505: Lessons in Blood. General Greg Knight on Ramadi and Leadership
In this episode of Jocko Podcast, Greg Knight, Adjutant General of the Vermont National Guard, shares his military journey from the Coast Guard to his current leadership role. Knight discusses his experiences in Ramadi during the Iraq War, where his unit faced constant threats from IEDs, mortars, and snipers. He explains how National Guard reservists' civilian expertise enhanced their military capabilities and describes innovations like the "Pope Glass" modification for Humvees.
Knight also addresses the challenges of post-deployment adjustment and mental health support for veterans. Drawing from his own experience with PTSD, he emphasizes the importance of veterans seeking help through VA benefits. The conversation covers Knight's efforts to improve the National Guard organization, including his work on addressing internal issues and advocating for legislation to support veterans affected by service-related hazards.
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1-Page Summary
Greg Knight's Background and Path to the Military
Greg Knight, a Virginia native and army brat, grew up with a retired combat engineer father and a mother who fled East Germany during World War II. Despite facing challenges including parental alcoholism and abuse, Knight found structure and discipline in military service. He served six years in the Coast Guard, participating in Ronald Reagan's second inauguration and working his way up to yeoman second class. Following his Coast Guard service, Knight transitioned to the Air National Guard before joining the Army Guard, where he completed an intensive Officer Candidate School training at Fort Carson.
National Guard's Role and Experiences in Iraq War
The 228th Brigade Combat Team, comprised of National Guard reservists from various states, faced significant challenges in Ramadi, suffering over 500 wounded and nearly 100 killed in action. Knight emphasizes how the National Guard's unique civilian expertise enhanced their military capabilities. From financial managers serving as snipers to qualified mechanics handling equipment repairs, the diverse skill sets of Guard members proved invaluable in both combat and support roles.
Challenges and Complexities of the Battle For Ramadi
Knight describes Ramadi as a volatile environment where his unit faced constant threats from IEDs, mortar attacks, and snipers. The enemy demonstrated sophisticated tactical coordination, including complex attacks throughout the city. In response to these threats, Knight's battalion developed the innovative "Pope Glass" modification for Humvees, which protected gunners from shrapnel and was widely adopted throughout the area of operations.
Transition Home and Mental Health Support For Veterans
Upon returning home to Vermont, Knight experienced significant readjustment challenges, including PTSD symptoms. He received support through the National Guard's resources, including group debriefs led by Colonel Coffin, the state psychiatrist. Knight strongly advocates for veterans to seek help through VA benefits and address service-connected disabilities, while acknowledging the challenges the National Guard faces in supporting soldiers' mental health needs due to limited contact.
Greg Knight's Career Progression in the National Guard
Knight's career advanced from armor officer through various leadership positions, eventually leading to his election as Adjutant General of the Vermont National Guard. In this role, he tackled significant organizational challenges, including addressing issues of hazing, sexual harassment, and other problems revealed in a 113-page assessment report. Knight has also been active in veterans' advocacy, working with congressional delegations to pass legislation like the PACT Act, which aids veterans affected by burn pits and other service-related hazards.
1-Page Summary
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- "Army brat" is a colloquial term used to describe individuals who grew up in military families. It typically implies that the person's parent(s) served in the military, leading to a lifestyle characterized by frequent relocations, exposure to military culture, and unique challenges and experiences associated with being part of a military family.
- A yeoman second class in the Coast Guard typically serves as an administrative specialist responsible for maintaining personnel records, preparing reports, and handling correspondence. They may also assist in managing office operations, processing paperwork, and providing support to senior officers. Yeomen play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth functioning of administrative tasks within the Coast Guard unit.
- The 228th Brigade Combat Team faced significant challenges in Ramadi, including a high number of casualties with over 500 wounded and nearly 100 killed in action. The unit encountered constant threats such as IEDs, mortar attacks, and snipers in a volatile environment. The enemy demonstrated sophisticated tactical coordination, utilizing complex attacks throughout the city. To counter these threats, the unit developed innovative modifications like the "Pope Glass" for Humvees to enhance protection for personnel.
- The "Pope Glass" modification for Humvees was an innovative protective measure developed by Knight's battalion in response to threats in Ramadi. It was designed to shield gunners from shrapnel during attacks, enhancing their safety in combat situations. This modification proved effective in mitigating the risks posed by IEDs, mortar attacks, and snipers in the volatile environment of Ramadi. The "Pope Glass" modification became widely adopted throughout the area of operations due to its success in safeguarding personnel.
- The National Guard provides mental health support resources for veterans, including group debriefs led by professionals like state psychiatrists. These resources aim to help veterans like Greg Knight who may experience challenges such as PTSD upon returning home from deployment. The Guard encourages veterans to seek help through VA benefits and address service-connected disabilities. However, due to limited contact, the National Guard faces challenges in fully supporting soldiers' mental health needs.
- Greg Knight's career in the National Guard advanced from serving as an armor officer to taking on various leadership roles within the organization. Through his dedication, experience, and demonstrated leadership capabilities, Knight eventually rose to the position of Adjutant General of the Vermont National Guard, where he assumed a top leadership role responsible for overseeing the state's National Guard operations and personnel. This progression showcases Knight's growth within the military hierarchy and his ability to take on increasing levels of responsibility and leadership within the National Guard.
- As Adjutant General, Greg Knight addressed organizational challenges in the Vermont National Guard, including issues related to hazing, sexual harassment, and other internal problems highlighted in a comprehensive assessment report. Knight worked to implement reforms and initiatives to improve the culture and effectiveness of the Guard, ensuring a more supportive and professional environment for all members.
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Greg Knight's Background and Path to the Military
Greg Knight's journey to the military was shaped by his challenging upbringing and the structure he later found in service.
Greg Knight: Virginia Native, Army Brat, Mother Fled East Germany, Father Army Engineer
Greg Knight, originating from Alexandria, Virginia, grew up as an army brat with a father who was a retired combat engineer. His mother fled East Germany towards the end of World War II, escaping the Russian zone. Knight recalls a difficult childhood marked by his parents' alcoholism and experiences of domestic and verbal abuse. Despite these challenges, he believes that he and his brother emerged from their upbringing "mostly normal."
Greg Served 6 Years In the Coast Guard, Gaining Structure and Discipline
Joining the Coast Guard offered Greg Knight a new start, providing him with the order and discipline that were absent in his home environment.
Greg's Coast Guard Service: Honor Guard and Yeoman to Army National Guard Transition
Knight's six-year tenure with the Coast Guard began with his participation in Ronald Reagan's second presidential inauguration as part of the silent drill team. He then transitioned to Elizabeth City, North Carolina, where he underwent on-the-job training and became a third class petty officer as a Yeoman, also known as a personnelist.
Towards the end of his service with the Coast Guard, Knight served as a yeoman second class, which included driving for the Commandant. This role offered him insights into ...
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Greg Knight's Background and Path to the Military
Additional Materials
Actionables
- Reflect on your own challenging experiences and identify the skills or strengths you've gained from them, much like recognizing the discipline and structure learned from a structured environment. For example, if you've overcome financial hardship, you might have developed budgeting skills and resilience that can be applied to managing projects or personal goals.
- Consider a career pivot or further education to align with your passions or strengths, inspired by the transition from one service branch to another or attending Officer Candidate School. Start by researching different industries or educational programs, then list the steps needed to make the transition, such as updating your resume or enrolling in a course.
- Create a mentorship connection by reaching ou ...
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National Guard's Role and Experiences in Iraq War
The National Guard's 228th Brigade Combat Team, primarily made up of reservists from across the US, played a pivotal role in the Iraq War, facing severe challenges and high casualty rates. Unique civilian skills brought by National Guard members proved valuable in war efforts, demonstrating their agility and key contributions.
228th Brigade Combat Team: National Guard Reservists From Various States
The 228th Brigade Combat Team, made up primarily of National Guard reservists, represented a diverse group from states such as Pennsylvania, Utah, Michigan, Indiana, Georgia, Kentucky, Nebraska, North Carolina, and Vermont. Greg Knight highlighted the diversity and adaptability of the unit by showing a task force coin that bore symbols from all contributing units, including those from Mississippi, California, Kuwait, and Iraq.
228th Brigade Combat Team: Over 500 Wounded, Nearly 100 Killed In Ramadi Despite Being National Guard
In the violent and pivotal city of Ramadi, the 228th Brigade Combat Team suffered immense losses with over 500 members wounded and nearly 100 killed in action. Upon their arrival at the operation base, the high degree of National Guard casualties became evident to Greg Knight when he saw 16 photos in remembrance of fallen soldiers, indicative of the severe danger the unit faced. Over the span of a year, their battalion was hit by over 350 IEDs, marking the devastating risk they assumed.
National Guard Unit Utilizes Civilian Skills For War Effort
Knight underscored how the unique civilian expertise within the National Guard greatly enhanced operational capacities, offering an array of qualifications ranging from master carpentry and master electricians to professions in law enforcement, teaching, and legal fields.
He narrated an example where a National Guard sniper, a financial manager by day, effectively eliminated a target, exemplifying the uncommon but invaluable combination of civilian career prest ...
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National Guard's Role and Experiences in Iraq War
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- The 228th Brigade Combat Team, primarily composed of National Guard reservists, played a crucial role in the Iraq War by facing significant challenges and high casualty rates in places like Ramadi. Their diverse civilian skills brought to the battlefield proved invaluable, showcasing their adaptability and contributions to the war effort. The unit's experiences in combat, including facing a high number of casualties and frequent IED attacks, highlighted the dangers they encountered during their deployment. The National Guard's unique mix of full-time and part-time soldiers, with diverse civilian professions, added flexibility and enhanced the military's capabilities both domestically and overseas.
- The civilian skills brought by National Guard members encompass a wide range of expertise, including professions like master carpentry, master electricians, law enforcement, teaching, and legal fields. These diverse skills enhance the operational capabilities of the National Guard, allowing for increased self-sufficiency and resourcefulness in various situations. National Guard members often bring unique career backgrounds that can be unexpectedly valuable in military operations, showcasing the blend of civilian and military expertise within the unit. This mix of civilian skills and military training highlights the adaptability and versatility of National Guard members in fulfilling their roles both domestically and in combat situations.
- The 228th Brigade Combat Team of the National Guard is primarily composed of reservists from various states across the US. This unit is made up of a diverse group of National Guard members with a range of civilian skills that proved valuable during their deployment in the Iraq War. The team faced significant challenges and casualties during their time in Ramadi, highlighting the risks they encountered in combat. The National Guard's 228th Brigade Combat Team demonstrated adaptability and resourcefulness in utilizing their unique civilian expertise to enhance their military operations.
- Ramadi, a city in Iraq's Anbar province, was a significant battleground during the Iraq War. It was a hotbed of insurgency and violence, with intense fighting between coalition forces and insurgent groups. The city's strategic location and symbolic importance made it a focal point in the conflict, showcasing the challenges and sacrifices faced by military units like the National Guard's 228th Brigade Combat Team.
- Facing over 350 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) in a year during the Iraq War had significant implications for the 228th Brigade Combat Team. Each IED posed a deadly threat to the soldiers, causing casualties and fatalities, and creating a constant state of danger and stress. The frequency of these attacks required the unit to constantly adapt their tactics and procedures to mitigate the risks and continue their mission. The toll of encountering such a high number of IEDs underscores the intense and relentless nature of the conflict they were engaged in.
- The National Guard members' civilian skills, such as carpentry, electrical work, law enforcement, teaching, and legal expertise, were utilized in the war effort. For example, a financial manager who w ...
Counterarguments
- The National Guard's role, while pivotal, may not have been as central or strategic as that of active-duty units, which often have more rigorous training and resources.
- The high casualty rates could point to a lack of preparation or support for National Guard units compared to regular army units.
- While civilian skills are valuable, they may not always translate effectively to a combat environment, which has its own specialized skill requirements.
- The composition of the 228th Brigade Combat Team from various states could imply challenges in unit cohesion and standardization of training.
- The heavy losses in Ramadi could be seen as an indication of the extreme dangers of urban warfare and possibly a lack of adequate intelligence or equipment.
- The encounter with over 350 IEDs might suggest that there were tactical or strategic shortcomings in route clearance or threat mitigation.
- Utilizing civilian skills in a war effort, while beneficial, may not compensate for the need for extensive military training and experience in certain combat roles.
- The enhancement of operational capacities by civilian expertise ...
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Challenges and Complexities of the Battle For Ramadi
The battle for Ramadi was characterized by a constant barrage of threats, requiring both exceptional leadership and innovative tactics from the 228th Brigade Combat Team, led by Greg Knight and his colleagues.
Ramadi Was a Volatile Environment, With the 228th Brigade Combat Team Facing Constant IEDs, Mortar Attacks, and Sniper Threats
Greg Knight recounts his arrival in Ramadi, where the perpetual threat of incoming attacks was the norm. Their area of operation, consisting of urban and rural regions, posed various challenges, including unmapped IED threats. For example, when Mass Sergeant Chris Chapin was killed by a sniper, it underscored the constant danger they were operating under.
Knight also describes a complex attack involving small arms fire, multiple mortar rounds, and a vehicle-borne explosive, demonstrating the citywide coordination of insurgent efforts. He acknowledges the insurgents' tactical proficiency, which included the use of cell phones for coordination.
The conversation hints at the beleaguered nature of Ramadi, where the threat of innovative IED tactics and simultaneous attacks throughout the city was a grim reality. Greg points to a high density of IEDs encountered during operations and describes a hazardous route known as "sunset," where the enemy had placed 13 IEDs within 500 meters.
Coordinating Units, Managing the Battlefield, and Executing Urban Operations Required Exceptional Leadership From Greg and Team
Greg Knight delves into the leadership challenges of being a battle captain, tracking not just his battalion but an entire brigade, and managing resources effectively. This leadership also included sharing insights on battle drills and managing operations with other units. Greg stresses the importance of heeding on-the-ground advice, as ignoring it led to unnecessary risks and casualties. Through coordination with a Master Sergeant, his leadership facilitated the identification of a large ordinance cache in North Central Ramadi, showcasing a significant operational success.
Ramadi Enemy Employed Innovative IED Tactics and Coordinated Citywide Attacks
The enemy adapted their IED strategies by adding shrapnel like ball bearings, screws, and nails to cause maximum damage. They moved from base stations for the line-of-sight detonation to more sophisticated ways of planting explosives, such as dropping them from a vehicle into a shot hole. Knight reco ...
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Challenges and Complexities of the Battle For Ramadi
Additional Materials
Actionables
- You can enhance personal safety by customizing your vehicle with aftermarket safety features inspired by the "Pope Glass" concept. For example, if you live in an area with high rates of road debris or potential for break-ins, consider installing shatterproof window films or reinforced car panels to protect against external impacts.
- Improve your problem-solving skills by practicing adaptive thinking in everyday situations. Start by identifying a common problem you face, like a slow computer, and brainstorm unconventional solutions that go beyond the typical software update or hardware upgrade. For instance, you might repurpose an old tablet as a secondary screen to offload less intensive tasks and free up your computer's resources.
- Enhance your leadership abilities by seeking out ...
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Transition Home and Mental Health Support For Veterans
Greg Knight’s experiences after returning home from deployment highlight both the personal challenges faced by veterans and the dual role of the National Guard in supporting soldier reintegration and mental health.
Returning From Ramadi: Greg's Struggle to Readjust To Civilian Life
Greg Faced Ptsd, Urges Veterans to Seek Help
Greg Knight found coming back home to Vermont difficult following his deployment to Ramadi. Life had moved on for others, but for Knight, the contrast between his deployment environment and home was stark and jarring. He experienced the textbook symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), including anger, short-temperedness, and impatience with what he saw as trivial issues. Even Knight himself noticed changes in his behavior, as did his family and colleagues.
Knight did not explicitly talk about his struggles to readjust or experiences with PTSD in the transcript provided, but he implies the significance by discussing the National Guard's involvement in major military operations abroad. He advises veterans to take their mental health seriously, to seek help through VA benefits, and to address service-connected disabilities. Knight underlines the importance of using resources like Tricare and the VA's dependent education benefit, using his friends with terminal conditions as cases to illustrate the urgency and difficulties in accessing such benefits.
During his post-deployment struggles, Knight received support from Colonel Coffin, the state psychiatrist for the Guard, who held group debriefs to help soldiers transition back and encouraged monitoring for signs of mental health issues which could surface months after returning home. Knight personally benefited from the resources offered by the National Guard and vet centers.
Challenges of National Guard's Dual-Role In Supporting Soldier Reintegration and Mental Health
Greg Used National Guard Resources to Aid Soldiers In Accessing Care for the Invisible Wounds of War
Knight highlights the challenges of the National Guard in supporting soldiers with their mental health needs, particularly due to limited contact when not deployed. The inability to regu ...
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Transition Home and Mental Health Support For Veterans
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Actionables
- Create a buddy check-in system among friends or community members to regularly reach out to veterans you know, ensuring they're aware of and utilizing available mental health resources. By setting up a simple phone tree or group chat, you can maintain consistent contact and provide a support network that might help bridge the gap between official contacts with the National Guard or other military services.
- Volunteer to help local veterans' organizations update their online presence, making information about mental health resources more accessible. Even basic skills in social media or website management can be invaluable in ensuring that information about resources like Tricare, VA benefits, and educational opportunities for dependents is easy to find and understand.
- A ...
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Greg Knight's Career Progression in the National Guard
Greg Knight has experienced significant advancement in his military career, leading to his current role as the Adjutant General of the Vermont National Guard. His career reflects his dedicated service to his country and his commitment to addressing difficult issues within the ranks.
Greg Advanced In the National Guard As an Armor Officer, Then As an Active Guard Reserve Member, Eventually Elected Adjutant General of Vermont National Guard
Starting as an armor officer, Greg Knight moved through a variety of positions, including support platoon leader, armor company commander, and assistant operations officer. He gained invaluable experience and completed professional military education, such as captain's career course, intermediate level education, and advanced operations course, setting the stage for his progression to higher leadership.
After returning from service, Knight held roles in his old unit and became an administrative officer before taking command of the recruiting battalion at Camp Johnson at the state headquarters. He faced challenges in recruiting, particularly regarding access to schools, which may be unique to Vermont.
Selected for active guard reserve and serving full-time, Knight later became the Deputy Chief of Staff for personnel. In this position, he did significant policy work to aid soldiers, veterans, and retirees. Despite his initial reluctance, he moved to the Human Resources Officer position, where he expanded his understanding of the "blue side" in a joint billet, as envisioned by a senior leader named Heston.
Knight's dedication and service ultimately led to his election as the Adjutant General, highlighting his career progression and marking him as the senior military official for the Vermont National Guard.
Greg's Leadership and Vision for the Vermont National Guard Involved Difficult Decisions to Address Hazing, Sexual Harassment, and Other Problems, Demonstrating His Commitment to Improvement
Upon his election, Knight faced a Vermont National Guard beset by various problems. Assenting to an organizational assessment, he publicly released a grievous 113-page report exposing issues such as hazing, bullying, sexual harassment, assault, and maltreatment. In response, he began implementing changes to improve the culture and operations within the Guard.
Knight's approach to leadership, encapsulated in his version of mission command, involves trusting his subordinates and assuming risk on their behalf when prudent. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining trust between commanders and their troops, further validating his commitment to leading effectively.
Adjutant General Greg Advocated For Veterans, Pushed Legislative Changes, and Ensured National Guard Support
Greg's Path: From Coast Guard Enlistment to Vermont National Guard Senior Leader
Greg Knight's service in the National Gua ...
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Greg Knight's Career Progression in the National Guard
Additional Materials
Actionables
- You can develop leadership skills by creating a personal development plan that includes courses similar to military education. Start by researching online courses in leadership, strategy, and operations management, then set a schedule to complete these courses over the next year. This mirrors the structured approach to professional development seen in military careers and can enhance your ability to lead in various contexts.
- Enhance your community's support for veterans by volunteering with local organizations that assist them. Look for groups that work with veterans or active service members and offer your time or skills. Whether it's helping with administrative tasks, organizing events, or providing mentorship, your involvement can make a tangible difference in the lives of those who've served.
- Build a culture of respect and accountability in your workplace by initia ...
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