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The Kagan Dunlap Show
The Kagan Dunlap Show
Author: Kagan Dunlap
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The Official Podcast of Kagan Dunlap
I'm Kagan Dunlap, and welcome to the Show! Storytelling is a huge part of our culture, and I want to enable people who have valuable stories, to share them with those who can benefit from them the most. You! Thank you for watching!
The Opinions and Views expressed in this podcast are personal and do not reflect the official DoW
I'm Kagan Dunlap, and welcome to the Show! Storytelling is a huge part of our culture, and I want to enable people who have valuable stories, to share them with those who can benefit from them the most. You! Thank you for watching!
The Opinions and Views expressed in this podcast are personal and do not reflect the official DoW
66 Episodes
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The Marine Corps has officially announced the inaugural Gunnery Sergeant Jeffrey E. Bohr Trophy for Outstanding Leadership.This prestigious new award honors the legacy of Silver Star recipient GySgt Jeffrey E. Bohr, who was KIA in northern Baghdad, Iraq, while serving as Company Gunnery Sergeant, Company A, 1st Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, on April 10, 2003. It recognizes the Marine Corps' most outstanding infantry leaders, Staff Sergeants and Gunnery Sergeants (MOS 0369) serving in Infantry Battalions or Littoral Combat Teams.This is the first year this award has been offered.This Award is offered to Active Duty 0369 Marines in key leadership billets such as Company Gunnery Sergeant, Platoon Sergeant, Company Operations Chief, Weapons Company Section Leader, and similar unit leader positions. Posthumous nominations are also authorized.What it takes to win:Nominees must exemplify bold leadership, wise judgment, dedication to duty, genuine concern for their Marines, and the ability to build strong esprit de corps, setting the standard that others strive to emulate.The Men participating in this Interview Each served with GySgt Jeffrey E. Bohr during this deployment. Their names are:Major General Frederick Padilla (retired): Served as the 1/5 Battalion Commander During this Deployment.SgtMaj James Green (retired): Served as Company A, Company First Sergeant During This Deployment.CWO3 Gunner Aaron Agee: Served as a Rifleman in Company A during this deployment.Liam Bonner: Served as The Company Police Sergeant, Company A during this deployment.In Memory of GySgt Jeffrey E. BohrPlease leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kagan-dunlap-show/id1734065968Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4CoB0WzZTGwZHj7LJIZDTI?si=3f85eb09f07249e7Kagan Dunlap Show Links:YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@KaganDunlapShowX - https://x.com/KaganDunlapShowInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/kagandunlapshow/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583743284059Threads - https://www.threads.com/@kagandunlapshow?hl=enTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kagan.dunlap.show?lang=enWebsite - https://kagandunlapshow.com/
Major James Capers Jr. Legendary Force Recon Marine, Vietnam Hero & the Long Fight for the Medal of Honor.In this powerful episode, we sit down with Retired U.S. Marine Corps Major James Capers Jr., a true American hero and trailblazer. One of the first African American officers in The Marine Force Reconnaissance Teams, Major Capers led over 60 covert long-range reconnaissance patrols in Vietnam. He survived devastating wounds, including multiple gunshots, over 17 pieces of shrapnel, and a broken leg, while refusing to quit command during a brutal 1967 ambush near Phu Loc. His actions saved every member of his team, Team Broadminded, and embodied the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps.For nearly six decades, Major Capers’ extraordinary valor went unrecognized at the nation’s highest level. After the battle, the Commanding General intended to recommend him for the Medal of Honor, but that paperwork was lost forever when the General was killed in a helicopter crash. Instead of the Medal of Honor, he received a Bronze Star. Now, thanks to years of advocacy, Congressman Ralph Norman’s bill H.R. 3377 written to authorize President Trump to award Major James Capers Jr. the Medal of Honor, has passed both the House and Senate and was signed into Law By The President of The United States on March 26th 2026, finally bringing long-overdue justice to this American legend.Major Capers opens up about breaking racial barriers in the Marines, leadership under fire, the brutal realities of combat, and his unbreakable bond with his men. He also shares inspiring lessons on resilience, faith, and legacy.Major Capers story is one that embodies courage, sacrifice, and the stories of those who served.Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kagan-dunlap-show/id1734065968Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4CoB0WzZTGwZHj7LJIZDTI?si=3f85eb09f07249e7Kagan Dunlap Show Links:YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@KaganDunlapShowX - https://x.com/KaganDunlapShowInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/kagandunlapshow/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583743284059Threads - https://www.threads.com/@kagandunlapshow?hl=enTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kagan.dunlap.show?lang=enWebsite - https://kagandunlapshow.com/Major Capers Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/major_james_capers_jr/
Major James Capers Jr. Legendary Force Recon Marine, Vietnam Hero & the Long Fight for the Medal of Honor.In this powerful episode, we sit down with Retired U.S. Marine Corps Major James Capers Jr., a true American hero and trailblazer. One of the first African American officers in The Marine Force Reconnaissance Teams, Major Capers led over 60 covert long-range reconnaissance patrols in Vietnam. He survived devastating wounds, including multiple gunshots, over 17 pieces of shrapnel, and a broken leg, while refusing to quit command during a brutal 1967 ambush near Phu Loc. His actions saved every member of his team, Team Broadminded, and embodied the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps.For nearly six decades, Major Capers’ extraordinary valor went unrecognized at the nation’s highest level. After the battle, the Commanding General intended to recommend him for the Medal of Honor, but that paperwork was lost forever when the General was killed in a helicopter crash. Instead of the Medal of Honor, he received a Bronze Star. Now, thanks to years of advocacy, Congressman Ralph Norman’s bill H.R. 3377 written to authorize President Trump to award Major James Capers Jr. the Medal of Honor, has passed both the House and Senate and was signed into Law By The President of The United States on March 26th 2026, finally bringing long-overdue justice to this American legend.Major Capers opens up about breaking racial barriers in the Marines, leadership under fire, the brutal realities of combat, and his unbreakable bond with his men. He also shares inspiring lessons on resilience, faith, and legacy.Major Capers story is one that embodies courage, sacrifice, and the stories of those who served.Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kagan-dunlap-show/id1734065968Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4CoB0WzZTGwZHj7LJIZDTI?si=3f85eb09f07249e7Kagan Dunlap Show Links:YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@KaganDunlapShowX - https://x.com/KaganDunlapShowInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/kagandunlapshow/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583743284059Threads - https://www.threads.com/@kagandunlapshow?hl=enTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kagan.dunlap.show?lang=enWebsite - https://kagandunlapshow.com/Major Capers Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/major_james_capers_jr/
Charles Johnson is currently an aeronautical design engineer. During his eight-year career in the U.S. Marine Corps (2009–2017), he served as a mortarman, completingfive deployments throughout Afghanistan and Southeast Asia. He now applies the same focus and analytical rigor required for ballistics and field operations to the technical challenges of modern aeronautical design, supported by his degree in mechanicalengineering.Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kagan-dunlap-show/id1734065968Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4CoB0WzZTGwZHj7LJIZDTI?si=3f85eb09f07249e7Kagan Dunlap Show Links:YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@KaganDunlapShowX - https://x.com/KaganDunlapShowInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/kagandunlapshow/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583743284059Threads - https://www.threads.com/@kagandunlapshow?hl=enTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kagan.dunlap.show?lang=enWebsite - https://kagandunlapshow.com/Charles Johnson Links:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/charlesj0341/
Charles Johnson is currently an aeronautical design engineer. During his eight-year career in the U.S. Marine Corps (2009–2017), he served as a mortarman, completingfive deployments throughout Afghanistan and Southeast Asia. He now applies the same focus and analytical rigor required for ballistics and field operations to the technical challenges of modern aeronautical design, supported by his degree in mechanicalengineering.Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kagan-dunlap-show/id1734065968Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4CoB0WzZTGwZHj7LJIZDTI?si=3f85eb09f07249e7Kagan Dunlap Show Links:YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@KaganDunlapShowX - https://x.com/KaganDunlapShowInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/kagandunlapshow/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583743284059Threads - https://www.threads.com/@kagandunlapshow?hl=enTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kagan.dunlap.show?lang=enWebsite - https://kagandunlapshow.com/Charles Johnson Links:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/charlesj0341/
From raw combat footage that showed Americans the realities of war to reshaping modern firearms training, Travis Haley has left a lasting mark on the tactical community.A former U.S. Marine Corps Force Reconnaissance Marine, Haley served on multiple combat deployments across the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia. After active duty, he continued serving in the Marine Reserves while also working as a private military contractor supporting U.S. government operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. In total, his career spans 29 years of operational and defense-industry experience in over 45 countries.Haley later founded Simply Dynamics, which evolved into Magpul Dynamics, helping bring modern Special Operations training concepts and firearms instruction to a wider audience. Today, he is the founder of Haley Strategic Partners, where he continues to influence tactical training, product development, and responsible firearms education.Beyond the defense industry, Haley has also served in law enforcement as a tactics instructor and critical response specialist, while mentoring others on resilience, mindset, and post-traumatic growth.A 7th-generation gunfighter of the Haley family, husband, father of seven, entrepreneur, and adventurer, Travis Haley continues to shape the modern tactical world both on and off the range.Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kagan-dunlap-show/id1734065968Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4CoB0WzZTGwZHj7LJIZDTI?si=3f85eb09f07249e7Kagan Dunlap Show Links:YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@KaganDunlapShowX - https://x.com/KaganDunlapShowInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/kagandunlapshow/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583743284059Threads - https://www.threads.com/@kagandunlapshow?hl=enTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kagan.dunlap.show?lang=enWebsite - https://kagandunlapshow.com/Travis Haley Links:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dragonflyhaley/?hl=enFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/travis.haley.18/Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdqO3qjABeMfqdhErk-A7zgWebsite - https://haleystrategic.com/founderX - https://x.com/haleystrategic
From raw combat footage that showed Americans the realities of war to reshaping modern firearms training, Travis Haley has left a lasting mark on the tactical community.A former U.S. Marine Corps Force Reconnaissance Marine, Haley served on multiple combat deployments across the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia. After active duty, he continued serving in the Marine Reserves while also working as a private military contractor supporting U.S. government operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. In total, his career spans 29 years of operational and defense-industry experience in over 45 countries.Haley later founded Simply Dynamics, which evolved into Magpul Dynamics, helping bring modern Special Operations training concepts and firearms instruction to a wider audience. Today, he is the founder of Haley Strategic Partners, where he continues to influence tactical training, product development, and responsible firearms education.Beyond the defense industry, Haley has also served in law enforcement as a tactics instructor and critical response specialist, while mentoring others on resilience, mindset, and post-traumatic growth.A 7th-generation gunfighter of the Haley family, husband, father of seven, entrepreneur, and adventurer, Travis Haley continues to shape the modern tactical world both on and off the range.Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kagan-dunlap-show/id1734065968Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4CoB0WzZTGwZHj7LJIZDTI?si=3f85eb09f07249e7Kagan Dunlap Show Links:YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@KaganDunlapShowX - https://x.com/KaganDunlapShowInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/kagandunlapshow/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583743284059Threads - https://www.threads.com/@kagandunlapshow?hl=enTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kagan.dunlap.show?lang=enWebsite - https://kagandunlapshow.com/Travis Haley Links:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dragonflyhaley/?hl=enFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/travis.haley.18/Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdqO3qjABeMfqdhErk-A7zgWebsite - https://haleystrategic.com/founderX - https://x.com/haleystrategic
William “Billy” Gallegos Is A United States Marine and during his tour of Active Duty, he was a Security Guard who was stationed at the U.S. Embassy in Tehran when it was overrun during the Iran Hostage Crisis in 1979.On November 4, 1979, in the midst of the Iranian Revolution, militant students stormed the embassy in Tehran, capturing American diplomats and Marines and igniting a 444-day international standoff that would reshape U.S. relations with Iran. Billy was among the 52 Americans held for the entirety of the crisis.He recounts the moment the compound was breached, the chaos and uncertainty of those first hours, and the harsh reality of captivity that followed. Blindfolded, interrogated, and isolated, he and his fellow hostages relied on discipline, faith, and the unbreakable bond forged through Marine Corps training to survive mentally and physically.This conversation goes beyond headlines and history books. It is a firsthand account of resilience under pressure, the psychological toll of prolonged captivity, and the strength required to endure when the world feels impossibly far away. After 444 days in captivity, Billy finally returned home, but the experience would shape the rest of his life.Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kagan-dunlap-show/id1734065968Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4CoB0WzZTGwZHj7LJIZDTI?si=3f85eb09f07249e7Kagan Dunlap Show Links:YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@KaganDunlapShowX - https://x.com/KaganDunlapShowInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/kagandunlapshow/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583743284059Threads - https://www.threads.com/@kagandunlapshow?hl=enTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kagan.dunlap.show?lang=enWebsite - https://kagandunlapshow.com/#fyp #podcast #military #usa #foryoupage #youtuber #deltaforce #motivation #motivational
William “Billy” Gallegos Is A United States Marine and during his tour of Active Duty, he was a Security Guard who was stationed at the U.S. Embassy in Tehran when it was overrun during the Iran Hostage Crisis in 1979.On November 4, 1979, in the midst of the Iranian Revolution, militant students stormed the embassy in Tehran, capturing American diplomats and Marines and igniting a 444-day international standoff that would reshape U.S. relations with Iran. Billy was among the 52 Americans held for the entirety of the crisis.He recounts the moment the compound was breached, the chaos and uncertainty of those first hours, and the harsh reality of captivity that followed. Blindfolded, interrogated, and isolated, he and his fellow hostages relied on discipline, faith, and the unbreakable bond forged through Marine Corps training to survive mentally and physically.This conversation goes beyond headlines and history books. It is a firsthand account of resilience under pressure, the psychological toll of prolonged captivity, and the strength required to endure when the world feels impossibly far away. After 444 days in captivity, Billy finally returned home, but the experience would shape the rest of his life.Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kagan-dunlap-show/id1734065968Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4CoB0WzZTGwZHj7LJIZDTI?si=3f85eb09f07249e7Kagan Dunlap Show Links:YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@KaganDunlapShowX - https://x.com/KaganDunlapShowInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/kagandunlapshow/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583743284059Threads - https://www.threads.com/@kagandunlapshow?hl=enTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kagan.dunlap.show?lang=enWebsite - https://kagandunlapshow.com/
Colonel Ken Hopper (Retired) began his Marine Corps career in May 1979 and served 30 years before retiring in June 2009 as a Colonel in the United States Marine Corps. He earned his Naval Aviator wings in 1982 and primarily flew the KC-130 aircraft. He served in various roles up to the Joint Staff. He had multiple combat deployments, and a tour with the United States Naval Flight Demonstration Team, the “Blue Angels”, piloting the team’s C-130 aircraft “Fat Albert.” Ken is a graduate of The Citadel and holds a Master’s Degree from Troy State University in Management; and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from George Mason University. He has accumulated over 10,000 flight hours, qualifying to fly in six different aircraft. He is currently the President/CEO of the Marine Corps Reserve Association and the CEO of the National Marine Corps Coordinating Council.The Tun Legacy Foundation is a veteran-focused nonprofit built around restoring purpose after military service. Rather than traditional charity, it operates on a participation model, veterans engage in hands-on projects, mentorship, and shared responsibility inside a tight-knit community connected to The Tun Project.Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kagan-dunlap-show/id1734065968Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4CoB0WzZTGwZHj7LJIZDTI?si=3f85eb09f07249e7Kagan Dunlap Show Links:YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@KaganDunlapShowX - https://x.com/KaganDunlapShowInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/kagandunlapshow/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583743284059Threads - https://www.threads.com/@kagandunlapshow?hl=enTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kagan.dunlap.show?lang=enWebsite - https://kagandunlapshow.com/
Colonel Ken Hopper (Retired) began his Marine Corps career in May 1979 and served 30 years before retiring in June 2009 as a Colonel in the United States Marine Corps. He earned his Naval Aviator wings in 1982 and primarily flew the KC-130 aircraft. He served in various roles up to the Joint Staff. He had multiple combat deployments, and a tour with the United States Naval Flight Demonstration Team, the “Blue Angels”, piloting the team’s C-130 aircraft “Fat Albert.” Ken is a graduate of The Citadel and holds a Master’s Degree from Troy State University in Management; and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from George Mason University. He has accumulated over 10,000 flight hours, qualifying to fly in six different aircraft. He is currently the President/CEO of the Marine Corps Reserve Association and the CEO of the National Marine Corps Coordinating Council.The Tun Legacy Foundation is a veteran-focused nonprofit built around restoring purpose after military service. Rather than traditional charity, it operates on a participation model, veterans engage in hands-on projects, mentorship, and shared responsibility inside a tight-knit community connected to The Tun Project.Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kagan-dunlap-show/id1734065968Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4CoB0WzZTGwZHj7LJIZDTI?si=3f85eb09f07249e7Kagan Dunlap Show Links:YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@KaganDunlapShowX - https://x.com/KaganDunlapShowInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/kagandunlapshow/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583743284059Threads - https://www.threads.com/@kagandunlapshow?hl=enTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kagan.dunlap.show?lang=enWebsite - https://kagandunlapshow.com/
Cody Cohen is a United States Marine Corps veteran, former law enforcement officer, and defense-industry professional currently working with Genesis Arms, a manufacturer known for its 12-gauge AR-platform firearms. Following his military service, Cohen continued his career in public service in law enforcement, where daily responsibility, accountability, and decision-making under pressure reinforced the same mission-focused mindset developed in the Marines.He later transitioned into the firearms industry, bringing with him real-world operational experience from both military and policing environments. In his role, he works directly with customers, dealers, and industry partners, helping explain equipment purpose, proper application, and practical performance expectations. His perspective is shaped by having relied on gear professionally, giving him a grounded approach to reliability, ergonomics, and usability rather than purely theoretical specifications.Cohen also serves as a bridge between manufacturers and end users — translating feedback from professionals and civilians into clearer communication and meaningful product understanding. His background across service, enforcement, and industry places strong emphasis on safety, responsibility, and equipment that performs when it truly matters.Driven by a service-oriented mindset, he focuses on practical function over hype, ensuring the tools he represents are understood in the context they were designed for.Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kagan-dunlap-show/id1734065968Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4CoB0WzZTGwZHj7LJIZDTI?si=3f85eb09f07249e7Kagan Dunlap Show Links:YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@KaganDunlapShowX - https://x.com/KaganDunlapShowInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/kagandunlapshow/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583743284059Threads - https://www.threads.com/@kagandunlapshow?hl=enTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kagan.dunlap.show?lang=enWebsite - https://kagandunlapshow.com/Cody Cohen Links:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cody_cohen_actual/?hl=enLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cody-cohen-562849342/
Cody Cohen is a United States Marine Corps veteran, former law enforcement officer, and defense-industry professional currently working with Genesis Arms, a manufacturer known for its 12-gauge AR-platform firearms. Following his military service, Cohen continued his career in public service in law enforcement, where daily responsibility, accountability, and decision-making under pressure reinforced the same mission-focused mindset developed in the Marines.He later transitioned into the firearms industry, bringing with him real-world operational experience from both military and policing environments. In his role, he works directly with customers, dealers, and industry partners, helping explain equipment purpose, proper application, and practical performance expectations. His perspective is shaped by having relied on gear professionally, giving him a grounded approach to reliability, ergonomics, and usability rather than purely theoretical specifications.Cohen also serves as a bridge between manufacturers and end users — translating feedback from professionals and civilians into clearer communication and meaningful product understanding. His background across service, enforcement, and industry places strong emphasis on safety, responsibility, and equipment that performs when it truly matters.Driven by a service-oriented mindset, he focuses on practical function over hype, ensuring the tools he represents are understood in the context they were designed for.Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kagan-dunlap-show/id1734065968Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4CoB0WzZTGwZHj7LJIZDTI?si=3f85eb09f07249e7Kagan Dunlap Show Links:YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@KaganDunlapShowX - https://x.com/KaganDunlapShowInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/kagandunlapshow/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583743284059Threads - https://www.threads.com/@kagandunlapshow?hl=enTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kagan.dunlap.show?lang=enWebsite - https://kagandunlapshow.com/
The “Lionheart” tank crew was a four-man United States Marine Corps team from Charlie Company, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Augmented to Alpha Company 1st Tanks deployed to Al Anbar Province, Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom.On May 8, 2005, Mothers Day, their M1A1 Abrams tank, callsign Lionheart, was struck by a massive improvised explosive device (IED). The blast was catastrophic, completely destroying the tank and marking the first Abrams tank lost to an IED during Operation Iraqi Freedom.Against all odds, every member of the Lionheart crew survived.This is a story about modern armored warfare, the evolving threat of IEDs, and the resilience, training, and brotherhood of U.S. Marines operating in one of the most dangerous combat environments of the Iraq War.It’s also a reminder of the thin line between life and death in combat and the warriors who continue the mission, even after surviving what should have been impossible.Their Names Are:Staff Sergeant Chad Brumpton – Tank commanderLance Corporal Joseph Lowe -- GunnerLance Corporal Mitch Ehlke – LoaderLance Corporal Fernando Lazalde (later Sergeant) – DriverPlease leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kagan-dunlap-show/id1734065968Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4CoB0WzZTGwZHj7LJIZDTI?si=3f85eb09f07249e7Kagan Dunlap Show Links:YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@KaganDunlapShowX - https://x.com/KaganDunlapShowInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/kagandunlapshow/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583743284059Threads - https://www.threads.com/@kagandunlapshow?hl=enTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kagan.dunlap.show?lang=enWebsite - https://kagandunlapshow.com/#USMC #OperationIraqiFreedom #M1A1Abrams #TankCrew #CombatStories #MilitaryHistory #AlAnbar #Marines #WarStories
The “Lionheart” tank crew was a four-man United States Marine Corps team from Charlie Company, 4th Tank Battalion, 4th Marine Division, Augmented to Alpha Company 1st Tanks deployed to Al Anbar Province, Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom.On May 8, 2005, Mothers Day, their M1A1 Abrams tank, callsign Lionheart, was struck by a massive improvised explosive device (IED). The blast was catastrophic, completely destroying the tank and marking the first Abrams tank lost to an IED during Operation Iraqi Freedom.Against all odds, every member of the Lionheart crew survived.This is a story about modern armored warfare, the evolving threat of IEDs, and the resilience, training, and brotherhood of U.S. Marines operating in one of the most dangerous combat environments of the Iraq War.It’s also a reminder of the thin line between life and death in combat and the warriors who continue the mission, even after surviving what should have been impossible.Their Names Are:Staff Sergeant Chad Brumpton – Tank commanderLance Corporal Joseph Lowe -- GunnerLance Corporal Mitch Ehlke – LoaderLance Corporal Fernando Lazalde (later Sergeant) – DriverPlease leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kagan-dunlap-show/id1734065968Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4CoB0WzZTGwZHj7LJIZDTI?si=3f85eb09f07249e7Kagan Dunlap Show Links:YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@KaganDunlapShowX - https://x.com/KaganDunlapShowInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/kagandunlapshow/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583743284059Threads - https://www.threads.com/@kagandunlapshow?hl=enTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kagan.dunlap.show?lang=enWebsite - https://kagandunlapshow.com/#USMC #OperationIraqiFreedom #M1A1Abrams #TankCrew #CombatStories #MilitaryHistory #AlAnbar #Marines #WarStories
Sergeant Major Mike R. Vining enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1968 and completed Basic Training at Fort Knox, Kentucky. Following his completion of Advanced Individual Training at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama in the Ammunition Renovation Course, he attended the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Course and the Nuclear Weapons Disposal Course at Indian Head, Maryland.Following his training, SGM Vining deployed to Vietnam with the 99th Ordnance Detachment (EOD) where he was awarded the Bronze Star in 1971 for his meritorious service in ground operations and EOD duties. In 1973, he joined the 543rd Ordnance Detachment (EOD) at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, during which time he was awarded for heroism as an EOD specialist during a series of terrorist bombings in Quincy, Illinois.In 1978, SGM Vining volunteered for a new unit being formed, the 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment – Delta, where he served until 1985 as the unit’s first EOD specialist. During his assignment, he participated in Operation Eagle Claw in Iran and Operation Urgent Fury in Grenada.Following an assignment with the 176th Ordnance Detachment (EOD) at Fort Richardson, Alaska, he returned to Delta Force where he served as Chief EOD Technician, Research and Development Sergeant Major, and Breaching Sergeant Major from 1986 until 1992. During this assignment, he deployed in support of Operation Pocket Planner and Operation Desert Storm.Sergeant Major Vining culminated his Army career as the Special Plans Sergeant Major for U.S. Special Operations Command and Joint Special Operations Command. During this tour, he served as the Senior Enlisted Advisor for the Joint Special Operations Task Force during Operation Uphold Democracy and as the Explosives Expert on the Downing Assessment Task Force, which investigated the Khobar Towers bombing in Saudi Arabia in 1996.Sergeant Major Mike R. Vining retired in 1999.Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kagan-dunlap-show/id1734065968Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4CoB0WzZTGwZHj7LJIZDTI?si=3f85eb09f07249e7Kagan Dunlap Show Links:YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@KaganDunlapShowX - https://x.com/KaganDunlapShowInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/kagandunlapshow/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583743284059Threads - https://www.threads.com/@kagandunlapshow?hl=enTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kagan.dunlap.show?lang=enWebsite - https://kagandunlapshow.com/Sergeant Major (Ret) Mike Vining Links:X - https://x.com/BlastingThrough
Sergeant Major Mike R. Vining enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1968 and completed Basic Training at Fort Knox, Kentucky. Following his completion of Advanced Individual Training at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama in the Ammunition Renovation Course, he attended the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Course and the Nuclear Weapons Disposal Course at Indian Head, Maryland.Following his training, SGM Vining deployed to Vietnam with the 99th Ordnance Detachment (EOD) where he was awarded the Bronze Star in 1971 for his meritorious service in ground operations and EOD duties. In 1973, he joined the 543rd Ordnance Detachment (EOD) at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, during which time he was awarded for heroism as an EOD specialist during a series of terrorist bombings in Quincy, Illinois.In 1978, SGM Vining volunteered for a new unit being formed, the 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment – Delta, where he served until 1985 as the unit’s first EOD specialist. During his assignment, he participated in Operation Eagle Claw in Iran and Operation Urgent Fury in Grenada.Following an assignment with the 176th Ordnance Detachment (EOD) at Fort Richardson, Alaska, he returned to Delta Force where he served as Chief EOD Technician, Research and Development Sergeant Major, and Breaching Sergeant Major from 1986 until 1992. During this assignment, he deployed in support of Operation Pocket Planner and Operation Desert Storm.Sergeant Major Vining culminated his Army career as the Special Plans Sergeant Major for U.S. Special Operations Command and Joint Special Operations Command. During this tour, he served as the Senior Enlisted Advisor for the Joint Special Operations Task Force during Operation Uphold Democracy and as the Explosives Expert on the Downing Assessment Task Force, which investigated the Khobar Towers bombing in Saudi Arabia in 1996.Sergeant Major Mike R. Vining retired in 1999.Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kagan-dunlap-show/id1734065968Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4CoB0WzZTGwZHj7LJIZDTI?si=3f85eb09f07249e7Kagan Dunlap Show Links:YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@KaganDunlapShowX - https://x.com/KaganDunlapShowInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/kagandunlapshow/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583743284059Threads - https://www.threads.com/@kagandunlapshow?hl=enTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kagan.dunlap.show?lang=enWebsite - https://kagandunlapshow.com/Sergeant Major (Ret) Mike Vining Links:X - https://x.com/BlastingThrough
Leighton Willhite is a distinguished World War II veteran and former U.S. Marine Corps tank driver whose courage and service are woven into the history of the Battle of Iwo Jima. At just 19 years old, Cpl. Willhite landed on the black sands of Red Beach II with C Company, 5th Tank Battalion, driving an M4A3 Sherman tank nicknamed “Lucky” during one of the fiercest and most iconic battles of the Pacific Theater.During the brutal campaign on Iwo Jima in 1945, Willhite and his crew supported infantry units under intense combat conditions. In one notable act of valor, he assisted in a rescue under fire to save another Marine tank crew at Hill 362A, earning him the Bronze Star with “V” device for heroism.Decades after the war, in August 2025—on the 80th anniversary of Japan’s surrender—100-year-old Willhite experienced a remarkable reunion with Lucky, the very tank he operated in battle. The event, held at the National Museum of the Marine Corps’ support facility in Dumfries, Virginia, brought together his family across generations and offered a powerful, living connection to history that few veterans ever get to see.Leighton Willhite’s story is one of bravery, resilience, and enduring legacy. His service in the Marines and his bond with Lucky remind us of the sacrifices made by the Greatest Generation and the importance of preserving their stories for future generations.Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kagan-dunlap-show/id1734065968Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4CoB0WzZTGwZHj7LJIZDTI?si=3f85eb09f07249e7Kagan Dunlap Show Links:YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@KaganDunlapShowX - https://x.com/KaganDunlapShowInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/kagandunlapshow/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583743284059Threads - https://www.threads.com/@kagandunlapshow?hl=enTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kagan.dunlap.show?lang=enWebsite - https://kagandunlapshow.com/
Leighton Willhite is a distinguished World War II veteran and former U.S. Marine Corps tank driver whose courage and service are woven into the history of the Battle of Iwo Jima. At just 19 years old, Cpl. Willhite landed on the black sands of Red Beach II with C Company, 5th Tank Battalion, driving an M4A3 Sherman tank nicknamed “Lucky” during one of the fiercest and most iconic battles of the Pacific Theater.During the brutal campaign on Iwo Jima in 1945, Willhite and his crew supported infantry units under intense combat conditions. In one notable act of valor, he assisted in a rescue under fire to save another Marine tank crew at Hill 362A, earning him the Bronze Star with “V” device for heroism.Decades after the war, in August 2025—on the 80th anniversary of Japan’s surrender—100-year-old Willhite experienced a remarkable reunion with Lucky, the very tank he operated in battle. The event, held at the National Museum of the Marine Corps’ support facility in Dumfries, Virginia, brought together his family across generations and offered a powerful, living connection to history that few veterans ever get to see.Leighton Willhite’s story is one of bravery, resilience, and enduring legacy. His service in the Marines and his bond with Lucky remind us of the sacrifices made by the Greatest Generation and the importance of preserving their stories for future generations.Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kagan-dunlap-show/id1734065968Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4CoB0WzZTGwZHj7LJIZDTI?si=3f85eb09f07249e7Kagan Dunlap Show Links:YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@KaganDunlapShowX - https://x.com/KaganDunlapShowInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/kagandunlapshow/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583743284059Threads - https://www.threads.com/@kagandunlapshow?hl=enTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kagan.dunlap.show?lang=enWebsite - https://kagandunlapshow.com/
Ethan Benard is a popular content creator and influencer documenting his inspiring weight-loss journey after reaching a peak weight of 660 pounds. A former Twitch partner and gaming broadcaster, he now shares daily vlogs, gym sessions, meal preps, and motivational updates across YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and X blending his passions for God, gaming, tech, and personal transformation. With radical transparency, Ethan has built a massive following while navigating the challenges of sustainable health, public accountability, and real-life progress.Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts:Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-kagan-dunlap-show/id1734065968Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4CoB0WzZTGwZHj7LJIZDTI?si=3f85eb09f07249e7Kagan Dunlap Show Links:YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@KaganDunlapShowX - https://x.com/KaganDunlapShowInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/kagandunlapshow/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583743284059Threads - https://www.threads.com/@kagandunlapshow?hl=enTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kagan.dunlap.show?lang=enWebsite - https://kagandunlapshow.com/Ethan Benard Links:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ethanbenard/?hl=enFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/EthanBenardLIVE/Threads - https://www.threads.com/@ethanbenardYoutube - https://youtube.com/@TheEthanBenardShowTikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@ethanbenardlive?lang=enX - https://x.com/EthanBenard














