#51 Chris VanSant - Delta Force Operator / Killing Off the "Deck of Cards" & Capturing Saddam Hussein | Part 2
Mar 20, 2023
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Chris VanSant, a former Delta Force operator involved in the capture of Saddam Hussein, shares gripping insights from the Iraq invasion. He recounts intense firefights against overwhelming odds and the emotional toll of combat, including survivor's guilt. VanSant discusses his transformative experiences with psychedelics for mental health and emphasizes the importance of community support for veterans. His journey from military operations to focusing on healing highlights the ongoing struggles and resilience of those who serve.
Capturing Saddam Hussein marked a historic moment in the team's mission strategies and achievements.
Witnessing Iraqi workers celebrate religious freedom showcased the positive impact of their efforts in creating a safer environment.
Transitioning from Saddam's capture to insurgency operations required the team to adapt tactics and target evolving threats.
Engagement with high-profile terrorists in Somalia showcased the team's resilience and effective utilization of naval support.
Covert missions in the Horn of Africa highlighted the team's adaptability and resourcefulness against AQ threats.
Deep dives
Capture of Saddam Hussein
The capture of Saddam Hussein was a significant event that marked a pivotal moment in history. After intelligence pointed to his possible location, a series of hits were conducted to apprehend him. When Saddam was finally found hiding on a farm, it was a momentous achievement for the team. Despite past horrors and atrocities committed by Saddam, the team took him into custody instead of resorting to lethal force.
Impact on the Middle East Christians
An impactful moment during deployment was witnessing Iraqi workers singing Christmas carols on Christmas morning. These individuals, previously persecuted under Saddam's regime, found newfound freedom to express their religious beliefs. The heartfelt gesture resonated with the team, highlighting the positive impact of their actions in providing a safer environment for those oppressed.
Continuation of Operations and Shift in Targets
Post-Saddam's capture, the team anticipated the end of deployment, only to be thrust into a new phase of operations against the insurgency and foreign fighters. Redeployments and rotations continued, including exchanges between units to enhance skills and adaptability. Operations evolved, focusing on targeting the growing resistance movement and adapting tactics for effectively countering new threats.
Encounter with High Profile Terrorists in Somalia
After receiving real-time intelligence about two high-profile terrorists in Bargal, Somalia, the team, including Somalis and US operatives, set up a patrol base to surveil the boat carrying the targets. When facing heavy gunfire, the team backed off the ridge, engaged the advancing enemies, and called for naval gunfire support. Despite multiple wounded, including the Somali leader, they managed to suppress the enemy and call in naval artillery.
Covert Mission in the Horn of Africa
Deployed to the Horn of Africa, the team, comprising varied US operatives and local allies, embarked on a covert mission against the AQ threats in the region. With limited assets, they coordinated with local forces, carried out surveillance, navigated complex situations, and utilized naval support to thwart high-value targets. The operation emphasized adaptability and resourcefulness in a challenging environment.
Negotiating High-Stakes Encounters Under Fire
In intense combat situations, the team navigated complex dynamics, confronted overwhelming gunfire, and strategized using available resources, such as naval gunfire and local allies. With wounded team members and adversaries closing in, quick decision-making, effective communication, and strategic use of external support were pivotal in neutralizing imminent threats and securing the mission objectives.
Recovery and Reflection on a Mission: The Impact of a Targeted Operation
After a challenging mission involving engaging foreign fighters in Somalia, the speaker reflects on the aftermath of the operation. The encounter led to a significant disruption in the network of foreign fighters moving into the Middle East and Africa. The elimination of key individuals, including a Yemeni chief movement officer and a British passport holder involved in training, had a lasting impact on terrorist activities in the region for nearly two years.
Personal Struggles and Recovery Journey: Overcoming Trauma and Addiction
Following a personal struggle with mental health issues and addiction to prescription pain medication, the speaker shares their journey to recovery. Facing suicide attempts and self-destructive tendencies, they emphasize seeking help, receiving a diagnosis of traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder, and the importance of medication management. Despite challenges, the speaker highlights the ongoing process of recovery, acknowledging the impact on family relationships and the significance of openness in addressing mental health issues.
Focus on Healthy Alternatives to Healing
The speaker reflects on the impact of coming off medication and realizing the importance of finding healthy alternatives to healing and recovery. This awakening moment led to a journey towards seeking methods that didn't rely on medication but rather on holistic approaches to support well-being and progress.
Reinvention Through Outdoor Adventures
The speaker discusses how engaging in outdoor activities, particularly hiking the John Muir Trail in California, played a transformative role in his life. Through the physical and mental challenges of the trail, including resetting sleep patterns and finding solace in nature, the speaker was able to reinvent himself, overcome sleep issues, and establish a healthier lifestyle with a focus on personal growth and connection in the wilderness.
Delta Force Operator Chris VanSant is back in Part 2 of this two-part series. This episode dives deep into his role in the invasion of Iraq and the capture of Saddam Hussein. VanSant vividly recalls an engagement with over 300 enemy combatants after a goat herder revealed his team's location. We get a first hand account of the operational tempo it takes to hunt down each player of the infamous "Deck of Cards," and what happens when a handful of Delta Operators are outnumbered in the Horn of Africa with only the Navy Destroyer U.S.S. Chafee for cover.
VanSant tells stories of loss and grappling with the survivor's guilt that would ultimately change the course of his life. Chris serves on the board of the All Secure Foundation and is on a multi-year effort to complete the seven summits to raise awareness for veteran mental health and support All Secure.
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