Morgan Lerette, a former Blackwater mercenary and author of "Guns, Girls, and Greed," shares his unique experiences from Iraq. He reveals the intense realities of being a mercenary and how public perception often contrasts with the truth. Lerette discusses the mechanics of private military contractors (PMCs) and their complex relationship with governments. He sheds light on the mental health challenges that many mercenaries face, as well as the intriguing dynamics of diplomatic immunity in conflict zones. A fascinating dive into the controversial world of PMCs!
Morgan Lerette shares his transition from military service to becoming a Blackwater mercenary, revealing the allure and perils of PMC work.
The public perception of Blackwater, especially after infamous incidents, significantly shaped Morgan's professional identity and overall reputation.
Lerette highlights the ambiguous legal status of PMCs, pointing out their operational efficiency and the ethical dilemmas arising from a lack of oversight.
Deep dives
Escaping the Technocracy
The episode emphasizes the importance of gaining personal privacy and freedom in a world increasingly dominated by technology and surveillance. The speaker encourages listeners to take proactive steps toward this freedom, such as enrolling in a privacy course designed to help individuals get off the grid. By promoting resources like books and consulting services, the speaker aims to provide practical tools for those looking to evade technocratic control. This call to action highlights the urgency of privacy in the modern landscape.
Morgan Lorette's Background
Morgan Lorette, the guest of the episode, shares his experiences as a former Blackwater mercenary, shedding light on the complexities of working for a private military corporation in a war zone. He recounts a transitional period that began with his military enlistment and led to Blackwater, amidst identifiable conflicts such as those surrounding the Fallujah incident. Lorette's narrative captures the allure and the dangers of working as a contractor during the Iraq War, offering insight into how perceptions of Blackwater evolved over time due to infamous incidents. Ultimately, his story is an exploration of personal experiences rather than a corporate expose.
The Duality of Blackwater's Reputation
The discussion delves into the fluctuating public perception of Blackwater, particularly following notable events like the Nisour Square shooting, which left a lasting impact on the company's image. Lorette reflects on how, during his tenure, the company's notoriety shaped his own professional identity and the apprehensiveness surrounding associating with the brand in later years. He further elucidates the challenge of distinguishing between contractors who worked before and after scandalous events, leading to a reluctance to disclose his past employment. This complex relationship with identity and reputation speaks to broader themes of accountability and public scrutiny.
Recruitment Strategies and Training Facilities
Lorette discusses the unconventional recruitment strategies employed by Blackwater, primarily relying on word-of-mouth referrals from existing operatives. The appeal of lucrative contracts and the opportunity to use combat skills sparked interest among military veterans seeking to engage in active conflict. Blackwater’s training facilities, such as a well-equipped shooting range and tactical simulation areas, provided an attractive alternative to traditional military training environments. This effectiveness in recruitment combined with the allure of high pay enabled Blackwater to attract seasoned personnel swiftly.
The Complex Role of PMCs in Modern Warfare
The conversation underscores the ambiguous role of private military contractors (PMCs) in contemporary armed conflict, particularly regarding their legal standing and operational oversight. Unlike traditional military members bound by formal rules of engagement, Lorette expresses how PMCs often navigate a vague legal framework that can lead to serious ethical dilemmas and accountability issues. He notes that while PMCs can provide operational efficiency, their lack of structured oversight creates challenges, especially when confronting legal ramifications for their actions. Lorette’s observations highlight the evolving landscape of mercenary work and the radically different dynamics at play compared to conventional military service.
Gabriel Custodiet speaks with Morgan Lerette, a former mercenary with the private military company Blackwater in Iraq. They discuss the mechanics and geopolitics of PMCs.
Timeline 00:00 – Introduction 1:50 – How do people react to your former occupation? 3:00 – Fallujah 3:50 – Relation to higher-ups at Blackwater 5:50 – Blackwater enticements 8:00 – Blackwater world-class facilities 11:12 – Diplomatic immunity 16:25 – Any personal consequences of being a mercenary? 17:30 – Do PMC employees have to be of the same country of origin as the company? 20:10 – Lerette’s big picture views of PMCs as their role in the world 23:50 – Rapid Fire 25:00 – High suicide rates for mercenaries 25:55 – Utopian view of PMC proponents 29:10 – Mistaken reasons to be in Iraq and Afghanistan; culture ignorance 33:40 – Origins of human violence 38:00 – Equipment as a mercenary 42:10 – How to run your own PMC 44:00 – Getting mind ready for daily conflict 46:05 – Mercenaries vs traditional military 50:00 – Reflections from military intelligence 54:00 – Final thoughts
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
