Shows
The Unconventional SoldierS6 #099 Send It - Canadian Snipers In AfghanistanCONTENTThe guest today is Barry Nisbet who joined the Canadian Forces in 1997. He completed RCR battle school graduating at the top of his class and was posted to the 1 Royal Canadian Regiment in Petawawa. In 2003 he completed U.S. Army Ranger School. He deployed to Kosovo in 1999 and Bosnia in 2003 as a rifleman. His first tour to Afghanistan was to Kabul in 2005. In 2006 he deployed to Kandahar as a sniper, call sign 63C, taking part in Operation Medusa. He received the Chief of Defence Staff Commendation for professionalism and leadership while rendering first aid to...
2025-11-101h 12
The Unconventional SoldierS6 #098 RUC - UN Policing Operations In Kosovo 1999CONTENTIn today’s episode, I’m joined by Andy, a former officer of the Royal Ulster Constabulary. Who deployed to Kosovo with the RUC as part of the UN international peacekeeping mission. His unique perspective offers a window into what it was like to move from a domestic conflict in the UK to an international operation in the Balkans, and the challenges of maintaining law, order, and stability in the aftermath of war. If you are interested in more episodes about the RUC Andy appeared on podcast 44 when he discussed his time in the f...
2025-10-301h 05
The Unconventional SoldierS6 #097 A British Army Reservist’s War in Iraq – Op TELIC 4CONTENTMy guest is former Army Reserve infantry soldier Matt Okuhara, whose story highlights the often-overlooked role of Britain’s reservists in war. After joining the TA while working in banking, Matt was mobilised for Operation TELIC 4 and deployed to Basra, Iraq. He shares the realities of pre-deployment training, patrolling under constant threat of IEDs and militia attacks, and the contact that changed everything.We also discuss the challenges of returning to civilian life, the loss of comrades, and how he channelled his experiences into writing Basra and Back: The Memoir of an Infantryman in...
2025-10-151h 05
The Unconventional SoldierS6 #096 The Mad and The Brave: Ukraine's Foreign Legion VolunteersCONTENTMy guest today is Colin Freeman, a journalist of 30 years of experience. Colin began his career on local papers before becoming a chief foreign correspondent for the Sunday Telegraph. His extensive career has taken him to numerous war zones and global hotspots, including Iraq, Afghanistan, the Arab Spring revolutions and the Ebola crisis in West Africa. Colin also covered the Somali piracy crisis, during which he was kidnapped and held at gunpoint for six weeks. More recently, he has been covering the war in Ukraine for the past three years as a freelancer for the D...
2025-09-291h 30
The Unconventional SoldierS6 #095 The Troubles: The British Army's Hard-Won Lessons, Adaptation & Training in Northern Ireland CONTENTOn this episode Kev and I discuss the Army's training for Operation Banner, the nearly four-decade deployment of British forces to Northern Ireland starting in 1969. Initially intended as a temporary measure to aid the civil power, the British military was unprepared for the complexities of the conflict, lacking specific training and relying on outdated counter-insurgency tactics from former colonies. The conversation highlights key events like the introduction of the "yellow card" rules of engagement, the disastrous reintroduction of internment, and Bloody Sunday, all of which significantly alienated the Catholic population and bolstered the PIRA. It also...
2025-09-151h 10
The Unconventional SoldierS5 #094 The Battle of Danny Boy & The Al - Sweady InquiryCONTENTMy guest today is retired Brigadier Matt Maer DSO MBE, who served for 27 years in the British Army and was my guest on pod 91 where we discussed 1 PWRR’s tour of operations on Operation TELIC 4. If you haven’t already I would give that one listen when you have the time. On this episode, we discuss the Battle of Danny Boy in Iraq during May 2004. He provides historical context, explaining the rise of the Mahdi Army and the significance of the Danny Boy road junction, which was near the site of a prior incident where six B...
2025-08-281h 21
The Unconventional SoldierS5 #093 Thunder Run Meiktila 1945 - War In BurmaCONTENTMy guest today is Jack Bowsher, author of "Thunder Run: Meiktila 1945: The Greatest Combined Arms Manoeuvre Battle of WW2. Jack argues this battle was a pivotal Allied victory, predicting modern combined arms maneuver warfare, including tank and air support, in an unexpected jungle and dry plains environment. He highlights Slim's strategic brilliance in adapting to the terrain and Japanese tactics, emphasizing the transformation of the British and Indian armies into a highly effective fighting force capable of aggressive, deep operations behind enemy lines. The discussion also touches on the diverse composition and significant contributions of...
2025-08-141h 15
The Unconventional SoldierS5 #092 New Zealand's War In Vietnam - Fighting The VC & NVACONTENTThe guest today is John Tulloch a former officer in the New Zealand and British Armies. Every so often I look at the download statistics for a podcast episode and get surprised at how low some of them are considering the subject matter. This episode with John, who fought in Vietnam with the NZ army, is one of them. I have re edited the episode and cut it down so it concentrates purely on his time in SE Asia I’ve also cleaned up the sound for a better listener experience. John's milita...
2025-08-071h 10
The Unconventional SoldierS5 #091 Commanding 1 PWRR Battle Group - Operation TELIC 4 (Iraq 2004)CONTENTMy guest today is retired Brigadier Matt Maer DSO MBE, who served for 27 years in the British Army. His distinguished career included operational tours in Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Kosovo, Iraq, and Afghanistan. In addition to regimental duties, he held key intelligence roles within Defence Intelligence and the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre. In this episode, we explore the motivations behind his enlistment, his early training, and his evolving aspirations. A central focus of our conversation is his command of 1 PWRR (Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment) during Operation TELIC 4 in Iraq, a pivotal and demanding period ma...
2025-07-302h 12
The Unconventional SoldierS5 #090 SOE Jungle Warrior - Lt Col Edgar Peacock DSO MC & BarCONTENTThe guests today are Duncan Gilmour, Peacock's only grandson, who has worked with Richard Duckett, the author of a compelling new biography on Peacock called, "Jungle Warrior"On this episode we discuss the incredible, yet largely unknown, story of courage, leadership, and jungle warfare in the Second World War and the life of Colonel Edgar Peacock DSO,MC and Bar, and his pivotal role with the Special Operations Executive in Burma..We discuss Peacock's life, specifically his formative years in Burma as a forester, his role in World War...
2025-07-161h 41
The Unconventional SoldierS5 #089 Invictus, PTSD & A Washing MachineCONTENTThe guest today is Scotty Darroch. On this pod we discuss his challenging upbringing and decision to join the Royal Logistic Corps (RLC) at 18. He discusses his military roles, the impact of ADHD on his service, his PTSD and involvement in the Invictus Games, highlighting its significance for recovery through sport. A major focus is his recent feat of walking the 96-mile West Highland Way while carrying a 37 kg washing machine to raise awareness and funds for the Invictus Games Foundation, an endeavor that embodied the "burden" of mental illness and the "cycle" of recovery. T...
2025-07-031h 07The Unconventional SoldierS5 #088 John A Dailey: US Marine Corps Recon, MARSOC, & Special Operations Veteran.CONTENTMy guest today is John A. Dailey, retired US Marine Corps Master Sergeant and author of Tough Rugged Bastards: A Memoir of a Life in Marine Special Operations. With over two decades of service, John’s career took him from Force Recon to the front lines of America’s post-9/11 conflicts, shaping the future of Marine special operations.We discuss his time as a Platoon Sergeant with 1st Force Recon and his role in Detachment One, the Marine Corps’ first contribution to U.S. Special Operations Command. Deployed to Iraq in 2004 as part o...
2025-06-251h 34The Unconventional SoldierS5 #087 3 Para Battle For Mount LongdonCONTENTI first recorded this as a two part interview with Parachute Regiment soldier Jimmy Morham 4 years ago as part of a discussion on his military career. This podcast has had the audio improved and focuses on the battle for Mount Longdon during the Falkland's War in 1982 and is being released as one episode on the anniversary of the battle. It is a compelling first hand account focusing on initial deployment preparations, the sea journey south, training at Ascension Island, landing at San Carlos Water, and the subsequent ground campaign culminating in the battle for Mount...
2025-06-111h 34The Unconventional SoldierS5 #086 Beyond the Battlefield: Exploring British Army Simulation TrainingCONTENTThe guest today is former soldier Neale Smiles and on this episode we have an extensive discussion on military simulation and training, particularly within the British Army. It explores the evolution of simulation technologies, including virtual reality and augmented reality, and their application in training soldiers at various levels, from individual skills to large-scale battle group operations. The conversation highlights the benefits and limitations of different simulation methods and the challenges of procurement and cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, Neale touches upon the importance of data analytics in simulation and contrasts the approaches of different nations in utilising the...
2025-05-291h 34The Unconventional SoldierS5 #085 The Provisional IRA Campaign In EuropeCONTENTThe guest today is Kim Read who was previously on pods 49 and 79 when we discussed the International Long Range Recce Patrol School and the East German Army.On this episode we talk about the Provisional Irish Republican Army's (IRA) campaign against British forces in Germany during the Troubles. The discussion highlights the increased threat and vulnerability experienced by soldiers and their families stationed there, who became soft targets for attacks. It also touches on the impact on daily life, increased security measures, and the psychological effects of living under constant threat. The conversation furth...
2025-05-1536 minThe Unconventional SoldierS5 #084 Sleeping In The Ditch With Slobodan MilosevicCONTENTThe guest today is former Royal Logistic Corps soldier and author James Lee. James was my guest on podcast 38 where we discussed his first book about his tour in Afghanistan called "Licking The Taliban’s Flip Flop". In this episode we discuss his second book about his tour in Bosnia and Croatia in the 90s "Sleeping In The Ditch With Slobodan Milosevic". James's book choice on Desert Islands Dits is "The Hitch-Hiker's Guide to The Galaxy" by Douglas Adams. My choice is James's book "Sleeping In The Ditch With Slobodan Milosevic".
2025-04-281h 08The Unconventional SoldierS5 #083 Reassessing The German Army In WW2CONTENTThe guest today is Phil Blood a British historian and author specialising in military history, the Holocaust, and Nazi occupation policies. He is best known for his in-depth research on the intersection of warfare and genocide, particularly in Eastern Europe during World War II. On this episode we focus on historical perceptions of the German army during World War II and compare it to the British Army. The discussion begins by questioning the post-war narrative that often idealised German professionalism at the expense of the British. Phil, drawing on his military background and historical research, chall...
2025-04-161h 47The Unconventional SoldierS5 #082 Reflections on Military Service, Training & OperationsCONTENTThe guest today is former soldier Chris Binch. After serving 7 years with 2 PARA he left to work in the Private Security Industry before joining the fire service. He is the host of the The Old Paratrooper Podcast. We discuss military experiences, the transition to civvi street and perspectives on current conflicts. We also delve into the realities of army life, including training, operational tempo, and the impact of combat, alongside reflections on the private security industry. Finally, we explore evolving attitudes towards military service and the stark contrast between past and present depictions of warfare on...
2025-03-271h 06The Unconventional SoldierS5 #081 SAS: Sea King DownCONTENTThe guest today is Mark "Splash" Aston. Splash joined the Gloucester Regiment in 1964 as a teenager. He later passed selection for 22 SAS as a Colour Sergeant in the late 1970s joining Mountain Troop of D Squadron. On this episode discuss his early army life, training for selection and the Falklands war in 1982 when his squadron was instrumental in key operations against Argentine forces. Splash took part in various missions during Op CORPORATE, including the landing on Fortuna Glacier, the successful capture of South Georgia, and the assault on Pebble Island airstrip. He was one of the s...
2025-03-131h 25The Unconventional SoldierS5 #080 The Jungle Is NeutralCONTENTOn this episode I will be discussing jungle warfare with Kev and we cover; how Britain transformed its army into an effective jungle fighting force in WW2 after an inauspicious start, why jungle warfare training is relevant in the 21st century, Exercise IRON LANCE a typical jungle training course in the early 90s run by 22 SAS. Finally we take a look at two books, the classic The Jungle Is neutral by Freddie Spencer Chapman and Jungle Soldier: the true story of Freddy Spencer Chapman, an autobiography by Brian Moynahan ...
2025-02-261h 12The Unconventional SoldierS5 #079 Cold War Life & The East German ArmyCONTENTThe guest today is Kim Read who appeared on episode #49 when we talked about training at the LRRP school in the 1980s. On this pod we discuss life in Germany during and after the Cold war. What it was like to go on exercise and some of the remarkable conversations we had with German WW2 veterans we met. Kim lives in Germany and tells me about former work mates who served in the East German army including a T55 tank driver, an SS21 commander and another who worked for the infamous Stasi. We also discuss how t...
2025-02-1334 minThe Unconventional SoldierS5 #078 The Recovery Of Stirling Bomber BK716CONTENTMy guest today is Lilian van Mourik. On this episode we dicuss the recovery of Stirling bomber BK716 and its seven crew members as part of the remarkable Dutch national programme for WW2 aircraft recoveries which was set up in 2019 and aims to unearth 30 aircraft over the next decade. We also discussed Dutch wartime remembrance culture, the morality of area bombing, the deprivations of the hunger winter and how the sacrifices made in WW2 are relevant today. Keep an ear out for our competition question and the chance to win a book about BK 716 and al...
2025-01-301h 27The Unconventional SoldierS5 #077 On The Ground With BRIXMISCONTENTOn pod # 070 we interviewed the author Andrew Long about his book “The Story Of BRIXMIS And The Secret Cold War - Intelligence Gathering Operations Behind East Germany”. This episode continues our examination of Cold War espionage focusing on BRIXMIS members operating deep inside Soviet occupied East Germany. Our guest is Nick a former member of the Intelligence Corps. We talk about his remarkable career in the Corps when he joined as a private soldier and completed his Colour service as a Lieutenant Colonel. Nick details his experiences and operations as part of BRIXMIS a...
2025-01-151h 22The Unconventional SoldierS5 #076 Return To Operation BANNER (Northern Ireland)CONTENTAt the end of November I went on a road trip with Kev to Northern Ireland. In many respects it was more of a battlefield tour than a road trip covering areas where we had been on operations. On this pod we discuss the transformation of Northern Ireland since we were there in the late 80s and early 90s with a focus on Belfast, Londonderry and South Armagh. We reflect on our past tours on Op BANNER during the Troubles and provide comparisons between the past and present while exploring key landmarks like the Europa H...
2024-12-281h 34The Unconventional SoldierS5 #075 The Moral Application Of Violence In WarCONTENTThe guest today is Patrick Bury a former Royal Irish Regiment officer who joined the army in 2005 and spent five years in uniform, including a tour in Sangin, Helmand in 2008. We discuss the complexities of COIN warfare and the leadership and ethical challenges during this type of operation. We examine the phenomenon of 'warrior culture,' accountability in military leadership, the corrosive effect of combat on soldiers and the need, or otherwise, for moral soldiering by liberal democracies fighting an enemy who are not hindered by such ideals. Paddy, is now an acade...
2024-12-1258 minThe Unconventional SoldierS5 #074 Survival Course - The Rhodesian Bush War ContinuesCONTENTThe guest today is Chris Cocks who was on pod 72 when we discussed his service in the Rhodesian Light Infantry and his book "Fire Force - One Man's War In The Rhodesian Light Infantry". On this episode we discuss life after he finished his service and his sequel to Fire Force "Survival Course - Rhodesian Denouement And The War Of Self". The conversation focuses on Chris's transition from military to civilian life and his role as a farm manager while also serving as a reservist in the police anti-terrorist unit (PATU). He...
2024-11-2858 minThe Unconventional SoldierS5 #073 Navigating the Transition - Army to Civvy StreetCONTENTThe guest today is Loz Moore a former officer in the British Army. Loz was on podcast 62 when we discussed his operational tours with the infantry in Afghanistan, Iraq and NI. On this episode we discuss transitioning from military life to civilian careers and delve into the challenges of resettlement faced by veterans. We talk of our different experiences from my transition after 22 years of service and Loz’s abrupt transition due to medical retirement. The discussion emphasizes the importance of planning, self-awareness, and seeking help when needed. We also highlight the role of organizations in pr...
2024-11-141h 17The Unconventional SoldierS5 #072 The Rhodesian Light InfantryCONTENTThe guest today is former soldier and author of "Fire Force - A Troopers War In The Rhodesian Light Infantry" Chris Cocks. Chris was born in Salisbury, Southern Rhodesia in 1957. In 1976 he was conscripted for national service, and ended up serving 3 years in the Rhodesian Light Infantry or RLI. Then 18 months with PATU, the Police Anti-Terrorist Unit.The RLI was an elite commando regiment formed in 1961 and played a pivotal role throughout the conflict which took place from 1964 to 1979. Originally conceived as a conventional infantry unit, the RLI evolved into a specialized...
2024-10-301h 13The Unconventional SoldierS5 #071 VeteransCONTENTThe guest today is Ben Skipper a freelance feature writer and author with books and articles published on art, military and field sports subjects. He is an Associate Member of Royal Aeronautical Society and the Pen and Sword Club for military journalists and writers. His interest in British armour was cemented by a visit to the King’s Royal Hussars in the early 1990s as an undergraduate in the Territorial Army. He joined the RAF in 1997, and served in conflict zones including Kosovo and Sierra Leone. He also played rugby for the RAF....
2024-10-161h 02The Unconventional SoldierS5 #070 BRIXMIS & The Secret Cold WarCONTENTThe guest today is Andrew Long a Cold War historian and author whose book “The story of BRIXMIS and the secret Cold War: Intelligence gathering operations behind East Germany” was released on 30 July 2024.The German Democratic Republic (East Germany) was a focal point during the Cold War, with Soviet and East German forces stationed along the 1,400 km Inner German Border. Due to the repressive police state, the West had limited intelligence on these forces. NATO, stationed in West Germany, needed up-to-date intelligence on potential threats from the East.BRIXMIS (Britis...
2024-09-301h 12The Unconventional SoldierS4 #069 Andy McNab CBE DCM MMCONTENTThe guest today is Andy McNab CBE DCM MM former special forces soldier, author and business man. On this episode we discuss his chaotic childhood, army service, functioning psychopaths, book writing, shooting Hollywood films and his latest project with WeServed a service for Veterans by Veterans - for more information visit www.we-served.com.Andy's book choice on Desert Islands Dits is "Our Mutual Friend" by Charles Dickens.WHERE TO GET OUR DESERT ISLAND DITS BOOK CHOICESMost of our book recommendations can be bought via...
2024-08-291h 10The Unconventional SoldierS4 #068 MI9 - The Secret Service For Escape And Evasion In WW2CONTENTThe guest today is Dr Helen Fry. Helen has authored and edited over 25 books covering the social history of the Second World War, including British Intelligence and the secret war, espionage and spies, and MI9 escape and evasion. She is the foremost authority on the 'secret listeners' who worked at special eavesdropping sites operated by British Intelligence during WWII. Her groundbreaking research and extensive media coverage have shed light on one of the greatest intelligence deceptions of the war: the bugging of Hitler’s generals at Trent Park in North London, and thousands of prisoners of...
2024-08-151h 09The Unconventional SoldierS4 #067 Citizen Soldiers - History Of The Army ReservesCONTENTThe guest today is Patrick Crowley author of "Rose Castle and Crown - Hampshire and the Isle of Wight Citizen Soldiers". On this podcast we will cover the history of the British Army's citizen soldiers going back to the raising of militias in the 16th century up to the Army Reserves of the present day. We discuss the challenge and sacrifice that all military volunteers, throughout history, have had to make balancing the needs of service with family demands and their main civilian employment. It also demonstrates that reservists continue to significantly contribute to the...
2024-07-2955 minThe Unconventional SoldierS4 #066 The Derryard Attack - Northern Ireland 1989CONTENTThe subject of this pod is the Derryard action, a sustained IRA deliberate attack in December 1989 against an Army Permanent Check Point (PVCP) close to the border with the Republic Of Ireland a few miles north of Rosslea, County Fermanagh. The checkpoint was manned by members of the Kings Own Scottish Borderers who fought off an Active Service Unit that considerably overmatched them with weapons. On this pod we discuss the motivation of IRA volunteers, how the IRA was financed and obtained its weapons, the attack on Derryard and its aftermath. My book choice on t...
2024-06-2736 minThe Unconventional SoldierS4 #065 The Past, Present & Future Of Drones In The British ArmyCONTENT The guest today is Neale Smiles a former Gunner now working in the defence industry. Neale often posts his thoughts on military matters on LinkedIn and was a guest on pod 51 where we discussed “Guns, Rockets & Training For War”. So if you have an interest in all things artillery it is worth a listen. Even if you don't check it out as Ukraine is proving, Gunners are still one of the biggest killers on the contemporary battlespace. On this episode we discuss the Past, Present And Future Of Drones In The British Army. We cover:
2024-06-131h 30
The Unconventional SoldierS4 #064 7 Minutes To Midnight - Korea The Forgotten WarCONTENTOn this podcast we feature the British involvement in the Korean War which took place between 1950 - 1953. A war that is fairly unknown and overshadowed by WW2 and later the Vietnam war. It is considered forgotten but was as gruelling as any of the WW2 theatres of operations. We discuss the prelude to war, the opening engagements, the ferocious battle for Imjin against a determined and fanatical enemy alongside the bravery and fighting spirit not only of the Gloucester Regiment but the rest of 29 Brigade consisting of 1st Battalion Royal Northumberland Fusiliers and 1st Battalion R...
2024-05-3048 minThe Unconventional SoldierS4 #063 Use Of AI In Targeting & Autonomous PlatformsCONTENTThe guest today is Chris Lincoln Jones. Chris is a retired Army Officer and worked for 17 years in the Defence Industry where he was an Intelligence Surveillance and Target Acquisition Specialist with a particular knowledge of Uncrewed Air Systems. He has been a visiting lecturer at the University of South Wales on an MSc course in Global Governance and has contributed to the Birmingham University Advisory Group at the Institute for Conflict Cooperation and Security on their project: ‘Towards a global restraining consensus on the use of armed drones’.In 2017 he collaborated on the...
2024-05-1656 minThe Unconventional SoldierS4 #062 Infantry Officer In Iraq & AfghanistanCONTENTThe guest today is Laurence Moore, known as Loz, who served in the Cheshire regiment and on this episode we discuss his time at Sandhurst and what it was like to deploy on operations as a young officer in Northern Ireland, Iraq and Afghanistan. Loz also discusses the effect combat had on him personally and why he helped set up Cockleshell 22 with a group of serving and former service people from across the Royal Marines, Royal Air Force and British Army to provide funded expeditions based on historical military raids and ground-breaking mentoring programme to the...
2024-04-291h 36
The Unconventional SoldierS4 #061 7 Minutes To Midnight - NATO Cold War "Stay Behind" OperationsCONTENTThe guest today for our conversation on NATO Cold War "stay behind" operations is Tamir Sinai a political scientist and exercise professional. Tamir teaches Security Policy and develops Simulation Exercises for International Organisations, Governments, Private Industry and Universities with a focus on Security and Crisis Management. His customers have included US DoD, German MoD, Swedish MoD, Frontex, NATO, EU and the OSCE.Tamir's paper "Eyes On Target: 'Stay Behind' Forces During the Cold War" can be found here here - https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0968344520914345"BUY ME A COFFEE"
2024-04-151h 12The Unconventional SoldierS4 #060 Infiltrating The Provisional IRACONTENTThe guest today is author Henry Hemming and on this podcast we will be discussing his book “4 Shots In The Night" a true story of espionage, murder and justice during the Troubles in Northern Ireland. It centres round the brutal killing on 26th May, 1986 of British agent Frank Hegarty who infiltrated PIRA and also involves Martin McGuinness, terrorist turned politician and the notorious IRA member and British agent Freddie Scappaticci who, over a decade after the murder, decided to talk to the media about what happened that night. This started a search for truth which revea...
2024-03-281h 11The Unconventional SoldierS4 #059 Who Dares WinsCONTENTThe guest today is former Commando Gunner and member of 22 Special Air Service Mick Hawkes. On this podcast we discuss his army career including the Falklands war, volunteering for SAS selection, life and training in the Regiment, his deployment to Bosnia where he was captured by Serb forces alongside his mate Billy Billingham, the pace of operations for UKSF in Iraq and Afghanistan, sustaining SF manpower in a smaller army and finally his post military professional life in private security. As usual we finish off with Desert Island Dits which is the guests choice of bo...
2024-03-181h 17
The Unconventional SoldierS4 #058 7 Minutes To Midnight - Berlin Airlift, Berlin Wall & Cuban Missile CrisisCONTENTThis week on our Cold War series the guest is Ian Sanders who presents the award winning Cold War Conversations podcast. On this episode we discuss how Germany and Berlin were divided up between the victorious allied armies at the end of World War 2, the Berlin airlift when the Soviet Union attempted to starve the population of Berlin into submission and the reasons why the Russians built the Berlin wall virtually over night and the impact it had on the city's occupants. We finish off with a discussion on the Cuban missile which brought the...
2024-02-2858 minThe Unconventional SoldierS4 #057 Artillery Gun Raids On Op GRANBY (Gulf War 1991)CONTENTThe guest today is former soldier Kev Brain who joined the Royal Artillery in 1975 completing 22 years service with the colours. He deployed on multiple operational tours to Northern Ireland and also on Operation GRANBY better known as the first Gulf War in 1991 as a Sergeant Gun number 1 in charge of a M110 203mm howitzer specifically built for general support and counter battery fire. He describes his career in the lead up to the deployment and what it was like to take part on the gun raids so effective at depleting the Iraqi artillery assets. In t...
2024-02-1643 min
The Unconventional SoldierS4 #056 7 Minutes To Midnight - Series IntroCONTENTThis is a mini series covering parts of the Cold War we find interesting and will run in tandem with the Unconventional Soldier podcast. So why the title Seven Minutes to Midnight? The Doomsday Clock was a symbolic measurement that represented the likelihood of a human made global catastrophe in the form of a nuclear exchange between the global superpowers. In 1947 at the start of the Cold War it was deemed to be at 7 minutes to midnight, this naturally changed as the world lurched from one potential disaster to another. In 1953 it went to 2 minutes to...
2024-01-2947 minThe Unconventional SoldierS4 #055 Catherine Leroy - Close Up On WarCONTENTThe guest today is award winning author Mary Cronk Farrell. On this pod we will be discussing her book "Close Up On War" about the life of Catherine Leroy a French photographer who travelled to Vietnam at the height of the war where she made a name for herself in a male dominated environment. Bold, determined and cool under fire Catherine accompanied marines and soldiers into the dense jungle, waded through rice paddies and parachuted with them into combat despite being told she didn’t belong in a man’s world. A world in which shared...
2024-01-151h 00The Unconventional SoldierS4 #054 Learning From WarCONTENTThe guest today is the Cognitive Marine a serving USMC officer currently stationed in Okinawa who previously appeared on podcast #039. On this episode we discuss how past and present wars influence thought on the way battles may be fought in the future. Subjects include: Okinawa, Singapore and Menorca.Ukraine & Russia.Israel & Gaza.The influence and development of his Cognitive Marine Instagram account.His book choice on Desert island Dits is 2034: A Novel of the Next World War by Elliot Ackerman & Admiral James Stavridis. WHERE...
2023-12-2855 minThe Unconventional SoldierS4 #053 Mountain & Arctic Warfare Cadre Return To Top Malo HouseCONTENTThe guest today is former Royal Marine and member of the Mountain and Arctic Warfare Cadre Nige Devenish. Nige was my guest back on podcast # 046 when we discussed his career in the cadre and their part on Operation CORPORATE during the Falklands war in 1982. On this podcast we talk about his recent visit to the Falklands, his first since his deployment, with other cadre veterans to lay a memorial stone at the site of the battle for Top Malo House. We discuss the battle in detail and his thoughts on the other battle sites he visited. We...
2023-12-141h 07The Unconventional SoldierS4 #052 Zero RiskCONTENTThe guest today is Tony Loughran a former Royal Navy Commando medic now a global risk specialist, with over 30 years international experience as a safety and security professional. On this episode we discuss:His time in the senior service, deployments and attachments with the Royal Marines Mountain & Arctic Warfare cadre.His 14 year stint as Head of International Risk at the BBC in London where he pioneered a safety culture in the news business adapting the skills he’d acquired in the military to the needs of journalists at the sharp end.How he established his ow...
2023-11-281h 06The Unconventional SoldierS4 #051 Guns, Rockets & Training For WarCONTENTThe guest today is Neale Smiles, a former Gunner now working in the defence industry. Neale often posts his thoughts on military matters on LinkedIn and it was one on the future of the Royal Artillery that got my attention. In it he stated that:“when you aren’t equipped or established to fight in the traditional combined arms manner you have to change” In this episode Neale will set out the changes he feels the Army and specifically the Gunners should make and we discuss:The current state of the Army.How...
2023-10-301h 30The Unconventional SoldierS4 #050 From Sandhurst To Brigade CommandCONTENTThe guest today is David Montgomery who was born and raised in East Africa. After graduating Exeter University he joined the Army and served for 28 years before retiring in 2000 after commanding 7th Armoured Brigade. David co founded Benchmark Search in 2002 where he is MD of a company which provides candidates for the defence, security and other markets. On this episode we discuss his army career, his time at MOD and issues with procurement, operations in Kosovo, transition to civvi street and what attributes make soldiers good and bad employees in the business world and al...
2023-10-1648 minThe Unconventional SoldierS4 #049 The International Long Range Reconnaissance Patrol School In The 1980sCONTENTThe guest today is Kim Read a former member of the "stay behind" Special OP Troop. This unit was tasked with conducting operations against the Soviet Army if they had crossed the inner German border during the Cold War when they would engage the enemy with the long range guns of the British Army. We covered a bit about the school on pod #005 but a few listeners have requested more detail. So here it is. DESERT ISLAND DITS BOOK CHOICESMost of our book recommendations can be bought via the Unconventional Soldier Book...
2023-09-281h 02The Unconventional SoldierS3 #048 We Were BlackwaterCONTENTOur guest today is Barrie Rice, former soldier, security contractor and author. Barrie joined the New Zealand infantry in 1985 aged 22 where he spent 3 years before passing selection for the New Zealand SAS. He went on to serve 7 years with the unit specialising in one of the squadron's boat troops. On this episode we are going to be discussing his military career and time as a security contractor in Iraq with Blackwater Commercial, a subsidiary of the US private security company Blackwater, that he helped set up. DESERT ISLAND DITS BOOK CHOICESYou can b...
2023-08-291h 09The Unconventional SoldierS3 #047 Veterans’ Army & Aid To UkraineCONTENTOur guest today is Ryan Yates a former soldier from 4/73 (Sphinx) Special OP Battery the British Army's Long Range surveillance and patrols unit. On this pod we discuss Ryan's time in the military from passing the STA patrol's selection course in time for his 18th birthday to completing two tours of Afghanistan and his post military career as a security contractor working in hostile environments. Ryan also talks about how his own struggles with PTSD led him to create Veterans' Army to assist former service people by providing a resource for veterans all over the UK. It i...
2023-08-171h 12The Unconventional SoldierS3 #046 The Royal Marines Mountain & Arctic Warfare CadreCONTENTOur guest today is Nige Devenish, a former Royal Marine and member of the Mountain and Arctic Warfare Cadre. Nige served 22 years with the Marines, 8 of those in the Cadre and its successor the Brigade Patrol Troop. He was also the last Cadre Sergeant Major and the first CSM when it became the Brigade Patrol Troop (BPT) in the early 90s. On this episode we are going to be discussing the history of the cadre from their creation in WW2, their role as the Brigade Recce Troop in the Falklands and how the unit dev...
2023-07-281h 46The Unconventional SoldierS3 #045 Stay Behind OPs & UkraineCONTENTDue to the train strikes we were unable to attend the Army v Navy rugby match at Twickenham so decided to record this episode instead. No guest this month just Colin and Kev discussing the possibility of using Cold War "stay behind" OPs prior to the Russian invasion in the current war in Ukraine. We also talk about the possible use of STA patrols in future peer on peer conflicts. For this episode we used two articles published on the Wavell Room website as part of the discussion, and also as a source of quotes, to ill...
2023-07-1350 minThe Unconventional SoldierS3 #044 The Royal Ulster Constabulary GCCONTENTOur guest today is today is Andy who served in the British Army and the RUC as a uniformed officer then, after passing an intensive selection course, with E4A the RUC unit tasked with covert surveillance operations during The Troubles. On this podcast we discuss his Army and police careers, the operational life of a police officer in Northern Ireland and the surveillance and intelligence war against terrorism. The RUC paid a heavy price with over 300 officers killed both on and off duty and four killed in friendly fire incidents. In addition in 1999 it...
2023-06-281h 16The Unconventional SoldierS3 #043 Chennai PrisonerCONTENTOur guest today is today is Nick Dunn. One of six former British servicemen who spent 4 years imprisoned in India for a crime they didn’t commit. Each day they lived in appalling conditions with poor food and the ever present threat of violence. They were providing security against Somali pirates for a merchant ship off the Indian coast in October 2013 when they were falsely accused of being illegally armed in Indian waters. In this podcast we discuss his service with the Parachute Regiment and his arrest, trial, imprisonment in Chennai jail and the battle to secur...
2023-05-291h 05The Unconventional SoldierS3 #042 The Band That Went To WarCONTENTOur guest today is Brian Short a former member of the Royal Marines and author of “The Band That Went To War: The Royal Marines Band In The Falklands War”. On this episode we are going to be discussing his career in the band, their part in the Falklands campaign, the Provisional IRA bombing of Deal barracks and his book which is available on Amazon and in a number of book stores. Follow him on Twitter @FalklandsMusic1.DESERT ISLAND DITSOn Desert Island Dits the teams choice of books were Company K by Wil...
2023-05-211h 07The Unconventional SoldierS3 #041The Indian Army Staff College CourseCONTENTOur guest today is John Holden a former British Army Officer who attended the Indian Army Staff College course over the period May 2002 to May 2003. The course is designed to prepare officers by giving them the skills they need to address future security and defence challenges at home and abroad. We cover why John wanted to study in India, course content, mountain warfare, legacy of Empire, cultural differences and the Indian Army in WW2.DESERT ISLAND DITSOn Desert Island Dits our guest's choice of book was The Operators: Inside 14 Intelligence Company...
2023-04-271h 14The Unconventional SoldierS3 #040 Tom Satterly Delta Force OperatorCONTENTOur guest today is retired Command Sergeant Major Tom Satterly, a former Special Operations soldier, who served 25 years in the US Army the last 20 of those in Delta Force referred to as “the unit” by those who pass its arduous selection course. As an Operator and CSM, Tom fought and led countless military missions across the world. Tom is also a published author and his book “All Secure”, which we discuss in the pod, is a blunt and honest look at life as a unit operator and the toll it took on him both professionally and personally...
2023-03-281h 39The Unconventional SoldierS3 #039 The Cognitive MarineCONTENTOur guest today is the Cognitive Marine a serving USMC officer. On this episode we are going to be discussing the future structure of the USMC, why we fail to learn from past conflicts, leadership responsibilities, advice for young marines, service self harm and suicide, war in Ukraine and use of social media to educate your command. All opinions expressed on the podcast are those of our guest and not the USMC. Follow him on Instagram at The Cognitive Marine. DESERT ISLAND DITSOn Desert Island Dits our guest's choice of film was S...
2023-02-251h 25The Unconventional SoldierS3 #038 Licking The Taliban’s Flip FlopCONTENTOur guest today is James Lee who served 24 years in the Royal Logistics Corps and is the author of “Licking The Taliban’s Flip Flop” about his 6 month tour of Afghanistan at Kandahar airfield where he worked as a movements controller. He left the Army in 2013 and now runs his own flying business. On this podcast we will be discussing his military career, what inspired him to write a book, where that title came from and how he ended up from dealing with passengers at air heads to teaching people how to fly. DESERT ISLAND DITS
2023-01-281h 12The Unconventional SoldierS3 #037 Royal Engineer’s Search Teams (REST)CONTENTOur guest today is a former Sapper who joined as a boy soldier and finished his service as a Late Entry officer. The Royal Engineers help the Army to live, move and fight by increasing survivability, mobility and counter-mobility. On this pod we will discuss each of these topics but the main focus will be on REST and EOD as this is where he spent the majority of his career. DESERT ISLAND DITSOn Desert Island Dits our guest's choice of film is Ice Cold Alex and his book choice is Arrows Of Fo...
2022-12-301h 20The Unconventional SoldierS3 #036 Chinook At WarCONTENTOur guest today is Liz McConaghy who spent 17 years flying as a crewman with the RAF Chinook fleet. She was the youngest aircrew member to deploy to Iraq and the only female on the Chinook wing for 4 years. Liz completed 2 tours of Iraq and 10 deployments to Afghanistan. On this podcast we discuss flying on operations in both those theatres and what it was like to be on the Medical Emergency Response Teams (MERT) that recovered wounded soldiers from the battle space back to Camp Bastion. Liz talks about the problems she encountered post tour incl...
2022-12-111h 22The Unconventional SoldierS3 #035 US Army 75 Ranger RegimentCONTENTOur guest today is Zach Allred a former US Army Ranger who served with the 75th Ranger Regiment. This Regiment is a lethal, agile and flexible force, capable of conducting many complex, joint special operations missions. They are the US Army's premier direct-action raid capability. Each of the Ranger battalions is always combat ready, mentally and physically tough, and prepared to fight globally. Their capabilities include conducting airborne and air assault operations, seizing key terrain such as airfields, destroying strategic facilities, capturing or killing enemy combatants and reconnaissance. On this episode we wil...
2022-11-281h 05The Unconventional SoldierS3 #034 Royal Navy Clearance DiversCONTENTOur guest today is Jim a former Royal Navy Clearance diver. On this episode we will cover the unit’s history from inception in WW2, its current role, selection process, diving technology and operational deployments. DESERT ISLAND DITSOn Desert Island Dits Jim's choice of film is Grosse Pointe Blank and his book is Death of a Hero: Captain Robert Nairac, GC and the Undercover War in Northern Ireland by John Parker. The teams book choice this week is The Last Dive: A Father and Son's Fatal Descent into the Ocean's Depths by B...
2022-10-281h 17The Unconventional SoldierS3 #033 Post Conflict Reconstruction & Dealing With The AftermathCONTENTOur guest today is Matt Harding a former officer who served in the Royal Artillery. We talk with Matt about his Army career, his deployment to Bosnia and the impact operations in that country had on him. We finish off with how he dealt with what he saw in the Balkans and his work with charities such as Pilgrims Bandits. DESERT ISLAND DITSOn Desert Island Dits Matt's choice of film is Highlander and his book is The Times Complete History of The World. The teams book choices this week are Afghan Napol...
2022-09-281h 08The Unconventional SoldierS2 #032 22 SAS Operation CORPORATE (Falklands 82)CONTENTOn this podcast we discuss operations conducted by 22 SAS on Operation CORPORATE in 1982. Our guest is Nick who was in 1PARA when he applied for selection in 1980. He passed the course at the age of 22 and spent the next 18 years on operations and exercises around the world with the Regiment. Nick talks in detail about the SAS in action on South Georgia, the raid on Pebble Island and operations around Mount Kent in the push towards Stanley. DESERT ISLAND DITSOn Desert Island Dits Nick's choice of film is The Hangov...
2022-08-291h 17The Unconventional SoldierS2 #031 From Terror To TriumphCONTENTOn this podcast we discuss the book “Terror To Triumph” with the author Chris who served as a sniper in Ramadi and Fallujah in Iraq in 2005 and 2007. He then retrained as a UH-1 crew chief/door gunner and completed a tour of Helmand province in that role in 2010. The book outlines his tours in both countries and subsequent adjustment to the civilian world including dealing with PTSD. It is the story of how he and his family went through each deployment, dealing with trauma and death before finding success against the odds.Chris's...
2022-07-281h 17The Unconventional SoldierS2 #030 Naval Gunfire On Operation CORPORATE (Falklands 82)CONTENTOn this episode we discuss 148 (Meiktila) Commando Forward Observation Battery Royal Artillery during Operation CORPORATE better known as the Falklands war. After the Argentine invasion of the Falklands, 148 deployed to the South Atlantic where it operated alongside both the SAS and SBS in order to direct naval and artillery gun fire. Their unique capabilities were invaluable and 148 teams engaged Argentine positions in support of every major British assault.GUESTOur guest is Brum Richards who served the majority of his military career in 148 whose naval gunfire role can be traced back to Th...
2022-06-291h 21The Unconventional SoldierS2 #029 Brum Richards Commando GunnerCONTENTOn this episode we discuss 148 (Meiktila) Commando Forward Observation Battery Royal Artillery between the early 1960s and the Falklands War in 1982. The unit is specially qualified in calling artillery, naval gunfire and airstrikes to support 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines and UK Special Forces. They are experts in covert insertion, patrols behind enemy lines, concealment, encrypted communications and battle damage assessment in all environments. Members of 148 Battery took part in operations in the Malay Peninsula 1963-66, Borneo 1963-66, the Radfan in 1964 and in Aden at various times between 1960 and 1967. It was scheduled for disbandment when Arg...
2022-06-1657 minThe Unconventional SoldierS2 #028 The Battle Of Hondeghem 27 May 1940CONTENTOn this podcast we discuss one of the lesser known rear guard actions on the retreat to Dunkirk that allowed so many troops to get to the beaches and their subsequent evacuation back to England. This is the Battle of Hondeghem which took place on the 27 May 1940 when K Battery Royal Horse Artillery engaged lead elements of 6 Panzer Division halting them at the village in vicious street fighting and firing their 18 pounder guns at ranges of under 100 yards.The battery suffered heavy losses, with 'F' Troop alone losing 45 men out of 63. However, th...
2022-05-271h 06The Unconventional SoldierS2 #027 1 Royal Irish Operation HERRICK (Afghanistan) 2010 Part 2CONTENTThis is the second part of our podcast with Adam Lyle - Stirling who served as an infantryman in the British Army from 2001 to 2012 first in 2 Princess of Wales Royal Regiment (2 PWRR) then in 1 Royal Irish Regiment. Adam completed operational tours in Northern Ireland, Iraq and Afghanistan finishing his service as a Sergeant. We continue to talk to him about his tour of Afghanistan in 2010 with 1 Royal Irish.Adam talks in detail about several contacts he was involved in, leading and managing soldiers on operations, dealing with the mental pressures of command and the ps...
2022-04-2849 minThe Unconventional SoldierS2 #026 1 Royal Irish Operation HERRICK (Afghanistan) 2010 Part 1CONTENTOur guest on this podcast is Adam Lyle - Stirling who served as an infantryman in the British Army from 2001 to 2012 first in 2 Princess of Wales Royal Regiment (2 PWRR) then in 1 Royal Irish Regiment. Adam completed operational tours in Northern Ireland, Iraq and Afghanistan finishing his service as a Sergeant. On the first of a two part podcast we talk to him about his tour of Afghanistan in 2010 with 1 Royal Irish.Adam talks in detail about several contacts he was involved in, leading and managing soldiers on operations, dealing with the mental pressures of co...
2022-04-2156 minThe Unconventional SoldierS2 #025 The Borneo Graveyard 1941 - 45CONTENTOur guest on this podcast is John Tulloch who served in Vietnam with the New Zealand Army and later transferred to the British Army. John advised and instructed on the British Army’s Jungle Warfare Instructors’ Course (JWIC) in Brunei and supported major jungle exercises in Belize. Retiring from the Army in 2003 and becoming a MOD Civil Servant, John continued to instruct on JWIC until May 2015.John was honoured with the MBE in 2003 and the Royal Artillery Medal in 2011. An author of several articles about the Vietnam War and Borneo, he also gives talks on the...
2022-03-2956 minThe Unconventional SoldierS2 #024 An ANZAC FOO In Vietnam Part 2CONTENTThis is the second part of our podcast with Vietnam veteran John Tulloch. If you have listened to the first part of this podcast (#023) you would be advised to do this first. DESERT ISLAND DITSJohns choice of book on desert island dits is The Old Man And The Sea by Ernest Hemingway and his film is The Longest Day. The team's choice this week is Delta Four: Australian Riflemen in Vietnam by Gary McKay and Britain's Treasure Islands: A Journey to the UK Overseas Territories by Stewart Mcpherson.A comp...
2022-02-2844 minThe Unconventional SoldierS2 #023 An ANZAC FOO In Vietnam Part 1Our guest on this podcast is Vietnam veteran John Tulloch. John's military career began in 1965 and he was commissioned into the Royal New Zealand Artillery (RNZA) in 1966. John developed his jungle warfare expertise whilst serving in Vietnam with 161 Battery from July 1968 to July 1969 as a Forward Observation Officer (FOO) nowadays referred to as a Fire Support Team commander.John transferred to the British Army and Royal Artillery in March 1973 and completed two tours in Northern Ireland , followed by a two year secondment to the Sultan of Oman’s Artillery in 1978. In 1994 John began as a visiting advisor and...
2022-02-2145 minThe Unconventional SoldierS2 #022 Fuelling The 21st Century SoldierOur guest on this podcast is Ali Macdonald Co-founder & CEO - Resilient Nutrition who served in the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, the HAC and the London Scottish. On this episode we discuss a short history of rations in the British Army, how modern nutrition techniques are influencing training and feeding of soldiers both in camp and in the field. Finally we look at how intelligent use of appropriate nutrients assists not only those in the military but endurance sports athletes.You can find Ali at:www.resilientnutrition.com and on Instagram @resilientnuts. We fin...
2022-01-301h 16The Unconventional SoldierS2 #021 Soldiers On FilmOur guest is Army veteran Simon Vincent. On this episode we discuss the war films we rated back in the day when everything was on VHS. Some golden oldies and a few lesser known (in our eyes) classics.If you have enjoyed the podcast we would really appreciate a review especially on Spotify or ITunes.You can follow us on social media on the following platforms and don't forget to like, follow, share. Instagram @the_unconventional_soldier_pod.Facebook @lateo82. Twitter @TheUCS473.Download on other platforms via Link...
2021-12-291h 00The Unconventional SoldierS2 #020 Non Military PTSDOur guest is Chris Harvey who served as a reserve STA patrols soldier in the Honourable Artillery Company (HAC). On this episode we discuss non-military PTSD from Chris's very personal experience.How is non-military PTSD (also known as Non-Combat post-traumatic stress disorder) different from the PTSD we most often hear about related to military combat? The reality is, it's the same disease, the same symptoms, the same debilitating condition. The precipitating traumas, specific symptoms and severity of symptoms may be different, but millions of both veterans and civilians live with PTSD. Individuals may develop Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder w...
2021-11-301h 09The Unconventional SoldierS2 #019 Andy Kirkpatrick Mountaineer Part 2This is the second part of our podcast with mountaineer Andy Kirkpatrick. If you haven't already download "S2 #019 Andy Kirkpatrick Mountaineer Part 1" first. Follow us on social media and don't forget to like, follow, share and leave a review.Instagram @the_unconventional_soldier_pod.Facebook @lateo82. Twitter @TheUCS473.Download on other platforms via Link Tree.Email us: unconventionalsoldier@gmail.com. This episode brought to you in association with ISARR a veteran owned company. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2021-11-0358 minThe Unconventional SoldierS2 #018 Andy Kirkpatrick Mountaineer Part 1Our first civilian guest on the podcast is Andy Kirkpatrick. Described by John Humphreys as the Ranulph Fiennes of British climbing. He’s a professional mountaineer, award-winning writer, film maker and host of the Psychovertical podcast. Andy has climbed all over the world but is viewed as an expert in big wall climbing having summited El Capitan over 30 times including 5 solo ascents and two one day ascents. Andy was kind enough to email and tell us he enjoyed the pod and it got us thinking how much small unit, dismounted soldiering and climbing had in common. Both involve...
2021-10-2758 minThe Unconventional SoldierS2 #017 The Honourable Artillery Company (HAC)Our guest on this pod is Steve Kiely who served 20 years as a reserve soldier in the HAC rising in the ranks from Trooper to Captain. The HAC is the Army Reserve’s Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Regiment and exists to support the Regular Army on operations. They work closely and train with two paired regiments; 5th Regiment Royal Artillery and 7th Parachute Regiment Royal Horse Artillery in order to provide the reserve support to 4/73 Battery in the STA patrols role and airborne trained soldiers for 7 RHA. On this pod Steve discusses the history of the HAC, the re...
2021-09-281h 08The Unconventional Soldier#016 The Role Of STA Patrols Now & In The FutureOur guest on Pod #016 is Scott the serving Officer Commanding 4/73 (Sphinx) Special OP Battery.On this episode we talk about his unique journey to head up the Army's STA patrols unit from the ranks of the Royal Military Police's Close Protection Unit where he carried out tours in Afghanistan and Iraq. Being selected for commissioning as an officer and attending the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst. Finally passing P Company in order to serve with Airborne Forces before he completed the STA Patrols Selection course for his first tour with 4/73 as a Troop Commander .Scott the...
2021-08-311h 13The Unconventional Soldier#015 Operation HERRICK (Afghanistan)Our guest on Pod #015 is Jon Deninson a former Troop Commander and Battery Commander of 4/73 Bty when they deployed on multiple Operation HERRICK tours in Afghanistan. On this episode we talk about Jon's first tour of Afghanistan in command of an STA Fire Support Team as part of the 3 Para Battle Group on HERRICK 4. We also discuss the various roles the unit subsequently carried out including Brigade Recce Force, Theatre Surveillance Troop and operations conducted as a dismounted recce platoon.These roles often involved close combat with a determined enemy and a small unit of 55 me...
2021-07-281h 25The Unconventional Soldier#014 Operation TELIC (Iraq)Our guest on Pod #014 is John Holden. John was a Troop Commander and then OC of 4/73 Bty when they deployed on Operation TELIC in Iraq. On this episode we talk about the near disbandment of the unit due to obsolesence and how they carved a new role in the operational battle space that later helped define the STA patrols concept for the future.We finish with John's book choice on Desert Island dits Stalingrad by Anthony Beevor. His film choice is Tumbledown. The teams book choices this episode are MI9 by Helen Fry and Accidental Warrior by Geoffr...
2021-06-281h 06The Unconventional Soldier#013 A Few Good MenOur guest on Pod #013 is Danny Kay. On this episode we talk with Danny about the contemporary STA patrols selection course and how it changed in the early 90s to accommodate the move from the Cold War "stay behind" role to meet new operational challenges. We also discuss the attachment of chief instructors from 22 SAS and how they influenced training over the years. We finish with Danny's book choice on Desert Island dits Operation Snakebite by Stephen Grey. His film choice is Saving Private Ryan. The teams book choices this episode are 18 Platoon by Sydney Jary and SAS Ph...
2021-05-271h 17The Unconventional Soldier#012 The Long Range Desert GroupOur guest on Pod #012 is Tim Miller who completed a tour as BC of 4/73 Bty. On this podcast we discuss why he joined the Army, his time with the unit and the challenges he faced in keeping STA patrols relevant in an ever changing world. The main focus of the episode is on the Long Range Desert Group. A specialist unit who pioneered long range operations in that difficult environment and were much more than a taxi service for an embryonic SAS. This episode is a precursor to a future pod on STA patrols in Afghan...
2021-04-271h 27The Unconventional Soldier# 011 The BalkansOur guest on Pod #011 is Lee Chapman. On this episode he discusses joining the Army in the mid 1980s and deploying to his first Unit 50 Missile Regiment Royal Artillery. This specialist Regiment was capable of firing the Lance mobile tactical surface to surface missile to provide nuclear fire support to the British Army of the Rhine during the Cold War. Lee was a member of the Special Defence Group, a specialist unit unique to 50 Missile Regiment, whose role was to provide ground security for the nuclear weapon system. Its NCOs were fully qualified infantrymen trained at the Sch...
2021-03-261h 11The Unconventional Soldier#010 73 (Sphinx) Special OP Battery, Operation GRANBY (Gulf War 91)Our guest on Pod #010 is Chris Lincoln-Jones. Chris was the Battery Commander of the then 73 (Sphinx) Special OP Battery when it deployed on Operation GRANBY, better known as the first Gulf war. He describes the deployment of the unit, the training in theatre and its role as part of Divisional recce attached to 16/5 Lancers during the 100 hour ground war. Chris also covers his time in 3 Commando Brigade in 148 (Meiktila) Battery, a specialist Naval Gunfire Support Forward Observation unit within 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery.We finish with Chris's book choice on Desert Island dits Firing Line by Richard Hol...
2021-02-251h 20The Unconventional Soldier#009 3 PARA Mount Longdon Operation CORPORATE (Falklands 82) Part 2On the second part of this podcast Jimmy Morham recounts the bloody battle for Mount Longdon and the recovery back to the UK following the Argentinian surrender. He then moves on to the lessons learned from the war and how he applied them to the training environment of the STA Patrol's Selection Course.On desert island dits Jimmy's choice of book is Three Days In June by James O'Connell. His film choice is Tunes Of GloryColin's pick this week is Red And Green Life Machine: Diary Of The Falklands Field Hospital by Rick Jolly. Kev...
2021-01-291h 16The Unconventional Soldier#009 3 PARA Mount Longdon Operation CORPORATE (Falklands 82) Part 1On this episode we talk with Parachute Regiment Veteran Jimmy Morham who came to the Special OP Troop from 3 PARA in the late 1980s as the chief instructor on the patrols selection course. Jimmy covers his motivation for joining the Parachute Regiment and his 22 year career as an Airborne soldier. We then move on to Op CORPORATE and discuss the invasion of the Falklands, how 3 PARA prepared for the deployment and the equipment and weapons systems they had at that time. Jimmy recounts the voyage south and how they prepared for war on board and at Ascension isla...
2021-01-231h 11The Unconventional Soldier#008 Books In My BergenWe love a book on the podcast so if you are wondering what to do with those Amazon vouchers this is the episode for you. In a break from the normal format we talk about our books of choice with guest Simon Vincent.Along the way we discuss how the need for hunting hawks led to the Islamification of a part of Pakistan, Spike Milligan's PTSD, a bank robber's escape from Devil's Island in French Guyana, the myth of the invincible German soldier, Vulcan raids in the Falklands, an Irish woman's travels through Afghanistan, British POW in t...
2020-12-281h 16The Unconventional Soldier#007 Operation Banner (Northern Ireland) & PTSDOn this episode we talk with Neil Hogg about the British Army's Operation BANNER which ran from 1969 - 2007. 300,000 British troops served in Northern Ireland during this period with more than 20,000 deployed at its peak. In the first part of the pod we cover a brief history of the troubles, the effectiveness of the Provisional IRA, how we trained for a 6 month tour and what it was like to conduct operations in Londonderry during the late 1980s.In the second half Neil discusses in public for the first time an IRA ambush in which the vehicle he was tra...
2020-12-161h 18The Unconventional Soldier#006 From Special Op Troop To 4/73 (Sphinx) Special OP BatteryOn this episode we talk with David Jones a Troop Commander in the 1980s who came to the Special OP Troop from 148 (Meiktila) Commando Forward Observation Battery. A specialist Naval Gunfire Support Forward Observation unit within 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery of 3 Commando Brigade Royal MarinesDavid covers the Troop Commander’s perspective of the unit including how the Troops in 32 and 5 Regt were organised and tasked, the pressures to get more volunteers through selection, the widening of recruitment and the attachment of SAS Captains to the Troop. We will finish off with how two separate troops were brou...
2020-11-2550 minThe Unconventional Soldier#005 International Long Range Recce Patrol School, SERE Training & BRIXMISOur guest on Pod #005 is Pete Walsh. We talk to Pete about joining the Army in 1978 and subsequently volunteering for the Special Observer selection course in 1982. In this episode we cover mandatory training and other courses conducted in the 1980s at the International Long Range Reconnaissance Patrol School which was the centre of excellence for the training of Special Operations Forces in Germany during the Cold War. Pete also discusses Survival/Evasion/Resistance/Escape (SERE) training which was mandatory for all STA patrol soldiers as part of their selection and looks at it's origins in the Korean wa...
2020-10-281h 05The Unconventional Soldier#004 Mexe Hides, Observation Posts & Patrol EquipmentOur guest on Pod #004 is Sammy Nicholls. Kev and Colin talk to Sammy about joining the Army in 1980 and subsequently volunteering for the Special Observer selection course in 1984. In this episode we cover the challenges of siting and digging in large underground hides known as mexes and the forward deployment of two sub surface observation posts (OPs). Sammy describes the routine in the Mexes and OPs which was for a period of up to three weeks until such time Soviet forces has passed over or supplies had expired. Patrols would then conduct a long exfiltration over a numbe...
2020-10-0556 minThe Unconventional Soldier#003 First Selection & TrainingOur guest on Pod #003 is Iain Strachan. Kev and Colin talk to Iain about joining the Army in 1979 and volunteering for the first stay behind Special Observer 22 week selection course at the height of the cold war in 1982. We cover the content of the course, the type of person required and the backgrounds of instructors from units such as the SAS, Commando and Airborne Brigades and Iain discusses SAS legend Geordie Lillico who was an instructor on course 1. Later on we find out about the Danish Jaeger Corps selection which he undertook as part of an exchange prog...
2020-08-281h 18The Unconventional Soldier#002 In The Beginning With Major General A Stone CBOur guest on Pod #002 is Major General Anthony Stone CB the founder of the Special Observer concept at the height of the Cold War. The "stay behind" Special OP Troop consisted of selected soldiers in 6 man patrols whose task was to dig in large underground hides known as "mexe" shelters along the inner German border. They would then allow the main Soviet forces to pass over them before deploying to two smaller OPs where they would engage the enemy with the long range guns and rockets of the British Army.General Stone talks about his time in...
2020-07-301h 17The Unconventional Soldier#001 Setting The ConditionsMeet your hosts as they grapple with new technology and attempt to master the challenges of podcasting. Follow their journey to covert Surveillance & Target Acquisition (STA) patrols via the jungles of Central America, the Far East, Canada, Denmark, Northern Ireland and Germany. Along the way they will discuss the merits of 58 pattern webbing, jungle soldiering, Aussie ponchos, hammocks and Assam tea in a tin. For the cultured they will review two films "Platoon" and "Paths of Glory" and try to win you over with a couple of classic book recommendations "The Cauldron" and "Quartered Safe Out Here".
2020-07-1719 min