The Night Extortion 17 Went Down & Notifying the Families | Ep. 304 | Pt. 2
Aug 13, 2026 · 1h 11m
Summary
The host discusses coping with survivor’s guilt and honors fallen comrade Mikey Mansoor, who received the Medal of Honor. He reflects on intense SEAL Team 3 deployments in Iraq, including Ramadi and Sadr City, highlighting inter-service brotherhood and tactical lessons from a chaotic mission. The conversation covers his transition to DEVGRU, the psychological rigor of selection, and critiques of the Iraq War’s strategic missteps.
Topics discussed
Sponsors: Motorcycle safety and Team Dog nutrition
Survivor's guilt and perspective on fallen comrades
Reflections on SEAL Team 3 deployments and inter-service pride
Combined operations in Ramadi and Sadr City
Injuries, reassignment, and the randomness of deployment
The chaotic Sadr City quick reaction force mission
Holding the line in Sadr City and the banana factory
Critique of Iraq War intelligence and leadership decisions
Transition to DEVGRU and high standards of excellence
First mission in Afghanistan and learning from elite operators
Professionalization of the force and officer roles in DEVGRU
Cross-training with international special operations units
The Extortion 17 helicopter crash and processing grief
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