JJ Leonard

JJ Leonard was born in Dallas, Texas in 1972. JJ received a nomination to the US Naval Academy in 1991, and began his college career there on Induction Day. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1995. He then served as an intelligence officer in the US Marine Corps for five years, specializing in aviation intelligence and strategic targeting. Currently, J.J. is the managing director of the Dallas division at Stream Realty Partners and has more than 18 years of commercial real estate experience. J.J. serves on Carry The Load’s Operation Committee and lives in the Dallas area.Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsorsShop 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 &amp; Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com)Photo Credit: JJ Leonard

JJ Leonard was born in Dallas, Texas in 1972. JJ received a nomination to the US Naval Academy in 1991, and began his college career there on Induction Day. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1995. He then served as an intelligence officer in the US Marine Corps for five years, specializing in aviation intelligence and strategic targeting. Currently, J.J. is the managing director of the Dallas division at Stream Realty Partners and has more than 18 years of commercial real estate experience. J.J. serves on Carry The Load’s Operation Committee and lives in the Dallas area. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at <a href="http://www.hazardground.com/sponsors" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com/sponsors</a> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/?&amp;_encoding=UTF8&amp;tag=hazardground-20&amp;linkCode=ur2&amp;linkId=e29606c6beec65385120ec7be74942c2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Shop Amazon</a>! 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 <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hazard-ground/id1194875626" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Apple Podcasts</a>! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence &amp; Light” (<a href="http://www.silenceandlightmusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.silenceandlightmusic.com</a>) Photo Credit: JJ Leonard

Ep. 334 - JJ Leonard (U.S. Marines / Carry The Load)

Pamela Zembiec

Douglas Zembiec

Pamela Zembiec is the Gold Star Spouse of Major Douglas Zembiec, a.k.a. “The Lion of Fallujah.” Major Zembiec served in “the Ground Branch of the CIA's Special Activities Division in Iraq when he was killed by small arms fire while leading a raid in Sadr City, a neighborhood of Baghdad, on May 11, 2007. Zembiec was leading a unit of Iraqi forces he had helped train. Reports from fellow service members that were present when he was killed indicate that he had warned his troops to get down before doing so himself and was hit by enemy fire. The initial radio report indicated "five wounded and one martyred" with Zembiec having been killed and his men saved by his warning. He was posthumously awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart for his actions that day.Pamela's first book, 'Selfless Beyond Service, A Story about the Husband, Son, and Father Behind the Lion of Fallujah', is a brutally honest account of her journey through her life, love, and loss with Major Zembiec. This book has since been adapted into a screenplay for development into a major motion picture. She is working on her second book, 'The Shattering, Why We Still Suffer Years After Their Death'.Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsorsShop 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 &amp; Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com)Photo Credit: Pamela Zembiec

Pamela Zembiec is the Gold Star Spouse of Major Douglas Zembiec, a.k.a. “The Lion of Fallujah.” Major Zembiec served in “the Ground Branch of the CIA's Special Activities Division in Iraq when he was killed by small arms fire while leading a raid in Sadr City, a neighborhood of Baghdad, on May 11, 2007. Zembiec was leading a unit of Iraqi forces he had helped train. Reports from fellow service members that were present when he was killed indicate that he had warned his troops to get down before doing so himself and was hit by enemy fire. The initial radio report indicated "five wounded and one martyred" with Zembiec having been killed and his men saved by his warning. He was posthumously awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart for his actions that day.Pamela's first book, 'Selfless Beyond Service, A Story about the Husband, Son, and Father Behind the Lion of Fallujah', is a brutally honest account of her journey through her life, love, and loss with Major Zembiec. This book has since been adapted into a screenplay for development into a major motion picture. She is working on her second book, 'The Shattering, Why We Still Suffer Years After Their Death'. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at <a href="http://www.hazardground.com/sponsors" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com/sponsors</a> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/?&amp;_encoding=UTF8&amp;tag=hazardground-20&amp;linkCode=ur2&amp;linkId=e29606c6beec65385120ec7be74942c2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Shop Amazon</a>! 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 <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hazard-ground/id1194875626" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Apple Podcasts</a>! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence &amp; Light” (<a href="http://www.silenceandlightmusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.silenceandlightmusic.com</a>) Photo Credit: Pamela Zembiec

Ep. 333 - Pamela Zembiec (Gold Star Spouse / Major Douglas Zembiec)

Ed Murphy

Barclay Murphy

This week's guest is Barclay Murphy, the wife of late Army Major, Ed Murphy. Ed spent 16 years in the U.S. Army; his last assignment was in Afghanistan in 2005. He was killed in a helicopter accident on April 6th, 2005. Since her husband's passing, Barclay has worked extensively with The Gold Star Wives of America to change laws that were written many years ago for survivors' benefits and spouses' benefits after their spouse was killed in combat. Barclay sits down with Mark to share Ed's story and her story, and the sacrifice of her family.Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsorsShop 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 &amp; Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com)Photo Credit: Barclay Murphy

This week's guest is Barclay Murphy, the wife of late Army Major, Ed Murphy. Ed spent 16 years in the U.S. Army; his last assignment was in Afghanistan in 2005. He was killed in a helicopter accident on April 6th, 2005. Since her husband's passing, Barclay has worked extensively with The Gold Star Wives of America to change laws that were written many years ago for survivors' benefits and spouses' benefits after their spouse was killed in combat. Barclay sits down with Mark to share Ed's story and her story, and the sacrifice of her family. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at <a href="http://www.hazardground.com/sponsors" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com/sponsors</a> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/?&amp;_encoding=UTF8&amp;tag=hazardground-20&amp;linkCode=ur2&amp;linkId=e29606c6beec65385120ec7be74942c2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Shop Amazon</a>! 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 <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hazard-ground/id1194875626" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Apple Podcasts</a>! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence &amp; Light” (<a href="http://www.silenceandlightmusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.silenceandlightmusic.com</a>) Photo Credit: Barclay Murphy

Ep. 332 - Barclay Murphy (Wife of Late Army Major, Ed Murphy)

Pete Strzok

Peter Strzok spent four years on active duty in the US Army’s 101st Airborne Division. Peter served in the FBI from 1996 to 2018, rising to the deputy of its Counterintelligence Division. During his career, Mr. Strzok worked around the world against national security threats. He is the New York Times bestselling author of Compromised: Counterintelligence and the Threat of Donald J Trump, and co-host of the Cleanup On Aisle 45 podcast. Strzok is an adjunct professor at Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service, from which he holds master’s and bachelor’s degrees in international affairs.Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsorsShop 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 &amp; Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com)Photo Credit: Pete Strzok

Peter Strzok spent four years on active duty in the US Army’s 101st Airborne Division. Peter served in the FBI from 1996 to 2018, rising to the deputy of its Counterintelligence Division. During his career, Mr. Strzok worked around the world against national security threats. He is the New York Times bestselling author of Compromised: Counterintelligence and the Threat of Donald J Trump, and co-host of the Cleanup On Aisle 45 podcast. Strzok is an adjunct professor at Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service, from which he holds master’s and bachelor’s degrees in international affairs. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at <a href="http://www.hazardground.com/sponsors" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com/sponsors</a> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/?&amp;_encoding=UTF8&amp;tag=hazardground-20&amp;linkCode=ur2&amp;linkId=e29606c6beec65385120ec7be74942c2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Shop Amazon</a>! 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 <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hazard-ground/id1194875626" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Apple Podcasts</a>! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence &amp; Light” (<a href="http://www.silenceandlightmusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.silenceandlightmusic.com</a>) Photo Credit: Pete Strzok

Ep. 331 - Pete Strzok (U.S. Army / NY Times Best-Selling Author)

Chris Irwin

Chris Irwin is a retired Navy SEAL Commander who suffered from severe mental and physical chronic illness after his time in the military. Through an extensive journey of self-discovery, he overcame these conditions and now teaches mind fitness through his brand, RARE SENSE. He publishes content through Substack, including weekly training, monthly articles, and podcast episodes. His work is changing the paradigm and stigma around mental health and human performance. Chris is also a singer/songwriter whose original works include the score and song “Sacrifice” from the film Murph: The Protector about Navy SEAL and Medal of Honor recipient Michael Murphy. Both made the shortlist for the 86th (2013) Annual Academy Awards in the categories of “Best Original Score” and “Best Original Song,” respectively.https://www.navysealfoundation.org/Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsorsShop 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 &amp; Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com)Photo Credit: Chris Irwin

Chris Irwin is a retired Navy SEAL Commander who suffered from severe mental and physical chronic illness after his time in the military. Through an extensive journey of self-discovery, he overcame these conditions and now teaches mind fitness through his brand, RARE SENSE. He publishes content through Substack, including weekly training, monthly articles, and podcast episodes. His work is changing the paradigm and stigma around mental health and human performance. Chris is also a singer/songwriter whose original works include the score and song “Sacrifice” from the film Murph: The Protector about Navy SEAL and Medal of Honor recipient Michael Murphy. Both made the shortlist for the 86th (2013) Annual Academy Awards in the categories of “Best Original Score” and “Best Original Song,” respectively. <a href="https://www.navysealfoundation.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.navysealfoundation.org/</a> Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at <a href="http://www.hazardground.com/sponsors" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com/sponsors</a> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/?&amp;_encoding=UTF8&amp;tag=hazardground-20&amp;linkCode=ur2&amp;linkId=e29606c6beec65385120ec7be74942c2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Shop Amazon</a>! 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 <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hazard-ground/id1194875626" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Apple Podcasts</a>! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence &amp; Light” (<a href="http://www.silenceandlightmusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.silenceandlightmusic.com</a>) Photo Credit: Chris Irwin

Ep. 330 - Chris Irwin (U.S. Navy SEAL / Navy SEAL Foundation)

Matt Payne

Matt Payne spent over 9 years in the United States Air Force as a Combat Controller and is now the Founder of Inner Circle Solutions. He is a Global Leader with 30 years of experience identifying and managing security risks for Fortune 500 companies. Matt is keenly interested in emerging trends in the corporate sector and seeks to find and implement innovative processes, controls, and tools to help reduce risk for companies. Career highlights include being a retired USAF 24th Special Tactics Squadron (Joint Special Operations Command) Combat Controller, Retired Chief Humane Law Enforcement Officer, and Former Chief Security Officer (financial, technology, entertainment, and engineering).https://1innercircle.com/Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsorsShop 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 &amp; Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com)Photo Credit: Matt Payne

Matt Payne spent over 9 years in the United States Air Force as a Combat Controller and is now the Founder of Inner Circle Solutions. He is a Global Leader with 30 years of experience identifying and managing security risks for Fortune 500 companies. Matt is keenly interested in emerging trends in the corporate sector and seeks to find and implement innovative processes, controls, and tools to help reduce risk for companies. Career highlights include being a retired USAF 24th Special Tactics Squadron (Joint Special Operations Command) Combat Controller, Retired Chief Humane Law Enforcement Officer, and Former Chief Security Officer (financial, technology, entertainment, and engineering). <a href="https://1innercircle.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://1innercircle.com/</a> Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at <a href="http://www.hazardground.com/sponsors" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com/sponsors</a> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/?&amp;_encoding=UTF8&amp;tag=hazardground-20&amp;linkCode=ur2&amp;linkId=e29606c6beec65385120ec7be74942c2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Shop Amazon</a>! 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 <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hazard-ground/id1194875626" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Apple Podcasts</a>! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence &amp; Light” (<a href="http://www.silenceandlightmusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.silenceandlightmusic.com</a>) Photo Credit: Matt Payne

Ep. 329 - Matt Payne (U.S. Air Force / Founder, Inner Circle Solutions)

Darrell Utt

After graduating high school in 1990, Darrell Utt joined the U.S. Army. During his service, Darrell was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with 'Valor' for heroic actions and leadership during combat operations in Baghdad, Iraq in 2006. He was also awarded four Bronze Star Medals for achievement and service in Iraq. As a Special Forces Team Sergeant, his Operational Detachment Alpha was recognized and awarded the 2006 Larry Thorne Award for best Operational Detachment in 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne). Master Sergeant Darrell Utt retired from the U.S. Army Special Forces in January of 2017. In February 2022, the President and CEO of the National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation selected Darrell Utt to be the Chief of Business Operations.https://mohmuseum.org/Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsorsShop 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 &amp; Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com)Photo Credit: Darrell Utt

After graduating high school in 1990, Darrell Utt joined the U.S. Army. During his service, Darrell was awarded the Bronze Star Medal with 'Valor' for heroic actions and leadership during combat operations in Baghdad, Iraq in 2006. He was also awarded four Bronze Star Medals for achievement and service in Iraq. As a Special Forces Team Sergeant, his Operational Detachment Alpha was recognized and awarded the 2006 Larry Thorne Award for best Operational Detachment in 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne). Master Sergeant Darrell Utt retired from the U.S. Army Special Forces in January of 2017. In February 2022, the President and CEO of the National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation selected Darrell Utt to be the Chief of Business Operations. <a href="https://mohmuseum.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://mohmuseum.org/</a> Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at <a href="http://www.hazardground.com/sponsors" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com/sponsors</a> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/?&amp;_encoding=UTF8&amp;tag=hazardground-20&amp;linkCode=ur2&amp;linkId=e29606c6beec65385120ec7be74942c2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Shop Amazon</a>! 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 <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hazard-ground/id1194875626" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Apple Podcasts</a>! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence &amp; Light” (<a href="http://www.silenceandlightmusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.silenceandlightmusic.com</a>) Photo Credit: Darrell Utt

Ep. 328 - Darrell Utt (U.S. Army / Green Beret)

James Bruton

James Bruton is a former U.S. Army Green Beret, retired Lieutenant Colonel, who spent 28 years in the Army between Active Duty and Reserves. James has multiple deployments to Southeast Asia, including a two year stint in Vietnam, as well into Thailand and worked a secret covert mission in Laos with the Lao Army, training and advising them.Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsorsShop 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 &amp; Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com)Photo Credit: James Bruton

James Bruton is a former U.S. Army Green Beret, retired Lieutenant Colonel, who spent 28 years in the Army between Active Duty and Reserves. James has multiple deployments to Southeast Asia, including a two year stint in Vietnam, as well into Thailand and worked a secret covert mission in Laos with the Lao Army, training and advising them. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at <a href="http://www.hazardground.com/sponsors" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com/sponsors</a> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/?&amp;_encoding=UTF8&amp;tag=hazardground-20&amp;linkCode=ur2&amp;linkId=e29606c6beec65385120ec7be74942c2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Shop Amazon</a>! 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 <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hazard-ground/id1194875626" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Apple Podcasts</a>! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence &amp; Light” (<a href="http://www.silenceandlightmusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.silenceandlightmusic.com</a>) Photo Credit: James Bruton

Ep. 327 - James Bruton (U.S. Army / Green Beret) 

Byron Rodgers

Byron Rodgers is a dedicated Executive Protection Agent, Video Blogger, Published Author, and Veteran with a decade of private security experience across over 60 countries. A former US Marine Corps infantry Squad Leader with two deployments to Iraq, Byron transitioned seamlessly to civilian life, becoming an Executive Protection Agent and authoring "Finding Meaning After the Military." Byron serves as CEO of Bravo Research Group, a boutique private security firm, and founded Protector Nation, a training company for first responders, private security professionals, and civilians. He operates The League of Executive Protection Specialists, an executive protection school and training organization, and consults for high-net-worth individuals and corporate clients.Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsorsShop 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 &amp; Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com)Photo Credit: Byron Rodgers

Byron Rodgers is a dedicated Executive Protection Agent, Video Blogger, Published Author, and Veteran with a decade of private security experience across over 60 countries. A former US Marine Corps infantry Squad Leader with two deployments to Iraq, Byron transitioned seamlessly to civilian life, becoming an Executive Protection Agent and authoring "Finding Meaning After the Military." Byron serves as CEO of Bravo Research Group, a boutique private security firm, and founded Protector Nation, a training company for first responders, private security professionals, and civilians. He operates The League of Executive Protection Specialists, an executive protection school and training organization, and consults for high-net-worth individuals and corporate clients. Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at <a href="http://www.hazardground.com/sponsors" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com/sponsors</a> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/?&amp;_encoding=UTF8&amp;tag=hazardground-20&amp;linkCode=ur2&amp;linkId=e29606c6beec65385120ec7be74942c2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Shop Amazon</a>! 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 <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hazard-ground/id1194875626" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Apple Podcasts</a>! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence &amp; Light” (<a href="http://www.silenceandlightmusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.silenceandlightmusic.com</a>) Photo Credit: Byron Rodgers

Ep. 326 - Byron Rodgers (U.S. Marines / Executive Protection Agent)

Theresa Carpenter is an active-duty Navy Commander with 27 years of service, including 10 years as an enlisted aviation electrician on the S-3B Viking aircraft. She currently serves as public affairs branch head for the maritime arm of NATO, responsible for all seagoing operations under its oversight. Upon her commissioning in 2006, she became a Surface Warfare Officer and was subsequently accepted into the public affairs community in 2008. She's deployed three times to combat zones and was assigned with the Navy Seals and Army Special Forces in the Philippines in 2008-2009. After that tour, she served as a media and plans officer for the U.S. Indo-Pacom from 2010-2013, one of three tours in a joint environment. She brings extensive experience working in humanitarian missions across the Asia Pacific, including the first land-based iteration of the Navy's Pacific Partnership mission, coordinating with multiple Embassies, Non-Governmental Organizations, and USAID. Her award-winning programs across multiple commands have resulted in 18 Navy awards for public affairs excellence.https://beacons.ai/theresacarpenterSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsorsShop 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 &amp; Light” (www.silenceandlightmusic.com)Photo Credit: Theresa Carpenter

Theresa Carpenter is an active-duty Navy Commander with 27 years of service, including 10 years as an enlisted aviation electrician on the S-3B Viking aircraft. She currently serves as public affairs branch head for the maritime arm of NATO, responsible for all seagoing operations under its oversight. Upon her commissioning in 2006, she became a Surface Warfare Officer and was subsequently accepted into the public affairs community in 2008. She's deployed three times to combat zones and was assigned with the Navy Seals and Army Special Forces in the Philippines in 2008-2009. After that tour, she served as a media and plans officer for the U.S. Indo-Pacom from 2010-2013, one of three tours in a joint environment. She brings extensive experience working in humanitarian missions across the Asia Pacific, including the first land-based iteration of the Navy's Pacific Partnership mission, coordinating with multiple Embassies, Non-Governmental Organizations, and USAID. Her award-winning programs across multiple commands have resulted in 18 Navy awards for public affairs excellence. <a href="https://beacons.ai/theresacarpenter" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://beacons.ai/theresacarpenter</a> Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at <a href="http://www.hazardground.com/sponsors" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com/sponsors</a> <a href="https://www.amazon.com/?&amp;_encoding=UTF8&amp;tag=hazardground-20&amp;linkCode=ur2&amp;linkId=e29606c6beec65385120ec7be74942c2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Shop Amazon</a>! 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 <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hazard-ground/id1194875626" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Apple Podcasts</a>! Episode Intro Music: “Prelude” by “Silence &amp; Light” (<a href="http://www.silenceandlightmusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.silenceandlightmusic.com</a>) Photo Credit: Theresa Carpenter

Ep. 325 - Theresa Carpenter (U.S. Navy / 'Stories of Service')

Servicemembers from across the military, sharing their accounts of combat and survival. Hosted by sports talk radio host and Army veteran, Mark Zinno, this podcast brings you firsthand accounts of war, with a perspective you only get from someone who has lived through it. From WWII to Vietnam, Somalia, and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, hear inspirational stories of service and resiliency from those who have fought on and off the battlefield!

Great guests. Great interviews. I am so glad I found this podcast.

Mr G

Love this!

Hazard Ground

Jim Reese

Jim Reese spent a good part of his military career in 1st SFOD-Delta, and has been called "one of the finest special operators in the modern military” by the Commander of Coalition Forces of Iraq and Afghanistan. He played a pivotal role in the first stages of the Global War on Terror, right after September 11, 2001. His initial role was to bridge the gap between the Department of Defense and the CIA leading up to and through the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan. And from there he was instrumental in leading the hunt for Osama bin Laden in the early days after the invasion. From these efforts and his time working in Special Operations, Jim Reese understands leadership in combat...leadership in times when it matters most! Hear his unique story, and what it's like to lead at the highest levels, on this follow-up to Veterans Day episode of HAZARD GROUND!If you shop at Amazon, go to www.hazardground.com, click on the Amazon banner on the home page, and do your Amazon shopping from there. IT COSTS YOU NOTHING, and it helps the show out tremendously! THE BEST PART IS we'll be donating the proceeds from this partnership to the vet organizations featured on this podcast. So help us out, help out these great organizations, and head over to hazardground.com and click on the Amazon banner today, and shop away!Thank you, thank you, thank you for listening...Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

Jim Reese spent a good part of his military career in 1st SFOD-Delta, and has been called "one of the finest special operators in the modern military” by the Commander of Coalition Forces of Iraq and Afghanistan. He played a pivotal role in the first stages of the Global War on Terror, right after September 11, 2001. His initial role was to bridge the gap between the Department of Defense and the CIA leading up to and through the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan. And from there he was instrumental in leading the hunt for Osama bin Laden in the early days after the invasion. From these efforts and his time working in Special Operations, Jim Reese understands leadership in combat...leadership in times when it matters most! Hear his unique story, and what it's like to lead at the highest levels, on this follow-up to Veterans Day episode of HAZARD GROUND! If you shop at Amazon, go to <a href="http://www.hazardground.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com</a>, click on the Amazon banner on the home page, and do your Amazon shopping from there. IT COSTS YOU NOTHING, and it helps the show out tremendously! THE BEST PART IS we'll be donating the proceeds from this partnership to the vet organizations featured on this podcast. So help us out, help out these great organizations, and head over to <a href="http://hazardground.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">hazardground.com</a> and click on the Amazon banner today, and shop away! Thank you, thank you, thank you for listening...Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

Jim Reese (1st SFOD-D)

Zachary Rhyner

Following his childhood dream to serve in the military, Zachary Rhyner joined the Air Force in 2004. He knew he wanted to serve in an elite group, that would no doubt face challenges in combat. Rhyner enlisted with the goal of becoming a combat controller. After a grueling two-and-a-half-year selection and training process, he became a special tactics combat controller. He would soon go on to serve with a Special Operations team, seeing their fare share of combat in Afghanistan. It was on one of those missions that he and his team would face extremely daunting challenges, fighting to their objective up 60-foot cliffs against a very well-defended enemy force. Rhyner's actions during that particular battle would earn him the Air Force Cross - the second highest military award that can be given to a member of the United States Air Force. During his sixth deployment, Rhyner would sustain injuries that ended his military career, but were the catalyst for him to continue a legacy of service with the help of the Pat Tillman Foundation. Hear this incredibly inspiring story on this latest edition of HAZARD GROUND!www.pattillmanfoundation.orgDo your Amazon shopping with us, and give back to veterans organizations at the same time! Go to www.hazardground.com, click on the Amazon banner on the home page, and do your Amazon shopping from there. THE BEST PART IS we donate proceeds from this partnership to the vet organizations featured on this podcast. So far, we've been able to make small donations to Merging Vets and Players and The Headstrong Project. So let's keep this going so we can make more and bigger donations! Help us out, help out these great organizations, and head over to hazardground.com and click on the Amazon banner today, and shop away!Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors! So many great and honest companies with great products!Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

Following his childhood dream to serve in the military, Zachary Rhyner joined the Air Force in 2004. He knew he wanted to serve in an elite group, that would no doubt face challenges in combat. Rhyner enlisted with the goal of becoming a combat controller. After a grueling two-and-a-half-year selection and training process, he became a special tactics combat controller. He would soon go on to serve with a Special Operations team, seeing their fare share of combat in Afghanistan. It was on one of those missions that he and his team would face extremely daunting challenges, fighting to their objective up 60-foot cliffs against a very well-defended enemy force. Rhyner's actions during that particular battle would earn him the Air Force Cross - the second highest military award that can be given to a member of the United States Air Force. During his sixth deployment, Rhyner would sustain injuries that ended his military career, but were the catalyst for him to continue a legacy of service with the help of the Pat Tillman Foundation. Hear this incredibly inspiring story on this latest edition of HAZARD GROUND! <a href="http://www.pattillmanfoundation.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.pattillmanfoundation.org</a> Do your Amazon shopping with us, and give back to veterans organizations at the same time! Go to <a href="http://www.hazardground.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com</a>, click on the Amazon banner on the home page, and do your Amazon shopping from there. THE BEST PART IS we donate proceeds from this partnership to the vet organizations featured on this podcast. So far, we've been able to make small donations to Merging Vets and Players and The Headstrong Project. So let's keep this going so we can make more and bigger donations! Help us out, help out these great organizations, and head over to <a href="http://hazardground.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">hazardground.com</a> and click on the Amazon banner today, and shop away! Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at <a href="http://www.hazardground.com/sponsors!" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com/sponsors!</a> So many great and honest companies with great products! Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

Ep. 126 – Zachary Rhyner (Combat Controller/Air Force Cross)

Robert Disney

Having decided that eight years of medical school was not the right fit for him, and stung by a desire to do something immediately more challenging with his life, Robert Disney dropped out of college to join the Air Force to become a Pararescue specialist, more commonly known as a "PJ." The PJs primary mission is to rescue, recover, and/or provide medical aid to downed air crews anywhere in the world, in any type of environment, both hostile and friendly. The attrition rate within the PJ training and qualification pipeline is extremely high. Disney's class started out with 86 recruits, and graduated just 6. It's no wonder Robert Disney went on to have such a successful career as a PJ, and survive an absolutely insane amount of combat and training related traumatic events, including a helicopter crash and being shot through the face. Hear about this incredible ride he's taken through the ranks of the Air Force, in combat and brotherhood, and how he's found peace amongst the inescapable scars of battle, on this amazing episode of Hazard Ground!

Robert Disney (Air Force Pararescue - PJ)

Scot Spooner

Scot Spooner is a modern-day warrior. He joined the Army at a young age, earned his Green Beret, and eventually earned a spot in the Army's elite Delta Force. He's trained for war, instructed others in its finer and deadlier points; fought in combat and survived when others around him were less fortunate, and returned home, seemingly unscathed. But, ultimately, injuries deeper than skin surface came to light. So Scot, in the truest sense of the term "warrior," sought healing while discovering a way to not just help himself, but help others, as he and his brother and business partner call it, "become more powerful humans." This is a very inspirational story about a man who experienced combat not just in war, but in his personal life as well. Scot's literally been tested by fire, and has come out of it a truly more powerful human. Hear his incredible story on this latest edition of HAZARD GROUND!www.ogfree.com Do your Amazon shopping with us, and give back to veterans organizations at the same time! Go to www.hazardground.com, click on the Amazon banner on the home page, and do your Amazon shopping from there. THE BEST PART IS we'll be donating proceeds from this partnership to the vet organizations featured on this podcast. So help us out, help out these great organizations, and head over to hazardground.com and click on the Amazon banner today, and shop away!Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors!Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

Scot Spooner is a modern-day warrior. He joined the Army at a young age, earned his Green Beret, and eventually earned a spot in the Army's elite Delta Force. He's trained for war, instructed others in its finer and deadlier points; fought in combat and survived when others around him were less fortunate, and returned home, seemingly unscathed. But, ultimately, injuries deeper than skin surface came to light. So Scot, in the truest sense of the term "warrior," sought healing while discovering a way to not just help himself, but help others, as he and his brother and business partner call it, "become more powerful humans." This is a very inspirational story about a man who experienced combat not just in war, but in his personal life as well. Scot's literally been tested by fire, and has come out of it a truly more powerful human. Hear his incredible story on this latest edition of HAZARD GROUND! <a href="http://www.ogfree.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.ogfree.com</a>  Do your Amazon shopping with us, and give back to veterans organizations at the same time! Go to <a href="http://www.hazardground.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com</a>, click on the Amazon banner on the home page, and do your Amazon shopping from there. THE BEST PART IS we'll be donating proceeds from this partnership to the vet organizations featured on this podcast. So help us out, help out these great organizations, and head over to <a href="http://hazardground.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">hazardground.com</a> and click on the Amazon banner today, and shop away! Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at <a href="http://www.hazardground.com/sponsors!" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com/sponsors!</a> Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

Scot Spooner (Green Beret/Delta Force)

Steve Dawson

This week we step off the beaten path and cover an oft-forgotten operation, and the stellar career in special operations of Steve Dawson. Steve spent 25 years in the Army – most of those with Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) and Special Forces. He spent the better part of his career as an operator with Delta Force. He also took part in the rescue operation of Kurt Muse, an American civilian living in Panama and held captive during Noriega’s rule in Panama in the late ’80s, also known as Operation Acid Gambit. Acid Gambit is considered one of the most daring hostage rescues ever attempted. In this episode Steve gives a firsthand account of the successful rescue operation, along with some lighter moments as a Delta operator going through the Special Forces Q Course. Hear all about it this week on HAZARD GROUND!This week’s episode is brought to you by all of our sponsors: PATAGONIA, FIVE TEN/ADIDAS, HYDRO FLASK, ONNIT, MOOSEJAW, MOUNTAIN GEAR, &amp; UNCHARTED SUPPLY CO. Go to www.hazardground/sponsors and check ’em out! Supporting our sponsors, supports the show!!Thank you all for the iTunes reviews! They help so much…Seriously, keep ’em coming!!

This week we step off the beaten path and cover an oft-forgotten operation, and the stellar career in special operations of Steve Dawson. Steve spent 25 years in the Army – most of those with Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) and Special Forces. He spent the better part of his career as an operator with Delta Force. He also took part in the rescue operation of Kurt Muse, an American civilian living in Panama and held captive during Noriega’s rule in Panama in the late ’80s, also known as Operation Acid Gambit. Acid Gambit is considered one of the most daring hostage rescues ever attempted. In this episode Steve gives a firsthand account of the successful rescue operation, along with some lighter moments as a Delta operator going through the Special Forces Q Course. Hear all about it this week on HAZARD GROUND! This week’s episode is brought to you by all of our sponsors: PATAGONIA, FIVE TEN/ADIDAS, HYDRO FLASK, ONNIT, MOOSEJAW, MOUNTAIN GEAR, &amp; UNCHARTED SUPPLY CO. Go to www.hazardground/sponsors and check ’em out! Supporting our sponsors, supports the show!! Thank you all for the iTunes reviews! They help so much…Seriously, keep ’em coming!!

Steve Dawson (1st SFOD-D, Rescue in Panama)

Chad Balwanz

Before "Lone Survivor" - the story of Operation Red Wings as told by Marcus Luttrell, the only SEAL to survive that operation - there was ODA 525. Assigned a special reconnaissance mission inside Iraq on the eve of the Desert Storm ground war, the Green Berets of ODA 525 faced a moral dilemma of magnificent proportions when their hide site was discovered by local children. Poor intel on the hide site location put the men of ODA 525 in a populated area of the desert, where they would face overwhelming odds if discovered. CW2 Chad Balwanz, commander of 525 tells the story of how he and his men decided not to kill the Iraqi children who stumbled upon their hide site, only to take their chances fighting off a numerically superior force. This is one of the most impactful stories to come out of the Gulf War, and Balwanz tells it like it happened yesterday. Hear his amazing firsthand account of ODA 525 and the small team of Green Berets who took on Saddam's forces deep behind enemy lines, on this latest edition of HAZARD GROUND!Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors! Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

Before "Lone Survivor" - the story of Operation Red Wings as told by Marcus Luttrell, the only SEAL to survive that operation - there was ODA 525. Assigned a special reconnaissance mission inside Iraq on the eve of the Desert Storm ground war, the Green Berets of ODA 525 faced a moral dilemma of magnificent proportions when their hide site was discovered by local children. Poor intel on the hide site location put the men of ODA 525 in a populated area of the desert, where they would face overwhelming odds if discovered. CW2 Chad Balwanz, commander of 525 tells the story of how he and his men decided not to kill the Iraqi children who stumbled upon their hide site, only to take their chances fighting off a numerically superior force. This is one of the most impactful stories to come out of the Gulf War, and Balwanz tells it like it happened yesterday. Hear his amazing firsthand account of ODA 525 and the small team of Green Berets who took on Saddam's forces deep behind enemy lines, on this latest edition of HAZARD GROUND! Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at <a href="http://www.hazardground.com/sponsors!" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com/sponsors!</a>  Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

Ep. 140 – Chad Balwanz (Green Beret/ODA 525)

Mike Vining

This week we return with another episode with the living legend, Mike Vining. Mike has taken part in so many unique missions as an Operator and EOD Technician. And we cover a handful of those in this week’s episode. From Vietnam to Presidential elections, to prison riots, to the bombing of Khobar Towers, Mike Vining brings you firsthand accounts of rare special missions, and some pretty intense moments on the ground and in the air. Check it out, on this Part II episode with Mike Vining!Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors!Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

This week we return with another episode with the living legend, Mike Vining. Mike has taken part in so many unique missions as an Operator and EOD Technician. And we cover a handful of those in this week’s episode. From Vietnam to Presidential elections, to prison riots, to the bombing of Khobar Towers, Mike Vining brings you firsthand accounts of rare special missions, and some pretty intense moments on the ground and in the air. Check it out, on this Part II episode with Mike Vining! Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at <a href="http://www.hazardground.com/sponsors!" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com/sponsors!</a> Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

Mike Vining Returns! (1st SFOD-D/EOD)

Joining the military had been a lifelong dream for Nick Irving. He even knew from a young age that he wanted to be a sniper, taking BB gun shots at just about every inanimate object in his neighborhood, using his homemade ghillie suit as camouflage. And like many who know they want to be a part of the best the military has to offer, Nick set out in high school to join the elite Special Operations Forces of the U.S. military. Through hard work, preparation, and perseverance he became a sniper with the Army’s 75th Ranger Regiment, where he completed 6 combat deployments to both Iraq and Afghanistan. While with the 75th he also set a single deployment record with 33 kills in a 3-1/2 month timeframe, earning him the sobriquet, “The Reaper.” Nick takes us through the mind of a sniper, on and off the battlefield, and what it was like to come home as The Reaper, in this captivating conversation.www.reaper33.com | “The Reaper” | “Way of the Reaper”Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors!Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

Joining the military had been a lifelong dream for Nick Irving. He even knew from a young age that he wanted to be a sniper, taking BB gun shots at just about every inanimate object in his neighborhood, using his homemade ghillie suit as camouflage. And like many who know they want to be a part of the best the military has to offer, Nick set out in high school to join the elite Special Operations Forces of the U.S. military. Through hard work, preparation, and perseverance he became a sniper with the Army’s 75th Ranger Regiment, where he completed 6 combat deployments to both Iraq and Afghanistan. While with the 75th he also set a single deployment record with 33 kills in a 3-1/2 month timeframe, earning him the sobriquet, “The Reaper.” Nick takes us through the mind of a sniper, on and off the battlefield, and what it was like to come home as The Reaper, in this captivating conversation. <a href="http://www.reaper33.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.reaper33.com</a> | “The Reaper” | “Way of the Reaper” Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at <a href="http://www.hazardground.com/sponsors!" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com/sponsors!</a> Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

Nick "The Reaper" Irving (U.S. Army Sniper)

Justin Watt

It's war.  It's what we can only imagine hell to be like, and Justin Watt lived through it.  His story is eye-opening and shaded by the dark narratives and hard choices that only war can draw out.  He was a member of the 101st Airborne Division's renowned 502nd Infantry Regiment, serving as an infantryman in Iraq's "Triangle of Death" in 2005-06.  His unit suffered unimaginable losses during their year-long deployment, and the horror only intensified when four members of his platoon, his brothers in arms, murdered an Iraqi family of four in Yusufiyah, and then gang raped their fourteen year old daughter before shooting her to death and setting her body on fire, in an attempt to cover up their involvement.  Justin tells the story of how he survived a year of unrelenting enemy attacks, a persistent breakdown in unit leadership, and ultimately the immediate backlash from that same leadership when he was the first to speak up about the murdered Iraqi family and report it to U.S. Army officials.

Justin Watt (Part I)

John Stryker Meyer earned his Green Beret in December of 1967. About five months later, he was based in Vietnam, fighting a very deadly and secret war in Laos and Cambodia. For John and his fellow Green Berets, the war in Vietnam was fought in the shadows. And they arguably gained considerable ground in the fight, despite virtually zero public recognition for their contributions at the time. Their efforts were audacious and struck at the heart of an enemy fighting an unconventional war - tricky ground for the larger conventional U.S. force so often associated with the war. John takes us through the mindset of the Green Beret preparing for and facing off against such a largely unconventional enemy, sharing what it was like to operate so close to them, that at one point an enemy soldier unwittingly touched John's boot in the pitch-black darkness as he crawled past him and his team. Hear this amazing story on this latest edition of HAZARD GROUND!"Across the Fence" | "On The Ground: The Secret War in Vietnam" | "SOG Chronicles: Volume One"Do your Amazon shopping with us, and give back to veterans organizations at the same time! Go to www.hazardground.com, click on the Amazon banner on the home page, and do your Amazon shopping from there. THE BEST PART IS we donate proceeds from this partnership to the vet organizations featured on this podcast. Help us out, help out these great organizations, and head over to hazardground.com and click on the Amazon banner today, and shop away!Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors! So many great and honest companies with great products!Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

John Stryker Meyer earned his Green Beret in December of 1967. About five months later, he was based in Vietnam, fighting a very deadly and secret war in Laos and Cambodia. For John and his fellow Green Berets, the war in Vietnam was fought in the shadows. And they arguably gained considerable ground in the fight, despite virtually zero public recognition for their contributions at the time. Their efforts were audacious and struck at the heart of an enemy fighting an unconventional war - tricky ground for the larger conventional U.S. force so often associated with the war. John takes us through the mindset of the Green Beret preparing for and facing off against such a largely unconventional enemy, sharing what it was like to operate so close to them, that at one point an enemy soldier unwittingly touched John's boot in the pitch-black darkness as he crawled past him and his team. Hear this amazing story on this latest edition of HAZARD GROUND! "Across the Fence" | "On The Ground: The Secret War in Vietnam" | "SOG Chronicles: Volume One" Do your Amazon shopping with us, and give back to veterans organizations at the same time! Go to <a href="http://www.hazardground.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com</a>, click on the Amazon banner on the home page, and do your Amazon shopping from there. THE BEST PART IS we donate proceeds from this partnership to the vet organizations featured on this podcast. Help us out, help out these great organizations, and head over to <a href="http://hazardground.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">hazardground.com</a> and click on the Amazon banner today, and shop away! Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at <a href="http://www.hazardground.com/sponsors!" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com/sponsors!</a> So many great and honest companies with great products! Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

Ep. 136 – John Stryker Meyer (Vietnam/Green Beret/SOG)

Brian Castner

For several years, Brian Castner performed one of the military's most difficult and dangerous jobs: he was an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technician.  Not only was he an EOD tech, but he was also an officer, leading a team of bomb disposal experts, and ultimately responsible for every decision they made in combat.  He served two combat tours in Iraq as the leader of an EOD unit.  But, when he came home from his final combat tour, he began fighting a new enemy within, one he defines as the "Crazy," a jangled mix of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) symptoms.  It has taken time, but Brian's wounds are healing, and he is now an established writer and bestselling author of books that are helping others deal with the scars of combat.  For many, the war continues on once they leave the battlefield...Brian is proof of that.  He is also proof that there is a way to heal from the wounds that so many combat veterans battle each and every day.  This is another great episode you don't want to miss!  www.briancastner.com @Brian_Castner The Long Walk | All the Ways We Kill and Die | The Road Ahead: Stories of the Forever War

For several years, Brian Castner performed one of the military's most difficult and dangerous jobs: he was an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) technician.  Not only was he an EOD tech, but he was also an officer, leading a team of bomb disposal experts, and ultimately responsible for every decision they made in combat.  He served two combat tours in Iraq as the leader of an EOD unit.  But, when he came home from his final combat tour, he began fighting a new enemy within, one he defines as the "Crazy," a jangled mix of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) symptoms.  It has taken time, but Brian's wounds are healing, and he is now an established writer and bestselling author of books that are helping others deal with the scars of combat.  For many, the war continues on once they leave the battlefield...Brian is proof of that.  He is also proof that there is a way to heal from the wounds that so many combat veterans battle each and every day.  This is another great episode you don't want to miss!  <a href="http://www.briancastner.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.briancastner.com</a> @Brian_Castner The Long Walk | All the Ways We Kill and Die | The Road Ahead: Stories of the Forever War

This week, another legend in the Special Ops community joins us, as retired Colonel Lee Van Arsdale takes us through two pivotal operations for the storied 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment - Delta, more commonly known as Delta Force. Van Arsdale joined Delta Force in 1985, and spent 14 years leading some of the most elite soldiers history has ever seen. As a Major, he lead the Delta assault troop that captured Manual Noriega in Panama in 1989, personally restraining Noriega while he was taken into custody. Van Arsdale was involved with several other high impact missions throughout his career, the world will never know about; however, one other one rose to notoriety in the mid '90s. That was the Battle of Mogadishu - more commonly known as "Black Hawk Down." In this episode, we once again get a rare look at this battle - and new information about it, from a man who lead troops on the ground there. A West Point grad, Van Arsdale now works on the faculty staff at the Thayer Leader Development Group at West Point, helping develop the next generation of leaders. This is one episode you don't want to miss!www.thayerleaderdevelopment.com Do your Amazon shopping with us, and give back to veterans organizations at the same time! Go to www.hazardground.com, click on the Amazon banner on the home page, and do your Amazon shopping from there. THE BEST PART IS we'll be donating proceeds from this partnership to the vet organizations featured on this podcast. So help us out, help out these great organizations, and head over to hazardground.com and click on the Amazon banner today, and shop away!Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors!Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

This week, another legend in the Special Ops community joins us, as retired Colonel Lee Van Arsdale takes us through two pivotal operations for the storied 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment - Delta, more commonly known as Delta Force. Van Arsdale joined Delta Force in 1985, and spent 14 years leading some of the most elite soldiers history has ever seen. As a Major, he lead the Delta assault troop that captured Manual Noriega in Panama in 1989, personally restraining Noriega while he was taken into custody. Van Arsdale was involved with several other high impact missions throughout his career, the world will never know about; however, one other one rose to notoriety in the mid '90s. That was the Battle of Mogadishu - more commonly known as "Black Hawk Down." In this episode, we once again get a rare look at this battle - and new information about it, from a man who lead troops on the ground there. A West Point grad, Van Arsdale now works on the faculty staff at the Thayer Leader Development Group at West Point, helping develop the next generation of leaders. This is one episode you don't want to miss! <a href="http://www.thayerleaderdevelopment.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.thayerleaderdevelopment.com</a>  Do your Amazon shopping with us, and give back to veterans organizations at the same time! Go to <a href="http://www.hazardground.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com</a>, click on the Amazon banner on the home page, and do your Amazon shopping from there. THE BEST PART IS we'll be donating proceeds from this partnership to the vet organizations featured on this podcast. So help us out, help out these great organizations, and head over to <a href="http://hazardground.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">hazardground.com</a> and click on the Amazon banner today, and shop away! Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at <a href="http://www.hazardground.com/sponsors!" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com/sponsors!</a> Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

Ep. 116 – COL (Ret) Lee Van Arsdale (Delta Force)

Nate Self's story is the reason "Hazard Ground" was born. Early on the morning of March 4, 2002, Self, a young officer and elite Army Ranger, found himself fighting for his life on top of a remote mountain in Afghanistan, markedly outgunned by al Qaeda fighters. Self was tasked with leading the Ranger Quick Reaction Force that was sent to rescue Navy SEAL Neil Roberts and Air Force Technical Sergeant John Chapman, who had become trapped on top of the mountain known as Takur Ghar, during Operation ANACONDA. As the chinook helicopter that Self and half of his team were riding in attempted to land on top of Takur Ghar, it was immediately hit with rocket-propelled grenades and machine gun fire, forcing it to crash land. Within seconds, some of Self's men lay dead in the snow, just off the helicopter's back ramp. And so began a day-long battle between Self's small team of Rangers and well-entrenched al Qaeda fighters, that lasted until after sunset. After Takur Ghar, another battle raged inside Nate Self's head - this one the result of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). For years, Nate Self fought that battle alone, nearly destroying his family and himself in the process. Hear how he survived what he describes as the "Two Wars" in this very special episode of Hazard Ground.   www.nateself.com | "Two Wars"

Nate Self's story is the reason "Hazard Ground" was born. Early on the morning of March 4, 2002, Self, a young officer and elite Army Ranger, found himself fighting for his life on top of a remote mountain in Afghanistan, markedly outgunned by al Qaeda fighters. Self was tasked with leading the Ranger Quick Reaction Force that was sent to rescue Navy SEAL Neil Roberts and Air Force Technical Sergeant John Chapman, who had become trapped on top of the mountain known as Takur Ghar, during Operation ANACONDA. As the chinook helicopter that Self and half of his team were riding in attempted to land on top of Takur Ghar, it was immediately hit with rocket-propelled grenades and machine gun fire, forcing it to crash land. Within seconds, some of Self's men lay dead in the snow, just off the helicopter's back ramp. And so began a day-long battle between Self's small team of Rangers and well-entrenched al Qaeda fighters, that lasted until after sunset. After Takur Ghar, another battle raged inside Nate Self's head - this one the result of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). For years, Nate Self fought that battle alone, nearly destroying his family and himself in the process. Hear how he survived what he describes as the "Two Wars" in this very special episode of Hazard Ground.   <a href="http://www.nateself.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.nateself.com</a> | "Two Wars"

Nate Self (Part I)

This is sure to be part one of a multi-interview series with US Army &amp; Delta Force legend, retired SGM Mike Vining. Vining enlisted in the Army in 1968. He served in Vietnam as an EOD tech, but after 10 years in EOD he started looking to transition to Special Forces as a medic. He soon found himself, however, going through the selection process for the newly formed 1st SFOD-Delta, more commonly known as “Delta Force” as the Unit was looking to add more EOD techs to its initial roster. Vining successfully graduated the 1st selection class for Delta, and would go on to serve with Delta for the better part of his career. Vining served in many high level operations. So in this episode we dive deep into Operations EAGLE CLAW (Iran) &amp; URGENT FURY (Grenada). Today, Mike Vining spends his time writing, hiking, rock &amp; mountain climbing, &amp; alpine &amp; backcountry skiing, while doing important research work for the National EOD Memorial &amp; working as a committee member for the National EOD Association. This is a very interesting episode, so don’t miss it!This week’s episode is UNOFFICIALLY brought to you by No Cow protein bars. No Cow bars provide a high amount of protein with just 1g of sugar &amp; they still taste great! So if you’re into living and eating healthy, try No Cow bars to get that protein boost when you need it most. In the words of No Cow, “No Cow isn’t just for the dairy intolerant, it’s for the bull$#*t intolerant. Those who choose to live a healthy life and demand better.” We actually use No Cow bars &amp; they really are what they say they are. No bull$#*t! www.nocow.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors!Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

This is sure to be part one of a multi-interview series with US Army &amp; Delta Force legend, retired SGM Mike Vining. Vining enlisted in the Army in 1968. He served in Vietnam as an EOD tech, but after 10 years in EOD he started looking to transition to Special Forces as a medic. He soon found himself, however, going through the selection process for the newly formed 1st SFOD-Delta, more commonly known as “Delta Force” as the Unit was looking to add more EOD techs to its initial roster. Vining successfully graduated the 1st selection class for Delta, and would go on to serve with Delta for the better part of his career. Vining served in many high level operations. So in this episode we dive deep into Operations EAGLE CLAW (Iran) &amp; URGENT FURY (Grenada). Today, Mike Vining spends his time writing, hiking, rock &amp; mountain climbing, &amp; alpine &amp; backcountry skiing, while doing important research work for the National EOD Memorial &amp; working as a committee member for the National EOD Association. This is a very interesting episode, so don’t miss it! This week’s episode is UNOFFICIALLY brought to you by No Cow protein bars. No Cow bars provide a high amount of protein with just 1g of sugar &amp; they still taste great! So if you’re into living and eating healthy, try No Cow bars to get that protein boost when you need it most. In the words of No Cow, “No Cow isn’t just for the dairy intolerant, it’s for the bull$#*t intolerant. Those who choose to live a healthy life and demand better.” We actually use No Cow bars &amp; they really are what they say they are. No bull$#*t! <a href="http://www.nocow.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.nocow.com</a> Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at <a href="http://www.hazardground.com/sponsors!" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com/sponsors!</a> Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

Mike Vining (1st SFOD-D/EAGLE CLAW/Grenada)

Jason Everman

Two men…One of them wanted to work in special operations from the start, &amp; ended up serving a long career in the most elite forces in the U.S. military, fighting in The Battle of Mogadishu all the way into the Global War on Terror. The other holds the unique distinction of playing in both Nirvana &amp; Soundgarden before deciding to join the Army &amp; going on to serve in Special Forces for the rest of his military career. They are “Brad” &amp; Jason Everman, both the truest form of modern day warriors you’ll ever meet. And now both of them are returning to their music roots to form a new band called “Silence and Light” with the intent to give back to the community they served with, through music. They plan to record an album this summer with a major producer, &amp; give all proceeds from the record back to veterans &amp; service charities! These are two incredible humans on an episode you don’t want to miss! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate &amp; review on iTunes…Every review helps grow the show!www.warriorsheart.com | silenceandlightmusic.comThis week’s episode is once again UNOFFICIALLY brought to you by No Cow protein bars. No Cow bars provide a high amount of protein with just 1g of sugar &amp; they still taste great! So if you’re into living and eating healthy, try No Cow bars to get that protein boost when you need it most. In the words of No Cow, “No Cow isn’t just for the dairy intolerant, it’s for the bull$#*t intolerant. Those who choose to live a healthy life and demand better.” We actually use No Cow bars &amp; they really are what they say they are. No bull$#*t! www.nocow.comSupport the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors!Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

Two men…One of them wanted to work in special operations from the start, &amp; ended up serving a long career in the most elite forces in the U.S. military, fighting in The Battle of Mogadishu all the way into the Global War on Terror. The other holds the unique distinction of playing in both Nirvana &amp; Soundgarden before deciding to join the Army &amp; going on to serve in Special Forces for the rest of his military career. They are “Brad” &amp; Jason Everman, both the truest form of modern day warriors you’ll ever meet. And now both of them are returning to their music roots to form a new band called “Silence and Light” with the intent to give back to the community they served with, through music. They plan to record an album this summer with a major producer, &amp; give all proceeds from the record back to veterans &amp; service charities! These are two incredible humans on an episode you don’t want to miss! And don’t forget to subscribe, rate &amp; review on iTunes…Every review helps grow the show! <a href="http://www.warriorsheart.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.warriorsheart.com</a> | <a href="http://silenceandlightmusic.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">silenceandlightmusic.com</a> This week’s episode is once again UNOFFICIALLY brought to you by No Cow protein bars. No Cow bars provide a high amount of protein with just 1g of sugar &amp; they still taste great! So if you’re into living and eating healthy, try No Cow bars to get that protein boost when you need it most. In the words of No Cow, “No Cow isn’t just for the dairy intolerant, it’s for the bull$#*t intolerant. Those who choose to live a healthy life and demand better.” We actually use No Cow bars &amp; they really are what they say they are. No bull$#*t! <a href="http://www.nocow.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.nocow.com</a> Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at <a href="http://www.hazardground.com/sponsors!" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com/sponsors!</a> Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

"Brad" & Jason Everman (From the band "Silence and Light")

Rich Stayskal

Imagine being shot through the chest by a sniper in Ramadi, Iraq in 2004, and surviving. Imagine completing a 4-year enlistment as an infantry Marine, surviving combat, and then going on to become one of the Army’s elite Green Berets. Now imagine finding out several years after surviving the sniper’s round, that you have terminal lung cancer that was misdiagnosed by the military, and there’s virtually nothing you can do about it. That’s the story of Rich Stayskal. Because the alleged misdiagnosis occurred while Stayskal was in the military, he cannot sue the federal government for malpractice, all due to an obscure 60-something-year-old law known as the Feres Doctrine. But, you can’t be a Marine and a Green Beret without being a fighter. And that’s exactly what Rich Stayskal is doing – fighting back, against cancer and the misdiagnosis. Hear how, on this latest episode of HAZARD GROUND!www.feresdoctrine.comWe also want to thank Rich’s attorney, Natalie Khawam, for joining us on this episode to provide the background on Rich’s legal case and the Feres Doctrine.Do your Amazon shopping with us, and give back to veterans organizations at the same time! Go to www.hazardground.com, click on the Amazon banner on the home page, and do your Amazon shopping from there. THE BEST PART IS we’ll be donating proceeds from this partnership to the vet organizations featured on this podcast. So help us out, help out these great organizations, and head over to hazardground.com and click on the Amazon banner today, and shop away!Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors!Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

Imagine being shot through the chest by a sniper in Ramadi, Iraq in 2004, and surviving. Imagine completing a 4-year enlistment as an infantry Marine, surviving combat, and then going on to become one of the Army’s elite Green Berets. Now imagine finding out several years after surviving the sniper’s round, that you have terminal lung cancer that was misdiagnosed by the military, and there’s virtually nothing you can do about it. That’s the story of Rich Stayskal. Because the alleged misdiagnosis occurred while Stayskal was in the military, he cannot sue the federal government for malpractice, all due to an obscure 60-something-year-old law known as the Feres Doctrine. But, you can’t be a Marine and a Green Beret without being a fighter. And that’s exactly what Rich Stayskal is doing – fighting back, against cancer and the misdiagnosis. Hear how, on this latest episode of HAZARD GROUND! <a href="http://www.feresdoctrine.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.feresdoctrine.com</a> We also want to thank Rich’s attorney, Natalie Khawam, for joining us on this episode to provide the background on Rich’s legal case and the Feres Doctrine. Do your Amazon shopping with us, and give back to veterans organizations at the same time! Go to <a href="http://www.hazardground.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com</a>, click on the Amazon banner on the home page, and do your Amazon shopping from there. THE BEST PART IS we’ll be donating proceeds from this partnership to the vet organizations featured on this podcast. So help us out, help out these great organizations, and head over to <a href="http://hazardground.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">hazardground.com</a> and click on the Amazon banner today, and shop away! Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at <a href="http://www.hazardground.com/sponsors!" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com/sponsors!</a> Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

Rich Stayskal (Marine & Green Beret)

If you're looking for motivation, or simply inspiration to never, ever quit, then you should listen to this episode with Green Beret, Nick Lavery. Nick enlisted in the Army to become a Green Beret after he graduated college in 2007. Since earning his Special Forces tab, Lavery took shrapnel from a rocket-propelled grenade to his shoulder, leaving a sizable wound; he was shot in the face; and ultimately lost part of his right leg from machine gun fire, all in three separate encounters with the enemy. For all three injuries, Lavery insisted on and has returned to combat as soon as possible, making him the first special operator to return to combat as an above-the-knee amputee. Hear his incredible story on this latest edition of HAZARD GROUND!Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors!Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases (Paid Link)Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

If you're looking for motivation, or simply inspiration to never, ever quit, then you should listen to this episode with Green Beret, Nick Lavery. Nick enlisted in the Army to become a Green Beret after he graduated college in 2007. Since earning his Special Forces tab, Lavery took shrapnel from a rocket-propelled grenade to his shoulder, leaving a sizable wound; he was shot in the face; and ultimately lost part of his right leg from machine gun fire, all in three separate encounters with the enemy. For all three injuries, Lavery insisted on and has returned to combat as soon as possible, making him the first special operator to return to combat as an above-the-knee amputee. Hear his incredible story on this latest edition of HAZARD GROUND! Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at <a href="http://www.hazardground.com/sponsors!" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com/sponsors!</a> Shop Amazon! As an Amazon Associate We Earn From Qualifying Purchases (Paid Link) Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

Ep. 158 - Nick Lavery (Green Beret)

Jeremy Tindell

Circumstances beyond his control brought him to the 75th Ranger Regiment. But once he made it in and earned the coveted scroll and beret, retired Sergeant First Class Jeremy Tindell found a home. So much so that he stayed in the Regiment after suffering a severe back injury in a training accident. Tindell retired from the Army after 13 combat deployments. And has now found a new passion as an active member of Merging Vets &amp; Players – an organization designed to help both combat veterans and pro athletes transition from battlefield and playing field to new careers and new beginnings. Hear all about this Ranger’s journey from working in a machine shop to becoming an elite combat veteran in this latest episode of HAZARD GROUND!Do your Amazon shopping with us, and give back to veterans organizations at the same time! Go to www.hazardground.com, click on the Amazon banner on the home page, and do your Amazon shopping from there. IT COSTS YOU NOTHING, and it helps the show out tremendously! THE BEST PART IS we’ll be donating proceeds from this partnership to the vet organizations featured on this podcast. So help us out, help out these great organizations, and head over to hazardground.com and click on the Amazon banner today, and shop away!Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors!Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

Circumstances beyond his control brought him to the 75th Ranger Regiment. But once he made it in and earned the coveted scroll and beret, retired Sergeant First Class Jeremy Tindell found a home. So much so that he stayed in the Regiment after suffering a severe back injury in a training accident. Tindell retired from the Army after 13 combat deployments. And has now found a new passion as an active member of Merging Vets &amp; Players – an organization designed to help both combat veterans and pro athletes transition from battlefield and playing field to new careers and new beginnings. Hear all about this Ranger’s journey from working in a machine shop to becoming an elite combat veteran in this latest episode of HAZARD GROUND! Do your Amazon shopping with us, and give back to veterans organizations at the same time! Go to <a href="http://www.hazardground.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com</a>, click on the Amazon banner on the home page, and do your Amazon shopping from there. IT COSTS YOU NOTHING, and it helps the show out tremendously! THE BEST PART IS we’ll be donating proceeds from this partnership to the vet organizations featured on this podcast. So help us out, help out these great organizations, and head over to <a href="http://hazardground.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">hazardground.com</a> and click on the Amazon banner today, and shop away! Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at <a href="http://www.hazardground.com/sponsors!" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com/sponsors!</a> Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

Jeremy Tindell (Ranger)

Cliff Anders

From a young age, Cliff Anders wanted to fly helicopters in the military. Getting into the cockpit seemed to be a breeze for Cliff, but getting to war, to “do his part,” was not so easy. He was in flight school during September 11, 2001, but it would be several more years &amp; a few moves around the world to various Apache &amp; training outfits, before Cliff would finally see combat. You see, Cliff is a determined individual – so much so that he &amp; a fellow pilot would call the Army’s Personnel Command every night during their tour in Korea to try &amp; get reassigned to a unit heading to fight in the Middle East once the Global War on Terror kicked off. In the end Cliff would have to wait nearly 5 years before finally seeing combat. And when he did, he was thrown straight into the lion’s den. On this episode, Cliff Anders talks about those first experiences flying in combat &amp; how they changed him as a person &amp; the incredible connection he formed with those soldiers on the ground who he supported by fire, but only knew by voice. This is another great episode you don’t want to miss!!Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors!Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

From a young age, Cliff Anders wanted to fly helicopters in the military. Getting into the cockpit seemed to be a breeze for Cliff, but getting to war, to “do his part,” was not so easy. He was in flight school during September 11, 2001, but it would be several more years &amp; a few moves around the world to various Apache &amp; training outfits, before Cliff would finally see combat. You see, Cliff is a determined individual – so much so that he &amp; a fellow pilot would call the Army’s Personnel Command every night during their tour in Korea to try &amp; get reassigned to a unit heading to fight in the Middle East once the Global War on Terror kicked off. In the end Cliff would have to wait nearly 5 years before finally seeing combat. And when he did, he was thrown straight into the lion’s den. On this episode, Cliff Anders talks about those first experiences flying in combat &amp; how they changed him as a person &amp; the incredible connection he formed with those soldiers on the ground who he supported by fire, but only knew by voice. This is another great episode you don’t want to miss!! Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at <a href="http://www.hazardground.com/sponsors!" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com/sponsors!</a> Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

Cliff Anders (Apache Pilot)

John Belman

We've covered the Battle of Mogadishu - popularized by the movie and book, "Black Hawk Down" - multiple times on the podcast. But, we haven't covered it from the perspective of the combat search and rescue (CSAR) team sent in to rescue the crews of the Black Hawks shot down on October 3, 1993 over the streets of Mogadishu, Somalia. John Belman was a Ranger on the CSAR team that was dropped in to the first crash site. On arrival at the site, Belman and his teammates were thrust into a chaotic scene of whirling dirt and debris and intense enemy gunfire. The situation on the ground was so dire that Belman just assumed he'd never make it out alive. Fortunately he did though, after an overnight battle between a relatively small U.S. force and literally an entire city. Hear yet another unique perspective on the battle that you just can't get from book or film, straight from an Army Ranger who lived through it, on this latest edition of HAZARD GROUND!www.johnbelman.net | www.goruck.comDo your Amazon shopping with us, and give back to veterans organizations at the same time! Go to www.hazardground.com, click on the Amazon banner on the home page, and do your Amazon shopping from there. THE BEST PART IS we donate proceeds from this partnership to the vet organizations featured on this podcast. Help us out, help out these great organizations, and head over to hazardground.com and click on the Amazon banner today, and shop away!Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at www.hazardground.com/sponsors! So many great and honest companies with great products!Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

We've covered the Battle of Mogadishu - popularized by the movie and book, "Black Hawk Down" - multiple times on the podcast. But, we haven't covered it from the perspective of the combat search and rescue (CSAR) team sent in to rescue the crews of the Black Hawks shot down on October 3, 1993 over the streets of Mogadishu, Somalia. John Belman was a Ranger on the CSAR team that was dropped in to the first crash site. On arrival at the site, Belman and his teammates were thrust into a chaotic scene of whirling dirt and debris and intense enemy gunfire. The situation on the ground was so dire that Belman just assumed he'd never make it out alive. Fortunately he did though, after an overnight battle between a relatively small U.S. force and literally an entire city. Hear yet another unique perspective on the battle that you just can't get from book or film, straight from an Army Ranger who lived through it, on this latest edition of HAZARD GROUND! <a href="http://www.johnbelman.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.johnbelman.net</a> | <a href="http://www.goruck.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.goruck.com</a> Do your Amazon shopping with us, and give back to veterans organizations at the same time! Go to <a href="http://www.hazardground.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com</a>, click on the Amazon banner on the home page, and do your Amazon shopping from there. THE BEST PART IS we donate proceeds from this partnership to the vet organizations featured on this podcast. Help us out, help out these great organizations, and head over to <a href="http://hazardground.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">hazardground.com</a> and click on the Amazon banner today, and shop away! Support the podcast by supporting our sponsors at <a href="http://www.hazardground.com/sponsors!" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.hazardground.com/sponsors!</a> So many great and honest companies with great products! Help grow the show! Spread the word, tell a friend!! Subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes!

Ep. 137 – John Belman (Ranger/CSAR - Black Hawk Down)

The best podcast episodes about true crime. For any thrill seeking podcast listeners who just can't get enough of the captivating stories of murderers and criminals. This topic has all the best episodes from many different true crime podcasts.  Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!

Best True Crime Podcasts

The best podcast episodes of anyone with an interesting story. With famous guests like Obama, LeBron James, Drake, Oprah Winfrey, Richard Branson, Michelle Obama, Serena Williams, to anyone who has a unique and interesting story to tell. Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!