Combat Story

Ryan Fugit

Real combat stories from the military's elite. This podcast highlights the courageous, outrageous, crazy, and surreal experiences veterans recall from their toughest days in the foxhole, cockpit, and front lines. We interview JTACs, Special Operators (Delta), Special Forces, Jet Pilots, Combat Aviators, Infrantrymen, Marines, and vets from over 50 years of combat experience.Interviews touch on the toughest missions these vets faced, how they handled them, their first combat experiences, how they found their way to the military, and how they managed after leaving the combat behind.

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Top 10 Combat Story Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Combat Story episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Combat Story for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Combat Story episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

160th Gun Pilot, Saddam Capture, Jessica Lynch Raid, Vehicle Interdictions, Danger Close Shooting, AH-6 & MH-6 Pilot, DFC, Silver Star, CW5 Steve Lapping (Round 2)

Combat Story

09/23/23 • 116 min

Go to www.HelloFresh.com/50combatstory and use code 50combatstory for 50% off plus free shipping to get delicious and healthy meals that you can make at home with your family in no time and add some variety to what you serve! Our family has used Hello Fresh for years! =======

Today we hear a second round Combat Story with long-time Night Stalker from the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (SOAR), Steve Lapping. Steve spent 31 years in Army Aviation, including two decades in 160th at the tip of the spear flying the MH-6 and AH-6.

This second round interview is chalked full of combat scenarios that Steve found himself in across 15 combat deployments, this time focusing primarily on his time flying guns for 160th. We talk vehicle interdictions, weapon malfunctions, danger close shots near women and children, a Dukes of Hazard-like chase, weaponeering, and more!

Steve also shares his experiences on the Saddam Hussein capture (including something I’d never heard before about the aftermath of that operation) and the somber experience covering ground forces as they recovered the remains of Americans who didn’t survive the Jessica Lynch capture.

Many will recall our first interview with Steve, which was a clear favorite for so many listeners and seen or heard by over 200K people, as we touched on Steve’s childhood, decision to join the military (that story’s a great one where the advice he receives comes from an unexpected role model), and his combat experiences in Objectives REINDEER and LEADVILLE, which included a DFC.

One thing that impressed me so much about Steve beyond being a CW5 and the unbelievable number of years he spent “rowing the boat” as he puts it (which is a reference to being at the very tip of the spear), is his humility and how he put his family as close to first as the mission will allow, wrapping up a storied career with the same wife and his children still by his side.

With that, please enjoy this (second) wild ride from the cockpit of one of the baddest aircraft on the planet (no bias of course!) with Steve Lapping.

=======

Find Ryan Online: - Ryan’s Linktree https://linktr.ee/combatstory - Merch https://www.bonfire.com/store/combats... - Instagram @combatstory https://www.instagram.com/combatstory - Facebook @combatstoryofficial https://fb.me/combatstoryofficial - Send us messages at https://m.me/combatstoryofficial - Learn more about Ryan www.combatstory.com/aboutus - Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle Find Steve Lapping Online: - Learn more about Steve: https://valor.militarytimes.com/hero/71550 ======= Show Notes: 00:00 - Intro 00:53 - Guest Introduction (Steve Lapping) 02:39 - Interview begins 05:12 - Connection with Pete Blaber 08:55 - Training in calmness 10:21 - Good and bad leaders 13:42 - 9/11 17:10 - The Black Swarm 20:55 - Little Birds and A-10's 26:05 - 9 Lines 27:46 - Sadam Hussein Capture 36:20 - Sadam Hussein post-mission 38:06 - Hello Fresh Ad 39:50 - Danger close shots 54:43 - First time pulling the trigger on a live target 01:02:12 - Training to take a life 01:12:48 - Layers of Management 01:15:24 - Jessica Lynch 01:26:18 - Ground Force and SAS mission 01:38:28 - Ticket on the airfield 01:42:49 - Jumping into trees 01:48:50 - Sentimental Items and do it all again 01:50:00 - Family relations during deployments 01:54:01 - Listener comments and shout outs

Fighter Pilot (French Mirage 2000), Special Forces Pilot, French Intelligence Officer - Jack Beaumont Round 2

Combat Story

01/20/24 • 94 min

In this second round Combat Story with Jack Beaumont, we pickup with Jack being forced to walk away from flying jets after wrecking his back in a hard landing. His back was too injured to handle the Gs and an ejection from the aircraft, making him a liability to his fellow fighter pilots.

He found his way over to fly planes in the French COS or Special Operations Command in some amazing circumstances, to include evading radar and landing to unimproved runways at night in bad weather (it’s really amazing piloting), followed by a transition into the very secretive world of the French External Security Service or DGSE, which is the French version of the CIA and a very capable service.

In this episode, Jack shares some of the challenging experiences in the cockpit and in the shadowy world of the intelligence community, including the unthinkable moment of losing a human source and his family. This tragic story forms the basis of the book that Jack wrote - The Frenchman - which was picked up for TV by the people who delivered True Detective, The Night Manager, and A Most Wanted Man. His next book, Dark Arena, comes out in February 2024.

Please enjoy this very insightful Combat Story that goes deep into the experiences of a French special operator and intelligence professional!

Join our weekly Combat Check-In Newsletter (www.combatstory.com/newsletter) to get a short email from Ryan for people who love and support our veterans, service members, and their families.

👇 Show Notes:

00:00 - Introduction 00:52 - Guest Profile: Jack Beaumont Round 2 02:14 - Start of Interview 02:44 - SOCOM and Life After Plane Incident 12:46 - Serbian Mission 19:06 - Jack's Books 25:53 - Nord VPN Ad 24:33 - DGSE Reputation and Rainbow Wire 32:04 - Getting Accepted To DGSE 46:40 - Factor Ad 48:05 - Spy Training 01:08:24 - Truth To The Frenchman Opening 01:18:50 - Toll of Intelligence Officers 01:26:25 - Sentimental Items 01:27:19 - Would You Do It Again? 01:28:24 - Making of The Frenchman 01:31:48 - Listener Feedback

🔗 Find Ryan Online:

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

🔗 Find Jack Beaumont Online: - Website https://jackbeaumontofficial.com/ - Purchase The Frenchman or Dark Arena https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jack%20Beaumont/author/B0034O2UHA

Get Exclusive NordVPN deal here → https://nordvpn.com/combatstory. It’s risk-free with Nord’s 30-day money-back guarantee! This Combat Story was sponsored by Factor, America’s #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Delivery Service. Use FACTORMEALS.com/combatstory50 and use code combatstory50 to get 50% off!

Syria Analysis and What’s Next from CIA Senior Intelligence Service and Diplomat / Former CIA Chief of Station Glenn Corn

Combat Story

12/10/24 • 37 min

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.

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

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 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

Operator Syndrome Impact on Vets, Active Duty, Law Enforcement and the Special Operations Community | Chris Frueh

Combat Story

05/04/24 • 93 min

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

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

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

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

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

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

🎙️Find Chris Online:

🔗 Website https://chrisfrueh.com/

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

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

📸 Instagram: drchrisfrueh

🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:

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

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

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

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

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

🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

#veterans #operatorsyndrome #ptsd #specialoperations

⏰ Show Notes:

00:00 - Intro
01:11 Unveiling Operator Syndrome with Dr. Chris Frueh
01:22 The Science Behind Operator Syndrome
02:01 Chris Frueh: A Life Dedicated to Veterans' Health
04:36 The Power of Music and Connection
06:20 Understanding Operator Syndrome: A Deep Dive
14:58 The Personal Journey of Dr. Chris Frueh
25:43 Insights into History of Suicide in Active Duty Military since the 1800s
36:27 Why do we call Operator Syndrome a Syndrome
42:18 What exactly is TBI (it's not what I expected)
50:36 The Hidden Impact of TBIs Beyond Physical Injuries
53:29 Diagnosing and Recognizing TBIs: Challenges and Approaches
55:04 The Signature Injury of Modern Warfare: Research and Realities
55:41 Innovations and Adjustments in Training to Mitigate TBI Risks
01:05:51 The Psychological and Existential Effects of Operator Syndrome
01:14:31 Addressing TBIs: Medical Insights and Personal Stories
01:15:31 The Global Perspective: Operator Syndrome in International Forces
01:16:42 Women in Combat w/ Operator Syndrome
01:24:56 Three Things to Change if You're Dealing with Operator Syndrome
01:29:56 Closing Thoughts and Listener Comments

What is Operator Syndrome?

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

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

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

Former CEO ARMA Global & ARCTOS | Ranger | Armor Officer | James Fugit

Combat Story

04/22/23 • 83 min

This episode is brought to you by 4Patriots Survival Food Kits.The kits are compact, sturdy, water-resistant, and stack easily. They have different delicious breakfasts, lunches, dinners. You can make these meals in less than 20 minutes. Just add boiling water, simmer, and serve. Go to 4Patriots.com and use code COMBAT to get 10% off.

Join our weekly Combat Check-In Newsletter (www.combatstory.com/newsletter) to get a short email from Ryan for people who love and support our veterans, service members, and their families. It has info on a significant event in military and/or intel history, a funny military joke, an update on a current event I'm following, something I'm doing that week in my life, a book I'm reading, a look at an upcoming interview, a reflection on a past episode and more! ======== Today we get a slightly different Combat Story where we still hear from a veteran, but this time in terms of overcoming challenges to succeed in business, in addition to their military experience.

For this first Combat Story: Business Edition of, we hear from James Fugit, my brother and a very successful businessman who sold two companies in the defense space providing aviation, intelligence, IT, training, and equipment (in many cases delivering Soviet era helicopter parts and ammunition to various countries while supporting our efforts in Afghanistan). This took him all over the world with many meetings and partners in Russia, Ukraine, Afghanistan, and more. It’s like a real life and legitimate Dogs of War if you’ve seen the movie.

James co-founded ARMA Global Corporation, which provided information technology, engineering, and technical support to defense and government customers, and helped build it from a handful of employees in 2008 to over 800 employees in 2014 when it was sold to General Dynamics Information Technology. He also co-founded and served as CEO of ARMA Aviation Corporation, which provided logistics, supply chain management, maintenance-repair- overhaul (MRO), and training and mentoring to the US government and its allies, which merged with another company called ARCTOS in 2019.

In the military, James was an Army Armor officer and we delve into how his time in the Army helped shape his business acumen and leadership skills, including going through Ranger school at the same time eight trainees died of hypothermia.

As you can imagine, this was a special interview for me given that James is my older brother and someone I’ve looked up to my whole life so getting to dig into some of the bigger decisions and challenges he overcame meant a lot to me personally and I hope you enjoy this first ever business edition of Combat Story as much as I did.

Show Notes: 0:00 - Intro 0:59 - Guest Introduction (James Fugit) 02:35 - Interview begins 04:16 - The biggest success 06:22 - ARMA Global history 11:07 - Childhood 13:15 - Boarding school and path to being successful 18:52 - Want to join the Military 19:59 - 4Patriots 21:18 - JMU and the Military 28:25 - Hypothermia at Ranger school incident and impact 30:38 - Time in the Army 39:18 - from the Army to ARMA 47:01 - Meeting Todd and taking risks 51:53 - Building the team 01:01:18 - Milestones of success 01:07:12 - Working with Russia 01:10:57 - Key players 01:12:55 - Surreal moments 01:15:29 - Military training to business success 01:19:58 - What's next 01:20:30 - Listener comments and shout outs

Combat Story (Ep 42): Barry Strauss on Brasidas | Spartan Legend | Commander | Special Ops Pioneer

Combat Story

09/18/21 • 73 min

Today we have a unique History Edition of Combat Story focused on Sparta. As you know, I’m fascinated by the experiences of warriors in combat and I’ve always wanted to better understand what the combat experience would have been like for veterans from history like the Spartans, Romans, or Mongols.

On this episode, we’ll interview Professor Barry Strauss, an accomplished scholar, historian, and expert on ancient military history. Barry brings to life a very famous Spartan warrior named Brasidas as we dive into his combat story.

Brasidas led warriors into remarkable battles employing conventional tactics but also leveraging special operations and psychological or hybrid warfare with great success. Barry gives us a front row seat of what it was like to grow up and live in this austere, militaristic, and aggressive society we know as Sparta.

We could not have done this without Barry, who is a Professor of History and Classics at Cornell University, Series Editor of Princeton’s Turning Points in Ancient History, author of eight books, and a military and naval historian and consultant.

Professor Strauss is a recognized authority on the subject of leadership and the lessons that can be learned from the experiences of the greatest political and military leaders of the ancient world (Caesar, Hannibal, Alexander among many others).

He has a new book coming out in March 2022 titled The War that Made the Roman Empire: Antony, Cleopatra, and Octavian at Actium.

I hope you enjoy this unique Combat Story and the dive into the world of Sparta as much as I did.

Find Barry Online: Website Author of The War that Made the Roman Empire: Antony, Cleopatra, and Octavian at Actium, available March 2022 Facebook Twitter @barrystrauss Podcast ANTIQUITAS: Leaders and Legends of the Ancient World Find Ryan Online: Follow on Instagram @combatstory Follow on Facebook @combatstoryofficial Send us messages at https://m.me/combatstoryofficial Email [email protected] Learn more about Ryan Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle Crew: Guest: Dr. Barry Strauss Host: Ryan Fugit Editor: Owen Fugit Show Notes 0:00 - Intro 1:46 - Interview begins 3:50 - Barry’s background 7:18 - Facts and Fiction about Spartans 9:14 - The Greek and Persian Empire 11:23 - Beliefs and Views of Spartans and Athenians 12:20 - The Peloponnesian War 15:57 - Brasidas, Son of Tellis 18:47 - Life of a Spartan 22:52 - The Hoplites and the Phalanx 34:08 - The Spartan Way of War 35:48 - The Athenian’s First Encounter with Brasidas 39:11 - The Defeat of Brasidas 50:58 - Brasidas’ Greatest Coup 56:30 - Siege Warfare 1:02:09 - Psychological Warfare

Combat Story (Ep 41): Chris VanSant [Part 2] Delta Force | Ranger | All Secure | TYR Tactical

Combat Story

09/11/21 • 93 min

Today we complete the second segment of our Combat Story with Chris VanSant, a retired Army infantryman, Ranger, Green Beret, and Operator in 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment - Delta (1st SFOD-D).

You can hear the first round with Chris at https://youtu.be/tdSA8O_T6mE. We left our first interview with Chris at the height of his career: in the Unit, combat rotations, and close friends. We pick up in round two where things start to get more difficult and the optempo, intensity, and constant fighting begin to take a toll.

Chris describes how he overcame some very dark days that many can relate to and found new opportunities he never would have imagined. He’s gone on to become the Chief Operating Officer of TYR Tactical and is a board member for Tom and Jenn Satterly’s All Secure Foundation, both of which continue to protect those in need.

I hope you enjoy this deep dive into combat and recovery from a very humble Tier 1 operator as much as I did.

Find Chris Online: Instagram @vansanttyrtactical Website TYR Tactical Board Member at All Secure Foundation (Tom Satterly’s organization) Instagram @allsecurefoundation Find Ryan Online: Follow on Instagram @combatstory Follow on Facebook @combatstoryofficial Email [email protected] Learn more about Ryan Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle Video Edited by: Owen Fugit Show Notes 0:00 - Intro 1:00 - Guest bio 1:52 - Interview begins 2:37 - Chris’ thoughts on Afghanistan 14:18 - Where does the exhaustion come from? 17:18 - What are some other interesting fear responses? 17:24 - “Fight or flight is the first response when someone thinks they may die.” 20:11 - The next deployment 30:00 - Tactics and Procedures 32:40 - Different ways to attack a building. 36:23 – When did the trauma and stress start 43:33 – Early Indicators that will help others 48:25 – Pivotal moments during combat 57:39 - “You got to understand the individuals in your charge to get the best out of them; you got to know what motivates them, what makes them tick.” 58:48 – Starting to change 1:09:04 - Key things in your journey that you try to make sure a wider audience hears 1:10:05 - “Open up. Talk to the people that matter to you. It doesn't have to be a lot. It just has to be a few.” 1:13:13 – Getting fired from the Unit 1:18:53 – Pushing yourself 1:19:11 - “There are winners and losers. A loser is just a winner that tried one more time.” 1:22:40 – Pieces of advice 1:31:11 – Getting in touch with Chris

Combat Story (Ep 36): Mark Wales | Australian SAS | Troop Commander | TV Personality | Author | Entrepreneur | Kill Kapture

Combat Story

08/07/21 • 87 min

Today we hear the Combat Story of Mark Wales, a former Australian SAS (Special Air Service) officer who spent 16 years in the Australian Military, including six years in the elite SAS. He led special operators as a Troop Commander and completed 10 deployments to Afghanistan, Iraq, East Timor, Lebanon, and the Solomon Islands.

After separating from the military, Mark battled depression and stress disorders but found a way to power through and turn his life around. Mark would go on to earn an MBA from the prestigious Wharton School of Business and then worked at McKinsey & Company.

He has since written the book Survivor: Life in the SAS, was on Australian Survivor (where he met his wife) and competed in the Bear Grylls’ World’s Toughest Race: Eco Challenge Fiji 2019, which I highly recommend watching on Amazon with your family.

And since all this isn’t enough, Mark also founded Kill Kapture, a tough-luxury ecommerce brand and is now a sought after keynote and motivational speaker.

I hope you enjoy Mark’s honest, self deprecating, and relatable Combat Story as much as I did.

Find Mark online: Website Instagram: @mark.a.wales Book - Survivor: Life in the SAS LinkedIN Kill Kapture: Website | Instagram @kill_kapture Find Ryan online: Follow on Instagram @combat_stories Email [email protected] Learn more about Ryan Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle Show Notes 0:00 - Intro 0:46 - Mark Wales bio 1:42 - Interview begins 2:32 - Combat Story (in a way): Going to a brothel at 14 years old 8:19 - What is the pipeline for an officer? 16:42 - The view of 9/11 from an Aussie's perspective 18:08 - Training on how to throw a grenade 24:35 - Combat Story #1: Mark’s first patrol in East Timor 30:20 - The road to SAS and Selection 42:45 - First time being deployed to the Middle East 45:45 - For a team of six SAS guys, how do they feel about doing executive protection? 47:04 - Two more rotations to Afghanistan 49:25 - Combat Story #2: Tracking an HVT in East Timor 51:40 - Combat Story #3: SAS Troop Command in Afghanistan 1:02:36 - The language of the "unconscious body". 1:05:00 - Combat Story #4: Dangerous experiences in Helmund Province 1:16:02 - Combat (Reality Version) Story #5: Getting on Australian Survivor 1:19:20 - Combat (Reality Version) Story #6: Completing World's Toughest Race Fiji 2019 Eco-Challenge 1:23:40 - Kill Kapture 1:24:24 - What did you carry into combat? 1:26:17 - Would you do it all again?

Combat Story (Ep 34): Kevin Flike | Special Forces | Green Beret Foundation | Wounded By War | Purple Heart

Combat Story

07/17/21 • 83 min

Today we hear the Combat Story of Kevin Flike, a former Green Beret and Purple Heart recipient who served multiple deployments, including two to Afghanistan.

Kevin was shot in the abdomen during his second deployment and took years recovering from the associated physical and emotional scars and has shown that it is possible to not only fully recover from such an injury, but to thrive.

He is a graduate of the MIT Sloan School of Management and Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government, sits on the Board of Directors at the Green Beret Foundation, is a sought out motivational speaker, and shares his story of perseverance through a blog and outreach series called Wounded by War, which includes a documentary on his recovery.

Kevin was recommended to me by Beau Wise, a former guest on the show who lost two of his brothers to the war in Afghanistan, one of whom knew Kevin. Kevin and Beau have become like brothers. I hope you enjoy this inspiring insight from the brink of death to tremendous success as much as I did.

Find Kevin online: LinkedIN https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinflike/ Instagram @woundedbywar Wounded by War www.woundedbywar.com Find Ryan online: Follow on Instagram @combat_stories Email [email protected] Learn more about Ryan www.combatstory.com/aboutus Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle #greenberetfoundation #specialforces #kevinflike #veteran #combatstory #army #specialops #specialoperations Show Notes 0:00 - Intro 1:04 - Guest introduction 2:38 - Person in common: Beau Wise (as viewers will recall from a previous interview who was the sole survivor of three boys in the Wise family to make it home from Afghanistan). 21:03 - Decision to enlist out of college via the 18X program. 32:52 - Kevin’s strengths and perfect fit with the Green Berets. 34:50 - Learning to manage expectations when teaching, fighting, and working with others. 39:38 - Combat Story #1: Afghanistan (Kunduz) 2010. 46:11 - Combat Story #2: First firefight. 54:27 - How to process the “addiction” to war looking back now. 59:55 - Combat Story #3: The mission that led to Kevin’s significant injury. 1:09:55 - What goes through your mind when you’re shot and think you might die. 1:15:06 - Wounded By War (www.woundedbywar.com) 1:20:05 - Motivational Speaking to companies, communities, schools and the Green Beret Foundation 1:21:50 - What did you carry with you into combat? 1:22:40 - Would you do it again?

Black Hawk Down - Setting the Record Straight | Silence and Light Musician - Brad Thomas Catchup

Combat Story

02/13/24 • 28 min

We sit down with previous guest and former Ranger and Delta Force operator Brad Thomas as he sets the record straight about what happened back in Mogadishu and how his recollection of one event (as he shared back on Episode 58) was different than what another person remembered.

In the former interview, Brad describes a "jackass lieutenant" running around during the battle collecting fastropes because they were an accountable item. The individual in question listened to the interview and contacted Brad to explain what was actually going on.

Being the standup guy that he is, Brad immediately wanted to acknowledge this new information and share that we often don't recall things as they were.

Many will recall Brad gave up a promising musical career to serve, first with Ranger Battalion and then finding his way into Delta Force. His first combat experience was in Mogadishu in what we know as Black Hawk Down as part of 3rd Ranger Battalion in a true baptism by fire.

Since leaving the military, Brad returned to his passion: music. He gathered a group of veterans who now make up the band “Silence and Light” and saw far more success than they expected on their debut album.

We sit down today to discuss misinterpretations on the battlefield and clarify a situation discussed in Brad's interview from two years ago (Ep58).

🔗 Find Brad Online: - Instagram @bradthomas_official - Silence and Light Website https://www.silenceandlightmusic.com/ - Silence and Light Merch http://www.silenceandlightmusic.com/

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

Join hundreds of others with our weekly Combat Check-In Newsletter (www.combatstory.com/newsletter) to get a short email from Ryan each week about the show, life, and the military.

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FAQ

How many episodes does Combat Story have?

Combat Story currently has 203 episodes available.

What topics does Combat Story cover?

The podcast is about History and Podcasts.

What is the most popular episode on Combat Story?

What is the average episode length on Combat Story?

The average episode length on Combat Story is 102 minutes.

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Episodes of Combat Story are typically released every 7 days.

When was the first episode of Combat Story?

The first episode of Combat Story was released on Oct 25, 2020.

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Combat Story

Ryan Fugit

Top 10 Combat Story Episodes

FAQ

How many episodes does Combat Story have?

What topics does Combat Story cover?

What is the most popular episode on Combat Story?

What is the average episode length on Combat Story?

How often are episodes of Combat Story released?

When was the first episode of Combat Story?

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