In today's Combat Story, we sit down with Kevin Seiff, a former Marine officer turned Navy SEAL who now leads the Vet Collective and co-hosts the Harder Not Smarter Podcast with Green Beret Greg VanDyne. 🦅🎙️

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

In this episode:

• Kevin's relentless journey to become a Marine and Navy SEAL 🪖⚓
• Two attempts to get into the Naval Academy and BUD/S Hell Week 😲🏊‍♂️
• Must-read books and the no-shortcuts mantra 📚🛡️
• Overcoming swimmer-induced pulmonary edema 🏊‍♂️🤒
• The bizarre ritual of Climbing Herndon Monument 🗿🤸‍♂️
• Tips on avoiding chafing in sensitive areas 🩳💡
• Navigating tough transitions from military to civilian life 🎖️➡️👔

We dove into several challenges in Kevin’s route to become a Marine and SEAL, including two attempts to get into the Naval Academy and two attempts at Hell Weak in BUD/S. We also dive into great reads, why there’s no such thing as shortcuts when it comes to BUDS or Selection, overcoming swimmer induced pulmonary edema, the strange and slippery ritual that is Climbing Herndon Monument at the academy, stronger mindset, how some SEALs to stop chaffing in the more sensitive regions, and tough transitions out of the military into civilian life.

Kevin’s Vet Collective is making waves with 80 members and a newsletter boasting over 6K subscribers! 🌊📬 He's on a mission to help fellow vets find purpose after service. Kevin spent 12 years in service ‘chasing the dragon’ as he calls it trying to find his way into combat which can even be a challenge within the Marines and SEALs. That said, he’s been undeterred in trying to help other vets navigate the transition out of uniform and find renewed purpose.

With that, please enjoy this episode with Kevin Seiff.

Join us as we dive deep into Kevin's story of determination, resilience, and dedication to helping others. 💪

🔗 Links:

• Connect with Kevin on LinkedIn: Kevin Seiff LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-seiff/
• Listen to Harder Not Smarter Podcast: Harder Not Smarter https://www.collective.vet/podcast
• Learn about Vet Collective: Vet Collective https://www.collective.vet

🎙️ 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

📢 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more incredible Combat Stories! 👍🗨️🔔

#CombatStory #KevinSeiff #VetCollective #HarderNotSmarter #NavySEAL #MarineCorps #MilitaryTransition #Veterans #Podcast

Show Notes

• 00:00 - Intro
• 00:52 Guest Introduction - Kevin Seiff
• 02:08 Kevin's Mission to Help Veterans
• 02:35 Challenges of Military Transition
• 05:17 Kevin's Post-Military Career
• 06:44 Starting a Business
• 08:55 Building the Vet Collective
• 11:02 Kevin's Military Background
• 13:08 Journey to Becoming a SEAL
• 22:48 Life in the Marine Corps
• 31:10 Leadership and Training in the Military
• 39:21 Transitioning from Marine Corps to Navy SEALs
• 40:10 Pivotal Lessons from the Marine Corps
• 43:46 Surviving BUDS and Hell Week
• 46:58 The Mental and Physical Toll of SEAL Training
• 55:49 Leadership and Command in SEAL Teams
• 01:03:27 Transitioning to Civilian Life and Entrepreneurship
• 01:11:28 The Importance of Mental Health in Veteran Communities
• 01:16:22 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Today we have a round two Combat Story with Kent Hillhouse where we recorded the episode with a screen available to look and talk through some more of his combat experiences with maps and photos from his time in service. Kent is a retired Major General who spent a year as a Platoon Leader and Tank Commander in Vietnam from August of 1967 to August of 1968.

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

We wanted to do a Round 2 with Kent after I spent some time with him following our first interview looking over some of his photos from his year in ‘Nam and bringing some of the stories to life. In this episode, we dive into the Tet Offensive, which Kent was a part of as his platoon was sitting close to the Cambodian border when it kicked off in late January 1968.

We cover Kent’s months fighting in the Iron Triangle - an area notorious for being controlled by the enemy in dense vegetation and triple canopy jungles. We also hear a story of a fellow platoon leader who would go on to become a member of the storied SOG outfit following their initial rotation.

If you didn’t catch Round 1 with Kent, he grew up in California and Georgia and attended San Jose State while part of ROTC. He ended up in tanks (Armor) thinking he’d see little combat given how challenging the terrain in Vietnam was for tanks. Little did he know he’d be in a fight for his life, emerging on the other side with a purple heart and two Silver Stars. He would go on to become a two star general and continues to support the veteran community leading our local Veterans Memorial and Support Foundation of Los Gatos.

If you’re just listening to this episode and not watching on YouTube, you may want to take a peak at the video version on YouTube to see some of the images we talk through to get a better feel for what it was really like. With that, please enjoy this second round discussion with Kent Hillhouse.

You can support the Los Gatos Veterans Memorial & Support Foundation at https://honoravet.org/

Thanks to our sponsor - Mad Rabbit for taking care of your tattoos : For 25% off your order, head to MadRabbit.com/COMBATSTORY25 and use code COMBATSTORY25.

#vietnamwar #veterans #army #combat

🎙️ 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 Intro
• 00:58 Guest Intro Round 2 w/ Kent Hillhouse: A Combat Story of Valor
• 03:13 The Tet Offensive: A Firsthand Account
• 05:29 The Journey to Saigon: Combat and Camaraderie
• 16:04 Inside the M48 Tank: A Detailed Look
• 21:50 Inside The Iron Triangle Encounter
• 26:35 Navigating the Dense Terrain: A Combat Story
• 27:29 Radio Station Assault: Strategy and Challenges
• 28:13 The Heat of Battle: Survival and Tactics
• 35:47 Aftermath and Reflections: Leadership in Combat
• 37:56 Reconnecting and Remembering: The Story of Lou
• 44:04 Closing Thoughts and Viewer Engagement

Vietnam,Vietnam War,SOG,Special Operations,Tanks,Silver Star,Purple Heart,Cavalry,M48,M109,Veteran,Stories,Action,Adventure,Images,combat story,Tet Offensive,Cambodian border,Iron Triangle,platoon leader,tank commander,Major General,veteran community,combat experiences,RPG,AK-47,screen available,maps and photos,Nam

Today we have a Combat Story first with Greg Shaffer, who spent a career in the FBI as an Agent, SWAT member, and Hostage Rescue Team (HRT) operator. He also started his career leading a patrol boat team in the Coast Guard before moving over to the Bureau.

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

In this episode, we talk about the selection and entry process to both the FBI and HRT, the origins and mission of the HRT - which numbers fewer than 500 members since its inception in the early 1980s, one of the most successful surveillance and bust operations you’ll ever hear against the Bicycle Bandit, Operation Black Widow, border security, taking down targets and the hunting the deck of cards in Iraq with Delta Force and more.

Greg now runs Shaffer Security Group that provides executive protection, active shooter response, investigations, firearms training and more. He also wrote Stay Safe: Security Secrets for Today’s Dangerous World, which provides practical lessons on mindset, situational awareness, and self-defense.

It took us too long to have our first Bureau agent and HRT operator on the show and we’ll absolutely be looking to have more. With that, please enjoy this hilarious but inspiring discussion with former FBI Agent and HRT operator Greg Shaffer.

🎙️ Find Greg online:

• Shaffer Security Group - https://shaffersecuritygroup.com/our-founder/
• Stay Safe: Security Secrets for Today’s Dangerous World https://www.amazon.com/Stay-Safe-Security-Secrets-Dangerous/dp/1948484579

🎙️ 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 - Intro
• 00:46 Guest Intro: Greg Schaefer's Journey from Coast Guard to FBI
• 02:27 The Threat Landscape: Border Security and National Safety
• 05:14 The Significance of a Special Painting: HRT Brotherhood
• 08:10 Choosing a Career in Law Enforcement: It's in the Blood
• 08:57 From the Coast Guard to FBI: A Path of Service
• 16:00 The Rigorous FBI Selection Process
• 28:34 First Steps and Early Successes in the FBI
• 40:10 The Dynamics of SWAT Operations
• 45:10 The Mental Toll of Law Enforcement Work
• 45:49 Undercover Challenges and Mental Separation
• 46:35 Comparing Military and Law Enforcement Stress
• 47:17 The Importance of Mental Resilience
• 48:19 Transitioning to HRT and Selection Process Insights
• 48:44 Sponsor Break: Mint Mobile's Offer
• 49:58 HRT Selection: A Grueling Process
• 54:26 Tactical Training and Surveillance in HRT
• 55:36 The Origins and Mission of HRT
• 01:01:14 Challenges and Operations with HRT
• 01:13:12 Public Perception of Law Enforcement
• 01:16:36 Writing a Book on Active Shooter Survival
• 01:26:37 Reflections and Advice for Future Generations

Greg is a former FBI agent, SWAT team member, and HRT operator. Discover the intensity of his career, including in-depth insights into high-stakes operations such as the Bicycle Bandit and DC Sniper cases. Greg discusses the complexities of HRT selection, major national security concerns, especially regarding border security, and the adrenaline-fueled world of elite FBI missions. Learn about his background, transition from the Coast Guard to the FBI, and the indispensable qualities required in law enforcement. This narrative provides a compelling look at true crime, FBI operations, and military strategies.

Today we have a unique Combat Story where we hear about the armored cavalry in Vietnam from then Platoon Leader with the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment Kent Hillhouse. Kent would go on to retire as a Major General in the Army Reserve and has continued to support veterans leading his community’s Veterans Memorial and Support Foundation of Los Gatos.

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

Many will likely be surprised to learn we had tanks in Vietnam given how the war has so frequently been depicted as a fight by infantrymen in the jungles. Kent’s firsthand accounts of commanding an M48 platoon from 1967 to 1968 provide an inside look at the way these tanks were employed, leveraged, and targeted.

In this episode, we get into battling for your reputation, pushing through complex ambushes, near death experiences, trusting and leaning on your NCOs, taking the initiative, the responsibility of command, and never giving up.

With that, please enjoy this amazing piece of history as we look at the age and employment of tanks in Vietnam with retired Major General Kent Hillhouse.

#vietnamwar #warzone #combat #army

Check out the Veterans Memorial & Support Foundation of Los Gatos at https://honoravet.org/

🎙️ 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 - Intro
• 00:47 Guest Introduction Kent Hillhouse: From Vietnam to Major General
• 01:09 The Unseen Role of Tanks in Vietnam
• 01:30 Battling for Reputation and Trust in Leadership
• 01:59 A Personal Connection with Joe Galloway
• 05:22 Debunking Hollywood: The Realities of War vs. Movies
• 17:58 The Legacy of Leadership and the Importance of NCOs
• 18:20 The Path to Becoming an Armor Officer
• 22:37 ROTC Challenges and Leadership Lessons
• 34:43 Journey to Vietnam: Engagements and Expectations
• 36:55 Arrival and First Impressions in Vietnam
• 37:29 Adapting to Military Life and Unit Dynamics
• 40:43 The Technicalities of Armored Warfare
• 46:12 Experiencing the Heat of Battle
• 47:40 Learning Through Mistakes and Misfires
• 50:15 Navigating Leadership and Tactical Challenges
• 52:12 The Intensity of Night Convoys and Combat
• 01:07:28 Reflections on First Combat Experience
• 01:16:43 Recalling Vietnam: Maneuvering and Survival
• 01:17:11 Life in the Field: Challenges and Adaptations
• 01:19:25 First Contact and Leadership Under Fire
• 01:23:39 The May 5th Encounter: A Detailed Recollection
• 01:30:44 Overcoming Adversity: Tactics and Teamwork
• 01:41:52 Reflections on Leadership and Disobedience
• 01:44:32 Personal Mementos and the Value of Letters
• 01:46:15 Veterans Foundation: Building a Legacy
• 01:50:18 Listener Engagement and Closing Thoughts

This interview combines the compelling experiences of Vietnam War veterans, including Kent Hillhouse's leadership in armored warfare with the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment and another veteran's close-quarters combat and survival instincts against the Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army. It portrays the harrowing and unpredictable nature of the Vietnam War, detailing initial combat encounters, leadership challenges, intense ambushes, and the adaptation required to navigate the difficult terrain and psychological impacts of warfare. It also highlights moments of courage, quick decision-making, and the importance of camaraderie. Additionally, the narrative touches on post-war efforts to honor the sacrifices of veterans, weaving together personal stories of combat, survival, and the enduring bonds formed in the crucible of war.

🔥 Dive deep into the heart of armored combat in this gripping interview with Tim Gauthier, a Platoon Leader during the iconic Battle of 73 Easting in Desert Storm! 🎖️

🚀 From the tactical viewpoint of both a scout platoon leader and a tank commander, discover the intense preparation, reconnaissance, and combat strategies that shaped this pivotal tank-on-tank clash. 🛡️

🤝 Experience the high-stakes world of M1A1 Abrams and Bradleys as they faced off against Iraqi T-72s and armored vehicles. Learn about the tactics, challenges, and crew dynamics that define the fierce realm of armored warfare. 🌍

💥 Uncover the critical lessons in leadership, speed, and initiative that emerged from the battlefield. Reflect on the broader impact of this battle on modern combat doctrine and the enduring bonds forged in the fires of conflict. 📚

👥 Join us as we explore the real stories of courage, strategy, and teamwork that secured a decisive victory, and delve into the profound human elements of warfare, from handling POWs to the deep camaraderie among soldiers. 💪

#tankwarfare #combat #military #M1A1 🌟 Don't miss out on this powerful recount of history and heroism!

Show Notes:

• 00:00 - Intro
• 00:36 Welcome to Combat Story: Insights from a Veteran
• 00:55 Tim Gauthier's Journey to the Front Lines
• 03:44 The Making of an Armor Officer: Early Influences and Decisions
• 11:54 Choosing the Armor Path: A Decision at Advanced Camp
• 13:53 The Rigorous Training and Preparation for Combat
• 33:58 Introduction to HR McMaster and Leadership Dynamics
• 37:04 The Formidable Leader: Setting the Stage
• 38:30 Preparation and Training: The Road to Combat
• 40:48 Deployment and Anticipation: The Desert Beckons
• 43:31 Adapting to the Desert: Training and Tactics
• 48:04 The Eve of Battle: Tension and Strategy
• 56:05 Engagement: The Battle Unfolds
• 01:02:10 A Moment of Triumph: Overcoming the Enemy
• 01:15:13 The Devastating Power of Depleted Uranium Rounds
• 01:16:00 Tactical Challenges and Advancements in Tank Warfare
• 01:16:32 A Detailed Account of a Rapid and Decisive Battle
• 01:18:22 Reflections on Combat Dynamics and Teamwork
• 01:25:06 The Importance of Training and Adaptability in Combat
• 01:29:01 Handling POWs with Humanity
• 01:31:05 Post-Battle Reflections and the Importance of Leadership
• 01:36:48 The Emotional Toll of War and the Value of Brotherhood
• 01:39:24 Insights into Modern Warfare and Leadership Lessons
• 01:49:57 Personal Reflections and the Significance of Mementos

🎯🔥 Today's Combat Story Features Mark Greene, an Elite Navy SEAL Sniper! 🔥🎯

Join us as we dive deep with Mark Greene, a courageous former Navy SEAL who has experienced the sharp edge of battle as both an officer and enlisted sniper. 🎖️💥 Mark's extensive service spans the pivotal moments of our time, from the intense pre-9/11 missions to the high-stakes post-9/11 operations where his sniper skills were put to the ultimate test.

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

In this gripping episode, Mark shares heart-wrenching stories of loss and thrilling near-misses that define the SEAL brotherhood. 🌊🔫 Plus, get a sneak peek into his compelling book, "UNSEALED: A Navy SEAL's Guide to Mastering Life's Transitions", where he offers invaluable advice on navigating life's many challenges, whether in military or civilian life. 📖➡️ Grab your copy here!

🏈🏊‍♂️ From tackling college football to conquering the grueling BUD/S training, and from surviving close calls to engaging enemy targets as a lethal sniper, Mark's journey is nothing short of extraordinary.

📹 Enjoy this expansive discussion and walk a mile in the boots of a true warrior with Mark Greene.

🌟 Find Mark Online:

• 📸 Instagram: @TheMarkGreene
• 🌐 Official Website: themarkgreene.com
• 📘 Check out Mark’s Book: Unsealed: A Navy Seal's Guide to Mastering Life's Transitions

🎙️ Connect with Ryan & Combat Story:

• 🔗 Ryan’s Linktree: linktr.ee/combatstory
• 🛒 Merch Store: bonfire.com/store/combatstory
• 📸 Instagram: @combatstory
• 📘 Facebook: @combatstoryofficial
• 📖 Learn more about Ryan: www.combatstory.com/aboutus

🎵 Intro Song: Sport Rock from Audio Jungle

⏰ Show Notes:

• 00:00 - Intro
• 00:31 - Welcome to Combat Story
• 01:41 - Guest Introduction
• 02:10 A Grandfather's Influence: Baseball and Beyond
• 12:43 Transitioning to Military Life: The SEAL Path Begins
• 17:09 The Rigors of SEAL Training: Overcoming Challenges
• 27:46 Deployment Realities: Facing Combat and Brotherhood
• 34:36 Surviving the Unthinkable: A Near-Death Experience
• 46:28 The Loss of a Brother: The Reality of Training Risks
• 46:44 The Heartbreaking Loss of a Brother-in-Arms
• 48:05 A Solemn Duty: The Hardest Task of All
• 51:33 Reflections on Mortality and the Bonds Forged in Battle
• 54:40 The Sniper's Craft: Precision and Peril
• 01:09:03 Teaching the Next Generation: Lessons from the Field
• 01:19:13 Leadership in the Shadows: Commanding SEALs
• 01:26:25 The Journey to Authorship: Sharing a SEAL's Story
• 01:35:49 Final Thoughts: The Weight of Service and Sacrifice

💬 We value your thoughts! Drop a comment, like this video, and don't forget to subscribe for more unmissable stories from the front lines! 🌟📽️

#NavySEALs #MilitaryStories #CombatStory #VeteranAdvice

Today we have a once in a lifetime Combat Story with one of the few living Medal of Honor recipients from the war in Afghanistan: Earl Plumlee. Earl was a Marine infantryman, Force Recon team leader, and Special Forces Weapons Sergeant in the pre- and post-9/11 era.

Earl would deploy multiple times with the Marine Corps and the Army, to include combat deployments with Force Recon and a historic deployment in 2013 with the his ODA where he would earn the Medal of Honor.

In this episode, we touch on both of Earl’s Recon deployments but spend a considerable amount of time walking through the battle in which he earned the Medal of Honor and in which his fellow Green Berets earned other medals for valor. It’s an amazing story to hear firsthand that includes a coordinated and lethal attack of a US installation in Ghazni, Afghanistan; suicide bombers; injured Americans; and several Green Berets who had never fought together operating as one element to repel the attack.

Earl’s work during this assault is amazing and almost impossible to imagine he didn’t get more gravely wounded. He had over 300 rounds of enemy fire directed at him from very close range, dozens of grenades lobbed his direction, and suicide vests detonating meters away.

He now speaks out about civic duty and service and provides motivational and public speaking for customers around the world. Please enjoy this selfless story of a rare and living Medal of Honor with Earl Plumlee.

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.

For 25% off your order, head to MadRabbit.com/COMBATSTORY25 and use code COMBATSTORY25.

🔗 Find Earl Online:
- Guest Speaker Website www.earlplumlee.com
- Instagram earl_plumlee_official https://www.instagram.com/earl_plumlee_official/
🔗 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.

👇 Show Notes:
00:00 - Introduction
01:02 - Guest Profile: Earl Plumlee
02:25 - Start of Interview
02:33 - Life As Medal of Honor Recipient
07:02 - Childhood
12:38 - Military Family History
14:07 - Deciding to Serve
16:33 - Recruitment Story
22:26 - Basic
24:58 - Mad Rabbit Tattoo Ad
26:22 - Graduation from Marine Corps.
31:14 - First Time Down Range
39:14 - S.E.A.R. School
39:42 - New Guy In Recon Unit
43:04 - First Time Outside The Wire
45:08 - Give Legacy Ad
46:30 - Formative Moments
53:38 - Losing Teammates
55:35 - Hindsight Advice
59:49 - Second Deployment
01:0:52 - Second Deplyoment Difficult Moments
01:01:52 - Special Forces
01:07:21 - First Special Forces Deployment
01:12:36 - Having Kids At Home While Deployed
01:14:25 - Medal OF Honor Story
02:06:58 - Battle Afterthoughts
02:16:49 - Sentimental Items
02:17:35 - Would You Do It All Again
02:19:33 - Listener Feedback