Roberts Ridge/John Chapman- The Ground Truth feat. Pete Blaber
23 snips Jun 30, 2025
Pete Blaber, a Delta Force operator and Ground Force Commander, shares riveting insights on the Roberts Ridge operation. He breaks down the chaos and command failures during the critical mission, highlighting the complex dynamics and tactical miscommunications faced by troops. The discussion dives into missed opportunities in other operations, like Tora Bora, and emphasizes the need for better intelligence and collaboration. Blaber also reflects on the psychological challenges of special ops in high-stakes environments, showcasing stories of courage amidst chaos.
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Danger of Disconnected Command Chains
- Disconnected chains of command result in senseless decisions detached from the operational environment.
- True situational awareness requires commanders to be physically connected to the battle space.
Tailor Teams for Missions
- Organize reconnaissance teams tailored for each mission to avoid overcommitment and compromise.
- Deploy small teams first to gather intel, then send reinforcements as necessary based on their findings.
Shepherd Leads to Enemy Location
- A shepherd unknowingly guided U.S. Special Forces to enemy positions by pointing to Shahi Kote valley.
- This local interaction proved crucial in locating hostile fighters in the mountains.