This is How Countries End: A Conversation about veterans taking up arms against America with Ken Harbaugh
Apr 16, 2024
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Former Navy pilot and veteran's advocate, Ken Harbaugh, discusses the rise of violent extremist organizations among military veterans in America. The conversation focuses on his film 'Against All Enemies' which sheds light on why some veterans turn against the country they swore to protect. They explore the manipulation of well-trained veterans, the influence of extremist groups on politics, and the urgent need for societal understanding and action to combat the rising threat of extremism in the country.
American military veterans are disproportionately drawn into violent extremist groups due to post-war trauma and lack of societal support.
Political figures promoting false narratives and extremist views are fueling the radicalization of individuals, posing a threat to national security.
Deep dives
America Faces Growing Threat of Domestic Terrorism
The FBI confirms that domestic terrorism poses the greatest threat to the United States, with American-led groups causing concern among international allies. These allies now view the U.S. as an exporter of terrorism. The film 'Against All Enemies' delves into the rise of violent extremist movements in the country, driven by American-grown terrorist organizations. The documentary highlights how American military veterans play key roles in groups like the Proud Boys and 3%ers, posing significant threats to the nation's security.
Impact of Military Veterans Joining Extremist Groups
The film explores how military veterans, especially those with combat experience, are often drawn into extremist organizations due to a mix of post-war trauma, lack of societal support, and the allure of camaraderie. It raises concerns about veterans being targeted for recruitment by groups like the Oath Keepers and 3%ers. The narrative delves into the vulnerabilities veterans face post-service, leading them to seek purpose in organizations that promote extremist ideologies.
Political Manipulation and Rise of Extremism
The documentary highlights how political figures, including former President Trump and certain Republican leaders, exploit grievances and spread false narratives to incite violence and promote extremist views. By endorsing conspiracies and falsehoods about democracy being threatened, these leaders fuel the radicalization of individuals, pushing them towards violent actions. The film underscores the dangerous implications of mainstream political support for extremist ideologies.
Urgent Call to Action for Democracy
As the film underscores the potential for a civil war and the stakes of underestimating the extremist threat, it emphasizes the critical need for individual and collective action. Calls for accountability, active participation in democracy, and sincere conversations with those at risk of radicalization are highlighted as essential steps to combat the rise of domestic terrorism and safeguard American democracy.
Membership in violent extremist organizations is up, especially with our veterans. Today we talk to former mission commander and veteran’s advocate Ken Harbaugh about his incredible film Against All Enemies, and why a disproportionate amount of our military veterans would end up taking violent action against the very country they swore to protect, and why they would think they were patriots for doing it. We talk about this spectacular film that leaves you with a true understanding of where we sit with this violent extremist movement in America. Absolutely worth your time.
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