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Tin Foil Hat With Sam Tripoli
#809: Privatized Mercenary Scumbags Of Blackwater with Morgan Lerette
Aug 27, 2024
Morgan Lerette, an author and former Blackwater mercenary, dives into his experiences in Iraq and the troubling world of privatized warfare. He reveals the moral dilemmas and psychological burdens faced by private contractors, questioning the ethics of outsourcing military duties. Lerette also critiques the role of companies like Blackwater in global conflicts and discusses the implications of war profiteering. His compelling insights shed light on the horrors of mercenary work and the exploitative tendencies within this controversial industry.
01:48:48
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Quick takeaways
- Blackwater transitioned from a firing range to a pivotal private military company, filling security gaps in Iraq during chaos.
- Financial incentives significantly influenced participation in mercenary work, often eclipsing moral concerns and ethical considerations during conflicts.
- The mental health challenges faced by mercenaries after deployments highlight the psychological toll of engaging in morally ambiguous warfare.
- U.S. foreign policy decisions in the Middle East created power vacuums, contributing to ongoing instability and conflict in the region.
Deep dives
The Origins and Structure of Blackwater
Blackwater originated as a firing range, established by Eric Prince. Over time, it evolved into a private military company, filling a gap left by the U.S. military in Iraq. The company became pivotal in providing security for American diplomats and contractors amidst chaos. Its expansion was driven by the lack of state-provided security, resulting in a booming business during the Iraq War.
Recruitment and Skills for Mercenary Work
Many Blackwater recruits came from military backgrounds, often specializing in combat arms. The company sought individuals who could effectively handle weapons and protect important figures, creating a strong initial team. As one former employee recounted, the allure of competitive pay often outweighed initial hesitations about the dangerous nature of the work. The promise of earning around $550 a day was a significant draw.
Experiences in Conflict Zones
The harsh realities faced by mercenaries in combat zones starkly contrasted with Hollywood portrayals of war. Combat experiences were described as complicated, mixing adrenaline with gut-wrenching moments of loss. While many entered the field seeking excitement, the grim aspects of warfare quickly became apparent. The nature of the work blurred ethical lines, forcing individuals to reconcile their roles in conflicts.
Financial Incentives behind War
The discussion underscored how financial gain often drove ongoing military conflicts. Private military contractors, like Blackwater, benefited from prolonged engagements, with company profits tied to extended operations. When initial contracts ended, there was little incentive for these companies to disengage, as their earnings were directly correlated to war's duration. Economically, this interconnectedness fueled an endless cycle of violence.
The Psychological Toll of War
Participants in mercenary work faced significant psychological challenges, often struggling with their mental health post-deployment. Many shared experiences of moral injury stemming from actions taken during conflicts, leading to complex emotional struggles. The nature of these battles—with no clear distinction between right and wrong—left lasting scars on individuals. As they returned to civilian life, the transition wasn't always smooth, necessitating mental health support.
Legacies of Foreign Policy and Its Consequences
The podcast examined the repercussions of U.S. foreign policy, particularly in the Middle East, suggesting that past decisions set the stage for ongoing conflict. The dismantling of existing power structures, like the removal of the Ba'ath Party in Iraq, created a power vacuum filled by chaos. The narrative highlighted how poorly planned invasions had long-term destabilizing effects on nations. Critics argued that lessons from history have often been disregarded, leading to repeating tragic mistakes.
Current State of Private Military Contractors
Private military contractors continue to operate under varying contexts, often in conflict zones where government forces hesitate to engage directly. Companies like Blackwater have adapted, finding new avenues for profit while distancing themselves from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Increased reliance on contractors allows governments to maintain deniability and avoid accountability for military actions. The presence of these contractors suggests that the outsourcing of military operations remains a growing trend.
Thank you for joining us for another episode of Tin Foil Hat with Sam Tripoli. In this episode, we welcome author Morgan Lerette to discuss his new book, Guns, Girls, and Greed: I Was a Blackwater Mercenary in Iraq, and the deeply disturbing world of privatized mercenary work. No amount of money can justify committing war crimes or trafficking children. The excuse 'If it wasn't me, someone else would be doing it' only paves the road to hell. Thank you for your support.
Please check out Morgan Lerette's new book: Guns, Girls, and Greed: I Was a Blackwater Mercenary in Iraq- https://bit.ly/3yX7JJE
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