Podcast Summary
Volunteering for a Top-Secret Vietnam War Mission: During the Vietnam War, volunteers joined a top-secret mission, operating in neutral countries without US identification to maintain plausible deniability, risking high casualties and no Geneva Convention protection.
During the Vietnam War, a group of volunteers, including Jocko Willink and Echo Charles, joined MACVSOG's command and control detachment despite warnings of high casualties and rough duty. Upon arrival, they were given a top-secret briefing, prohibiting them from sharing any information about the operation or carrying identification. Their mission was to operate in neutral countries like Cambodia and Laos, carrying no US identification to maintain plausible deniability for the US government. They were effectively spies, with no protection under the Geneva Convention if captured. John Stryker Meyer, a former MACVSOG member, shares his experiences on the podcast. Meyer grew up in Trenton, New Jersey, and after flunking out of college, he was inspired by the book "The Green Berets" to join the military. Despite forewarnings, they volunteered, believing they were ready for the challenge.
Overcoming challenges with determination and a positive mindset: Determination and a positive mindset can help individuals overcome challenges, even in the face of adversity. Sports and family support can provide motivation and strength during difficult times.
Determination and a positive mindset can help individuals overcome challenges, even in the face of adversity. This was evident in the speaker's decision to join the Army despite the risks and his experience in boot camp. He drew strength from his love for sports, particularly baseball, and his father's support. Although public opinion against the war was beginning to grow, the speaker was motivated to serve and make the most of the opportunity. He approached boot camp with a game-like mentality, recognizing that the rigorous training was necessary to prepare him for his role. Despite the early morning inspections and other challenges, he remained focused and determined, ultimately qualifying for the Special Forces pipeline and earning the respect of his peers.
Joining the CNC team during the Vietnam War: High-risk, high-reward: Serving in the CNC team during the Vietnam War was a dangerous and rewarding opportunity, with volunteers recruited unconventionally and some not making it through rigorous training. Trainers like SFC Paul Villarosa paid the ultimate sacrifice.
During the Vietnam War, joining the Special Forces' Communications and Reconnaissance (CNC) team was a high-risk, high-reward opportunity. Young recruits were often encouraged to join without being fully informed about the dangers involved. The recruitment process was unconventional, with volunteers being sought out during training and even after arriving at Fort Gordon for additional training. However, not all recruits made it through the rigorous training, with some, like the speaker, being busted down in rank for misbehavior. Sadly, one of their trainers, SFC Paul Villarosa, was among the first Green Berets killed in action during the war. This experience underscores the high-stakes nature of serving in CNC and the sacrifices made by those who served.
Unexpected realities of joining the special forces: Joining the special forces meant embracing the unknown, trusting in local abilities, and facing unfamiliar situations.
Joining the special forces came with unexpected realities for the volunteers. From being assigned immediately after arrival to encountering unfamiliar situations like sharing a safe house with hookers, the experiences were far from what they had anticipated. The flight to their first assignment, FOB 1, on old helicopters with Vietnamese crews added to their sense of uncertainty. Despite the challenges, they knew they were part of something crucial, and their training prepared them for the unexpected. The bravery and skill of the local pilots further underscored the importance of working with indigenous people. Overall, joining the special forces meant embracing the unknown and trusting in the abilities of those around them.
Encountering Unexpected Circumstances and the Importance of Communication and Teamwork: Effective communication and teamwork are crucial in overcoming unexpected challenges, as demonstrated when a team's radio communication went down in Vietnam and they were relieved to see a familiar face and receive valuable information.
During a mission in Vietnam, the speaker and his team encountered unexpected circumstances when their radio communication with another team went down. They were relieved when they saw a familiar face, Spider Parks, who had valuable information about the missing team and helped them understand the situation. Despite the initial worry, they eventually received word that a "bright light" team had been sent to find or assist the missing team. Throughout the experience, the importance of effective communication and the support of fellow team members became clear.
Intense combat and heavy casualties for spike teams during the Vietnam War: Spike teams faced intense enemy fire, suffered heavy casualties, and remained committed to their mission during the Vietnam War.
The Vietnam War was a dangerous and unforgiving environment for the special forces teams, particularly the spike teams. The account of the team from Oregon's mission in the bright light underscores this reality. The team faced intense enemy fire and suffered heavy casualties, with one member killed and several others wounded. The loss of ST Idaho, another team, added to the sense of unease and loss within the camp. The sheer number of KIA's in a short period of time was sobering, and the green soldiers like McIntyre and the speaker were both nervous and determined not to quit. The spike teams, which consisted of a hatchet force and a recon team, were essential for gathering intelligence and conducting reconnaissance missions. The teams were often small, with a few American soldiers and indigenous troops. The South Vietnamese troops were highly respected and had been running missions for over two years by 1968. Despite the risks, the soldiers remained committed to their mission. The memorial services held in the mess hall for fallen comrades were a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during this time.
Military Operations in the Late 1960s: High Risk and Constant Need for Reconnaissance: During military operations in the late 1960s, soldiers frequently flew into enemy territory for reconnaissance, facing high risk and minimal support. Daily memorial services for fallen soldiers were a reminder of the realities of war and the importance of gathering intelligence to keep troops safe.
The experiences of military operations in the late 1960s, as shared in the discussion, were characterized by high risk and a constant need for reconnaissance. The soldiers were frequently flying over the border into Laos and Cambodia to gather intelligence, often without much backup or support. Memorial services for fallen soldiers became a daily occurrence due to the high number of casualties, and the operations were conducted in an old-fashioned way with minimal technology. The soldiers had to be careful not to be detected by the enemy, and the missions often resulted in encounters with punji pits and bomb craters. Despite the lack of enemy contact on some missions, the soldiers knew that danger was always present. These operations were a stark reminder of the realities of war and the importance of gathering intelligence to keep troops safe.
Communication limitations during combat: During intense combat, unexpected details can distract soldiers, and communication limitations can lead to dangerous situations.
During the Vietnam War, communication between troops was limited to specific communication windows due to battery limitations. This meant that when an emergency situation arose, there was a chance that no one would be listening on the other end. Additionally, even in the midst of intense combat, soldiers found themselves focused on unexpected details, such as cleaning their weapons or preserving food. Despite the danger and chaos, there was an eerie beauty to the violence, with the thunderous sound of automatic weapons and the extended sense of time heightening all senses. The unexpected attack on the team, which occurred while one member was enjoying a can of apricots, resulted in a fierce firefight where adrenaline took over and time seemed to slow down.
Focus on initial threats, but don't forget about others: During combat, focus on initial threats while remaining aware of other potential dangers. Teamwork, quick reactions, and effective use of weapons are crucial for survival.
During a firefight with the NVA on October 7, 1968, every second counted. The author, focused on the initial muzzle flashes, almost overlooked enemy soldiers advancing from the right. Fook's timely shooting saved the team from potential disaster. The race to reload after the initial contact was crucial, and Sal Heap's quick actions gave them fire superiority. Their months of rigorous training paid off, as they had to rely on their skills to survive. The enemy's determination was evident as they continued to attack despite heavy losses. The small knoll they were on and the thick jungle worked to their advantage, but the NBA still pressed forward. They didn't have an automatic weapon with them, but the M79 provided extra firepower. The first round of the M79 was typically a Flechette round. Overall, this firefight underscored the importance of focus, teamwork, and quick reactions in combat situations.
Impact of weapons on military operations: Having adequate firepower and weapons is crucial for military success and survival. Proper communication and support from air forces can also make a significant difference.
During military operations, having adequate firepower and weapons can significantly impact the outcome and survival of soldiers. The speaker shares an experience from his deployment to Iraq where they encountered a seemingly harmless obstacle, but the lack of proper weapons left them feeling vulnerable and underprepared. In contrast, during a battle in Vietnam, the soldiers were outnumbered but their limited ammunition forced them to conserve and take point shots, making survival a priority. The importance of having access to heavy weapons, such as belt-fed machine guns, was emphasized. The story also highlights the importance of communication and support from air forces during combat situations. The soldiers' respect for their enemies grew as they faced the enormity of the jungle and the challenges it presented. Overall, the discussion underscores the significance of having the right tools and resources to ensure the safety and effectiveness of military personnel.
NVA tactics during air raids: During the Vietnam War, NVA soldiers got close to American forces during air raids to avoid napalm, forcing the US to adapt with full automatic firing and crucial air support from Skyraiders, F-4 Phantoms, gunships, and Covey pilots.
During the Vietnam War, the North Vietnamese Army (NVA) had developed a tactic where they would get as close as possible to American forces during air raids, instead of running away. This was because they believed they could avoid the napalm and other ordnance by getting closer to the Americans. The Americans had to adapt and go back to full automatic firing to defend against these charges. Air support was crucial in these situations, with aircraft like the Skyraider, F-4 Phantom, and gunships providing cover and firepower. The use of Air Force pilots, called Covey, played a significant role in directing these air strikes and providing real-time intelligence. The intensity of the firefights often left the American forces low on ammunition and supplies, making the arrival of extract platforms, or "king bees," all the more crucial for evacuation.
Cubby riders as essential intermediaries during combat missions: Effective communication and coordination between ground troops and air force pilots relied on experienced cubby riders who acted as intermediaries, and resilient pilots who maintained calmness and focus amidst chaos and danger.
During combat missions in Vietnam, having experienced soldiers like Spider and Pat Walker, who served as cubby riders, was essential for effective communication and understanding between ground troops and air force pilots. These cubby riders acted as intermediaries, relaying crucial information and coordinating extraction efforts. The pilots, such as Captain Tin, were also crucial, flying old but resilient helicopters, which could withstand enemy fire and enable safe extraction of troops. Despite the chaos and danger on the ground, these pilots maintained remarkable calmness and focus, providing a stark contrast to the intense and exhausting conditions faced by the soldiers. Captain Tin's unwavering composure and determination to fly, even amidst significant damage to his helicopter, served as an inspiring reminder of the importance of focus and resilience in the face of adversity.
Honesty and courage in teamwork during high-pressure situations: Open communication and acknowledging team members' feelings are crucial for maintaining morale and effectiveness in high-pressure situations. Mental well-being is also essential for continued performance.
Honesty and courage are essential for teamwork, especially in high-pressure situations. In the context of the discussion, a team member named Davidson expressed his feelings of being overwhelmed after a dangerous mission, leading him to consider leaving the team. The speaker, who respected Davidson's honesty, reassured him of his past accomplishments and their shared bond from their experiences. Davidson eventually decided to take some time off, emphasizing the importance of mental well-being for continued performance. The conversation highlights the importance of open communication and acknowledging team members' feelings to maintain morale and effectiveness. Additionally, the team's success relied on the support of various units and resources, illustrating the importance of collaboration and teamwork.
Overcoming Challenges in Jungle Warfare: During jungle warfare, teamwork and communication are crucial for survival as teams face unique challenges like racing against the sun, lack of nighttime capability, danger of helicopter landings, and isolation in the jungle environment.
During war operations in the past, such as those in Laos, SEAL team members had to deal with various challenges, including racing against the sun to be picked up and the lack of nighttime capability. They also faced the danger of being shot down during helicopter landings and had to abort missions if they encountered enemy presence. The use of technology, like night strobes and bombs, helped them overcome some obstacles, but the jungle environment presented its own unique challenges, leaving team members feeling isolated and vulnerable when alone. The experience of standing in the middle of a smoky LZ, surrounded by tall trees and formidable jungle, highlighted the importance of teamwork and communication in ensuring survival.
A soldier's harrowing helicopter escape: Stay calm and focused in dangerous situations, thorough training and preparation are crucial
In high-pressure situations, quick thinking and adaptability are crucial. The soldier in this account was extracted from a dangerous situation by being hoisted up by a helicopter while under enemy fire. He was unable to clip his safety harness into the rope in time, causing him to be thrown around by the trees as he was lifted off the ground. Fearing for his life, he signaled for the helicopter to land, but as he did so, his harness began to slip off, leaving him dangling by the seat. He narrowly avoided passing out and managed to land safely, but lost some of his gear in the process. This experience taught him the importance of staying calm and focused, even in the face of danger, and the value of thorough training and preparation.
Serving in Special Operations during the Vietnam War: Danger, Camaraderie, and Following Protocols: Dangerous missions in Special Operations during the Vietnam War tested soldiers' resolve with challenges like enemy direction finding, bad weather, and disobeying orders. Camaraderie and potential rewards kept them going, but following protocols was crucial to avoid dangerous consequences.
Serving in Special Operations during the Vietnam War was a dangerous and unpredictable experience. Soldiers faced numerous challenges, from enemy direction finding and bad weather preventing communication, to violating rules and setting up ambushes. One particular mission involved the team setting up an ambush but being told not to execute it due to worsening weather conditions, which left them stranded and vulnerable. Despite the risks and hardships, the camaraderie and potential rewards, such as capturing a live POW for a bonus, kept them pushing forward. Another important lesson was the importance of following protocols and not rushing into situations without proper planning and preparation, as doing so could lead to dangerous consequences.
Evading Enemy Forces in the Jungle: During a reconnaissance mission, the team encountered enemy forces and had to evade them using quick thinking, teamwork, and the ability to adapt to unexpected situations.
During a reconnaissance mission in Laos on the Ho Chi Minh trail, the team encountered enemy forces and had to evade them. They heard the sounds of tanks, trucks, and dogs, indicating that the enemy was officially searching for them. The team had to move quickly and cross the large trail, which was covered in vegetation and wide enough for tanks to pass side by side. They put out pepper and mace to throw off the dogs and continued up a stream to lose them. They set up a RON (Rest Overnight) and were discovered by two NVA soldiers, but managed to avoid capture. The team's use of a wiretap provided valuable intelligence, but also put them in greater danger when they had to flee. The jungle's size and the enemy's use of trackers and dogs made it challenging to evade detection. Overall, the mission required quick thinking, teamwork, and the ability to adapt to unexpected situations.
Lesson from the jungle: Stealth and calm under pressure: Staying alert, calm, and resourceful in dangerous situations can increase chances of survival. Use stealth and tactical decisions to outmaneuver enemies and disrupt their plans.
The speaker's experience in the jungle during a military operation taught him the importance of stealth and staying calm under pressure. He recounted a close encounter with an enemy soldier, where he had to remain still and quiet to avoid detection. The jungle environment made it difficult to see or hear anything, adding to the tension. The soldier's impressive stealth and the speaker's own adrenaline made for a nerve-wracking standoff. The situation emphasized the importance of making tactical decisions quickly and effectively to increase the chances of survival. The speaker also mentioned the use of booby traps as a tactic to disrupt the enemy's plans. Overall, the experience taught him valuable lessons about the importance of staying alert, calm, and resourceful in dangerous situations.
Effective communication and coordination in military missions: Clear communication and coordination between military units, including unfamiliar personnel and equipment, is vital for mission success. Preventing friendly fire incidents and utilizing experimental weapons effectively are key challenges.
Effective communication and coordination between different military units, even those with unfamiliar equipment or personnel, can significantly impact mission success. This was evident during a mission where the author's team encountered NVA troops and had to call in air support and extraction. The use of Claymore mines and coordinated gun runs helped hold off the enemy long enough for the extraction ships to arrive. However, the team also faced challenges with young door gunners mistaking Vietnamese team members for enemy due to their dress and appearance. Clear communication about the presence of Vietnamese team members was crucial to prevent friendly fire incidents. Another interesting aspect was the use of experimental weapons like the pump M79 and the unexpected appearance of Russian aircraft for resupply drops. Despite language barriers, the SF team was able to communicate effectively due to a strong interpreter core. Overall, the mission highlights the importance of clear communication, coordination, and adaptability in complex military situations.
The complexities and realities of war: War is unpredictable and dangerous, with experiences vastly different for those on the ground and back home. Essential team members were overlooked, leaders underestimated, and criticism faced amidst intense enemy fire.
War is unpredictable and dangerous, and the experiences of those on the ground can be vastly different from those back home. During a mission, the team faced intense enemy fire, with their helicopter taking several hits and the lead aircraft's windshield being blown out. Despite this, the team continued to face criticism from higher-ups and deal with anti-war protests back home. The team's Vietnamese members, who were essential to their operations, were often overlooked and undervalued. The team's young leader, despite his rank and experience, was also underestimated by some of his team members. Through it all, the team persevered, adapting to the challenges they faced and continuing to complete their missions. It's a reminder of the complexities and realities of war and the importance of understanding the perspectives of those who serve.
Handling challenges during the Vietnam War: Soldiers showed resilience and adaptability, using enemy ordnance for psyops and surviving dangerous situations like being surrounded by fires on Christmas Day 1968.
During the Vietnam War, soldiers had to deal with various challenges, including enemy attacks, psyops, and dangerous terrain. An incident involving thermobaric grenades showcased the importance of quick thinking and resourcefulness. They used enemy ordnance for psyops, placing it in caches to explode in the enemy's faces. During a mission on Christmas Day 1968, they faced a severe situation as their position was surrounded by fires, which forced them to evacuate. Despite the danger, they managed to survive and return safely. These experiences highlighted the soldiers' resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity.
Stories of courage and quick thinking in the military: Military personnel faced dangerous situations requiring courage and quick thinking, including using explosives like Claymore Mines and C-4 for defense and experimentation.
Courage and quick thinking were essential for survival in the face of overwhelming adversity for the military personnel discussed in this conversation. The speaker shared stories from their past experiences, including nightmares from their service days and missions involving Claymore Mines and C-4 explosives. During these missions, they had to use Claymore Mines with 5-second fuses to defend against large enemy divisions, carrying at least one on their team and sometimes even two or three. One team member, Lynn Black, experimented with using C-4 to stun enemies instead of killing them, leading him to test the explosive on himself, resulting in temporary hearing loss and hair damage. These stories illustrate the intense and dangerous situations these individuals faced, requiring them to act swiftly and courageously to protect themselves and their teammates.
Impact of NVA sapper teams on SF troops during the Vietnam War: NVA sapper teams were skilled in tracking, stealth, and ambushing American forces, causing significant psychological damage and impacting morale when they killed SF troops and left their Vietnamese team members alive.
The NVA sapper teams were a deadly and formidable enemy force during the Vietnam War. The incident described in the text, where three Green Berets were killed and the Vietnamese team members were left alive, served as a major psychological blow to the SF troops. This event highlighted the sapper's expertise in tracking and stealth, as well as their motivation to kill Americans and receive rewards from the Communist party. The incident also underscored the importance of vigilance and being prepared for attacks, as the sapper teams were known to have sources and intelligence that allowed them to ambush American forces. The event had a profound impact on the morale of the SF troops and served as a reminder of the dangers they faced in the field.
Experience of high-risk missions and camaraderie in the Special Forces Operational Group: The importance of teamwork, staying with your team despite risks, and the crucial role of air support in successful missions.
The author's experience in the Special Forces Operational Group (SOG) during the Vietnam War was filled with challenging missions, close calls, and the importance of teamwork. Despite the risks and the opportunity to request a safer assignment, the author chose to stay with his team due to the camaraderie and the sense of duty. One mission, which involved going far north to raise hell with the NVA, was considered a high-risk operation by some recon men, but the team went through with it, believing they had the resources and determination to succeed. The author also emphasized the crucial role of air support units, particularly the King Bee pilots, in their missions. Lastly, the author dedicated the book to all SOG team members and the support units who made the ultimate sacrifice, acknowledging the high casualty rate and the 1,589 Americans still missing in action in Southeast Asia from the Vietnam War.
High casualty rate for Green Berets in Vietnam War: Despite making up only a small percentage of US forces in Vietnam, Green Berets had a high casualty rate. Support from family and writing a book helped one Green Beret cope with his experiences.
The Special Forces Operational Detachment-A (SOG) in the Vietnam War, which consisted of approximately 2,000 Green Berets, had a high casualty rate with estimates ranging from 500 to 800 men killed in action. This was out of the 20,000 Special Forces personnel and the 3.2 million Americans who served in Vietnam during the war. The speaker, a Green Beret himself, shared his personal experiences and the challenges he faced upon returning from Vietnam to the US during the anti-war movement. He also mentioned the importance of support from family, especially his wife, in writing his book. The speaker also shared an anecdote about escaping military police by hiding within their comm equipment when they came to investigate reports of property damage and a car driving through the base gate on a sideways drift. The first book, "Across the Fence," is recommended for reading to understand the speaker's experiences and the context of the Special Forces in Vietnam.
The Importance of Capability and Improvement: Effective training in jiu jitsu enhances self-defense skills and mental preparation for life's challenges. Adaptability and improvement are key assets.
Capability and improvement are essential, whether in martial arts like jiu jitsu or in life. John Stryker Meyer's stories from his books, available on Amazon and saugchronicles.com, showcase the importance of enhancing one's abilities, especially in high-pressure situations. Training in jiu jitsu, specifically, offers numerous benefits, including self-defense skills and mental preparation for unexpected challenges. The right equipment, such as a gi from Origin Maine, is crucial for effective training. Remember, the ability to adapt and improve is a valuable asset in any situation.
American-made products for health and well-being: Investing in American-made denim and supplements, like joint warfare and krill oil, can enhance physical and mental health through high-quality clothing and essential nutrients for joint maintenance. Maintaining discipline and proper nutrition, including nutritious foods like molk protein, is also crucial for overall well-being.
The discussed products, including American denim and essential supplements like joint warfare and krill oil, are made in America and can significantly contribute to maintaining good physical and mental health. The American denim offers high-quality clothing for various activities, while the supplements support joint health for those engaging in physically demanding tasks. The supplements, such as joint warfare and krill oil, are essential for joint maintenance and can be particularly beneficial for those with active lifestyles. Additionally, maintaining discipline and consuming nutritious foods, like molk protein, are essential for overall health and well-being. The discussion also emphasized the importance of proper nutrition during childhood, as poor eating habits can lead to negative health outcomes. Overall, the key takeaway is that investing in these American-made products and practices can significantly enhance one's physical and mental well-being.
Childhood teasing for healthy food choices: Despite social pressures, making healthy food choices in childhood leads to long-term benefits.
Growing up, making healthy food choices was not always popular, but it paid off in the long run. The speaker shared their experience of being teased for bringing healthier options to school, like whole wheat bread and vegetables, while their peers had more desirable snacks. However, as they entered adulthood, they recognized the benefits of their mother's health-conscious choices. The speaker also emphasized that the social aspect of food played a role in the teasing, as everyone knew that cookies and chips were "cool," while healthier options were not. Despite this, the speaker encourages their daughter to continue making healthy choices, despite potential teasing, as the long-term benefits will outweigh any temporary social pressures.
Impact of Warrior Kid community on promoting healthy living and high-quality products: The Warrior Kid podcast and related initiatives inspire people to embrace healthy living and quality products through engaging stories, effective messaging, and high-quality merchandise.
The Warrior Kid podcast and related initiatives, such as Jocco store and Jocko Podcast on YouTube, are making it cool and desirable for people to embrace healthy living and quality products. The podcast's stories and messages are being delivered effectively through various mediums, including audio, video, and merchandise. The speakers emphasized the importance of quality representation and encouraged listeners to subscribe to the podcast for valuable content. Additionally, 13-year-old Aidan, known as Warrior Kid, runs his own business selling goat milk soap, and the group's YouTube channel features enhanced videos to engage viewers and deliver messages more effectively. Overall, the discussion highlighted the impact of the Warrior Kid community and its efforts to promote healthy living and high-quality products.
Exploring multiple passions can lead to personal growth: Exploring various interests and continuously challenging oneself can lead to unexpected benefits and personal development, such as improved mindset, focus, and physical abilities.
Having multiple passions and pursuing them, even if they seem unrelated, can lead to personal growth and success in various aspects of life. James Nielsen, a world-class accountant and black belt in jujitsu, is an excellent example of this. Teaching jujitsu is not just a side job for him, but a source of enjoyment and improvement. Similarly, creating a motivational playlist, like psychological warfare, can help put one in the right mindset for productivity and focus. Additionally, incorporating functional tools like kettlebells into a home workout routine can enhance physical abilities and overall fitness. Embracing diverse interests and continuously challenging oneself can lead to unexpected benefits and personal development.
Improve Leadership Skills with Echelon Front: Echelon Front offers resources to help individuals and organizations improve leadership skills through books, online training, and placement services. Their approach emphasizes ownership, decision-making, and problem-solving.
Leadership is a continuous process that requires dedication and follow-up. Jocko Willink and his team at Echelon Front offer various resources to help individuals and organizations improve their leadership skills, including books, online training, and leadership placement services. Their approach, based on principles learned in the military, emphasizes the importance of taking ownership, making decisions, and solving problems. They encourage people to attend their leadership training events, but also offer online options for those who cannot attend in person. They also express gratitude to veterans, first responders, and others who risk their lives to keep us safe. Ultimately, they encourage us to appreciate the gift of life and make the most of it.
