True Spies: Espionage | Investigation | Crime | Murder | Detective | Politics
True Spies Classic: Shadow Games | Special Forces
Nov 12, 2024
James Stejskal, a former Special Forces operative in Cold War Berlin, dives into the covert world of espionage. He shares thrilling tales from the Tehran Hostage Crisis, illuminating the secrecy and peril of elite missions. Listeners hear about the intense dynamics between East and West Berlin, the personal sacrifices of operatives, and the harrowing details of Operation Eagle Claw. Stejskal also reflects on the lasting legacy of Special Forces Berlin and his efforts to document this unique history in his book.
51:09
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Quick takeaways
- Special Forces Berlin, established during the Cold War, was crucial for unconventional warfare and intelligence-gathering against Soviet threats.
- The unit adapted its operations to counterterrorism, particularly evident during the Iran hostage crisis, showcasing its evolving mission focus.
Deep dives
Cold War Context in Berlin
Berlin in the late 1970s served as a critical battleground during the Cold War, with the city literally split in two by a concrete wall. West Berlin, a hub of culture and freedom, contrasted starkly with East Berlin, which was controlled by a totalitarian regime and faced constant unrest from its citizens. The atmosphere was charged, as violent clashes between activists and East Germany's secret police, the Stasi, were commonplace. American intelligence agencies operated in secrecy, aiming to gather intelligence and exert influence amidst the escalating tensions.
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