Blown Up in Baghdad – GOLF | The UNAFRAID Podcast – Episode 24

In the realm of military service, the experiences and perspectives of soldiers often diverge significantly from the public’s perception. This sentiment is vividly captured in the words of Eddie recounting his time in Iraq. Eddie and Keith share insights from Chris Kyle’s book, addressing the controversial use of the term “Savages” to describe the enemy. This podcast will delve into Eddie’s journey, touching upon the complexities of war, the impact on soldiers’ lives, and the often-misunderstood nature of military operations.

Deployment and Combat Realities:

Eddie begins by recounting his anticipation of deployment to Iraq, fueled by the desire to engage in combat and fulfill the purpose he enlisted for. However, the stark reality of war challenges these expectations. Instead of constant action, Eddie finds himself involved in direct actions (DA’s) and special operations that include SWAT-style tactics.

Eddie vividly describes the intensity of combat, highlighting a particularly memorable moment during a house breach. The chaotic and unpredictable nature of war becomes evident, with encounters ranging from potential threats to civilians in unexpected situations.

War as a Force Field:

Eddie reflects on the broader purpose of military involvement, emphasizing its role as a “force field” to protect the homeland from the horrors experienced in conflict zones. This perspective challenges the public’s often oversimplified view of military actions, reminding us of the grim and unpredictable nature of war.

Misunderstandings and Lack of Exposure:

He expresses frustration with those who criticize military actions without firsthand experience or exposure to the harsh realities of war. He highlights the importance of lawmakers having some form of exposure to loss or conflict to better understand the decisions made on the battlefield.

The Soldier’s Perspective on Privilege:

Eddie addresses the concept of privilege, drawing attention to the fact that even the poorest individuals in the United States enjoy a level of privilege incomprehensible to those in conflict zones. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing and appreciating the sacrifices made by military personnel to safeguard this privilege.

Mentorship and Camaraderie:

Eddie credits his success and proficiency in combat to the mentorship he received from experienced leaders. He describes the mentorship as transformative, shaping not only his skills but also his outlook on combat. The importance of camaraderie and learning from those who have mastered their craft emerges as a central theme in his narrative.

Sniper Operations and Unconventional Tactics:

Later, Eddie delves into the unconventional tactics employed during sniper operations, including taking over civilian homes to gain vantage points. He describes the challenges of managing civilian expectations and the compensation process to mitigate disruptions caused during such operations.

The Letdown of Expectations:

Finally, Eddie reflects on the disappointment he and many others felt when the anticipated intensity of combat did not materialize. He acknowledges the selfish desire for action and the difficulty in reconciling personal expectations with the reality of military deployments.

Conclusion:

Eddies’ account offers a candid and unfiltered look into the complexities of war, providing readers with a glimpse into the thoughts and experiences of those who have served in conflict zones. It challenges preconceived notions about military actions and underscores the importance of understanding the multifaceted nature of war.