Episode 5042: "We" Will Run Venezuela

This book narrates the harrowing ordeal of the Battle of Mogadishu, where 99 elite American soldiers of Task Force Ranger were sent on a mission to capture two top lieutenants of a renegade warlord. The mission, expected to take about an hour, turned into a 15-hour battle. Bowden's narrative captures the intensity of the situation through the eyes of the soldiers and Somali civilians, using extensive interviews, classified combat video, and radio transcripts. The battle resulted in 18 American soldiers dead, dozens injured, and significant casualties among the Somali population. The book is a gripping look at modern warfare, highlighting the chaos, bravery, and tragic outcomes of the conflict.

This book is a firsthand account by Marcus Luttrell, the sole survivor of Operation Redwing, a secret military operation in Afghanistan. The story details the mission to capture or kill a notorious al Qaeda leader and the subsequent desperate battle that led to the largest loss of life in Navy SEAL history. Luttrell describes his brutal training, the relentless battle, and his survival against al Qaeda assassins. He also recounts how he was taken in and protected by a Pashtun tribe, highlighting themes of courage, honor, and patriotism. The book is a tribute to his teammates who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.