Damn The Valley - With Will Yeske and Nick Armendariz
Feb 12, 2024
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Will Yeske, combat veteran and author, and Nick Armendariz, former Infantryman and Squad Leader, share stories of transition and lessons learned in the military. Topics include the writing process, dealing with traumatic events, disturbing cultural permissiveness, the power of communication, surviving wounds of war, the long-term effects of surgeries, navigating a minefield, preserving history, supporting veterans through mobility, preventing veteran suicide, and the significance of memorial bracelets.
The emotional toll of losing a comrade and the challenges of processing trauma while being deployed.
Cultural challenges and ethical dilemmas faced by soldiers, such as grappling with local practices like 'Bacha Bazi'.
The constant threat of danger and loss takes a toll on soldiers' mental health, leading to sleep problems and racing thoughts.
The challenges of fighting an invisible enemy, with IEDs and ambushes causing fear and uncertainty.
The importance of ongoing support and community engagement for veterans, including programs focused on mobility, adaptive sports, mental health, and suicide prevention.
Military service can have a profound impact on individuals, leading to personal growth, resilience, and a different perspective on life.
Deep dives
Impact of a Tragic Incident
The episode discusses a tragic incident in which a soldier named Johnson is severely injured by a hidden ID that detonates on a wall. The incident leaves a lasting impact on the unit, causing emotional distress and a shift in their mission focus.
Dealing with Loss and Trauma
The podcast explores the emotional toll of losing a comrade and the challenges of processing trauma while being deployed. The soldiers struggle to cope with the loss of their friend and the reality of the dangers they face.
Mid-Tour Leave and Disassociation
The summary delves into the mid-tour leave and how soldiers often disassociate from the war through activities like partying or going on vacation. The ambiguous benefits and drawbacks of mid-tour leave are discussed.
Cultural Challenges and Ethical Dilemmas
The episode sheds light on cultural challenges and ethical dilemmas faced by soldiers, such as observing and grappling with local practices, like the tradition of 'Bacha Bazi', or dancing boys, which involves sexual exploitation of young boys by older men.
Encountering an explosive situation
During a patrol, the speaker describes an encounter with a suicide bomber and the explosion that followed, causing casualties and chaos.
Fighting ghosts in Afghanistan
The speaker reflects on the challenges of fighting an invisible enemy, with IEDs and ambushes causing fear and uncertainty.
The toll on mental health
The speaker discusses the toll that the constant threat of danger and loss takes on soldiers' mental health, leading to sleep problems and racing thoughts.
The aftermath and transition
After the deployment, the unit experiences a period of adjustment and preparation for future deployments, as well as dealing with the effects of their experiences.
The importance of finding purpose and living a fulfilled life
It is crucial for individuals to find a sense of purpose and live a fulfilling life. This involves making the most of their experiences and positively impacting others.
The significance of supporting veterans and their mental health
Efforts should be made to support veterans and their mental health, particularly during the out-processing phase. The military and non-government organizations can play a role in providing resources and assistance.
Reflecting on the impact of military service
Military service can have a profound impact on individuals, leading to personal growth, resilience, and a different perspective on life. It is important to acknowledge the challenges faced and the significance of one's experiences.
The need for continued support and community engagement
It is essential to provide ongoing support and community engagement for veterans. This can include programs focused on mobility, adaptive sports, mental health, and suicide prevention, fostering a sense of camaraderie and post-military purpose.
William (Will) Yeske, is an 11-year combat veteran and the author of Damn The Valley, a book detailing time in the Arghandab River Valley during the deployment of 2 Fury to Afghanistan in 2009–2010. Nick Armendariz is a former Infantryman and Squad Leader with over 7.5 years of service, now serving as the Veterans Programs Director at The Independence Fund.
Will Yeske has transitioned his battlefield acumen into a successful career as a serial entrepreneur. As the driving force behind No Limits Marketing Group (NLMG), Will applies a unique blend of modern marketing strategies and a non-lethal targeting framework derived from military principles to elevate small businesses. Alongside his professional achievements, Will is a dedicated parent and a proactive member of the veteran community, contributing to projects like Racing for Heroes, aimed at supporting fellow veterans.
Nick Armendariz, also a seasoned combat veteran, served as an Infantryman and Squad Leader, accruing over 7.5 years of specialized military experience. His tenure with the 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team and the 82nd Airborne Division in Afghanistan has equipped him with invaluable skills, from Close Quarters Combat to Counter-IED tactics. Currently, as the Veterans Programs Director at The Independence Fund, Nick's mission is to empower veterans through advocacy and support, ensuring their seamless integration into civilian life.
Together, Will and Nick share their stories of transition, the lessons learned from their time in service, and how they've applied these lessons to overcome obstacles and forge new paths.
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