Jocko Podcast 501: Bullets To Burning Buildings. With Army Combat Medic Rob Black
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Aug 13, 2025 Rob Black, a former Army combat medic who served with the Brigade Recon Troop in Ramadi, shares gripping stories from the front lines. He discusses the intense realities of combat, including the psychological toll on soldiers and the challenges of transitioning to civilian life as a firefighter. Black also explores the emotional intricacies of modern parenting and the stigma surrounding mental health for first responders. His journey highlights resilience, the bonds of brotherhood, and the importance of supporting one another in recovery.
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Joining As A Medic After High School
- Rob Black joined the Army to be a medic after high school instead of college and was influenced by an uncle who served in Vietnam.
- He trained at Fort Sill and Fort Sam Houston, became a combat medic, and deployed to Germany before Ramadi.
Survivor Guilt’s Long Shadow
- Rob describes overwhelming guilt after missing signs of the command-detonated IED and replaying the drive over that road repeatedly.
- He links survivor guilt and persistent self-blame to long-term mental health struggles.
Mutual Support Multiplied Combat Effectiveness
- Rob notes mutual support between Army brigade recon and SEAL Task Unit Bruiser created highly effective small-team operations.
- Cross-service cooperation and trust improved mission execution and saved lives.
