Ep. 8 - John "Karl" Marks
04/25/25 • 347 min
In this episode, we sit down with retired Lieutenant Colonel John "Karl" Marks, the A-10 Warthog pilot with the most A-10 flight hours in history (7,500+ hours), for an incredible, in-depth conversation. Karl shares his experience flying combat missions from Desert Storm to Afghanistan, earning a Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, 18 Air Medals, and 13 combat deployments along the way.
We discuss:
Karl’s journey from a childhood fascination with aviation to becoming a legendary A-10 pilot
The evolution of close air support (CAS) and the future role of the A-10 vs. F-35
First-hand stories from Desert Storm, Afghanistan, and more
How the A-10 adapted tactics for modern warfare
Preserving institutional knowledge of CAS amid today's changing military priorities
The importance of trust between pilots and ground forces
Lessons on preparation, opportunity, and resilience in combat
Karl also shares behind-the-scenes moments from pilot training, getting his call sign "Karl” Marx, his first combat strike, and reflections on 37 years of service.
👉 Subscribe for more untold stories from America’s combat veterans.
🎯 Leave a comment to enter to win a signed desk ornament by Karl Marks!
🔥 Support the show on Patreon to get early, ad-free episodes and help bring more warfighter stories to life.
🤙 merch at dalestark.com
In this episode, we sit down with retired Lieutenant Colonel John "Karl" Marks, the A-10 Warthog pilot with the most A-10 flight hours in history (7,500+ hours), for an incredible, in-depth conversation. Karl shares his experience flying combat missions from Desert Storm to Afghanistan, earning a Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, 18 Air Medals, and 13 combat deployments along the way.
We discuss:
Karl’s journey from a childhood fascination with aviation to becoming a legendary A-10 pilot
The evolution of close air support (CAS) and the future role of the A-10 vs. F-35
First-hand stories from Desert Storm, Afghanistan, and more
How the A-10 adapted tactics for modern warfare
Preserving institutional knowledge of CAS amid today's changing military priorities
The importance of trust between pilots and ground forces
Lessons on preparation, opportunity, and resilience in combat
Karl also shares behind-the-scenes moments from pilot training, getting his call sign "Karl” Marx, his first combat strike, and reflections on 37 years of service.
👉 Subscribe for more untold stories from America’s combat veterans.
🎯 Leave a comment to enter to win a signed desk ornament by Karl Marks!
🔥 Support the show on Patreon to get early, ad-free episodes and help bring more warfighter stories to life.
🤙 merch at dalestark.com
Previous Episode
Ep. 7 - Jay Humphrey
1 RecommendationsOn this intense episode of The Dale Stark Show, we sit down with Jay Humphrey, a retired HH-60G rescue pilot whose service record speaks volumes of his dedication and bravery. Jay, who has been awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his valor in combat, shares insights from his nine combat deployments. His most gripping narrative yet unfolds as he recounts the mission that led to his distinguished award, offering a rare glimpse into the life of a rescue pilot. From the high stakes of aerial rescue operations to the emotional toll and triumphs of combat, Jay's story is one of courage, skill, and an unwavering commitment to saving lives. Don't miss this compelling episode where bravery meets humanity.
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