

503: Norm "Hoot" Hooten. Blackhawk Down & a Legendary Career in Army Special Operations
37 snips Aug 27, 2025
Join former U.S. Army Special Forces soldier Norm Hooten as he shares gripping tales from the Battle of Mogadishu. He discusses the intense training and the brutal realities of combat faced by elite military units. Hooten reflects on the evolution of military tactics and the emotional toll of war, revealing insights into leadership and teamwork. He also shares personal anecdotes that illustrate the chaos, camaraderie, and resilience required on the battlefield, offering a unique perspective on the legacy of Black Hawk Down.
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Ranch Kid Who Hated School
- Norm Hooten grew up free-ranging on a Texas ranch and resisted school at seven years old.
- That upbringing made him self-reliant but ill-at-ease with structured environments early in life.
Family Violence Shaped Choices
- Norm describes his father's bootlegging, fights, and jailings that exposed him to family violence.
- Seeing consequences of that violence pushed Norm to avoid repeating his father's path.
Joining The Army As A Way Out
- Norm joined the Army via delayed entry after drifting post-high school and risky errands for his father.
- He immediately loved service and left his small-town life behind.