The LOST Podcast 004

Summary

In this episode of the Looking Over Strange Terrain podcast, the host discusses the 18 Charlie course, which is part of the Special Forces Qualification Course. The conversation covers the roles and responsibilities of various positions within a Special Forces team, the skills learned during the 18 Charlie course, including construction and explosives training, and the administrative duties that come with being a member of a Special Forces team. The host shares personal experiences and insights from their time in the military, providing a detailed overview of what it takes to succeed in this challenging environment. In this conversation, the speaker delves into the intricacies of being an 18 Charlie in the military, focusing on supply classes, deployment responsibilities, and the challenges faced during missions. The discussion highlights the importance of resource management, teamwork, and the creative problem-solving skills required in high-pressure environments. The speaker shares personal anecdotes that illustrate the demanding nature of the role and the necessity of adaptability and leadership in the field.

Takeaways

Technology can be challenging but is part of the process.

The 18 Charlie course is essential for Special Forces engineers.

Understanding team roles is crucial for operational success.

Construction skills are vital for building military structures.

Explosives training requires attention to detail and safety.

Identifying munitions and landmines is a critical skill.

Bridging operations are a key component of military engineering.

Administrative responsibilities are as important as technical skills.

Time management is essential in a Special Forces team.

Hands-on experience is invaluable in military training. You must understand various classes of supply for effective management.

Deployment as an 18 Charlie is extremely busy and demanding.

Creative problem-solving is essential in military operations.

Team dynamics and communication are crucial for success.

Proper training and preparation can significantly impact mission outcomes.

Maintaining accountability of equipment is a key responsibility.

Leadership skills are developed through experience and training.

Resource management is vital for operational efficiency.

Understanding local customs can prevent operational issues.

Mentorship plays a significant role in team development.

Titles

Inside the 18 Charlie Course: A Special Forces Journey

The Essential Skills of a Special Forces Engineer

Explosives and Engineering: Life as an 18 Charlie

Understanding Team Dynamics in Special Forces

From Construction to Combat: The 18 Charlie Experience

Navigating the Challenges of Special Forces Training

The Role of an 18 Charlie in Special Operations

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview of the Podcast

01:45 Understanding the 18 Charlie Course

07:19 Roles and Responsibilities in Special Forces Teams

17:11 Construction Skills and Practical Applications

18:38 Explosives Training and Safety Procedures

26:46 Target Analysis and Bridging Operations

29:36 Administrative Responsibilities on the Team

35:54 Understanding Supply Classes and Responsibilities

45:14 Life as an 18 Charlie: Deployment Dynamics

56:08 Demolitions and Creative Problem Solving

01:06:50 Managing Resources and Team Dynamics

This conversation explores the journey of a soldier through military training, focusing on the experiences of preparing for Air Assault and Special Forces Assessment and Selection. The speaker shares insights on the importance of mentorship, the challenges faced during training, and the significance of leadership in the military. The discussion emphasizes the value of qualifications and the impact of personal preparation on a soldier's career.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Military Training and Selection

02:47 The Journey of a Young Soldier

12:49 Preparing for Air Assault and Airborne Schools

19:19 The Special Forces Assessment and Selection Process

27:49 Reflections on Military Qualifications and Leadership

November 2001, after witnessing the attacks on the World Trade Center, I made a decision that would change my life. I would have made this decision sooner, but I was filled with doubt. The attacks spark something in me that helped me make that decision, which was to try out for the US Army Green Berets. In this episode I gave some tips on making it through the process in hope that you as a listener whether in the Army or thinking about joining make the same decision.

In this conversation, Javier Mackey shares his journey from joining the Army as a Special Forces Green Beret to his experiences during deployments, the impact of 9/11, and the rigorous training and selection process for Special Forces. He reflects on his military life, the camaraderie within his team, and the various roles and responsibilities that define a Special Forces unit. The discussion also touches on personal growth, challenges faced, and the importance of sharing veteran experiences.

Takeaways

Javier Mackey is a retired Special Forces Green Beret.

He joined the Army in 1998 and deployed multiple times to Central Asia.

The impact of 9/11 significantly changed military operations.

Mackey's journey included a selection process for Special Forces.

Training for Special Forces includes various schools and qualifications.

Life on a Special Forces team is dynamic and fulfilling.

Each member of a Special Forces team has specific roles and responsibilities.

Mackey emphasizes the importance of personal growth and overcoming challenges.

He aims to share veteran experiences through his podcast.

The conversation highlights the camaraderie and teamwork in Special Forces.

Titles

From Soldier to Green Beret: Javier Mackey's Journey

The Life of a Special Forces Green Beret

Sound Bites

"I thought it was pretty unstoppable."

"I dropped my packet sometime in October."

"My battalion was more of East Africa."