marine Corps Military Police | Afghan Police Advisor

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 21, 2024 109:29


    Jeff Bodell is a Marine Corps military police officer that wrote The Warfighter's Lounge about a single patrol during his time as an Afghan police advisor in Marjah. He and his team were ambushed by Taliban forces during a day he and his team would never forget.Support the showhttps://patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://jcramergraphics.comhttps://ANGLICOshop.comBuy Jeff's Bookhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CVJF4CR3?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_ESWQKCGJNFGZ4QPD43VJ

    Clip 028 | Operation Lexington | CH-47 Down | MARSOC JTAC Ryan Stevens

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 8, 2024 12:28


    Ryan Stevens; a former US Marine JTAC that served with ANGLICO, MARSOC, and DEVGRU; shares his firsthand account of Operation Lexington. Join him as he takes you through this collaboration between MSOT 8212, Army Special Forces, and DEA Foreign-Deployed Advisory and Support Teams (FAST) that ended with extracting casualties under enemy fire after one of the CH-47G helicopters crashed during the extract.Support the showhttps://patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://jcramergraphics.comhttps://ANGLICOshop.comRyan's bookhttps://www.fullarmorfarm.com/products

    Ep. 204 | Robert Keller | Delta Force Operator, Army Special Forces, and Army Ranger

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 6, 2024 85:28


    Robert Keller is a former Army Ranger, Green Beret, and Delta Force Operator. Robert now owns Range Werx Florida and provides tactics instruction across the country.Support the show:https://patreon.com/formeractionguyshttps://jcramergraphics.comhttps://ANGLICOshop.comRobert's site:https://rangewerx.com/https://gamutresolutions.com/00:00:00 The Plan00:04:03 Combat is My Passion00:09:20 Deploying with Special Forces00:17:26 Ranger Battalion Pre-9/1100:22:41 GWOT Green Berets00:25:47 The Fighting was Better in Afghanistan00:28:31 Are we Training the Enemy?00:33:43 Prepping for Delta Force Selection00:41:52 Passing Selection00:45:22 SF Selection is Harder than Delta Force Selection00:52:53 Operator Training Course01:00:15 The Danger of Staying in CAG too Long01:15:50 Ranger Werx

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