#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / The Hunt for Saddam Hussein | Part 1
Mar 13, 2023
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Chris VanSant, a former Delta Force operator and Army Ranger, shares his riveting journey through 20 years of military service, including the capture of Saddam Hussein. He discusses the intense Delta Force training, the camaraderie formed in high-pressure environments, and the emotional challenges faced during deployment. With insights on military leadership and mentorship, Chris reflects on the influence of family and personal struggles that shaped his path. Now dedicated to veteran mental health, he emphasizes the importance of support and resilience.
Chris underwent rigorous Delta Force training pipeline after his time with Army Rangers.
His encounter with leaders in Kuwait and 82nd Airborne shaped his leadership skills.
Guidance from Lt. Karen steered Chris towards becoming a Delta operator.
Chris transitioned to scout platoon, showcasing a promotion and role change.
Despite setbacks, Chris's determination post 9/11 led to successful OTC completion.
Diverse squadron recruitment and deployment in Afghanistan molded strong team bonds.
Deep dives
Transition from Regiment to Third ID
After leaving the Ranger Regiment due to a DUI incident, the individual was transferred to the 3rd Infantry Division at Fort Benning. Despite initial difficulties, the experience in the division included significant live fire training exercises in Germany, helping forge a highly trained unit in preparation for potential combat.
Leadership Impact at 3rd ID
During the deployment to Kuwait as part of Operation Desert Thunder, the individual faced challenges but also found influential leaders like Master Sergeant Donald P. Blackman and Colonel Courtney. These leaders played a pivotal role in shaping the individual's outlook and instilling leadership qualities.
Shift to 82nd Airborne Division
Moving to the 82nd Airborne, the individual took on the role of a mortar section sergeant, leading training sessions and counseling troops. This position offered exposure to various leadership styles, highlighting the differences between non-commissioned officer and officer leadership.
Mentorship and Career Guidance
A chance encounter with Lieutenant Paul Karen, unbeknownst to the individual, son of the Delta Force Sergeant Major, Doug Karen, provided valuable insight. Lieutenant Karen guided the individual towards the path of being a Delta operator, enlightening on the selection process and requirements. This mentorship set a new trajectory for the individual's career aspirations.
Recruitment and Transition to a New Role
Joining the scout platoon involved reclassifying from a mortar specialist to an infantry role following a commander's recommendation. The speaker's experience of reclassifying to an 11 Bravo led to a promotion to staff sergeant and transition to the scout platoon.
Selection Process and Motivation
The speaker discusses attending selection twice, highlighting a setback during the first attempt caused by an ankle injury. The motivation to excel in the selection process was linked to the impactful events of 9/11, emphasizing the determination to contribute to national defense.
Operator Training and Unit Dynamics
The intense training at the Operator Training Course (OTC) focused on fundamental skills like marksmanship and physical fitness. Post-OTC, the units had a draft-like process for squadron selection with instructors and leadership determining the best fits based on performance metrics and personality assessments.
Squadron Environment and Culture
The speaker describes a mix of backgrounds in the squadron, ranging from SF, Ranger, to conventional army personnel, emphasizing a balanced approach within the unit. Different squadrons were noted to have varying personalities, with his experience in 'C' Squadron being perceived as more laid-back and open to collaborative inputs.
Cross-Service Dynamics and Recruitment
The speaker touches on the diversity in recruitment, accommodating personnel from various services like SF, Ranger, other branches, creating a rich blend of experiences in the unit. He underscores the merit of a draft system based on aptitude and adaptability, enabling individuals to excel in different operational environments.
Joining the Team in Afghanistan
After being quickly deployed to Afghanistan without completing all the necessary training, the narrator found the team to be welcoming and supportive. Despite facing a mixed bag of experiences, the solid team members made the deployment memorable. The first mission involved a low-vis walk-in hit, where the narrator learned, adapted, and built strong bonds with the team members.
Learning to Trust Instincts in Combat
In a critical moment during combat, the narrator trusted their gut instincts to spare the life of an individual who appeared to pose a threat. This decision to hold fire on an armed individual was based on a feeling that something was not right about the situation. The experience taught the narrator the importance of trusting instincts and making split-second decisions in combat situations to avoid potential grave consequences.
Chris VanSant is a former Delta Force Operator & Army Ranger with 11 combat deployments and 20 years experience. VanSant took part in over 600 combat missions, including the capture of Saddam Hussein. In this episode, we'll cover his upbringing and his time in the Army Rangers & 82nd Airborne and how a DUI as a young recruit changed the course of his career.
We get an in-depth look at the grueling OTC / Delta Force training pipeline and find out what its like to go straight from training into an ongoing deployment in Afghanistan, where Chris would meet his team for the first time. We wrap up with the early days of the Invasion of Iraq - history in the making.
Chris currently serves on the board of the All Secure Foundation and is on a multi-year effort to complete the seven summits to raise awareness for veteran mental health and support All Secure.
