Retired Navy SEAL Drago Dzieran shares his journey from political prisoner to U.S. Navy SEAL. Topics discussed include childhood experiences in communist Poland, financial tools provided by Navy Federal Credit Union, surviving poverty and smuggling, reflections on Navy SEAL training, and the importance of unity in American society.
The podcast discusses the oppressive nature of socialism in Poland, highlighting the manipulation of history, restrictions on personal freedom, and suppression of religion.
The narrator recounts experiences with a failed smuggling operation, including challenges at border crossings and encounters with foreign thieves.
The speaker describes the circumstances of their arrest during a printing session, enduring intense interrogation and surviving life in the prison system.
Personal experiences with violence shaped the narrator's survival instincts and empowerment, emphasizing the importance of physical strength and mentorship.
The speaker's friendship with a fellow political prisoner and the support they provided each other played a crucial role in navigating the prison environment.
Deep dives
Oppression in Poland under Socialism
The podcast episode discusses the oppressive nature of socialism in Poland during the narrator's childhood. The speaker recounts stories of growing up under socialism, including instances of political activism, persecution, and the manipulation of history by the government. The episode highlights the strong influence of the Communist Party, the fear and intimidation tactics employed by the secret state police, and the restrictions on personal freedom and expression. It also touches upon the lack of gun ownership rights, difficulties in accessing accurate information, and the suppression of religion. The narrator reflects on the impact of the visit of Pope John Paul II to Poland and the subsequent rise of the solidarity trade union as a powerful social movement.
Smuggling Operations and Challenges
Before imprisonment, the narrator and his friends attempted to start a smuggling operation to improve their financial situation. They purchased items like jeans and planned to sell them in countries like Russia and Romania. However, their lack of experience led to challenges at border crossings, resulting in losses and limited success. The narrator shares anecdotes about encounters with foreign thieves, the difficulties of the black market, and hilarious misadventures. They ultimately decide to abandon the smuggling route and turn their attention to political activism and joining the solidarity movement.
Arrest and Life in Polish Prisons
The speaker describes the circumstances of their arrest during a nighttime printing session for leaflets and bulletins. They were interrogated intensively and on a daily basis, enduring repeated questioning and intimidation techniques. The speaker recounts life in the prison system, including cold and hunger as intentional strategies to break prisoners' resilience. The episode also mentions incidents of violence and conflicts with fellow inmates. The difficulty of navigating prison dynamics and survival instincts are prominent themes, demonstrating the harsh realities of being incarcerated during a time of political oppression.
Violence, Boxing, and Martial Arts
The narrator shares personal experiences with violence as a means of survival and later as a source of empowerment. Growing up in a dangerous environment, they learned the importance of physical strength and the fearlessness it instilled. They recount instances of bullying others and being bullied, as well as their initiation into the world of boxing and martial arts. The speaker discusses their participation in sports clubs and the positive influence of coaches and trainers who provided guidance and mentorship during difficult times. Their skill and reputation in these disciplines helped them navigate the challenges of prison life and establish a reputation among fellow inmates.
Imprisoned with a Political Prisoner
During his time in prison, the speaker became friends with a political prisoner named Edek Kingerzki. They formed a close bond and helped each other. The speaker taught Edek self-defense techniques, which he credits with potentially saving his life during beatings from guards. Edek, who was well-versed in Polish history, helped the speaker understand important events in Poland. Their friendship and mutual support were crucial in a challenging prison environment.
Receiving News in Prison
In the secret state police headquarters and intermediate prison, the speaker and other prisoners managed to smuggle information and cameras into the prison with the help of a Catholic priest. Father Pyurik risked his life to provide them with news and help them communicate with the outside world. This illicit exchange of information was crucial, as it allowed the prisoners to stay informed about current events and counter the propaganda spread by the communist regime.
The Transition to Life After Prison
After being released from prison, the speaker faced uncertainty and the challenge of reintegrating into society. With no plans or prospects, he knew he needed a job. However, his criminal record posed a significant obstacle. He connected with a Polish club in Memphis and eventually found work at a car dealership, starting as a janitor and later becoming a mechanic. His involvement with the Polish community helped him build a new life in America, and he eventually pursued his dream of becoming a Navy SEAL.
Overcoming Adversity and Finding Respect in the Navy SEALs
The podcast episode delves into the speaker's journey from being a political prisoner to becoming a Navy SEAL. He recalls the challenging moments during his training and how he gained newfound respect for the rigorous process of creating Navy SEALs. The speaker emphasizes the importance of perseverance and the ability to push through difficult experiences. He also reflects on the importance of being accepted by fellow team members and the trust that comes with it. Overall, the episode highlights the speaker's transformation and his deep appreciation for the Navy SEALs and their values.
Dealing with the Effects of Combat and Seeking Treatment
The episode discusses the speaker's post-military experiences, particularly the challenges he faced with his mental health. He candidly speaks about the difficulties he encountered, such as trouble sleeping and emotional volatility. He shares his journey of seeking different treatments, including a negative experience at a clinic in Texas and his eventual success with a transformative treatment in Mexico. The speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs of mental health issues and seeking help, and ultimately finding ways to improve his well-being.
Drago is an author, entrepreneur, retired Navy SEAL, and former political prisoner.
Born in communist Poland, Drago immigrated to the United States in 1984 after being imprisoned for his political activism against the oppressive regime.
Drago enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1991. Over his 20 years in the SEAL Teams, he served as a member of SEAL Team 2, SEAL Team 4, and as a BUD/s Instructor. He took part in over 100 combat missions in Iraq, earning the Bronze Star Medal with Valor, the Navy Commendation Medal with Valor, and the Army Commendation Medal.
After his military retirement, Drago started a career as a software engineer. Additionally, he founded the Navy SEALs Fund – Brotherhood Beyond Battlefield, a nonprofit organization focused on reducing the financial burden of all UDT/SEAL teammates, including Gold Star Families who need assistance. He also founded ConnectZing, a censorship-free social media network.
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