Episodes
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Today we talk to CIA Senior Intelligence Service officer Glenn Corn who is calling in from Ukraine and dive into the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, with on-the-ground insights and analysis. We touch on Ukrainian concerns about being excluded from international peace talks, the mixed reactions to diplomatic efforts at the Munich Security Conference and in Saudi Arabia, and the potential implications of new Russian intelligence tactics.
We also hit on a new Russian intel covert unit, possible involvement of North Korean troops supporting Russia, recent prisoner swaps, and the evolving role of NATO and U.S. allies in the conflict. Additionally, there's a reflection on the human cost of the war, highlighting the emotional toll on Ukrainian families.
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🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle
Show Notes:
0:00 Introduction 00:24 On the Ground in Ukraine 01:27 Ukrainian Concerns and International Talks 04:33 Russian Intelligence and Covert Operations 06:40 Territorial Negotiations and Peace Talks 09:21 European and NATO Involvement 12:39 Prisoner Swaps and Diplomatic Moves 15:20 North Korean Involvement in the Conflict 17:09 Final Thoughts and Personal Reflections 20:55 Sponsor Message: NordVPN -
Today’s Combat Story is with our first Navy Vice Admiral, Mike LeFever, who spent 38 years in uniform supporting US National Security across the world. Rising from an Annapolis wrestler to a surface warfare officer, Mike was selected to command a strike group, would serve at the US Embassy in Pakistan as the head diplomatic officer (during the Bin Laden raid), and finished his military career as the Director of Strategic Operational Planning at the National Counterterrorism Center, within the Office of the Director of National Intelligence.
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Mike has gone on to write a book about leading through crises titled End Game First: A Leadership Strategy for Navigating a Crisis, and, since leaving service, has stayed very busy with roles as a CEO for a cyber and tech company; a senior advisor and mentor at the McChrystal Group; Performance Ambassador and Speaker for Liminal Collective and Arena Labs; works on the Cipher Brief with friend of the show Glenn Corn and more.
This is a really and insightful discussion with an incredibly senior, accomplished, yet thoroughly humble leader and I hope you enjoy his sense of humor, honest talk, and experiences at the highest levels of both global affairs and military strategy as much as I did.
Check out our Combat Story Newsletter at www.combatstory.com/newsletter
Find Mike LeFever Online:
https://nationalsecurity.gmu.edu/mike-lefever/
End Game First: A Leadership Strategy for Navigating a Crisis
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🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle
Show Notes:
00:00 Introduction
00:44 Introduction to Combat Story and Host
01:03 Meet Vice Admiral Mike Lefevre
01:34 Career Highlights and Leadership Roles
02:25 Personal Insights and Experiences
02:53 Memorable Moments in Islamabad
07:07 Significant Events and Challenges in Pakistan
09:06 Reflections on Leadership and Service
09:54 Unexpected Career Path and Surface Warfare
15:04 Leading Earthquake Relief in Pakistan
19:10 Building a Humanitarian Task Force
24:14 Navigating Crisis and Leadership Lessons
32:04 End Game: Strategic Planning and Execution
35:07 Military Influence in Pakistan
35:29 Anecdotes from Bab N Abad
36:41 Building Relationships in Pakistan
39:44 The Bin Laden Raid
42:36 Post-Raid Reflections
44:00 Geopolitical Challenges and Operations
53:14 Leadership and Mentorship
55:20 High-Performance Training
57:44 Current Endeavors and Reflections
01:02:02 Personal Reflections and Closing Thoughts -
Episodes manquant?
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Today is an amazing Combat Story as we sit down with the legendary retired three star General HR McMaster whose 34 years of service included everything from spearheading the last great tank-on-tank engagement in the famous Battle of 73 Easting to serving as President Trump’s National Security Advisor.
McMaster has been a dream interview for our program for years and it does not disappoint. We cover so much in this episode from exactly what it felt like in the tanks on that fateful day taking on and destroying the Tawalkana Division of the Iraqi Republican Guard in minutes to leading a Cavalry Regiment that successfully and overwhelmingly destroyed Al Qaida in Tal Afar in Iraq in 2006 (it’s an amazing description of combined arms warfare) to chance encounters with world leaders like Henry Kissinger.
We spend some time discussing the General’s most recent book, At War With Ourselves about his time in Trump’s White House. It’s an amazing look inside what the West Wing is really like and the decisions that have to be made and personalities that need to be managed. Fans of this show will love this book.
We get McMaster’s perspective from the Battle of 73 Easting but if you want an even more detailed description of that battle, check out our interview with McMaster’s Platoon Leader Tim Gauthier who was a part of that fight https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O10yS95ak5M
I sincerely hope you enjoy this glimpse into one of our country’s greatest and most selfless leaders as much as I did.
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🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle
Show Notes:
00:00 Introduction
00:42 Introduction to Combat Story
01:01 Interview with General H. R. McMaster Begins
02:34 Discussing Competitiveness and Sports
05:25 McMaster's Military Background and Family Influence
07:02 Love for History and Reading Habits
11:20 Training and Leadership in the Military
23:03 Path to Becoming an Armor Officer
30:15 Preparation for the Battle of 73 Easting
36:22 Frustration and Anticipation on the Battlefield
37:22 Encountering the Enemy: First Skirmishes
38:18 Rain, Fog, and Sandstorm: The Challenges of Movement
39:59 Engaging the Enemy: The Battle Begins
40:49 Tactical Maneuvers and Repairs
42:19 The Heat of Battle: Tank Engagements
49:24 Operation Restoring Rights: A New Challenge
51:23 The Strategy and Execution of Operation Restoring Rights
01:03:19 Reflecting on Leadership and Service
01:13:57 Closing Thoughts and Reflections -
Today we have a fascinating discussion with two CIA legends from the Directorate of Operations: Glenn Corn and Paul Kepp. Both served for over 30 years in the government, most of that with the CIA and both served as Chiefs of Station at some of the most important posts in the world, leading from the frontlines.
Glenn brought Paul on to discuss what’s going on in Africa in terms of Russian and increasing Chinese influence, regional players like Turkey and UAE, and specifically recent flare ups in the Democratic Republic of Congo or DRC with Tutsi militia group M23 taking over Goma.
We cover what that means for the DRC, Rwanda, the people, regional players, global players, and the United States, particularly with a new administration in place.
Please enjoy this deep dive from two legends discussing a topic that both feel deserves our attention globally.
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🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle
Show Notes:
00:00 Introduction 00:48 Geopolitical Importance of Africa 02:58 Russia and China's Influence in Africa 06:17 Current Crisis in the DRC 07:11 Historical Context of the Conflict 09:02 Rwanda's Role and International Interests 16:22 US Administration's Response 24:18 Humanitarian Impact and Future Prospects 27:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts -
Today we hear a Combat Story from our brothers across the pond with a veteran and sniper from the UK’s elite Parachute Regiment or Paras, Hugh Keir. Hugh deployed to Iraq twice, Afghanistan three times, in addition to Northern Ireland and the Falklands.
Hugh survived the infamous siege of Musa Qala (you’ll be fascinated to hear about this experience and it will make you appreciate just how brutal fighting can be at times) where he and his unit were infiled into a brutal fighting position in Afghanistan completely surrounded by the Taliban. He was also recognized with a gallantry award for his actions in Helmand Province in 200 in just one of his several Afghan deployments.
Since leaving the military, Hugh has worked as a Close Protection Officer in the Middle East and in the UK, and is the host of the H-Hour Podcast, a long form conversation hosted with guests that have included politicians, actors, psychologists, UFC fighters, authors, campaigners, veterans, and more.
I hope you enjoy this deep dive from our close partners over in the UK as much as I did.
Check out our Combat Story Newsletter at www.combatstory.com/newsletter
Find Hugh Keir Online:
🔗 Hugh’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/hughkeir
📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/hughkeir
🐦 X: https://x.com/hughkeir
📘 Learn more about Hugh: https://charliecharlieone.com/about-h-hour/
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🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle
Show Notes:
00:00 Introduction
00:28 Introduction to Combat Story
00:47 Meet Hugh Heyer: UK Parachute Regiment Sniper
03:43 Growing Up in Wales
09:17 Joining the Military
26:00 Training Challenges and Selection
33:18 Bloody Sunday and Personal Connections
34:46 Marching Season in Ireland
37:34 Experiences in Iraq
42:40 Sniper Training and Promotion
49:20 First Firefight in Afghanistan
58:08 The Siege of Musa Qala
01:07:31 Facing Ammunition Shortages
01:09:35 Enduring Relentless Attacks
01:11:01 Casualties and Morale
01:15:31 Negotiating with the Taliban
01:16:18 The Unexpected Evacuation
01:18:43 Reflecting on the Siege
01:25:57 Gallantry Award and Strike Operations
01:35:28 Starting the H-Hour Podcast
01:38:39 Sentimental Keepsakes and Final Reflections
01:40:42 Conclusion and Podcast Promotion -
In this special crossover edition of Combat Story and the Mad Minute, we discuss regional issues in the Middle East with 30 year CIA and State Department legend Glenn Corn. We delve into the significant recent developments in the Middle East, focusing on the ceasefire agreements involving Israel, Hamas, and Hezbollah, as well as Lebanon's election of a new president after a prolonged political deadlock.
Israel and Hamas reached a pivotal ceasefire agreement after 15 months of intense conflict. This truce, facilitated by international mediators including U.S. President Joe Biden, President-elect Donald Trump, and Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, aims to end hostilities and initiate the release of hostages and prisoners. The first phase, set to commence on January 19, 2025, includes a six-week truce during which Hamas will release 33 Israeli hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Subsequent phases will address the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and the reconstruction of the region under international supervision.
In Lebanon, the political landscape has undergone a transformative change with the election of army commander Joseph Aoun as president on January 9, 2025, ending a two-year vacancy. Aoun secured 99 votes in the parliamentary session, surpassing the required two-thirds majority. His election is seen as a diminishment of Hezbollah's influence, especially following the recent conflict with Israel and the assassination of veteran leader Hassan Nasrallah. In his victory speech, President Aoun emphasized a new phase for Lebanon, commitment to the ceasefire with Israel, and the establishment of a national security strategy. His presidency is viewed as pivotal for the country's postwar reconstruction efforts and economic recovery.
Join us as we analyze the roles of key figures such as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Hamas' interim political chief Khalil al-Hayya, and Egypt's General Intelligence Director Hassan Rashad in these negotiations. We also explore the implications of these ceasefires and Lebanon's presidential election on the geopolitical landscape, the challenges in implementing the agreements, and the prospects for lasting peace in the region.
Don't miss this comprehensive discussion on the dynamic and evolving situation in Lebanon and Israel, providing insights into the complex interplay of political and military strategies shaping the future of the Middle East.
Check out our Combat Story Newsletter at www.combatstory.com/newsletter
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🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle
Show Notes:
00:00 Introduction
00:22 Lebanon's Political Landscape and Recent Changes
02:22 Hezbollah's Influence and Recent Developments
03:07 Impact of Israeli Actions on Hezbollah
08:40 Lebanese Armed Forces and Hezbollah Relations
10:27 Regional Winners and Losers
14:15 Advice for the New Administration
17:47 Personal Reflections on Lebanon
19:19 Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Agreement
22:10 Focus on Iran and Regional Dynamics
27:08 Global and Regional Concerns
28:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts -
Today is a special edition of Combat Story where former guest and retired Sniper and Force Recon Marine AJ Pascuiti invited us to spend two days with the Marines of 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, some of America’s finest, as they reunited 20 years after the infamous Battle of Fallujah II in November and December 2004.
This episode was designed to be seen on video so feel free to head over to YouTube to watch it here.
Special thanks to AJ for organizing and bringing this together for these Marines from Darkhorse. It’s amazing to think of these men who just walk the streets today with their families like any other American but were once the men we sent into the arguably the hardest fighting of the post-9/11 era to clear rooms and buildings for days on end against a determined enemy.
Thank you to the Marines of 3/5 for what you did in 2004 for the rest of us. Semper Fi.
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Today we have a Combat Story first as we hear firsthand from Rob Peters who spent almost 30 years in the Navy on submarines from the mid-1990s to just this year. Rob served on five different subs and commanded twice. In this episode we cover some of the different types of subs, the training, and the mission sets, to include special operations forces support and delivery, attack parameters, missile launches and more.
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We found Rob thanks to a former guest and forever friend of the show Todd Opalski, the Marine sniper and recon operator invited into Delta. He and Rob met in an unusual way and Todd, a decorated combat leader himself at the highest level, suggested I interview Rob not just for some unique and humorous insights from a life underwater, but also for the leadership experiences and learnings Rob shared with Todd. That’s high praise in my book.
With that, please enjoy this deep dive into the deep ocean of submarines with Rob Peters.
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Find Rob Peters:
Instagram: bubblehead_hikes
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🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle
Show Notes:
00:00 Intro
00:46 Meet Rob Peters: A Navy Submariner
01:48 The Unlikely Meeting of Rob and Todd
02:58 Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail
08:36 Rob's Military Background and Family Influence
10:21 Joining the Navy and Discovering Submarines
15:10 Submarine Training and Challenges
27:23 Understanding Submarine Operations
37:29 Qualification Process for Submarine Officers and Enlisted Personnel
40:09 Roles and Responsibilities on a Submarine
41:13 Watch Rotations and Qualifications
42:17 Submarine Systems and Operations
45:32 Practical Jokes and Hazing on Submarines
47:44 Missile Launch Procedures and Experiences
56:00 Challenges of Operating a Submarine in Rough Seas
01:12:13 Training and Preparation for Submarine Missions
01:22:33 3D Battle Space and Torpedo Mechanics
01:24:46 First Command Experience
01:26:43 The Burden of Command
01:28:49 Lessons from a Near Miss
01:36:45 Funny Mishap Stories
01:44:30 Integrating Women on Submarines
01:53:52 AI and the Future of Submarines
01:57:31 Reflections on a Military Career -
Welcome to a breaking-event interview on the extraordinary and rapidly unfolding developments in Syria, covering late November to the present. In this special episode, we’re joined by retired CIA Senior Intelligence Service Officer and former State Department Diplomat Glenn Corn. This conversation is part of The Mad Minute — Glenn’s series delivering sharp geopolitical analysis and expert interviews on critical global issues.
Glenn brings unmatched expertise to this discussion, with over three decades of service in the US government, including assignments in Turkey, Russia, and extensive work on Middle Eastern affairs and counterterrorism. If you're curious about Glenn's remarkable career, we previously explored his experiences in both the CIA and State Department on Combat Story.
In today’s episode, we dive into the key events leading to Assad’s departure from Damascus, the swift advances of HTS and SDF forces toward the capital, the broader implications for regional players, and what strategic moves the US should consider next.
Now, let’s get into this essential analysis with Glenn Corn.
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🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle
Show Notes:
00:00 Introduction to the Breaking Event
01:16 Timeline of Recent Events in Syria
02:57 Key Players and Their Roles
03:52 Russia's Strategic Moves
04:44 Understanding Hayat Tahrir al Sham (HTS)
07:17 Demographics and Historical Context
08:55 Implications for Regional Stability
13:10 Potential U.S. Strategies
17:59 Challenges and Opportunities
25:58 Global Interconnections and Final Thoughts -
Today we have a fantastic Combat Story with former Navy SEAL Officer Rob Sarver. Rob had more fun than most on his path to becoming a SEAL, originally with a detour as a surface warfare officer that he very skillfully managed to curtail, and leveraged a really interesting network to get a shot at the Teams.
This episode is chalked full of both great stories from down range but also really practical explanations for getting ahead and succeeding, much of which has made it into his book, Warrior to Civilian: The Field Manual for the Hero’s Journey.
In this episode, Rob covers some amazing stories of ingenuity in combat like using innertubes to float quietly on an assault to using copper wire to make two different radio sets compatible for field use. And despite Rob’s obvious successes from attending the Naval Academy to his time in the Teams and then graduating from Wharton and working in Private Equity, he also hits on the tougher moments, covering tough topics of loss, fear, and desperation, including losing someone on day one of a deployment. Don’t worry, though, there are plenty of laughs and hilarious anecdotes like the story behind the phrase ‘moderation is for cowards’.
With that, please enjoy this Combat Story with Rob Sarver.
Check out our Combat Story Newsletter at www.combatstory.com/newsletter
Find Rob Sarver Online:
Warrior to Civilian: The Field Manual for the Hero’s Journey (Link: Hachette Books: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/robert-sarver/warrior-to-civilian/9781538769966/
Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Warrior-Civilian-Field-Manual-Journey/dp/1538769964)
Author Site - https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/contributor/robert-sarver/
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🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle
Show Notes:
00:00 Intro
00:44 Introduction to Combat Story
01:03 Meet Rob Sarver: Navy SEAL Officer
01:37 Rob's Journey to Becoming a SEAL
02:19 The Book: Warrior to Civilian
03:54 Rob's Military Background and Early Life
09:31 High School Adventures and Military Aspirations
14:06 Academy Life and Challenges
15:25 Path to the SEAL Teams
22:49 First Deployment Experiences
29:18 BUD/S Training and Beyond
35:16 Reflecting on Early Military Experiences
36:22 First Mission and Initial Challenges
36:56 Language School and Unexpected Adventures
38:41 Deployment Stories and Combat Encounters
41:19 Leadership and Team Dynamics
42:33 Loss and Resilience
44:43 Bronze Star with Valor: The Story Behind the Honor
48:53 Creative Tactics and Overcoming Obstacles
01:01:14 Transitioning to Civilian Life
01:01:42 Writing the Book: Purpose and Process
01:09:19 Seeking Help and Finding Balance
01:12:57 Memories and Reflections
01:14:25 Conclusion and Final Thoughts -
On today’s episode we sit down for round two with Darrell Utt in an episode that is chalked full of combat experiences from his time in 2006 in Iraq and then some stories from his time in 2007 which, one day, will hopefully be a sequel to his book that’s coming out shortly: Grit to Glory.
If you didn’t catch round one last week, Darrell grew up in a really tough home where he stopped his mother from shooting his father at one point and vividly remembered watching his mother walk out of the home for the last time. He found his way to the Army and became a Green Beret, serving in a host of different places but was able to serve as a Team Sergeant for the first time in 2006 taking a fairly junior team into Iraq.
We left off at the very beginning of 2006 where he had just relieved one member of his team on arrival and was almost relieved himself, given a second chance by the commander. Their first successful mission is nothing short of amazing and made for the big screen so sit back and relax as you hear some amazing Combat Stories!
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Find Darrell Online:
@darrell.utt on Instagram
darrell-utt on LinkedIN
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📘 Facebook: @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial
📖 Learn more about Ryan: https://www.combatstory.com/aboutus
🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle
Show Notes:
00:00 Intro
00:55 Introduction to Combat Story
01:15 Meet Daryl Utt: Green Beret and Master Sergeant
03:28 First Combat Mission: A Significant Capture
04:24 The Honey Trap Operation
15:34 Executing the Plan: Daylight Hit
28:34 Morgue Day: A Heart-Wrenching Experience
44:03 The Day Everything Changed
45:00 Dustwind: A Soldier's Worst Nightmare
46:23 The Al Qaeda Rat Nest
57:16 A Mission Denied
01:12:28 The Grit Code: Principles for Life
01:15:33 Courage is Contagious
01:22:08 Book Release and Future Plans -
Today we have round one of a fantastic two-part Combat Story with a former guest: Darrell Utt, a long time Green Beret and retired Master Sergeant.
Darrell just finished writing a book (Grit to Glory) going into great detail about one deployment when he was a Team Sergeant with ODA 043 in 2006 to Iraq that includes all the highs and lows of leading a team of elite Green Berets.
We met with Darrell two years ago for an episode (#74) watched by over a 100K+ people and this time around we get into more of the moments, experiences, and emotion in some of the fighting that Darrell has unearthed while writing the book.
If you pre-order his book before Veterans Day (2024), you get a signed copy of the book and one of the coolest challenge coins you’ll find. Pre-order the book at ballastbooks.com/purchase/grit-to-glory/. You can find Darrell on the socials at darrell.utt on Instagram or darrell-utt on LinkedIN.
If you haven’t seen the first episode, don’t worry, you’ll get all the context you need in this one to be up and running and I’m sure you’re going to enjoy his very real, raw, and down to earth storytelling as much as I did.
Darrell on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/darrell.utt/?hl=en
00:00 Intro
00:35 Darrell Utt Bio
03:09 Writing the Book: Challenges and Inspirations
10:12 Morgue Day: A Haunting Memory
19:26 Growing Up: Building Grit and Resilience
21:15 Family Struggles and Finding Strength
32:44 Military Path: From Humble Beginnings to Special Forces
44:53 The First Marine in the Family
45:16 Mentorship and Military Service
45:48 Challenges in Joining the Marine Corps
47:48 Receiving the Green Beret
50:28 Reconnecting with Influential Figures
54:08 Operation Ugly Baby: The Initial Invasion
01:06:05 Cultural Encounters and EPW Camp
01:18:03 Navigating Mosul and Military Strategy
01:26:13 Strategic Reflections and Military Planning
01:27:18 Looted Infrastructure and Insurgency
01:29:04 Early Signs of Trouble in Iraq
01:31:11 The Ba'ath Party Dilemma
01:33:22 WMDs and Misconceptions
01:35:27 2006: A New Team and Mission
01:47:20 Challenges and Leadership Decisions
02:03:57 Owning Up and Moving Forward
02:07:44 Conclusion and Upcoming Content
#usarmy #veterans #combat #specialforces
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Today we have our second account of the brutal fighting within the Arghandab Valley in Afghanistan from Will Yeske, a former 82nd Airborne RTO at the time. Will went on to write the book Damn the Valley: 1st Platoon, Bravo Company, 2/508 PIR, 82nd Airborne in the Arghandab River Valley Afghanistan.
Will recounts his experiences fighting and surviving in this brutal location in Afghanistan which takes place at the same time (and just across the river) from the same experience faced by our former guest Andrew Bragg who was in Charlie Company. The IEDs, the suicide bombs, and more come to life in both this interview and the book.
Since leaving the service Will has gone on to write two books and, despite initially dropping out of college, now has an Ivy League degree. When many other kids in their mid-20s were partying and living it up, he elected to serve and, one year later, found himself fighting for his life. I’m sure you’re going to enjoy the multiple combat experience Will shares with us in this episode and, if you’re like me, will be getting your own copy of the book.
Check out our Combat Story Newsletter at www.combatstory.com/newsletter
Find William Yeske Online:
Book https: https://www.amazon.com/Damn-Valley-Airborne-Arghandab-Afghanistan/dp/1636243657
@damnthevalley on social
William Yeske on LinkedIN
Find Ryan Online:
🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:
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📘 Facebook: @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial
📖 Learn more about Ryan: https://www.combatstory.com/aboutus
🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle
Show Notes:
00:00 Intro
00:28 Introduction to Combat Story
00:47 Will Yeske's Background and Book
02:09 Connecting with Andrew Bragg
02:42 Experiences in the Argandab Valley
04:10 Writing and Sharing War Stories
06:35 Memorable Artifacts and Stories
08:55 The Brutality of the Argandab Valley
15:03 Joining the Military: Will's Journey
26:42 First Combat Experience
39:56 Mission Overview and Initial Challenges
40:29 Controversies and Unpublished Accounts
41:26 Hard Moments in Argandob
42:23 IED Incidents and Minefields
49:27 Command Changes and Midtour Leave
01:00:26 Courage and Bravery in Combat
01:03:59 Writing the Book: Challenges and Reflections
01:08:03 Sentimental Items and Lucky Charms
01:10:27 Final Thoughts and Future Projects -
Today we hear a Combat Story from Marine Officer and US Army Special Operations Command (or USASOC) leader Varpas de Sa Pereira (de SA Pur-rare-a). His book Warrior Withdrawal: When BAMF No Longer Means Bad*$$ M^ther#u@!er is a great read for anyone trying to understand why so many of veterans - myself included - face challenges transitioning out of the military outside of just PTSD.
Varpas faced combat many times, deploying time and again with a variety of units in search of some "thing" he was missing. He was finally fully engrossed in the ‘system’ and had trouble pulling himself out of it. After 15 years of service, including time in USASOC at the tip of the spear, he finally retired and went back to school to study clinical psychology, where he realized what he had experienced was not abnormal. Many veterans, for whom being a warrior is ingrained in their psyche, struggle to adapt to life outside the military, often leading them to mental health challenges. Varpas coined this as Warrior Withdrawal Syndrome and now works as a psychotherapist to help veterans facing difficulties in their newfound lives.
In this episode we talk through several of his combat experiences in Iraq and some really challenging experiences that officers often face in making life and death decisions in very ambiguous environments.
He is currently a staff psychologist at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), where he provides mental health care to veterans and their families. You can get his book Warrior Withdrawal on Amazon. With that, please enjoy this unique interview with Varpas.
Check out our Combat Story Newsletter at www.combatstory.com/newsletter
Find Varpas Online:
Instagram, LinkediN, X : @drvarpas
Find Ryan Online:
🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:
🔗 Ryan’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/combatstory
🛒 Merch Store: https://www.bonfire.com/store/combatstory/
📸 Instagram: @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory
📘 Facebook: @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial
📖 Learn more about Ryan: https://www.combatstory.com/aboutus
🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle
Show Notes:
00:00 Intro
00:49 Introduction to Combat Story
01:08 Meet Varpus Desaparara
01:56 Warrior Withdrawal: Understanding Veteran Challenges
02:40 Varpus' Unique Background
02:59 The Meaning Behind the Name Varpus
04:45 Family History and Military Service
07:45 The Concept of 'Left of Boom'
09:38 The Transition from Military to Civilian Life
15:30 The Making of a Marine Officer
18:16 First Deployment Experiences
28:00 General's Aide and Beyond
37:13 Reflecting on Regret and Mental Health
38:38 Memorable Events from the First Deployment
40:35 Taking Initiative and Facing Challenges
41:47 Combat Realities and Leadership Decisions
43:28 Navigating Friendly Fire and Tactical Decisions
48:32 Moral Dilemmas and Command Conflicts
55:44 Career Progression and Special Ops Aspirations
01:06:31 Leadership Reflections and Personal Growth
01:12:25 Leadership Challenges in Fallujah
01:14:01 IED Strikes and Quick Reaction Force
01:16:03 Engaging the Enemy and Emotional Toll
01:24:47 Transitioning to Regiment and Family Sacrifices
01:29:07 Special Operations and Missed Opportunities
01:33:42 Warrior Withdrawal and Psychological Impact
01:45:38 Reflections and Moving Forward
01:50:37 Conclusion and Final Thoughts -
On today’s Combat Story we have a deep dive into intense fighting that took place in Afghanistan in the treacherous Arghandab River Valley with Andrew Bragg, a former Army infantryman who served back to back tours to two distinct places in Afghanistan, both with plenty of kinetic activity.
Andrew’s book The Devil’s Playground is about one of his deployments with the 82nd Airborne to the Arghandab River Valley where his unit experienced 50% casualties, including 6 KIA. Andrew traveled the country in his car to interview members of his unit from 12 years prior, many of whom had not seen each other since. Their common bond was the impact that the Valley had on each of them.
I think you’re going to really enjoy this recounting of some incredibly challenging fighting experienced by just one of several units to survive the ‘Dab with Andrew Bragg.
Check out our Combat Story Newsletter at www.combatstory.com/newsletter
Find Andrew Bragg Online:
Book The Devil's Playground: The Story of Two Charlie and The Arghandab River Valley https://www.amazon.com/Devils-Playground-Charlie-Arghandab-Valley/dp/1636244718
Find Ryan Online:
🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:
🔗 Ryan’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/combatstory
🛒 Merch Store: https://www.bonfire.com/store/combatstory/
📸 Instagram: @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory
📘 Facebook: @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial
📖 Learn more about Ryan: https://www.combatstory.com/aboutus
🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle
Show Notes:
00:00 Intro
00:30 Introduction to Combat Story
00:49 Meet Andrew Bragg
02:06 The Devil's Playground
02:59 Andrew's Journey to Reunite with His Unit
04:16 The Heavy Toll of Combat
04:57 Andrew's Early Life and Military Beginnings
05:45 First Deployment with the 173rd
06:35 The Impact of 9/11
07:14 Writing the Book: A Collective Effort
07:38 Reuniting with Fellow Soldiers
12:50 The Argandab River Valley Deployment
14:34 The Harsh Realities of War
22:12 The Aftermath of Combat
32:40 A New AO: The Argandab River Valley
41:08 Arrival During Hibernation
42:09 Learning the Terrain and Locals
43:07 The Return of Conflict
43:49 Escalation and IED Threats
45:30 Close Calls and Ambushes
48:47 Operation: Loveless Shot in the Face
54:29 The Valley's Grip
59:05 Reflections and Reunions
01:11:08 The Healing Process
01:20:15 Final Thoughts and Book Release
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Today we have our first Combat Story from a Swedish Special Operations soldier and intelligence professional, Max Lauker. Max spent 20 years in the elite Swedish forces and was a plank holder for one of the predecessor units to what later became Sweden’s Special Operations Group.
Check out our Combat Story Newsletter at www.combatstory.com/newsletter.
He served multiple deployments that we cover in this episode in what I’ve coined as four missions and a funeral to dig into more of the combat experiences and lessons while also touching on loss that comes with this line of work.
Max takes us through time fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan, solo and team deployments to Latin America, doing full cycle cross-border reconnaissance missions in the Balkans, to lonely and frankly frightening intel work in Eastern Europe and Russia. This is just a bit of the action that Max writes about in his upcoming book that he co-wrote with Antonio Garcia titled ‘Number 788: My experiences in Swedish Special Operations - preparing for NATO and the War on Terror.’
I think you’re really going to enjoy this chat with our first Swede on this show, Max Lauker.
Find Max Lauker Online:
https://www.amazon.com/Number-788-experiences-Operations-preparing/dp/1804514233
Find Ryan Online:
🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:🔗 Ryan’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/combatstory
🛒 Merch Store: https://www.bonfire.com/store/combatstory/
📸 Instagram: @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory
📘 Facebook: @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial
📖 Learn more about Ryan: https://www.combatstory.com/aboutus
🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle
Show Notes:
00:00 Introduction
00:36 Welcome to Combat Story
00:56 Meet Max Lauker: Swedish Special Operations
03:53 Growing Up in Sweden and Military Service
06:48 Choosing the Ranger Path
08:06 Swedish Special Operations Community
11:20 Joining the Arctic Rangers
15:34 Selection Process for Special Purpose Units
22:41 First Deployment: Latin America
29:16 Unexpected Mission in Venezuela
33:38 Team Deployment in Colombia
38:09 Official Mission in Kosovo
40:01 The Full Circle Mission in Kosovo
41:19 Reconnaissance and Surveillance Operations
44:22 Cross-Border Tensions and Discoveries
47:30 Reflections on the Kosovo Mission
49:22 Transition to Iraq: A Dangerous Deployment
52:50 Afghanistan: Intel and Direct Action
57:26 Lonely Intel Work in Eastern Europe
01:10:54 The Challenges of Counterintelligence
01:15:27 Writing the Book: A New Mission
01:20:06 Final Thoughts and Reflections -
Today on Combat Story we have our second interview with 32 year veteran and retired Special Forces Sergeant Major Randy Surles, who entered the Army in 1987 and retired in 2019. In round one we covered Randy’s jump into Panama where he broke his leg and had to crawl for seven hours to safety, his transition into Special Forces from the Ranger Regiment, and attending Lancero school in Colombia, which you can think of as a more dangerous Ranger School (entirely in Spanish!).
Check out our Combat Story Newsletter at www.combatstory.com/newsletter
In this episode, we dive into his time leading Green Berets in the post-9/11 era in Afghanistan where he saw mulitple combat deployments. Randy now helps veterans write their own memoirs as a ghostwriter with the aptly titled website The Military Editor. With that, please enjoy our second interview with Randy Surles.
Find Randall Surles Online:
https://militaryeditor.com/
https://thestoryninjas.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/randall-surles-military-editor-mfa-creative-writing-5bbbbb66/?trk=public_post_main-feed-card_reshare-text
Find Ryan Online:
🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:
🔗 Ryan’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/combatstory
🛒 Merch Store: https://www.bonfire.com/store/combatstory/
📸 Instagram: @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory
📘 Facebook: @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial
📖 Learn more about Ryan: https://www.combatstory.com/aboutus
🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle
Show Notes:
00:00 Intro
00:34 Introduction to Combat Story
00:53 Randy Searles' Military Journey
01:49 Lancero School Challenges
02:38 Jungle Survival Training
12:10 Mission in South America
17:34 Early Deployment to Afghanistan
41:19 Adapting to New Equipment and Strategies
42:16 Unexpected Challenges and Base Management
44:56 IED Encounters and Tactical Adjustments
49:20 Leadership and Tactical Raids
54:30 Hostage Rescue in Colombia
01:10:51 Military Editor and Skill Bridge Program
01:19:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts -
Today on Combat Story we have our first of two interviews with 32 year veteran and retired Special Forces Sergeant Major Randy Surles, who entered the Army in 1987 and retired in 2019. Randy saw combat early on in Operation Just Cause as a Ranger and then again for several rotations post-9/11.
Check out our Combat Story Newsletter at www.combatstory.com/newsletter.
In this episode, we cover Randy’s experience in Panama and attending Lancero training in Colombia which you can think of as something like Ranger school without any safety nets!
In round two, we dive into his time leading Green Berets in the post-9/11 era. Randy now helps veterans write their own memoirs as a ghostwriter with the aptly titled website the military editor. With that, please enjoy our first interview with Randy Surles.
Find Randall Surles Online:
https://militaryeditor.com/ https://thestoryninjas.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/randall-surles-military-editor-mfa-creative-writing-5bbbbb66/?trk=public_post_main-feed-card_reshare-text🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:
🔗 Ryan’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/combatstory 🛒 Merch Store: https://www.bonfire.com/store/combatstory/ 📸 Instagram: @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory 📘 Facebook: @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial 📖 Learn more about Ryan: https://www.combatstory.com/aboutus 🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio JungleShow Notes:
00:00 Intro
00:29 Introduction to Combat Story
00:48 Meet Randy Searles: Special Forces Veteran
01:21 Randy's Transition to Ghostwriting
11:36 Randy's Early Life and Military Aspirations
12:13 Evacuation from Iran
20:00 Joining the Military
25:17 Ranger Training and Sniper School
29:35 Life in the Barracks
31:01 Ranger School Challenges
35:37 Operation Just Cause
44:23 Injury and Recovery
52:32 Transition to Green Beret
01:03:44 Struggles with Weapon Assembly
01:05:14 Facing the Q Course Challenges
01:06:12 Mastering Mortars and Anti-Aircraft
01:06:52 Language Course and Deployment
01:07:11 Unexpected Armor Duties
01:10:08 Volunteering for Lancero School
01:20:38 Surviving Lancero School
01:32:04 Combat Stories and Future Plans
01:33:04 Listener Feedback and Closing Remarks -
In this episode of Combat Story, we hear from Beth Sanner, a former senior CIA analyst and President's Daily Brief (PDB) briefer to President Trump. Beth previously served as the Deputy Director of National Intelligence for Mission Integration, the Director of the PDB and as Vice Chair of the National Intelligence Council.
Check out our Combat Story Newsletter at www.combatstory.com/newsletter
Beth also held several senior leadership positions in the CIA’s Directorate of Analysis, including leading the analytic effort on South Asia and serving as the deputy for analysis for Russian and European affairs. In this episode, we cover her time as a briefer to Trump, her stint with the NSC, her position at CIA covering Russia and Eurasia shortly after the fall of the Soviet Union, and leading the Career Analyst Program (the training program for all CIA analysts).
The PDB Briefer is a prestigious position and not a political appointee. We also interviewed former military analyst and PDB Briefer to President Obama Michelle DiGruttolo if you’re interested in hearing her perspective as well.
With that, I hope you enjoy this fascinating inside look at the upper echelons of the analytic side of the CIA as much as I did.
Find Ryan online:
🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:
🔗 Ryan’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/combatstory
🛒 Merch Store: https://www.bonfire.com/store/combatstory/
📸 Instagram: @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory
📘 Facebook: @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial
📖 Learn more about Ryan: https://www.combatstory.com/aboutus
🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle
Show Notes:
00:00 Introduction and Host Background
00:57 Guest Introduction: Beth Sanner
02:18 Beth's Career and Analytical Process
05:49 Consultancy and Expertise
09:41 Early Life and Influences
13:51 Career Path and Key Positions
32:15 Mentorship and Leadership
38:05 Logistics and Program Growth Challenges
39:13 The Role of Note Takers in High-Stakes Calls
41:17 Experiences Aboard Air Force One
43:04 Becoming a Presidential Daily Briefer
53:36 Building Trust with the President
55:47 Handling Personal and Professional Challenges
01:00:01 The Human Side of Intelligence Work
01:11:36 Reflections and Final Thoughts -
Today we have round two of our incredible Combat Story with John Dailey, the former Marine Force Recon operator who was one of the very few selected to help stand up what was known as ”Detachment One,” which would lead to the creation of the Marine Forces Special Operations Command (MARSOC) that we know today.
Check out our Combat Story Newsletter at www.combatstory.com/newsletter.
If you missed Round 1, John grew up on the east coast hunting and shooting and, in the ninth grade, visited a Marine recruiter who took him under his wing until it was time to enlist. He went straight into a sniper unit and then served as a Marine Security Guard at Embassies in Hungary and Argentina before joining Force Recon. On 9/11, John was in a bar in Australia with a Marine Expeditionary Unit when he saw the towers come down. He and his Force Recon unit were sent directly to Afghanistan where they took the fight to the Taliban months after the attacks.
This second round interview picks up after John returns from this first deployment and sets the ground for his book that will be released in August 2024, aptly titled ‘Tough Rugged Bastards: A Memoir of a Life in Marine Special Operations’ that describes both John’s experiences and the beginning of MARSOC from his perspective on the ground. I hope you enjoy this experience of combat and the weight of the Marine Corps on the shoulders of a small group of men like John, as much as I did.
Find John Dailey Online:
https://www.amazon.com/Tough-Rugged-Bastards-Special-Operations/dp/163758735X
Find Ryan Online:
🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:
🔗 Ryan’s Linktree: https://linktr.ee/combatstory
🛒 Merch Store: https://www.bonfire.com/store/combatstory/
📸 Instagram: @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory
📘 Facebook: @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial
📖 Learn more about Ryan: https://www.combatstory.com/aboutus
🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle
Show Notes:00:00 Dramatic Baghdad Arrival
00:48 Introduction to Combat Story
01:07 Meet John Daly: Marine Force Recon Operator
01:21 John Daly's Early Career and 9/11 Experience
05:26 Training the Next Generation of Marines
07:46 Forming Detachment 1: The Birth of MARSOC
10:22 First Deployment Challenges and Intel Operations
17:27 Hunting High-Value Targets in Iraq
30:45 Guarding the Vice President
31:32 Interrogation and Intelligence Gathering
34:43 The Final Mission
38:42 Reflections on Service
41:39 Writing the Memoir
48:04 The Sniper Story
57:03 Sentimental Keepsakes and Final Thoughts
59:36 Conclusion and Listener Comments - Montre plus
