SEAL Vet Tony Eafrati discusses his scariest moments in combat, transitioning to civilian life, and the ups and downs of the battlefield with Jocko. They also explore the qualities that make a great NCO, the significance of accuracy vs. volume of fire, and Tony's perspective on death.
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Quick takeaways
Reputation is everything in the teams, with any mistake or foolish action potentially tarnishing an individual's standing.
Humility combined with expertise is a characteristic that sets a dominant alpha team guy apart from others.
Operational excellence and the avoidance of dumb mistakes are crucial for building a strong reputation in the teams.
Leading humbly and effectively, focusing on the team's objectives, and supporting subordinates distinguishes a dominant alpha team guy.
Maintaining composure and prioritizing mission success over personal emotions is vital when a squad member is killed.
Deep dives
Importance of Reputation in the Teams
In the teams, reputation is everything. It can make or break a team guy's standing among his peers. Any mistake or foolish action can quickly become common knowledge and follow a team guy throughout his career. Accidental discharges, getting fired from a position, or doing something dumb can tarnish a reputation and become synonymous with that individual. On the other hand, excelling in specific skills or demonstrating humility and a willingness to learn can build a positive reputation. The teams are like a small town where everyone knows everything, and one's actions and behavior carry significant weight.
Building a Reputation with Humility and Expertise
One of the fundamental characteristics that can separate a dominant alpha team guy from the rest is humility combined with expertise. In a community of highly capable and skilled individuals, being humble and acknowledging one's limitations can be an indicator of strength and competence. While everyone in the teams may possess alpha male traits, their specific expertise and skills can set them apart. Whether it's exceptional skills in diving, marksmanship, rock climbing, or tactics, being at the top of their game in a particular area helps build a reputation among their peers.
Reputation Builders and Killers in the Teams
Reputation in the teams is shaped by the ability to excel in operational situations and the avoidance of dumb mistakes. Getting recognized for exceptional performance, demonstrating tactical prowess, and consistently delivering results in high-pressure situations can build a strong reputation. Conversely, making rash decisions, showing incompetence, or displaying carelessness can rapidly damage one's standing. Team guys are known for their ability to problem-solve, adapt, and execute missions effectively. A reputation as a reliable and skilled operator helps elevate a team guy's standing among his teammates.
Characteristics That Set a Dominant Alpha Team Guy Apart
While every team guy possesses alpha male traits, one characteristic that separates a dominant alpha team guy is the ability to lead humbly and effectively. This involves not seeking personal credit but focusing on the team's objectives and mission success. Being attuned to the needs of the team and supporting the growth and development of subordinates signals strong leadership. Additionally, effectively managing decentralized command, being adaptable, and continuously learning are key traits that set a dominant alpha team guy apart from the rest.
Keeping Focus In Challenging Situations
In challenging situations, such as when a squad member is killed, it is important to maintain composure and focus on the mission. Emotions and mourning can come later, but in the moment, the priority is to complete the objective and protect the remaining team members. It may be difficult, but leaders must put their personal feelings aside and lead their team forward. After the mission is completed, there is time to reflect, learn, and care for the fallen comrade.
The Experience of Being a Team Guy
Being a team guy is a unique and rewarding experience that surpasses other aspects of life. The camaraderie, the excitement, and the purpose that comes with serving in the military cannot be easily replicated in civilian life. It is a calling that many team guys feel from childhood, and they consider it an honor to serve. While there may be challenges and sacrifices, the sense of purpose and the bonds formed among team members make it all worthwhile.
The Constant Pursuit of Excellence
Being a team guy means constantly striving for excellence and never settling for mediocrity. This pursuit of excellence extends to training, mission execution, and personal growth. It requires discipline, dedication, and a strong work ethic. Team guys are always looking to improve their skills and ensure they are at the top of their game. Through rigorous training, a relentless drive, and a commitment to their teammates, team guys push themselves to maintain the highest standards and achieve success.
The Importance of Experience and Adaptability
The podcast episode highlights the significance of experience and adaptability in military operations. The speaker emphasizes the importance of analyzing situations, making the best plan, and continually learning from past experiences. He emphasizes that the key skill learned is how to take a group of individuals and get them to work together effectively, regardless of the specific mission. The speaker discusses the value of extensive training and the ability to adjust to different scenarios. He also mentions the challenging aspects of being a SEAL and reveals his personal fear of heights during a mission in Hong Kong.
Advancements in Gear and Leadership Qualities
The podcast delves into the advancements in gear and the qualities needed for effective leadership. The speaker highlights the evolution of gear, including improved boots, navigation tools like GPS, and satellite communication systems. He emphasizes the importance of keeping the mission in mind and following orders while acknowledging the importance of trust and communication among team members. The speaker emphasizes the value of leading by example, being humble, admitting mistakes, and showing trust in one another's decisions. Finally, he shares his view on death, dehumanizing enemies during combat, and the challenges of transitioning to civilian life after experiencing the adrenaline of warfare.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bHdur0fmxis 0:00:00 - Opening 0:10:27 - Who is BTF Tony Eafrati? 0:17:10 - Allowing Leif to Give Orders to the men... 0:29:04 - Failures in Planning 0:31:26 - Ups and Downs of THE BATTLEFIELD, and how it made Tony "feel." 0J:36:11 - Funny Story about Jocko 0:39:47 - Tell-tale signs that someone is Good to Go, or Not up to Snuff. 0:43:37 - Has Tony disagreed with an order from Leif or Jocko. 0:47:33 - One driving characteristic that separates a "dominant alpha Team guy" from everyone else. 0:51:37 - In the Teams, what are the biggest Reputation builders and killers? 0:59:38 - What makes a great NCO? And who was the best Tony/Jocko knew? 1:05:37 - IN COMBAT: Accuracy VS. Volume of Fire? 1:11:16 - Tony's perspective working for Jocko. 1:13:38 - The Early Days when Tony & Jocko were the "young" guys. 1:19:40 - Tony's BEST Story(s) about BTF. 1:23:41 - Tony's thought Process on what strategies/ tactics to use against the enemy. 1:28:25 - Tony's most Difficult thing he's ever did as a SEAL. Most fearful moment. 1:30:20 - Tony's favorite piece of Kit. 1:32:20 - Number 1 Quality that allows a leader to lead others into uncomfortable scenarios. 1:35:16 - Tony's attitude toward DEATH. 1:37:41 - Training New guys entering the Platoon. 1:41:05 - Civilian life: Putting the high of WAR behind you. Are you still searching? 1:47:35 - How do you keep your head in the game when one of your Squad is killed? 1:54:08 - Why is Tony "hard"? 2:03:10 - Dope Internet/Onnit Stuff
