481: Deeds. Not Words. With Airborne Ranger, Will Bardenwerper

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Mar 12, 2025

Will Bardenwerper, a former Airborne Ranger and author, shares gripping stories from his military service in Iraq and the challenges of transitioning to a writing career. He reflects on the emotional nuances of leadership in combat and the bonds formed through shared adversity. The conversation touches on the complexities of military life, navigating personal growth, and the deep connections fostered in communities around sports and storytelling. Bardenwerper also discusses the importance of resilience and taking action over mere words, providing a compelling perspective on life beyond the battlefield.

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ANECDOTE

Grandfathers' WWII Service

Will Bardenwerper's grandfathers served in WWII, one in the Army Air Corps, the other in the Navy.
His Navy grandfather's diaries detail harsh daily life at sea, including storms and constant seasickness.

ANECDOTE

College Athletics

Will Bardenwerper played baseball at Princeton for two years, but wasn't heavily recruited.
He realized basketball wasn't his path after seeing the talent at Gonzaga High School tryouts.

ANECDOTE

9/11 and Career Change

Will Bardenwerper witnessed the 9/11 attacks from his Midtown Manhattan office.
The event spurred him to quit finance and seek a way to serve, eventually leading him to join the Army.

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The Prisoner in His Palace

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About Face is a compelling memoir by Colonel David Hackworth, detailing his experiences in the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Hackworth's candid account offers a critical perspective on military leadership and policy, highlighting the challenges faced by soldiers on the ground. The book is known for its unflinching portrayal of combat and its insightful analysis of military strategy and politics. It also provides a personal reflection on the psychological toll of war and the importance of soldier welfare. Hackworth's writing style is direct and engaging, making the book accessible to a wide audience.

Homestand

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In Retrospect

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In Retrospect is a candid memoir by former Secretary of Defense Robert S. McNamara, offering insights into the U.S. involvement in the Vietnam War. Written twenty years after the war's end, it explores the fatal misassumptions behind U.S. policy and provides a personal account of the decisions made during that period. The book is based on newly declassified documents and offers a critical analysis of the war's outcomes.