Jocko Podcast 358: Out of Airspeed... And Ideas. With Airforce Fighter Pilot and Hanoi POW, Col. Lee Ellis.
Nov 2, 2022
Colonel Lee Ellis, a retired Air Force officer, shares his incredible journey as a POW during the Vietnam War. He reflects on resilience and leadership learned in captivity, emphasizing the importance of camaraderie and moral courage. Ellis discusses the intense experiences of fighter pilot training and the harrowing moments of ejection and survival. He also highlights the duality of suffering and compassion among fellow POWs and underscores the significance of authentic leadership and balance between results and relationships in guiding teams through adversity.
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Early Life and Inspiration
- Lee Ellis grew up on a farm with strong family values and a focus on hard work.
- From a young age, he was inspired to become a pilot after seeing a WWII fighter plane.
First Encounter with a Combat Veteran
- In flight school, Ellis's encounter with a Vietnam veteran sparked his interest in combat.
- He was disappointed when his class's assignment changed from Japan to direct deployment in Vietnam.
F-4 Phantom Experience
- Ellis discusses his experience flying the F-4 Phantom, a powerful but initially gunless aircraft.
- The Air Force adapted it for air-to-ground combat by adding a gun pod.
