Podcasts about Helmand Province

Retired Army Sergeant Major and Green Beret Terry Wilson spent 24 years in uniform with the 7th Special Forces Group, racking up 11 combat deployments and nearly 11 years total downrange. He is now the CEO of Tactical Edge Coaching and Consulting, where he works with high performance men to become better leaders in all aspects of their life. In this episode we get into the daily troops in contact grind of Helmand Province, watching a Chinook get blown out of the sky a couple hundred meters away, recovering bodies from the crash site through the night, losing a teammate to an IED within days, the brutal reality of the Afghanistan withdrawal, and hitting rock bottom after losing his son before faith and fitness gave him a way back. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Retired Marine Force Recon Gunnery Sergeant Ryan Kuperus returns for part two with some of the most harrowing combat accounts you'll hear. From a near-fatal friendly fire incident involving Cobra attack helicopters, to navigating an IED-saturated district center while rescuing a shattered sniper team, Kuperus pulls no punches on what it actually costs when leadership fails on the ground. He also recounts the operation that quietly identified a Taliban shadow governor in northern Helmand — the kind of mission that rarely gets told. The conversation shifts into a candid reckoning with the military's promotion system, the compounding damage of poor senior leadership, and why the men who fight hardest are often the ones the institution fails most. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Some wounds keep you scanning every exit in the room. Others bury themselves deeper, showing up as guilt, shame, distance at home, and the fear that the people you love would see you differently if they knew the whole story. Larry Brant brings clarity to that hidden battle through his path from Helmand Province to a COVID ICU to the Aspire Center, where he saw how PTSD and moral injury can wreck a person's sense of safety, faith, and connection. He explains why moral injury can feel like it fractures your soul, why so many veterans pull away from family and faith, and how healing starts when someone finally feels heard without judgment. This conversation offers listeners clear language for what they may be carrying, practical tools like the two-way prayer journal, a better understanding of why group support matters, and real next steps through resources such as Building Spiritual Strength, REAL, Hunt Therapy, and Larry's book Restoring the Broken. Here are the moments that hit hardest. Timestamps: 00:10:36 - The difference between PTSD and moral injury finally gets a name 00:20:47 - The two-way prayer journal that helps break self-blame 00:36:34 - Twenty years of silence before one hard conversation at home 00:48:47 - The flashback that proved war had followed him home 00:55:29 - The three-part support system that makes healing more likely Links & Resources Veteran Suicide & Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1 Website: https://www.restoring-the-broken.com Follow Larry Brant on Facebook: www.facebook.com/larry.brant.5?mibextid=wwXlfr&mibextid=wwXlfr Follow Larry Brant on Instagram: www.instagram.com/larrybrant Follow Larry Brant on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/larry-brant-09394544

AJ Pasciuti grew up in Sunnyvale, California, the son of Italian and Argentine immigrants. After 9/11 reshaped his sense of purpose, he enlisted in the Marine Corps and was assigned to 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division — one of the most storied units in the Corps — where he served as a rifleman and team leader. Over twenty-one years of service, he deployed three times to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, including the Battle of Fallujah. He led a Scout Sniper team that tracked and killed the most lethal enemy sniper in Iraq — a figure known as "Juba" — and recovered a stolen Marine sniper rifle in what was the first mission of its kind by an American service member since Vietnam. He went on to serve with 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion and 2nd Force Reconnaissance Company, deploying to Helmand Province, Afghanistan, during Operation Enduring Freedom and later with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit. As an instructor, he taught at the Scout Sniper School at Camp Pendleton, created the Recon Team Leaders Course, and helped develop the Infantry Marine Course at School of Infantry–West, modernizing foundational training for enlisted Marines. Selected for the highly competitive Marine Gunner program, he became an Infantry Weapons Officer and rose to Chief Warrant Officer 3 before retiring from the Marine Corps in 2023. He holds a Master of Business for Veterans from the University of Southern California and a Master of Public Leadership from the University of San Francisco, and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies at the University of San Diego. He is the host of the Combat Story podcast and the author of Darkhorse: Harnessing Hidden Potential in War and Life, releasing May 19, 2026. Shawn Ryan Show Sponsors: Go to https://helixsleep.com/SRS for 27% Off Sitewide Find candidates who really want YOUR job on ZipRecruiter. Try it FOR FREE at https://ziprecruiter.com/SRS Our listeners get the Harry's Plus Trial Set for only $10 at https://www.Harrys.com/srs #Harryspod For a limited time, our listeners get 50% off FOR LIFE, Free Shipping, AND 3 Free Gifts at Mars Men at https://Mengotomars.com New customers can save 35% on your first month of Dose for Cholesterol by going to https://dosedaily.co/SRS or entering SRS at checkout. Go to https://meetfabric.com/SHAWN and apply today, risk-free. AJ Pasciuti Links: WEB - https://ajpasciuti.com/about IG - https://www.instagram.com/ajpasciuti YT - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCyApoJr-mNmdMNwdk22xEQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of Ideologees, host Mister Mark G and co-host Roger sit down with Loz, a former British Army officer and the lead of "Nation of Sleepers". From the front lines of Iraq and Afghanistan to the internal struggle of PTSD, Loz shares a raw, first-hand account of war and what he describes as the "traitorous" nature of the political class.   We dive deep into: The Veteran Experience: The reality of deployment in Helmand Province and the feeling that the military "discards" soldiers once they are no longer useful. Globalist Influence: Analyzing the role of the World Economic Forum and the perceived shift toward a Chinese-style "social credit" governance in the West. National Identity: Loz discusses his petition for Keir Starmer's resignation and his call for a shared British value system that transcends ethnicity. Healing & Faith: How a "voice" in the heat of battle saved Loz from an explosion and led him toward a connection with a higher power. Support the Show: Visit us for updates and shows: AffinityXtra.co.uk Support our work on Patreon: Patreon.com/AffinityXtra   #Ideologees #NationOfSleepers #AffinityXtra #UKPolitics #Veterans #Globalism #LozTheWatchman #KeirStarmer #PTSDAwareness   https://youtu.be/ryclY4-qDxM   “Humans aren't designed to be exposed to that type of trauma.”

Charles and Jon chat with Nick Mcphee, founder of Nick's Adventures Bolivia, from his home in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia.Nick explains how a childhood love of wildlife - inspired by growing up near Steve Irwin's Australia Zoo - led him to Bolivia after five years in the Australian army and another three working in Afghanistan's Helmand Province. He talks about the many - and exceptionally diverse - mammalwatching opportunities in Bolivia that range from what is arguably Latin America's best Jaguar watching through to mega-mammals like Chaco Peccaries, Giant Armadillos and Goeldi's Monkey. Plus Nick describes the many and diverse threats these animals are facing: threats that he is passionate about tackling through the ecotourism he is pioneering.Nick has more than his fair share of funny stories from running tours. We hear about the time that someone mistook a cup of vinegar for water. And we learn what can happen when a married couple turn up on a jungle trip with wildly differing expectations!The podcast opens with notes from the field from Jon's February trip to Guatemala and we chat about our 2023 visit to Klalik Village in West Papua that is now in the news.For more information visit www.mammalwatching.com/podcastNotes: There are dozens of trip reports from tours with Nick's Adventures on mammalwatching's Bolivia page. Here's a report of Charles's 2023 trip with Nick to Jaguarland and Kaa Iya and this is Jon's report to Beni and Pando from 2024.You can follow Nick on Facebook and Instagram. This is his listing on mammalwatching.Jon's trip report from Guatemala is here (a research tour led by former podcast guest José Gabriel Martinez-Fonseca).Here's a fun Instagram reel about our visit to Klalik and the scientific and conservation impacts that one night in that forest created. If you haven't heard our podcast episode about that trip then it is one of our most popular.If you would like to submit you own notes from the field then please get in touch with Jon at info@mammalwatching.comYou can support mammalwatching and buy us a coffee here. https://buymeacoffee.com/mammalwatchingDid you know you can sign up to receive a weekly mammalwatching newsletter here? https://www.mammalwatching.com/subscribe-to-updates/Cover art: Nick rescues a slothDr Charles Foley is a mammalwatcher and biologist who, together with his wife Lara, spent 30 years studying elephants in Tanzania. They now run the Tanzania Conservation Research Program at the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago.Jon Hall set up mammalwatching.com in 2005. Genetically Welsh, spiritually Australian, currently in New York City.

Send us Fan MailIn October 2009, Corporal Andy Reid MBE was blown up by a Taliban improvised explosive device while on patrol in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Injured so badly that it was thought he would not survive, he defied the odds to the extent that, within a month, he was able to meet up with members of his patrol again. What he has achieved since then is little short of unbelievable.The winner of The Sun's Millie award in 2010, and awarded an MBE in 2019, Andy has continuously supported veterans and people with disabilities. This year he will walk the London Marathon to raise money for The Army Benevolent Fund, who Andy credits with giving him great support in his own time of need. You can support it here: https://events.armybenevolentfund.org/fundraisers/andyreidmbe/londonmarathon2026And you can find Andy on Instagram @andyreid2506His website is: https://www.standingtall.co.uk/If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, please email us at info@vsompodcast.com, or follow us on social media: @veteranstateofmindSupport the show

Send us Fan MailMike Harrage is a former British Army soldier who began his military career as a Radio Operator in the Royal Signals. Early on, he realised he wanted to push himself further and volunteered for the Airborne Forces straight out of training. After successfully completing P Company and his parachute training, he earned the coveted Maroon Beret and Parachute Wings.Mike deployed on two operational tours of Afghanistan, experiencing combat on both. His first tour as a Company Signaller attached The Royal Irish Regiment, operating from a patrol base in Nade Ali, Helmand Province.He later deployed on a second tour as an attachment to a Special Operations advisory team. Made up of International Special Forces SNCO's and Officers they were tasked with advising the Crisis Response Unit, a Special Forces Squadron in an elite Regiment of Afghan National Police operating in Kabul. Known for his sense of humour, Mike tells his story with an emphasis on the laughter and banter that helped soldiers endure some of their darkest moments. Always a smile on his face.Today, Mike works professionally in telecommunications and is also an emerging DJ. He has written a number of poems reflecting on the soldier's experience in Afghanistan, aiming to give a voice to those who did not return. In the near future, he plans to launch a platform to share these works more widely.Instagram: @blactionmanIf you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, please email us at info@vsompodcast.com, or follow us on social media: @veteranstateofmindSupport the show

What happens when a Royal Marine Commando dentist who spent six months being ambushed on every patrol in Helmand Province turns his hand to building dental businesses? You get Mike Hesketh: serial practice owner, consultant, and one of the more quietly formidable figures in UK dentistry. In this episode, Payman sits down with Mike to trace a story that runs from a North Wales council estate and the loss of his father at eight years old, through the front lines of Afghanistan, to a 10x practice exit and the creation of Dartmoor Dental — a 200-year-old manor house turned thriving, NHS-inclusive, ten-surgery practice. Mike talks with real candour about the four pillars he uses to build and consult on dental businesses, why he treats his NHS contract as a social obligation rather than a commercial one, and how the Royal Marines' mantra ‘cheerfulness in the face of adversity' translates surprisingly well to practice ownership.In This Episode00:02:00 — Growing up in North Wales; losing his father at eight00:07:40 — Deploying to Helmand Province with 40 Commando Royal Marines00:12:05 — Leaving the military; getting ripped off on day one as a civilian dentist00:13:05 — Buying his first practice with £20,000 and a devil-may-care attitude00:51:35 — Selling Exeter and the year-long family world trip00:54:25 — Laura and the brand; how Dartmoor grew from £700K to £2.5M00:56:00 — The NHS contract as a social obligation01:07:40 — Barriers to entry, squat risks, and buying underperforming practices01:19:00 — Appointing the youngest clinician as clinical lead01:27:00 — Military-derived leadership principles; letting the ship sail without you01:33:15 — Fee guides as windows to the soul01:39:55 — The four pillars: leadership, infrastructure, branding, financial command and control01:53:35 — Darkest days in business01:57:30 — KPIs: one metric, embed the culture, then move on02:11:55 — Fantasy dinner partyAbout Mike HeskethMike Hesketh is a practice owner, dental business consultant, and founder of Hesketh Healthcare Accounting. He qualified as a dentist whilst serving as an officer with 40 Commando Royal Marines, completing the commando course and deploying to Helmand Province, Afghanistan. After leaving the military, he built and sold Exeter Dental Centre before buying and transforming Dartmoor Dental — a ten-surgery practice in Tavistock — from a £700K turnover to £2.5M in three years. Mike holds an MBA and a coaching qualification from Henley Business School, and works with a small number of practices on a bespoke, year-long consultancy basis.

Ted Shirley, a former British Army sniper with the Royal Welsh Fusiliers and author of Afghanistan Sniper: Trauma on the Frontline and Beyond, recounts his two brutal tours in Afghanistan's Helmand Province, where he became one of the UK's deadliest snipers. He opens up about the psychological toll of combat, including PTSD, addiction to the kill, substance abuse, and suicide attempts, and shares his perspective on the assassination of Charlie Kirk through the lens of his experience with political violence. Shirley ultimately reflects on his journey toward healing through therapy, plant medicine, and deep self-reflection, offering a raw but hopeful message about recovery after war. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sergeant Matthew Brunnemann spent a year fighting in Helmand Province. After that first deployment, he had a deep and unsettling desire to get back in the battle. He hadn't installed enough tracking devices, 400 helicopter-borne raids were not enough, he hadn't captured enough Taliban… there was still a fight to be had. So he returned to the Graveyard of Empires, spending a total of five hundred days in Afghanistan between 2010 and 2012. He sits down with Matt and Chuck and talks about his service as well as his book War Business: The Hired Guns Of Helman ProvinceBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-war-locker-show--6767179/support.Join us tonight for War Locker LIVE — formerly Locker Room Live! Stream (almost) every Wednesday at 8:30 PM PST on YouTube, where we dive deep into current events, culture, and the real conversations shaping modern society. Remember: If we release a War Locker Interview, we will be LIVE the same day! Support War Locker and War Locker LIVE by leaving a review and sharing the show! Visit www.warstoriesofficial.com to listen to past episodes, grab exclusive merchandise, become a patron, and follow us on Instagram and Facebook for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and community discussions.

In 2007, four British servicemen perched on the wings of an Apache helicopter in Afghanistan, in an audacious mission to rescue a fallen comrade. Lance Corporal Mathew Ford was part of a unit which had attacked Jugroom Fort - a major Taliban command and control centre in Helmand Province, but he was left behind after a frantic withdrawal.Volunteers put themselves forward for a risky rescue attempt, which would become legendary in military circles. Captain Chris Fraser-Perry was a 19-year-old British Royal Marine who took part in the mission. He speaks to Kevin Core. Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by the past. We take you to the events that have shaped our world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes every day, we take you back in time and all over the world, to examine wars, coups, scientific discoveries, cultural moments and much more. Recent episodes explore everything from the death of Adolf Hitler, the first spacewalk and the making of the movie Jaws, to celebrity tortoise Lonesome George, the Kobe earthquake and the invention of superglue. We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: Eva Peron – Argentina's Evita; President Ronald Reagan and his famous ‘tear down this wall' speech; Thomas Keneally on why he wrote Schindler's List; and Jacques Derrida, France's ‘rock star' philosopher. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the civil rights swimming protest; the disastrous D-Day rehearsal; and the death of one of the world's oldest languages.(Photo: Captain Dave Rigg (l) and Captain Chris Fraser-Perry strapped to an Apache helicopter, Afghanistan 2007. Credit: Sgt Gary Stanton)

Send us a textIn this episode of the Day's Grimm, hosts Brian Michael Day and Thomas Grimm sit down with Erik Goodge, a United States Marine Corps veteran, financial planner, and avid endurance runner. Erik shares his journey from growing up in the Evansville area to joining the Marine Corps as a Forward Observer (FO) during the height of the Afghanistan conflict.The conversation dives deep into Erik's military service, including the high-stakes role of targeting for artillery and the harrowing experience of being hit by an IED in Helmand Province. Erik provides a raw look at the realities of combat, from the "Spider-Manning" through irrigation fields to the intense physical and mental toll of long-term deployments Beyond the uniform, Erik discusses his transition into the civilian world where he launched his own financial planning practice, UVest Advisory, in 2018. He explains his philosophy on asset allocation and why he focuses on long-term stability over market hype.  Finally, Erik shares his passion for running, which serves as his mental "anchor". At the time of recording, Erik was on day 681 of a consecutive running streak, using his endurance challenges to raise thousands of dollars for "Mission First," a non-profit dedicated to supporting veterans through projects like "The Sanctuary on the Hill".  Whether you are a veteran looking for inspiration, an aspiring entrepreneur, or someone interested in the discipline required to maintain a multi-year running streak, this episode offers valuable insights into resilience and purpose.KEY TOPICS COVERED:• The role and responsibilities of a Marine Corps Forward Observer (FO).  • Memories of training at Fort Sill and Naval Gunfire School in Coronado.  • First-hand account of Operation Conjure and the largest helicopter insertion since Vietnam.  • The physical reality of surviving an IED blast and the recovery process at Bethesda.  • Transitioning from the military to launching UVest Advisory financial planning.  • Investment strategies: Why asset class level investing beats chasing individual stocks.  • The discipline behind a 680+ day running streak and competing in 50-mile ultra-marathons.  • Supporting "Mission First" and local veteran outreach in Evansville.  Eriks Links:UVest Advisory Financial Planninghttps://uvestadvisory.comMission First:https://thesanctuaryonthehill.orgNOTABLE QUOTES:• "Running's like my anchor in the ground... it's so nice to have one thing that happens no matter what." (Erik Goodge)   • "I invest at the level of the asset class, not at the level of the company." (Erik Goodge) If you enjoyed Erik's story of resilience, make sure to like this video and subscribe to the Day's Grimm for more interviews with local legends and veterans. Have a question about financial planning or starting your own running streak? Drop a comment below!TIMELINE:00:00 - Introduction and Guest Welcome01:10 - Family History and Evansville Roots[The Days Grimm Podcast Links]- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheDaysGrimm- Our link tree: linktr.ee/Thedaysgrimm- GoFundMe account for The Days Grimm: https://gofund.me/02527e7c [The Days Grimm is brought to you by]Sadness & ADHD (non-medicated)

The final chapter of Matthew Brunnemann's gripping three-part appearance on Mike Drop. In Part 3, the former Marine intel specialist and author of War Business: The Hired Guns of Helmand Province pulls no punches as he talks leaving the Corps, battling unseen PTSD, transitioning to civilian life, and the four-year journey to turn his private journals into a published book. He and Mike dive deep into the big-picture failures of Afghanistan and Iraq, the cultural incompatibilities that doomed nation-building, what America should (and shouldn't) have done after 9/11, and why the 2021 fall of Kabul still stings. Brunnemann also unloads his controversial master's thesis: a chilling, open-source prediction of a coordinated 72-hour terrorist attack that could cripple the U.S. Raw, unfiltered, and brutally honest – this is the conclusion you don't want to miss. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this gripping episode of the Mike Drop podcast, host Mike Ritland sits down with Matthew Brunnemann, a Marine Corps veteran who spent over 500 days in Afghanistan's volatile Helmand Province. Brunnemann shares raw, firsthand accounts from his deployments, including intense combat operations, opium interdiction raids, and the harsh realities of counterinsurgency warfare. As the author of "War Business: The Hired Guns of Helmand Province," he offers a unique perspective on the cultural clashes and strategic failures that defined America's longest war. The conversation delves into Brunnemann's experiences as an on-the-ground Intel operator, from tracking Taliban commanders and installing covert devices to partnering with local forces amid a chaotic drawdown. He recounts heartbreaking losses, like the IED attack that killed "Doc" Beauchamp, and the moral dilemmas faced when dealing with Afghan civilians and children caught in the crossfire. Brunnemann's stories highlight the ingenuity of the enemy, the frustrations of limited resources, and the unbreakable bonds formed among Marines in the face of relentless danger. Brunnemann discusses his transition to civilian life, his faith journey, and his master's thesis on potential terrorist threats to U.S. homeland security. This three-hour discussion is a must-listen for anyone interested in military history, intelligence operations, and the human cost of modern conflict, blending tactical insights with profound reflections on war's enduring impact. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Counter-Intelligence Marine (MOS 0211) Craig Grossi details his deployment with 1st Recon, Charlie Company, in the lethal Sangin region of Helmand Province, Afghanistan. He opens up about the constant combat and the life-changing encounter with Fred, the seemingly unflappable stray dog who followed him on patrols, survived combat, and ultimately made it all the way to America. Chad and Craig unpack war, trauma, stubborn positivity, and the healing power of connection in one of the most moving conversations ever recorded on The Resilient Show.Learn more about Craig and Fred: https://www.fredtheafghan.comFollow Craig: https://www.instagram.com/fredtheafghanStubbornly Positive Podcast: https://www.fredtheafghan.com/stubbornlypositive.htmlGet the Book: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Craig-Grossi/author/B071DCGQWGRESILIENT:Live Resilient Store: https://shop.theresilientshow.comJoin Our Patreon: https://patreon.com/theresilientshowFollow Us On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/resilientshowFollow Us On Twitter:⁠ https://twitter.com/resilientshowFollow Us On TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@resilientshowFollow Chad:⁠https://www.instagram.com/chadrobo_official⁠https://www.x.com/chadroboSPONSORS:Smith & Wesson: ⁠https://www.smith-wesson.com/⁠Vortex Optics:https://vortexoptics.comGatorz Eyewear: ⁠https://www.gatorz.com/⁠Allied Wealth:https://alliedwealth.comBioPro+: ⁠https://www.bioproteintech.com/CHAD30⁠BioXCellerator:https://www.bioxcellerator.comThe Holy Waters:https://theholywaters.comGet The Resilient Show x Uncharted Supply Co Bag: https://shop.theresilientshow.comTRS is a proud supporter of military & first responder communities in partnership with Mighty Oaks Foundation.

Welcome back to another episode of Leadership Blueprints as we continue our special DoD to AEC series for November, honoring veterans who have transitioned from active duty into the built environment. In this episode, BJ Kraemer sits down with MCFA senior project leader and former Marine Corps infantry officer Brian McGrath to explore his journey from platoon commander in Afghanistan to leading complex construction and development projects across diverse markets. Brian shares the realities of counterinsurgency operations in Helmand Province, what he learned from his time in the Marines, and how those lessons translate directly into project leadership and day-to-day decision-making around scope, schedule, and budget. Brian unpacks how he uses structure, communication, and AI tools to stay ahead of the chaos, why teamwork and humility sit at the core of his leadership philosophy, and how books and mentors continue to shape his mindset. Whether you're a transitioning veteran or a leader in the built environment, this episode offers powerful insights into what is possible when discipline, thought, and purpose collide. Tune in now!Key Points From This Episode:Hear how lessons from the Marine Corps inform his work in the construction industry. His Marine Corps career journey and experience serving as a platoon commander. How he got his first job in construction and worked his way up to estimating.Leadership lessons he carried from the Marine Corps into the private sector.Explore his approach to building professional relationships and teams. Discover what it takes to be an ideal team member: humble, hungry, smart.Quotes:“Thinking means planning better and making sure that you're getting up and you're going to projects knowing what you're talking about, what they need to know, [and] the documentation, the information is all set and prepped.” — Brian McGrath “I always loved construction. I always thought there was a connection between military and construction.” — Brian McGrath “I'm not successful in anything without the people around me.” — Brian McGrath “Until thought is linked to purpose. There's no intelligent accomplishment.” — Brian McGrath “Obstacles in your life are your life.” — Brian McGrath Links Mentioned in Today's Episode:Brian McGrath on LinkedInQuatrefoil Consulting LLCFounding Forward As a Man ThinkethLeadership Blueprints PodcastMCFAMCFA CareersBJ Kraemer on LinkedIn

Taylor Kolls Marine Combat Vet and son of Jay shares his experience in Afghan war and why it should Veterans Week not Veterans Day.Operation Moshtarak (Dari for Together or Joint), also known as the Battle of Marjah, was an International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) pacification offensive in the town of Marjah, Helmand Province, Afghanistan. It involved a combined total of 15,000 Afghan, American, British, Canadian, Danish, and Estonian troops, constituting the largest joint operation of the War in Afghanistan up to that point. The purpose of the operation was to remove the Taliban from Marja, thus eliminating the last Taliban stronghold in central Helmand Province.[10] The main target of the offensive was the town of Marjah, which had been controlled for years by the Taliban as well as drug traffickers.Although Moshtarak was described as the largest operation in Afghanistan since the fall of the Taliban, it was originally supposed to be the prelude to a much larger offensive in Kandahar that would follow Moshtarak by several months.[11] ISAF chose to heavily publicize the operation before it was launched, comparing its scope and size to the 2004 Second Battle of Fallujah, in the hopes that Taliban fighters in the town would flee.[12]The operation was also designed to showcase improvements in both the Afghan government and Afghan security forces. ISAF claimed that the operation was "Afghan-led" and would use five Afghan brigades.[13] General Stanley A. McChrystal, the commander of ISAF, also promised that following the offensive ISAF would install a "government in a box" in Marja.[14]While initially successful, ISAF and the Afghan government failed to set up a working government in the town, leading to a successful resurgence by the Taliban; 90 days into the offensive General McChrystal famously referred to it as a "bleeding ulcer".[15][16] In October the town was still described as "troubling",[17] but by early December the fighting there was declared "essentially over".[18]Shortly after the withdrawal of NATO soldiers from Marja, it was reported the Taliban had regained control of the town and district with US army analysts describing the goals of the operation as a failure.[1] It has later been cited as a critical turning point in the war, as its failure lead the Obama administration to shift in strategy, away from increasing the number of American combatants for a decisive victory and toward deescalation of the war.[19]https://www.tucsonsentinel.com/nationworld/report/021510_marjah/afghan-battle-marjah-might-not-live-up-hype/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Show Featured Sponsor:  The Precision Holsters Vanquish! Learn more: Precision Holsters and use code “seekAWS” for a discount.​​ On today's episode of the American Warrior Show, Rich Brown is joined by Michael “Mac” McNamara, founder of Post-Traumatic Winning and ALL MARINE RADIO. Mac's story spans finance, combat, leadership, and a lifelong mission to help others thrive after trauma. About Michael McNamara: Began his career at Merrill Lynch in Los Angeles, first as a bookkeeper and later as an account executive. Enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, later commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in December 1983. Served in multiple assignments, including: 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment 1st Light Armored Infantry Battalion Marine Detachment, USS Ranger CV-61 The Basic School 3rd Light Armored Infantry Battalion Left active duty in 1994 after more than a decade of service. Post-Service Career & Return to Duty: Became Director of Sports for Special Olympics North Dakota in 1998. Launched his broadcasting career in 2000 as host of MacTalk, earning the National Association of Broadcasters Marconi Award (2007) for Small Market Personality of the Year. Returned to active duty in 2004, promoted to Major, and deployed to Ramadi, Iraq, with the 1st Marine Division. Mobilized again in 2006 for duty in Fallujah, Iraq, with the 5th Marine Regiment, while simultaneously serving on the Grand Forks City Council. Deployed once more in 2010 with the 1st Marine Regiment to Helmand Province, Afghanistan, serving until his retirement in 2015. Post-Traumatic Winning & Advocacy: Founded The Post-Traumatic Winning Company, LLC and launched ALL MARINE RADIO, an online platform promoting mental fitness and reducing veteran suicide. Began presenting Post-Traumatic Winning in 2019, first at Camp Lejeune, NC. The presentation has since reached audiences across the U.S., Japan, Hawaii, Alaska, and Europe, impacting organizations of over 10,000 members with measurable results in combating destructive behaviors and suicide. Launched the Post-Traumatic Winning Weekly Seminar series in January 2021, expanding the program's reach and dialogue. Published his first book in March 2025, From Trauma to Joy: Life-Changing Lessons That Fellow U.S. Marines Taught Me After Traumatic Events Occurred in My Life — designed to share these universal lessons with a wider audience. In This Episode: How trauma can become a source of growth, not defeat. The creation and impact of Post-Traumatic Winning. Lessons learned from leading Marines and civilians through crisis. Building mental fitness and resilience in the face of adversity.

In the heart-pounding chaos of Afghanistan's bloodiest battlegrounds, elite Welsh snipers forged unbreakable bonds amid the relentless roar of Helmand Province's warzone. Discover the raw, unfiltered saga of Ted Shirley, a battle-hardened sniper whose precision shots from a mile away shattered Taliban strongholds, felled enemy leaders, and even neutralized two insurgents with a single, fateful round—during the largest air assault since World War II. Socials instagram.com/chris.thrall youtube.com/christhrall facebook.com/christhrall christhrall.com Support the podcast at: patreon.com/christhrall (£2 per month plus perks) gofundme.com/christhrall paypal.me/teamthrall Our uncensored content: christhrall.locals.com Mailing list: christhrall.com/mailing-list/ Life Coaching: christhrall.com/coach/

Blown up by a 25lb IED. Hunted by a sniper. Lost six Marines in one of the deadliest provinces in Afghanistan.This is Marine Lt. Col. Mike Manocchio's story — and it's unlike anything you've ever heard, and it's right here on today's Urban Valor Episode! Mike led troops through nonstop combat in Marjah, Helmand Province — an area packed with IEDs, ambushes, and Taliban fighters tracking their every move. He survived a massive explosion, had sniper rounds miss his head by inches, and still went back out to lead his men.But the hardest part wasn't the firefights. It was what came after. The survivor's guilt. The PTSD. The faces of the Marines who didn't come home.He opens up about the chaos of war, the day Kyle Carpenter threw himself on a grenade, and what it's like trying to put the pieces back together when the war ends — but the battle doesn't.If you're looking for Afghanistan war stories, Marine IED survival, or veteran interviews — this one's going to stay with you.

Afghanistan, January 2007.It's a piece of military daring that went down in history: Three Royal Marines and a Royal Engineer hold on to the side of Apache attack helicopters, heading into battle to recover a fallen comrade.Those involved in a gripping, almost unbelievable day, tell their story, many speaking for the first time.It begins with British forces, tasked with bringing security to Helmand Province in the South of Afghanistan.But Lieutenant Colonel Rob Magowan commanding the IX Battlegroup has a problem.Jugroom Fort.The Taliban command and control centre is a crucial route for enemy fighters making their way in from Pakistan. They train there. They rearm there. Jugroom Fort is the launchpad for attacks on British troops.But a bold plan to occupy the ancient stronghold with the battle-hardened Royal Marines of Zulu Company is about to meet intense resistance.And amid a gruelling firefight, a man is left behind.The Fort is told solely by current and former members of the Armed Forces.To listen to more episodes, search "The History Podcast" on BBC Sounds.Produced by Kev Core

After his deployment to Helmand Province, Gunnery Sergeant Joe Reyna returns stateside for new assignments. In Part 2 of his interview on the JP Dinnell Podcast Gunny get us caught up to the present and looks to the future of his time with the world's most elite fighting force, the USMC.  Get your free training from First In Nutrition: https://www.firstinnutrition.com/jppod More from JP Dinnell: https://www.jpdinnell.com/ Join the conversation on instagram Gunnery Sergeant Joe Reyna: https://www.instagram.com/gysgt_reyna_usmc JP Dinnell: http://instagram.com/jpdinnell/ Lucas Pinckard: https://www.instagram.com/lucaspinckard Bruiser Arms: https://www.instagram.com/bruiserarms Echelon Front: https://echelonfront.com/ Little Cattle Co: http://littlecattle.co On The Path Printing: https://www.instagram.com/onthepathprinting JP Dinnell is a former U.S. Navy SEAL and now a Leadership Instructor, Speaker and Strategic Advisor with Echelon Front, where he serves as Director of Experiential Leadership Training Programs. J.P. is also a pro team athlete and spokesperson for Origin Maine and Jocko Fuel, an American clothing and supplement company. J.P. has a signature Energy Drink flavor “Sour Apple Sniper” with Jocko Fuel. Jeremiah spent nearly a decade in the SEAL Teams with three combat deployments. Sent to the violent terrorist stronghold of Ar Ramadi, Iraq in 2006 with SEAL Team Three's Task Unit Bruiser, J.P. served as point man, machine gunner, and lead sniper for Delta Platoon opposite the American Sniper, Chris Kyle, who was in Charlie Platoon. For his leadership and courage under fire, JP was awarded a Silver Star, 2 Bronze Stars with Valor and the Army Commendation Medal with Valor helping Task Unit Bruiser to become the most highly decorated special operations unit of the Iraq War. He worked closely with SEAL Officers Jocko Willink, his Task Unit Commander, and Leif Babin, and was the driving force on many of the daring combat operations Jocko and Leif wrote about in Extreme Ownership. Upon his return, J.P. again worked directly for Jocko as a training instructor at Naval Special Warfare Group One Training Detachment, where he orchestrated realistic and challenging training scenarios for Special Operations Urban Combat training and Close Quarters Combat training to better prepare SEAL units for the real-world battlefield. He also served as a Combatives Instructor, Marksmanship Instructor and earned his Master Trainer Specialist qualification while helping Jocko rebuild and enhance these training programs into the highly effective platforms they are today. J.P. brings exceptional experience and frontline leadership perspective from the winning mindset and culture of Task Unit Bruiser.

Meet Justin Jackson. There's no friend I admire more. In fact, he's my new favorite podcast guest and will be back for Round 2 in October.Justin's a former Marine gunship pilot with over 25 years of service, who transitioned from combat deployments to entrepreneurship. He's built companies ranging from a cybersecurity firm with elite hackers to a mission-driven brewery honoring Gold Star families.Nowadays, he's a husband, dad, and dog-father to a Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy named Lincoln. Professionally, he leads “On Glideslope,” a leadership development venture.In this episode, we rewind to our high school days at Cy Falls, where Justin took over centerfield duties after I graduated (he was Class of 2000). He had the good fortune of playing for Coach Brent McDonald before playing at the Naval Academy. We discuss the mental & emotional side of baseball.Then we get into the role Top Gun played in Justin deciding to be a Cobra attack helicopter pilot. He talks about the contrast between a quiet Iraq deployment and a much more intense tour in Afghanistan's Helmand Province—flying low over desert landscapes, supporting Marines under fire, and the kind of brotherhood only combat can forge.Justin's a natural storyteller with a rare mix of tenacity and humility.Hope you enjoy this conversation as much as we did.

Our destination is the legendary Missouri River near Craig, Montana, one of the most technically challenging rivers in the West.  Joining me is guide, author, photographer, Marine Corps vet, and adjunct professor, Micah Fields, who unpacks his playbook for dry-fly headhunting, the quirks of Holter dam, and the art of reading a river that fishes like a giant spring creek.   Plus, hear about Montana's highly selective “Guiding for the Future” program and why it matters for the rivers we love, MRE's and chickens in Helmand Province, and an encounter with the great John Geirach.  Stick around to the end for Mica's favorite shore lunch – you will be drooling over this one!   Get out the chalk board as we talk serious X's and O's on technical fly fishing with Micah. With host Steve Haigh Be the first to know about new episodes.  Become a subscriber  Destination Angler on YouTube Contact Micah:      Micah guides for Montana Fishing Outfitters and Mountain Prairie outfitters.  You can find Micah's book, We Hold Our Breath, here. Destination Angler Podcast:   Website YouTube Instagram & Facebook  @DestinationAnglerPodcast  Please check out our Sponsors: Adamsbuilt Fishing  THE trusted source for quality fly fishing gear, built to last at an affordable price. Waders, Nets, Outerwear.  Facebook & Instagram @Adamsbuilt High N Dry Fishing Where science and performance meet.  Check out the full lineup of floatants, line dressings, and sighter waxes at www.highndryfishingproducts.com    Facebook  @highndryfishingproducts/   Instagram @highndryfishing Got Fishing  Crafting world-class fly-fishing adventures specially designed to your level of experience and budget.    Facebook @GotFishingAdventures Instagram @GotFishing  Facebook @highndryfishingproducts |  Instagram @highndryfishing TroutRoutes  Podcast listeners can try one month of TroutRoutes PRO for FREE by clicking the link in the episode description. Explore your water with TroutRoutes today.   Get 1 Month Free   Facebook @troutinsights Instagram @TroutRoutes    Comments & Suggestions:  host, Steve Haigh, email shaigh@DestinationAnglerPodcast.com Available on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Recorded July 22, 2025

On this episode, I have a conversation with Jason DiPinto, a Vineyard chaplain. We discuss what chaplaincy work entails and Jason answers all of the questions I've ever had! ❇️ About Jason ❇️ Chaplain Jason DiPinto was born and raised near Fresno, California. He matriculated to Yale College and completed his Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science (2001). Following graduation, Chaplain DiPinto completed Officer Candidate School, Marine Corps Base Quantico, aspiring to become a Marine Judge Advocate. Before he could begin law school, Chaplain DiPinto answered a call to ministry and set aside his Marine commission in order to pursue a Master of Divinity. Chaplain DiPinto completed his seminary training at Yale Divinity School (2006). He also holds a Master of Science Degree in Financial and Tax Planning from San Diego State University (2021). He was ordained as a minister in the Vineyard Church in 2007. He is endorsed by the Chaplains Commission of the National Association of Evangelicals. Chaplain DiPinto's operational tours include Principal Assistant chaplain, USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), with a deployment in support of operations in the western Pacific. He served as ship's chaplain, USS Bonhomme Richard (LHD 6) and USS Essex (LHD 2), including a hull-swap deployment to Sasebo, Japan. He was assigned to 2d Marine Division, deploying with 3d Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment to Helmand Province, Afghanistan, supporting full-spectrum counterinsurgency operations in Operation Enduring Freedom. He also served as the battalion chaplain for 2d Assault Amphibian Battalion. Chaplain DiPinto currently serves as the Group Chaplain for Marine Aircraft Group 39, 3d Marine Aircraft Wing, Camp Pendleton, CA. His ashore tours include Navy Recruiting Command as a Chaplain Programs Officer, where his area of responsibility included the Southwestern United States and the Pacific Rim. He also served as command chaplain for U.S. Coast Guard District 11, deploying in support of relief efforts for Hurricanes Maria and Irma, and as the command chaplain for Naval Base Guam. Chaplain DiPinto's personal awards include the Meritorious Service Medal (two awards), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (four awards), the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, the Coast Guard Achievement Medal, and Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal. He received his Basic Parachutist Badge from Army Airborne School at Fort Benning, and is a Fleet Marine Force Qualified Officer. He is married to the former Christina James of Hamden, CT. ❇️ Recommended John Wimber Books ❇️ "Power Healing," by John Wimber (https://amzn.to/2HiA3YV) "Power Evangelism,' by John Wimber (https://amzn.to/2TP6Nyd) "Power Points," by John Wimber (https://amzn.to/31NwqSC) "Everyone Gets to Play," by John Wimber (https://amzn.to/2Z4PJdf) "The Way In is the Way On," by John Wimber (https://amzn.to/2ZdiTCg) ❇️ Recommended Books ABOUT John Wimber ❇️ "John Wimber: The Way it Was," by Carol Wimber (https://amzn.to/2HiUFQJ) "Never Trust a Leader Without a Limp: The Wit and Wisdom of John Wimber," by Glenn Schroder (https://amzn.to/3PtHvSM) "John Wimber: His Life and Ministry," by Connie Dawson (https://amzn.to/3FSpYAI) "Worshiping with the Anaheim Vineyard: The Emergence of Contemporary Worship," by Andy Park, Lester Ruth, & Cindy Rethmeier (https://amzn.to/31TDm0w) "Toronto in Perspective: Papers on the New Charismatic Wave of the 1990s," edited by David Hilborn (https://amzn.to/2L3nIsP) "John Wimber: His Influence & Legacy," edited by David Pytches (https://amzn.to/2ZfgbfC) || FOLLOW US || Website: https://sacramentalcharismatic.substack.com Luke IG: https://instagram.com/lukegeraty Luke Twitter: https://twitter.com/lukegeraty Wes IG: https://www.instagram.com/wesmac5 Wes Twitter: https://twitter.com/wesmac5

This week on Urban Valor, we sat down with Marine veteran Ernesto Menjivar. A man who watched his brother lose both legs to an IED right in front of him. Ernesto was 19 years old when he first hit the ground in Afghanistan, assigned to one of the most IED-infested regions in Helmand Province. The firefights came fast. The first one he was ever in, RPGs were flying over his head, and the next minute they were sweeping for pressure plates in the dirt, praying one of them wouldn't go off.But then it did.His brother, Langston White, stepped on an IED while on patrol, and Ernesto was just feet away. The way he describes that moment — the sound, the dust, the blood, the moment they locked eyes — it'll sit with you. Langston survived but lost both legs. And that was just one chapter of what became a brutal deployment. Ernesto talks about the emotional toll of trying to stay mission-ready after something like that, the Marines he lost during Operation Deuces Wild, and how that experience changed him forever.Now years removed from combat, he opens up about the PTSD, the dreams, the random moments where he sees civilians missing limbs and flashes back to war. But he also shares what's helped him — therapy, music, painting, his faith — and how he's still working through it. This isn't a sanitized version of war. It's the real cost. The kind of story that shows what combat veterans carry with them long after the fighting stops.

Green Beret Terry Wilson faced daily ambushes, IEDs, RPG attacks, and brutal firefights while deployed in Afghanistan's deadly Helmand Province. But even after surviving the horrors of war, nothing could prepare him for the tragedy that struck back home—the heartbreaking loss of his son.This week on Urban Valor, we sit down with retired U.S. Army Green Beret Terry Wilson for one of the most emotional episodes yet. From clearing Sangin in chaotic "Wild West" gunfights to surviving recoilless rifle strikes and relentless combat, Terry shares what it truly means to be in a “troops in contact” situation—and how seconds can mean life or death.But beyond the battlefield, Terry opens up about grief, resilience, and the pain of losing a child while carrying the mental scars of war. This story is not just about combat—it's about surviving when the war ends, the uniform comes off, and the real battles begin.

Green Beret Terry Wilson spent nearly two years “getting engaged every day” in Afghanistan's Helmand Province, but lives to share the battle-tested resilience secrets that carried him through daily firefights, a shoot-down rescue, three felony charges, and the heartbreaking loss of his son.In this two-hour sit-down with Force Recon Marine turned host Chad Robichaux, Terry opens up about Special Forces selection, surviving a CH-47 crash, leading an ODA under constant contact in Kajaki Sofla, wrestling with PTSD and survivor's guilt, and rebuilding life through faith, fitness, and intentional fatherhood. If you're searching for real-world lessons on purpose, mental toughness, or veteran transition, this conversation delivers.Follow Terry: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/terry.m.wilson.jrRESILIENT:Live Resilient Store: https://theresilientshow.com/live-resilient-storeJoin Our Patreon: https://patreon.com/theresilientshowFollow Us On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/resilientshowFollow Us On Twitter:⁠ https://twitter.com/resilientshowFollow Us On TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@resilientshowFollow Chad:⁠https://www.instagram.com/chadrobo_official⁠https://www.x.com/chadroboSPONSORS:Smith & Wesson: ⁠https://www.smith-wesson.com/⁠Vortex Optics:https://vortexoptics.comGatorz Eyewear: ⁠https://www.gatorz.com/⁠Allied Wealth:https://alliedwealth.comBioPro+: ⁠https://www.bioproteintech.com/CHAD30⁠BioXCellerator:https://www.bioxcellerator.comThe Holy Waters:https://theholywaters.comGet The Resilient Show x Uncharted Supply Co Bag: https://liveresilient.com/shopTRS is a proud supporter of military & first responder communities in partnership with Mighty Oaks Foundation.

Chris Watson, Vice President of Premise Data, joins Mike Shanley to discuss how AI innovation and federal procurement intersect, and what changes could facilitate greater innovation. RESOURCES: GovDiscovery AI Federal Capture Support: https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/ Premise Data: https://premise.com/ Connect with Chris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherwilliamwatson/ BIOGRAPHY: Chris Watson is an evangelist for digital transformation, data-driven decision-making, and increased use of commercial products in the global development industry. He currently leads Premise Data's international development division, with a focus on scaling the use of Premise by country governments, development donors, and their implementing partners. Growing up in West Virginia, Chris became interested in issues of poverty, grassroots development, and the world outside his hometown. He began his international development career in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, where he distributed $38 million in emergency seed and fertilizer to farmers returning to areas recently liberated from Taliban control. Not knowing whether this work had a real impact ignited his obsession with using real-time data collection and analytics to improve the efficacy of development programming. Over the last eight years, Chris has helped define and grow the use of Premise by stakeholders in global health, humanitarian assistance, and democracy and governance. He led go-to-market for the international development portfolio, securing support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to prove the value of Premise's technology and subsequently scaling its use to 70+ development donors, implementing partners and governments. Chris and Premise deeply believe that local citizens should have an increased say in defining the challenges and improving development in their local communities. Shifting the task of collecting data and monitoring service delivery to thousands of local residents as gig work democratizes involvement in such issues while providing a supplementary source of income. LEARN MORE: Thank you for tuning into this episode of the GovDiscovery AI Podcast with Mike Shanley. You can learn more about working with the U.S. Government by visiting our homepage: Konektid International and GovDiscovery AI. To connect with our team directly, message the host Mike Shanley on LinkedIn. https://www.govdiscoveryai.com/ https://www.konektid.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/gov-market-growth/ 

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Send us a textIn 2009, Sean joined the US Marines and served in the infantry. In 2011, Sean deployed to Sangin Valley, Helmand Province, Afghanistan. In 2013, Sean decided to extend his contract of service for the opportunity to go back to Afghanistanwith his unit. This time he served in Garmsir, Helmand Province, Afghanistan. While being tasked to preform aerial and ground interdiction, Sean led his team on numerous operations.  In 2014, he left the Marines and took the civil service test and was fortunate enough to be selected by the Morris County Sheriff's Office. During that time, he worked with the Morris County Prosecutors Office narcotics division.  In 2014-2018 Sean started losing guys he was deployed with to suicide. He has now lost more friends to Suicide than he has in Combat. While he searched himself for his new purpose, he dedicated his time to trying to help prevent veteran suicide. In 2015, he started working for Parsippany Police Department by serving as a Patrolman.   He has made it his mission and passion to help others, aquality he gained from his family. In 2024, He opened Abrusci's Coffee in Budd Lake, New Jersey.  He learned that Coffee is what made all the above possible. It wasn't just about caffeine to get through long days, but the sense of community provided by gathering around the ritual of serving coffee, and the opportunity it provided to take a moment to brainstorm how to push through obstacles, decompress and talk about what just happened.  In Law Enforcement he saw how coffee brought everyone together to subtract themselves from what call or operation they just had. Coffee also brings everyone together to discuss future plans or calls. Find Sean AbrusciAbrusci's Coffee WebsiteAbrusci's Coffee InstagramFind The Suffering PodcastThe Suffering Podcast InstagramKevin Donaldson InstagramTom Flynn InstagramApple PodcastSpotifyYouTubeThe Suffering Podcast FamilySherri AllsupToyota of HackensackSupport the showThe Suffering Podcast Instagram Kevin Donaldson Instagram TikTok YouTube

Despite a turbulent upbringing, Andrew Williams enlisted in the Parachute Regiment at just 16. Deployed to the deadly frontlines of Helmand Province, Afghanistan, in 2006, he confronted the brutal realities of warfare, engaging in some of the most intense combat witnessed by the British Army since the Korean War. After his military service, Andrew transitioned into domestic counter-intelligence and spent over a decade as a high-risk security consultant, navigating some of the world's most dangerous and unpredictable environments. Andy's book, Beyond the Dropzone is available here (including audiobook): https://www.amazon.co.uk/Beyond-Drop-Zone-Paratroopers-Story-ebook/dp/Gez's books are available here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Geraint-Jones/author/Signed copies here: www.geraintjonesmedia.comSupport the show

On this week's podcast, I speak with former UK 3 Para and current UK Firefighter Andy Williams.  Despite a turbulent upbringing, Andy enlisted in the Parachute Regiment at just 16. Deployed to the deadly frontlines of Helmand Province, Afghanistan, in 2006, he confronted the brutal realities of warfare, engaging in some of the most intense combat witnessed by the British Army since the Korean War. After his military service, Andrew transitioned into domestic counter-intelligence and spent over a decade as a high-risk security consultant, navigating some of the world's most dangerous and unpredictable environments. These harrowing experiences forced him to face not only the physical dangers around him but also the deep, often unseen, psychological scars left by war. Beyond The Drop Zone, takes you on a gripping journey from patrolling the streets of Northern Ireland to war-torn Iraq, coming face to face with ISIS, and engaging in fierce battles in Afghanistan with 3 PARA. This raw and unflinching memoir reveals the psychological toll of combat, Andrew's struggles with mental health, and his fight against a life-threatening illness. It is a powerful account of overcoming immense adversity, finding a path to healing, and discovering the strength of perseverance. Andy is a best-selling author and is passionate about helping veterans' transition and advocates for mental health awareness for veterans and first responders. This is his story, told in his own words.   Presenter: Adam Blum Guest: Andy Williams Editor: Kyle Watkins

Follow H-Hour on WhatsApp: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DRAeu4opIrQElJN1belo33 ********** In 2006, 88 soldiers consisting mainly of paratroopers from 3 Para and two platoons of Royal Irish soldiers found themselves at the mercy of hundreds of Taliban in the town of Musa Qaleh, Helmand Province. Faced with relentless attacks from all directions, and a combination of direct and indirect weaponry, the vastly outnumbered troops held their ground in a set of low-walled buildings within the District Centre compound, for 56 days. Jo Scrivener was the Company Sergeant Major.

Follow H-Hour on WhatsApp: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DRAeu4opIrQElJN1belo33 ********** This is the Icebreaker episode, with questions chosen by H-Hour Platinum Subscribers and Patrons. In 2006, 88 soldiers consisting mainly of paratroopers from 3 Para and two platoons of Royal Irish soldiers found themselves at the mercy of hundreds of Taliban in the town of Musa Qaleh, Helmand Province. Faced with relentless attacks from all directions, and a combination of direct and indirect weaponry, the vastly outnumbered troops held their ground in a set of low-walled buildings within the District Centre compound, for 56 days. Jo Scrivener was the Company Sergeant Major.

JP Dinnell sits down with Marine Gunnery SGT Joe Reyna to talk about the battle for Helmand Province in Afghanistan from Sept 2010-Apr 2011. More from JP Dinnell: https://www.jpdinnell.com/ Join the conversation on instagram GY SGT Joe Reyna: https://www.instagram.com/gysgt_reyna_usmc JP Dinnell: http://instagram.com/jpdinnell/ Lucas Pinckard: https://www.instagram.com/lucaspinckard Bruiser Arms: https://www.instagram.com/bruiserarms Echelon Front: https://echelonfront.com/ Little Cattle Co: http://littlecattle.co On The Path Printing: https://www.instagram.com/onthepathprinting JP Dinnell is a former U.S. Navy SEAL and now a Leadership Instructor, Speaker and Strategic Advisor with Echelon Front, where he serves as Director of Experiential Leadership Training Programs. J.P. is also a pro team athlete and spokesperson for Origin Maine and Jocko Fuel, an American clothing and supplement company. J.P. has a signature Energy Drink flavor “Sour Apple Sniper” with Jocko Fuel. Jeremiah spent nearly a decade in the SEAL Teams with three combat deployments. Sent to the violent terrorist stronghold of Ar Ramadi, Iraq in 2006 with SEAL Team Three's Task Unit Bruiser, J.P. served as point man, machine gunner, and lead sniper for Delta Platoon opposite the American Sniper, Chris Kyle, who was in Charlie Platoon. For his leadership and courage under fire, JP was awarded a Silver Star, 2 Bronze Stars with Valor and the Army Commendation Medal with Valor helping Task Unit Bruiser to become the most highly decorated special operations unit of the Iraq War. He worked closely with SEAL Officers Jocko Willink, his Task Unit Commander, and Leif Babin, and was the driving force on many of the daring combat operations Jocko and Leif wrote about in Extreme Ownership. Upon his return, J.P. again worked directly for Jocko as a training instructor at Naval Special Warfare Group One Training Detachment, where he orchestrated realistic and challenging training scenarios for Special Operations Urban Combat training and Close Quarters Combat training to better prepare SEAL units for the real-world battlefield. He also served as a Combatives Instructor, Marksmanship Instructor and earned his Master Trainer Specialist qualification while helping Jocko rebuild and enhance these training programs into the highly effective platforms they are today. J.P. brings exceptional experience and frontline leadership perspective from the winning mindset and culture of Task Unit Bruiser.

We've been talking about having Ray on the podcast for over a year now. He brings a unique perspective as a former infantry Marine NCO turned strength and conditioning coach. And more importantly, he always focuses his insight on the real issues. The military human performance space is more about building the right culture than dialing in the Xs and Os of workouts, and he clearly knows that. Ramon “Ray” Cossio is a 12-year veteran of the Marine Corps, where he served as an infantry squad leader, platoon sergeant, and martial arts-instructor trainer. During his time in service, he deployed to Afghanistan in 2005 and participated in operation Red Wings, Iraq in 2006 during the “Surge”, and once again Afghanistan in 2011 to Sangin, Helmand Province. For his service Mr. Cossio was awarded two Combat Action Ribbons, three Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, and a Bronze Star with "V." Following his time in the Marine Corps he received his bachelor's degree in Exercise Science from the University of Houston where he participated in internships with the UH sports performance and the Texas Obesity Research Clinic. He then went on to earn his master's degree in Kinesiology from the University of Texas where he conducted research on e-cigarettes' effect on blood vessel and was member of the Cardiovascular and Aging Laboratory. His professional experience has included roles as a coach, programmer, and operations manager for private “multimodal” gyms Austin and Houston, TX. In 2018 he began working as a contracted strength and conditioning coach for the Army's H2F-Lite program where he had the privilege of working with 40 th BEB, 2-37 AR, and 1AD DSB. Following his time as a coach Mr. Cossio was hired in 2021 as the 11th ADA H2F Program Director, and he continues in that role today.

Send us a textOn today's Zero Limits Podcast I chat with Andy Williams - 3PARA - MI5 - Current Firefighter and author “Beyond the Drop Zone: A Paratrooper's Story” Andy experienced a challenging upbringing, with a mother who was absent and struggled with alcoholism. He was raised by his older sister, who did her best to care for him. Despite his difficult childhood, Andy found solace and purpose in joining the military, specifically the Parachute Regiment.Andy enlisted at the age of 16 into the Parachute Regiment in 2003. He deployed to the deadly frontlines of Helmand Province, Afghanistan, in 2006, he confronted the brutal realities of warfare, engaging in some of the most intense combat witnessed by the British Army since the Korean War. After his military service, He was eventually medically discharged due to post-traumatic stress and other health issues. Andy discusses his transition from the military, to MI5, then into private security and finally the fire service and the rewarding aspects of his new career.Beyond The Drop Zone, takes you on a gripping journey from patrolling the streets of Northern Ireland to war-torn Iraq, coming face to face with ISIS, and engaging in fierce battles in Afghanistan with 3 PARA.This raw and unflinching memoir reveals the psychological toll of combat, Andrew's struggles with mental health, and his fight against a life-threatening illness. It is a powerful account of overcoming immense adversity, finding a path to healing, and discovering the strength of perseverance.www.getsome.com.auInstagram @getsome_auDiscount Code ZEROLIMITS www.3zeroscoffee.com.auInstargram @3zeroscoffee Discount Code 3ZLimits Website - www.zerolimitspodcast.comInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/zero.limits.podcast/?hl=en

We welcome journalist Jeanne McKinney to shine a light on a little-known episode of the war in Afghanistan that illuminates the larger political, social, and military landscape of our longest war. Jeanne's book, Triumph Over the Taliban: The Untold Story of US Marines' Courageous Fight to Save Camp Bastion, tells the story of September 12, 2012, in Helmand Province, Afghanistan when an attack on Camp Bastion, a critical forward operating base, showcased the resilience, bravery, and strategic acumen of the US Marines. Camp Bastion was a massive military base established by the British and later expanded to include US Marines and Afghan forces. Spanning 40 square miles with a 25-mile fence line, the base was situated in one of the most volatile regions of Afghanistan. The base's sheer size and strategic importance made it a prime target for the Taliban, who were deeply entrenched in the surrounding poppy fields, a key source of their funding. The Taliban meticulously planned their assault on Camp Bastion for over a year. Originally scheduled for July 2012, the attack was postponed due to an accidental explosion during training. The final assault was executed on a particularly dark night, leveraging the element of surprise. Fifteen Taliban fighters infiltrated the base, aiming to destroy aircraft and kill as many Marines as possible. What made this attack unique was the Taliban's approach. Unlike their usual tactics of using suicide bombers and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), this was a ground assault. The fighters carried rifles and RPGs, prepared for direct combat—a rare and bold move for the Taliban. The Marines stationed at Camp Bastion demonstrated exceptional valor and quick thinking. Upon hearing the initial explosions, they initially assumed it was a controlled detonation. However, they quickly realized the gravity of the situation and sprang into action. Despite the chaos and darkness, the Marines mobilized, formed defensive positions, and protected civilians on the base. One of the most remarkable aspects of their response was the transition of Aviation Marines into infantry roles. Trained to handle crises, they put down their wrenches and picked up rifles, showcasing the versatility and preparedness ingrained in Marine training. Their swift and coordinated actions prevented what could have been a catastrophic loss of life and equipment. The attack on Camp Bastion occurred three days after the Benghazi attack, which dominated the news cycle. As a result, this significant event did not receive the attention it deserved. Media reports often focused on the blame game, targeting two Marine generals for security lapses. This narrative overshadowed the heroism displayed by the Marines on the ground. At the time, there was a push to downsize the military presence in Afghanistan, leading to reduced security measures at bases like Camp Bastion. The generals on the ground, aware of the vulnerabilities, requested additional resources and security enhancements, but these were denied due to political considerations. This incident underscores the broader issue of how military decisions are often influenced by political agendas, sometimes at the expense of on-ground safety and effectiveness. The attack on Camp Bastion serves as a stark reminder of the need for robust security measures and the importance of listening to military leaders who understand the complexities of the battlefield. The attack on Camp Bastion is a powerful example of military courage and the complexities of modern warfare. It highlights the importance of readiness, the impact of political decisions on military operations, and the need to honor and recognize the sacrifices of those who serve. As we reflect on this event, it serves as a reminder of the bravery of the US Marines and the enduring spirit of those who stand on the front lines to protect our freedoms. We're grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event! #afganistan  #veterans #usmc  #veteran #militaryhistory #interview #vietnam #vet #veteransbreakfastclub #vbc #virtualevents #virtual #zoom #zoomevents #liveevent #webinar #military #army #usarmy #navy #usnavy #marinecorps #marines #airforce #pilot #aviators #coastguard #nonprofit #501c3 #history #militaryveterans #veteransstories #veteranshistory #veteraninterview #veteranshistoryproject #veteransoralhistory #veteranowned #militaryretirees #armyretirees #navyretirees #warstories #vietnam #vietnamwar #vietnamveterans #koreanwar #coldwar #greatestgeneration #wwii #ww2 #worldwarii #worldwar2 #war #americanhistory #oralhistory #podcast #scuttlebutt #thescuttlebutt #humor #storytelling #headlines #news #roundtable #breakfast #generation911

In this episode of The Women in the Arena Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Kate van Dam, the Head of Strategic Growth at SkyFi. At SkyFi, Kate leads efforts to establish a leading geospatial hub, driving innovation and growth in the field. Prior to her role at SkyFi, Kate was a Senior Director at InQTel, where she worked with cutting-edge start-ups and the US government to enhance national security capabilities.Kate is currently a Lieutenant Colonel in the Marine Corps Reserves and served 10 years of active duty as an attack helicopter pilot, conducting crucial combat operations in Helmand Province and counter-piracy missions in the Gulf of Aden. In 2017, she made significant contributions as a White House Fellow, supporting disaster response at the Department of Housing and Urban Development during a record year for natural disasters.A graduate of the US Naval Academy, Kate also holds an MA in International Economics and International Relations from Johns Hopkins University SAIS. In our discussion, Kate delves into her approach to leadership, shaped by her diverse experiences in both military and corporate settings. She shares insights on overcoming adversity, balancing the demands of a high-profile career with parenting, and pursuing new ambitions following her transition from military to civilian life.Join us to hear Kate's inspiring story and gain valuable lessons on resilience, leadership, and navigating career transitions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lt. Col. Tom Schueman served in Afghanistan for sixteen months, including the single bloodiest battle of the war in Afghanistan, as a platoon commander with the Third Battalion, Fifth Marines in Helmand Province. He redeployed to Afghanistan as a JTAC and advisor to the Afghan National Army while he was a member of First Reconnaissance Battalion. Schueman went on to get his master's in English literature at Georgetown University and teach English literature at the United States Naval Academy. In 2022, alongside his friend and Afghani interpreter, Zak, he published Always Faithful, a book about his time in Afghanistan and the effort to get Zak and his family to America before the Taliban could make good on their promise to kill them. Thomas is still an active-duty Marine and the founder of the nonprofit Patrol Base Abbate, based in Montana. PB Abbate provides a space for veterans and service members to reconnect around shared interests.More about Major Schueman:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kill.z0n3Patrol Base Abbate: https://www.pbabbate.org/home-0Always Faithful: https://amzn.to/3M6EI1nTimestamps:00:00:22 Intro to Thomas Schueman00:01:22 Overview of Thomas Schueman's Career00:05:25 Infantry Officer Course and Recon Selection00:06:44 Why the Basic Reconnaissance Course Didn't Work Out for Thomas00:15:25 Sponsor Note: Buildingtheelite.com00:15:53 On Which Deployment Did Thomas Meet Zack?00:17:56 Marines Lost in Thomas's Unit00:18:44 More Deaths in Infantry Than Other Sections of Military00:24:49 Working With Zack00:27:15 Thomas's Mindset After 100 Firefights in 100 Days00:42:19 What is Patrol Base Abbate?00:52:53 Where is PB Abbate in Montana?00:53:53 How is PB Abbate Funded?00:56:36 Getting Zack Out Before the Fall of Kabul01:06:53 Outro

Brent Downing is a Sergeants Major in the United States Marine Corps. He has done many things in his career, starting as an 0331 Machine Gunner in 1st battalion 4th Marines. Shortly after checking into the Battalion, Lance Corporal Downing was deployed to Kuwait and In March of 2003, crossed the line of departure into Iraq during the initial invasion in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Lance Corporal Downing would take part in several combat engagements fighting against the Iraqi army as well as their elite Republican Guard and Fedayeen forces from Al-Nasiriyah to Baghdad. In 2004 Lance Corporal Downing returned to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom II with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU), serving as a machine gun squad leader. In August 2004, Lance Corporal Downing led a squad of machine gunners in an intense three day long battle against Muqtada Al-Sadr's Mahdi army in the Najaf cemetery. For his actions, Lance Corporal Downing was subsequently awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with combat distinguishing device and would later be promoted to the rank of Corporal. Following the return from a second combat tour in Iraq, Corporal Downing checked into Headquarters Battery, 11th Marines and served as the Substance Abuse Control Officer (SACO) for approximately one year. Before leaving active duty in June 2006, Corporal Downing would be promoted to the rank of Sergeant. In January 2007, then Sergeant Downing checked into Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 23d Marines serving as the machine gun section leader. In April of 2008, Sergeant Downing was meritoriously promoted to the rank of Staff Sergeant. In 2011, Staff Sergeant Downing deployed with the battalion to Helmand Province, Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom as the Platoon Sergeant of 2nd Platoon, Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 23d Marines. While conducting combat operations in Afghanistan, 2nd Platoon was responsible for seizing over two tons of illegal narcotics from the Taliban during aerial interdiction missions and participated in several multi-battalion operations during the course of the deployment. Since that time he has Been in various leadership roles and training Marines. In June of 2022, after being selected to the rank of Sergeant Major, SgtMaj Downing was assigned as the Battalion Sergeant Major of 2d Battalion, 14th Marines, a HIMARS rocket Battalion located in Grand Prairie, Texas.

This week's episode of Urban Valor shines a spotlight on Bryan Buckley, a Marine veteran with a remarkable story. Hailing from Doylestown, PA, Bryan's early years were dominated by football, a sport in which he excelled, securing two state championships. His path seemed set on football until the events of 9/11 shifted his focus dramatically. Motivated by a sense of duty, Bryan joined the Marine Corps as an officer, where he served in various capacities including the infantry, Force Recon, and as a Marine Raider within the Marine Special Operations Command. In this episode, Bryan shares his experiences of intense combat against the Taliban in Afghanistan's dangerous Helmand province, highlighting the challenges they faced, the losses they suffered, and the solemn duty of returning home with fallen heroes.Remember to LIKE this video if you found it informative, enjoyable, or just to show your support to Tommy and/or us at Urban Valor.Comment your support or ask any questions. Sometimes, our interviewees respond, and we at Urban Valor will do our best to respond as well!SUBSCRIBE to support Urban Valor and the courageous Veterans who take the share and tell their story, AND so you NEVER miss a weekly episode of our veteran stories. New stories every Sunday!Your engagement greatly supports our mission to share authentic and impactful veteran stories.#military #urbanvalor #war #warstories #veteran

Our favorite episodes are always the ones where we get to talk to Veterans of the military. On this episode we sit down with a veteran of the Iraq and Afghanistan war from 2008-2009. Vincenzo Chambrone served in the United States Marine Corps as an 0351 Infantry Assaultman with 2nd Battalion 3rd Marines. We let him tell his story, but we take a deep focus on his time in the Now-Zad District of Helmand Province in Afghanistan. Vincenzo was involved in the 4-day battle of Dahaneh also referred to as Operation Eastern Resolve II. If you want to reach out to Vincenzo to ask him any questions or link up with him because YOU also were involved in this operation, his email is vchambrone@gmail.com send him some love. If you haven't already done so, please rate and review our show. Links to our Patreon, Mailing List, Merch Store, Website, and social media are all below. Thank you for being here and enjoy Battle Buddies. If you want some literature about the same men, here is a link to the book written by a fellow comrade of Vincenzo: https://www.latahbooks.com/blank-1/freaks-of-a-feather-a-marine-grunt-s-memoir https://www.foxnews.com/world/dragons-egg-marines-who-guarded-saddams-mysterious-bunker-fear-weapons-unleashed (0:00-02:56) Kevin's Preface (03:40-13:51) What is an 0351? (13:52-19:08) Training for Deployment (19:09-30:40) Iraq 2008 (30:41-01:05:29) Battle of Dahaneh (01:05:30-01:08:56) Coping Mechanisms Patreon https://www.patreon.com/BattleBuddiesPodcast Mailing List https://mailchi.mp/788c3299059d/battlebuddiespodcast Merch Store https://37bd21-5.myshopify.com/ Website https://battlebuddiespod.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/battle_buddies_pod/ X https://twitter.com/BattleBuddies4 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thebattlebuddiespod/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thebattlebuddiespod/support

Unexplained Rerun   In July 2009, at the height of war in Afghanistan, US and British forces struggle to get to grips with fighting a mostly invisible enemy, while simultaneously trying to win the hearts and minds of the people whose land they have invaded.   As part of Operation Khanjar, the US government's latest roll of the dice in their efforts to beat back the influence of the Taliban in Helmand Province, 4000 marines from the 2nd Battalion, 8th Regiment have been deployed to the region.  Among them are eight Marines, tasked with occupying a strange and isolated observation post, known simply as The Rock.  Their war is about to get far stranger than they could ever have imagined.   Go to twitter @unexplainedpod, facebook.com/unexplainedpodcast or unexplainedpodcast.com for more info. Thank you for listening.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sergeant First Class Chris Corbin entered military service in July 1995. Prior to becoming a Green Beret with the 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), he served in various Army units such as the 3rd Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division (1995-1999), and the 1st Battalion, and 75th Ranger Regiment (1999-2002). On February 17th, 2011, Corbin was on his third tour to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF). That day, he was on patrol with his Operational Detachment Alpha (ODA) through a village in the Helmand Province, when he stepped on an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) and suffered injuries to both legs resulting in a bilateral, below-the-knee (Bilat BK) amputation. On March 24th, 2012, 13 months after his injury, Chris, with his Green Beret father, Master Sergeant Nelson Corbin, ran his first 5K race to benefit the Fisher House on Eglin Air Force Base. His determination and will coupled with the support and motivation provided by his father and teammates enabled Chris to finish his first race in 27 minutes and 34 seconds. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases...You Know The Deal! (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on Apple Podcasts! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence & Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com) Photo Credit: Chris Corbin

Usually we wait a little longer to do follow-up episodes, but a listener story sent in after our first "Haunting in the Military" episode inspired us to get this one out fast. We start by digging into stories of haunting from Air Force bases like Kadena, Fairchild, and Eielson, then we launch into one of the strangest stories we've ever told on this show - a Navy Corpsman's encounter in the far reaches of Helmand Province, Afghanistan.Story Time Codes:Building 2283, Kadena Air Force Base (09:11)More Haunting on Kadena (21:27)Shadows on Kadena (25:38)Alone at Eeilson AFB (28:45)The Goat Man of Fairchild AFB (39:30)The Man in the Chair: A Djinn in Helmand Province (50:20)Full shownotes can be found at www.ghoststoryguys.comOur Sponsors:* Check out Factor and use my code ghoststoryguys50 for a great deal: https://www.factormeals.com/ghoststoryguys50Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-ghost-story-guys4724/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

On today's special episode we present Metal of Honor recipient and American Hero, Kyle Carpenter's key note speech from our 2023 Street Cop Conference in Nashville, Tennessee. It was our honor to have him speak to over 1700 cops to share his story of heroism, perseverance and resiliency. William "Kyle" Carpenter (born October 17, 1989) is a medically retired United States Marine who received the United States' highest military honor, the Medal of Honor, for his actions in Marjah, Helmand Province, Afghanistan in 2010. Kyle Carpenter was the youngest living Medal of Honor recipient at the time. Kyle grew up in a loving household where sports, hard work, and dedication were supported. While this is a Marine that, as he says, "cuddled a grenade" and lived to tell about it, he is another example of how good men answer the call. His is also a story of overcoming the devastation of war with family love and hard work. If you like what you are hearing and want to stay in the loop with the latest in Street Cop Training, please follow our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/StreetCopTraining Don't forget to subscribe and rate the podcast, it truly helps! Sign up for classes here: https://streetcoptraining.com/course-list/Follow our podcast here: https://streetcoptraining.com/street-cop-podcast/    or    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/street-cop-podcast/id1538474515

Shop https://www.mikeritlandco.com for Performance Dog Food, Treats, Apparel & more! #chokeyourselfIt's kind of crazy when the whole world wants to know about the only five seconds you can't remember. At least that's what Kyle Carpenter says. For Kyle, those five seconds happened on a rooftop in Helmand Province, Afghanistan when he jumped on a grenade to save himself and fellow Marine Nick Eufrazio. Now, after three flatlines, three years at Walter Reed hospital, dozens of surgeries, and a Medal of Honor award in 2014, Kyle's here to talk about it. Chapters:00:00 - Intro3:00 - Lightning Round18:00 - Growing Up Carpenter26:00 - Chasing the Military48:45 - Boot Camp on Parris Island1:14:00 - Training at Camp Lejeune1:33:45 - Boots on the Ground in Afghanistan1:52:00 - Combat Stories2:28:00 - Setting Up at Compound 2:53:00 - Kyle Gets Hit3:04:00 - Putting the Pieces Together3:23:00 - The Road to Recovery3:43:00 - Receiving the Medal of Honor4:01:00 - Kyle TodaySupport Kyle Carpenter:Website: https://www.williamkylecarpenter.comPodcast: https://spoti.fi/3DUQyZgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/chiksdigscars--------------Sponsors:Bubs NaturalsThe BUBS namesake derives from Glen ‘BUB' Doherty, who was heroically killed in Benghazi, Libya in 2012. In addition to remembering Glen for the patriot he is, the BUBS ethos centers around the passionate and adventure seeking life that Glen lived. BUBS Naturals products are rooted in sustainably sourced ingredients and controlled consistency to provide our customers with the highest quality Collagen Protein & MCT Oil Powder that help you feel amazing and live a fuller life.Our mission is simple. FEEL GREAT. DO GOOD. 10% always goes back to charity, helping military men and women transition back into civilian life. Go to bubsnaturals.com and use code MIKEDROP for 20% off your order.--------------Black Buffalo Use promo code MIKEDROP at checkout for 15% off your first order on BlackBuffalo.com. And check out their store locator to see if Black Buffalo is sold at a retailer near you. --------------USCCAhttps://www.uscca.com/mikedropLEGAL DISCLAIMER -The USCCA is not an insurance company. A policy has been issued to the USCCA. That policy provides the association and its members with self-defense liability insurance, subject to its terms, conditions, limitations, and exclusions.--------------Athletic GreensAthletic Greens is going to give you a FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE Travel Packs with your first purchase. All you have to do is visit https://www.athleticgreens.com/MIKEDROP--------------Fueled by TeamDog | www.mikeritlandco.com | @Teamdog.petALL THINGS MIKE RITLANDSHOP for Fueled By Team Dog Performance Dog Food, Treats, Apparel, Accessories, and Protection dogs- MikeRitlandCo.com - https://www.MikeRitlandCo.comTeam Dog Online dog training- TeamDog.pet - https://www.TeamDog.pet