Episode 192: AJ Jackson "A Green Beret With a Story to Tell"
-CHAPTERS-
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:12 Military Journey: Air Force to National Guard
09:11 Becoming a Green Beret
15:06 Personal Life and Support System
19:51 Navigating Criticism: The Response to Controversial Opinions
24:14 The Consequences of Public Scrutiny in the Veteran Community
26:46 The Weight of Memory: Truth and Accountability
28:22 The Value of Authenticity in Military Stories
29:45 The First Mission: Preparing for Red Wings
31:49 The Emotional Journey: Anxiety and Responsibility
34:23 The Crushing Sense of Loss During Red Wings
36:53 The Role of Money in Military Operations
38:21 The Tension of Returning to the Mission
41:31 The Fragility of Life in Combat
45:30 The Reality of Combat: Expectations vs. Experience
49:33 Reflections on Loss and Leadership
51:43 The Aftermath of Red Wings
56:04 Life Lessons from Combat
57:23 Returning to Base: A Moment of Reflection
58:51 The Bonds of Brotherhood
01:00:16 Communication with Loved Ones
01:02:03 Opening Up About Trauma
01:04:19 Cynicism and Changing Dynamics
01:06:14 The Challenges of Nation Building
01:08:29 Disillusionment and Leadership Struggles
01:12:08 Accusations and Misunderstandings
01:17:05 The Drill Sergeant Experience
01:24:02 Finding Purpose in Teaching
01:25:45 Dealing with Injuries and Mental Health
01:31:12 The Weight of Betrayal
01:35:40 Coping Mechanisms: Alcohol and Relationships
01:39:25 Struggles with Self-Identity and Mental Health
01:42:12 The Turning Point: Finding Purpose
01:48:32 The Follow-On Mission: Racing for Healing
02:00:45 Community and Support: Building Connections
02:02:17 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations
02:05:39 SUBSCRIBE
-SUMMARY-
In this conversation, AJ Jackson shares his remarkable journey from humble beginnings in the Midwest to a distinguished military career spanning over three decades, including special operations. He reflects on the challenges he faced, the lessons learned, and the impact of personal relationships on his military life. The discussion delves into the complexities of military culture, the significance of integrity, and the profound experiences during the Red Wings mission, highlighting the fragility of life and the importance of purpose. In this conversation, AJ Jackson shares his harrowing experiences during and after the Red Wings mission, reflecting on the profound impact of combat on his life and perspective. He discusses the emotional toll of witnessing death, the challenges of returning to civilian life, and the struggles with PTSD and cynicism that followed. AJ emphasizes the importance of connection and support among veterans, leading to the creation of his nonprofit, The Follow-On Mission, which uses motorsports as a therapeutic outlet for veterans. His journey highlights the complexities of mental health, the bonds of brotherhood, and the ongoing fight against the demons of war.
INTRO and OUTRO music written,performed, and provided by the band Rattle Root. Check them out below.
Keith "AJ" Jackson
Executive Director: The Follow-On Mission
AJ grew up in the Mid-west, the oldest child of a lower middle-class family. His love of motorcycles and motocross racing were encouraged and supported by his parents as much as they could financial afford.
He graduated high school in 1987, and enlisted into the Air Force through the Delayed Entry program in 1988. His year between the two was used to attain his private pilots license, which aided in securing a job as a B52-H Defensive Aerial Gunner (Tail Gunner).
This period of Military Service was cut short due to the implementation of the Gramm-Rudman-Hollings Balanced Budget Act, a strength reduction piece of legislature. While he was released to the Air Force Ready Reserves, he was done so having to maintain Personnel Reliability Program Standards. This involved completing an annual SF86 survey. He discovered not completing it in a timely manner resulted in the Air Force Office of Special Investigation shadowing him for extended periods.
AJ returned to service a few years after receiving his discharge from the Air Force. This was done via the Missouri Army National Guard, and sold to his wife, Rebecca "as a means to pay for school". AJ was attending night school full time at considerable expense.
While serving as a National Guard Combat Engineer, and competing on the State Marksmanship Team as a Scout Sniper, AJ became the acquaintance of several National Guard Special Forces Soldiers. At every encounter they encouraged him to at least, "Try Out" for Special Forces. AJ eventually secured a spot the Alpha Company, … Read More
