#142 Dale Stark - A-10 Warthog: One of the Most Feared Aircraft in History
In this episode of the Shawn Ryan Show, Lt. Col. Dale Stark, a former A-10 Warthog pilot, shares his experiences flying one of the most feared aircraft in history. Stark recounts his path to becoming an A-10 pilot, vividly describing his first solo flight and subsequent combat deployments providing close air support for ground troops.
The episode also covers Stark's transition to the MQ-9 drone program, where he faced the psychological challenges of engaging in detached combat operations. Stark also reflects on his disillusionment with the military's shifting priorities, criticizing the conduct of prolonged conflicts like Afghanistan and Iraq.
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1-Page Summary
The speaker's military career as an A-10 pilot
Path to becoming an A-10 pilot
Lt. Col. Dale Stark recounts his early fascination with the A-10 aircraft as a crew chief. Stark was determined to fly the A-10, driven by his instructor's stories and the plane's simplicity. This ambition motivated him through pilot training's challenges, including securing a "fighter bomber" slot.
Flying the A-10
Stark vividly describes his first solo A-10 flight, in awe of the aircraft's firepower yet feeling a sense of unity with the plane thanks to its visibility. He relished the A-10's maneuverability at low speeds.
Combat deployments
In combat, Stark supported ground troops using the A-10's arsenal – its 30mm Gatling gun, missiles like the Maverick, and various bombs. He prioritized suppressive fire, once establishing a pattern allowing friendly forces to retreat. Stark highlights his unwavering dedication to helping "the guy on the ground."
Transition to MQ-9 drone program
Stark was devastated leaving the A-10 cockpit for the MQ-9 drone program due to physical limitations. But he refocused on the drone's role supporting troops and protecting lives, taking a leadership approach. Operating drones posed psychological challenges in this detached form of combat.
Reflections on military and conflicts
Stark grew disillusioned with the military's shifting priorities and politicization. He criticized the conduct of the Afghanistan/Iraq wars and prolonged conflicts driven by perceived financial motives. Stark accused leaders of deceit and distrust in governance brewed from decisions like Taliban aid.
Post-military personal life
The demands of military life impacted Stark's eldest daughter, prompting his family's transition to a rural, self-sufficient ranch lifestyle prioritizing stability and values. They homeschool the children through a modern community approach combining academics with life skills.
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Additional Materials
Clarifications
- The A-10 aircraft, also known as the "Warthog," is a close air support plane designed for combat near ground forces. It is heavily armored to withstand enemy fire and is equipped with a 30mm Gatling gun for strafing runs. The A-10's distinctive feature is its twin engines mounted high on the rear fuselage, giving it a unique appearance. Its primary role is to provide effective support to troops on the ground by engaging enemy targets with its powerful weapons.
- A crew chief in the context of military aviation is a vital role responsible for the maintenance and overall care of an aircraft. They ensure the aircraft is in optimal condition for flight, conducting pre-flight inspections and post-flight checks. Crew chiefs work closely with pilots, providing essential support to ensure the safety and readiness of the aircraft. Their expertise and attention to detail are crucial for the successful operation of military aircraft.
- In pilot training, a "fighter bomber" slot typically refers to a specialized training track that prepares pilots to operate aircraft capable of both air-to-air combat (fighter role) and ground attack missions (bomber role). Pilots selected for this slot undergo training that focuses on mastering the skills required for engaging both aerial and ground targets effectively. This training path equips pilots with the versatility to engage in a wide range of missions, from providing air support to troops on the ground to engaging enemy aircraft in combat scenarios. The designation "fighter bomber" highlights the dual role and capabilities these pilots are trained to fulfill in their operational duties.
- The A-10 Thunderbolt II, also known as the Warthog, is equipped with a 30mm GAU-8 Avenger rotary cannon, which is designed to provide close air support. It can carry AGM-65 Maverick air-to-ground missiles, which are precision-guided munitions used for striking armored targets. Additionally, the A-10 can carry various types of bombs, including general-purpose bombs and cluster bombs, to engage a wide range of targets effectively. These weapons allow the A-10 to provide effective support to ground troops in combat situations.
- Lt. Col. Dale Stark transitioned from flying the A-10 aircraft to operating the MQ-9 drone due to physical limitations. This shift involved moving from piloting a manned aircraft to remotely controlling an unmanned aerial vehicle. The MQ-9 drone program allowed Stark to continue supporting troops and conducting missions, albeit in a different capacity. This change presented Stark with new challenges, including adjusting to the psychological aspects of engaging in combat remotely.
- Operating drones can pose psychological challenges due to the remote nature of the combat engagement, where pilots are physically distant from the battlefield. This detachment can lead to feelings of disconnection and moral dilemmas as decisions are made from afar. The lack of immediate feedback and the blurred lines between virtual reality and real-life can contribute to stress and emotional strain. Pilots may struggle with the weight of their actions and the impact of their missions while operating drones.
- Lt. Col. Dale Stark criticized the conduct of the Afghanistan/Iraq wars, highlighting concerns about shifting military priorities, politicization, and prolonged conflicts driven by financial motives. He expressed disillusionment with leadership decisions, citing issues like perceived deceit, distrust in governance, and accusations of aiding groups like the Taliban.
- Stark's family transitioned to a rural, self-sufficient ranch lifestyle post-military, prioritizing stability and values. They homeschool their children using a modern community approach that combines academics with life skills. This change was influenced by the demands of military life and its impact on Stark's eldest daughter. The family embraced a lifestyle focused on self-sufficiency and a strong sense of community.
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The speaker's military career as an A-10 pilot, including his training, combat experiences, and the capabilities of the A-10 aircraft
Lieutenant Colonel Dale Stark, a retired United States Air Force pilot, shares his journey from a C-17 crew chief to piloting the formidable A-10 in multiple combat deployments and the deep influence his total of 3,000 flight hours in the cockpit has had on his life.
The speaker's path to becoming an A-10 pilot, from his early exposure to the aircraft during crew chief training to his determination to fly the A-10 throughout pilot training
Stark's fascination with the A-10 began while he was a crew chief. His instructor, an A-10 veteran, shared captivating stories of the aircraft's combat performance. These tales, alongside the A-10’s mechanical simplicity, which Stark learned as a mechanic, reinforced his aspiration to become an A-10 pilot. This determination proved to be a driving force through his ROTC commander's assertion that the unfolding war after 9/11 would span their careers and amidst the allure of other aircraft like the F-15 and F-16.
During pilot training, Stark had to navigate the competitive process involving GPA, test scores, and recommendations to prove his worth for a pilot slot. After the initial phase, there was a sorting into different tracks, one of which was the "fighter bomber," where Stark faced the challenges of flying the T-38 Talon—a critical step in attaining his goal to fly an A-10. The thought of not piloting an A-10 was unacceptable, leading him to consider transferring to the Marines if he didn't secure a slot. The profound relief Stark felt upon being assigned the A-10 at an Officer's Club ceremony speaks volumes about his dedication.
The speaker's initial experiences and impressions of flying the A-10 for the first time
Stark fondly reminisces the first time he flew the A-10. The single-seat aircraft, with no two-seaters in the fleet, requires the first flight to be a solo mission. Stark details the awe-inspiring sight of the GAU-8 Avenger and the hardpoints under the wings, albeit typically only flying with a couple of AIM-9s for balance during the first flight. In contrast to the enclosed feeling in the T-38, Stark relishes the visibility from the A-10's cockpit—which he describes as feeling like an extension of himself—which is paramount for the aircraft's mission. The sheer maneuverability and stability of the A-10 at low speeds made flying a captivating dream to Stark.
The speaker's combat deployments as an A-10 pilot, engaging in close air support and employing the aircraft's various weapons systems
Stark recounts specific combat experiences, from his determination to deliver morale-boosting provisions to his squadron in Afghanistan to the strategic application of the A-10's vast weapons systems in close air support. His return to a regular A-10 pilot’s life involved training and acquiring a Forward Air Controller qualification, further bonding him with the ground units he supported.
Seeking to engage in the battles of the Global War on Terrorism, Stark joined the seasoned 303rd Fighter Squadron, flying missions with the likes of Karl Marx, who had a broad combat history. Stark illustrate ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
The speaker's military career as an A-10 pilot, including his training, combat experiences, and the capabilities of the A-10 aircraft
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- The ROTC commander's assertion about the war after 9/11 spanning their careers implies that the ongoing military operations initiated in response to the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks were expected to continue for an extended period, potentially throughout the careers of the ROTC cadets. This statement reflects the understanding at the time that the global conflict against terrorism would be a long-term commitment for military personnel who were in training or early in their careers post-9/11. The ROTC commander's remark aimed to prepare and motivate the cadets for the likelihood of sustained military engagements and deployments related to the post-9/11 security landscape.
- During pilot training, aspiring pilots are often divided into different tracks based on their performance, preferences, and the needs of the Air Force. These tracks can include specialized training for different types of aircraft, such as fighters, bombers, or transport planes. The selection process for these tracks involves evaluating factors like academic performance, test scores, and recommendations to determine the best fit for each pilot candidate. This sorting helps streamline training and ensures that pilots receive the specific skills and knowledge required for their assigned aircraft.
- The T-38 Talon is a supersonic jet trainer aircraft used by the U.S. Air Force for training future military pilots. Pilots undergo training on the T-38 to develop advanced flying skills, including high-speed maneuvers and handling characteristics that are crucial for transitioning to fighter aircraft like the A-10. Flying the T-38 is a key step in the pilot training process to prepare aviators for the complexities and demands of operating high-performance combat aircraft like the A-10. The experience gained from flying the T-38 helps pilots build the necessary skills and confidence required to handle the unique capabilities of the A-10 Thunderbolt II.
- The GAU-8 Avenger is a massive 30mm rotary cannon mounted on the A-10 aircraft, known for its ability to deliver high rates of fire and armor-piercing capabilities. Hardpoints under the wings are attachment points where weapons, such as missiles or bombs, can be mounted for combat missions. These hardpoints allow the A-10 to carry a variety of weapons to engage ground targets effectively during close air support missions. The combination of the GAU-8 Avenger and the hardpoints make the A-10 a versatile and powerful aircraft in combat situations.
- A Forward Air Controller (FAC) is a military specialist who directs close air support aircraft to engage targets in support of ground forces. To qualify as a FAC, individuals undergo specialized training to effectively communicate with both air and ground units, coordinate airstrikes, and ensure precision in targeting enemy positions. FACs play a crucial role in ensuring that air assets are employed accurately and safely in combat situations. Their expertise lies in integrating air power with ground operations to achieve tactical objectives efficiently.
- The 303rd Fighter Squadron is a unit based at Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, that operates the A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraf ...
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The speaker's transition to the MQ-9 drone program and the challenges and differences he faced in that role
Dale Stark narrates his transition from flying the A-10 to operating the MQ-9 drone, delving into the profound changes and challenges he encountered during this period.
The speaker's initial reaction to being reassigned from the A-10 to the MQ-9 drone program due to his physical limitations
Stark describes his transition to the MQ-9 as "devastating," comparing his former engaging experience as "King Kong" in the cockpit to becoming a "cave dweller," with little of the thrill of hands-on flying remaining. He initially felt reassured that he could return to the A-10 after his time in the drone program, but this turned out not to be the case, leading him to consider separating from service. Despite the jarring shift, he gave his full effort to his MQ-9 assignment, which helped make a case for his return to the A-10. Stark experienced a detachment from his pilot peers, as if he had a "communicable disease," due to the stigma surrounding the drone program within the Air Force.
The speaker's shift in mindset and approach to the MQ-9 mission, focused on supporting ground forces and protecting American lives
Despite his initial reluctance, Stark committed himself to the MQ-9 mission, understanding its importance in supporting ground troops and saving American lives. He took on a leadership role immediately, striving to perform effectively in the MQ-9 mission with the same diligence he had shown in the A-10. Stark notes a shift in his operations as he moved from being an independent sensor operator in the A-10 to relying on teamwork with a sensor operator in the MQ-9. This difference required a mental shift and an acceptance of his new responsibility.
The speaker's reflections on the psychological and ethical challenges of operating drones and the realities of modern warfare
Stark shares that while operating the MQ-9, he learned a lot about insurgency, with ...
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The speaker's transition to the MQ-9 drone program and the challenges and differences he faced in that role
Additional Materials
Counterarguments
- While Stark felt devastated by the transition, others might view such a reassignment as an opportunity to learn new skills and contribute to the military's mission in a different, yet still vital, capacity.
- The stigma associated with the drone program within the Air Force might not be universal, and some peers may have respected the different skill set and challenges that drone operation entails.
- The mental shift to teamwork in the MQ-9 could be seen as a positive development, emphasizing collaboration and the importance of multiple perspectives in executing complex missions.
- The psychological and ethical challenges of drone warfare are significant, but some may argue that these challenges are not unique to drone operators and are faced by all military personnel involved in combat operations.
- The remote nature of drone warfare could be considered a strategic advantage, allowing for precision strikes with less risk to American lives, which some might argue outweighs the disconnection felt by the operators.
- Learning about insurgency and predicting enemy be ...
Actionables
- You can explore the psychological impact of remote work by journaling your feelings before and after virtual meetings to understand the emotional nuances of physical detachment. Write down your emotional state and any sense of disconnection you might feel when interacting with colleagues through a screen. Compare these notes over time to see if there's a trend and consider ways to enhance connection, such as scheduling regular in-person meetups or virtual coffee breaks where work talk is off-limits.
- Develop empathy for roles you're unfamiliar with by volunteering in a team that operates differently from your usual environment. For example, if you typically work independently, find a local community project that requires close teamwork and observe how your role and interactions change. Reflect on the experience to appreciate the dynamics of different working styles and the mental shifts required to adapt.
- Engage with ethical dilemmas in modern technology by pa ...
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The speaker's reflections on the state of the military and the country, including his concerns about the direction of the military's leadership and values, and his broader observations about the conflicts in Afghanistan and the geopolitical landscape
Dale Stark and Shawn Ryan offer a frank critique of the current state of the military, its leadership, and America's recent conflicts abroad, driven by their disillusionment with the perceived eroding values and mismanagement of both the military and the country.
The speaker's growing disillusionment with the military's shifting priorities and the perceived politicization of the institution
Stark conveys his discomfort with the increasing infusion of political agendas into the military, specifically mentioning his unease at LGBTQIA and BLM imagery at MacDill Air Force Base which he feels contradicts the military’s nonpartisan tradition. Stark and Ryan communicate a sense of betrayal, observing a drift away from the military norms and values of earlier times back when "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" was the norm, indicating a growing disillusionment with the direction of the military.
They share a concern that the focus on diverse rights abroad and within the military could be overshadowing the emphasis on hard work and fair treatment that once were the fundamental values of the service. Ryan especially voices disappointment at what he perceives as the military being drawn away from its original purpose and principles.
The speaker's critical assessment of the conduct and outcomes of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq
Stark criticizes the misrepresentation of military drone strikes by the media and highlights specific incidents where media reports conflicted with his understanding of events. Reflecting on the Rules of Engagement during the Obama administration, Ryan criticizes them as overly restrictive and counterproductive for mission confidence and effectiveness.
Stark disapproves of a former McChrystal speech endorsing non-engagement in conflict scenarios and ridicules the idea that not firing a bullet could lead to victory. The speakers share a view that the Afghanistan war, initially justified due to Al-Qaeda, mistakenly turned into a 'forever war' and suggest that financial and personal gain drove the prolonged conflict, culminating in a chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Stark goes on to critically assess the geopolitical results of the Iraq War, questioning the strategic benefit of toppling Saddam Hussein and claiming that Iran now holds more influence in Iraq due to the intervention which he believes was based on falsehoods.
The speaker's ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
The speaker's reflections on the state of the military and the country, including his concerns about the direction of the military's leadership and values, and his broader observations about the conflicts in Afghanistan and the geopolitical landscape
Additional Materials
Clarifications
- During the Obama administration, the Rules of Engagement (ROE) for the military outlined the guidelines and limitations for the use of force in combat situations. These rules were designed to minimize civilian casualties, protect non-combatants, and ensure mission effectiveness. Critics sometimes argued that the ROE under Obama were overly restrictive, potentially hindering military operations and impacting the confidence and effectiveness of missions. The ROE were a subject of debate and scrutiny, with some military personnel expressing concerns about their impact on operational flexibility and success in conflict zones.
- The term "forever war" is used to describe a prolonged military engagement that seems to have no clear end in sight. In the context of the Afghanistan war, it suggests that the conflict extended far beyond its initial objectives and timeline, becoming protracted and seemingly endless. This characterization reflects the perception that the mission evolved and expanded over time, losing its original focus and becoming a sustained military presence without a clear resolution in sight. The term highlights the idea that the conflict in Afghanistan persisted for years without a definitive conclusion or exit strategy, leading to a sense of perpetual involvement and uncertainty.
- The strategic benefit of toppling Saddam Hussein in the Iraq War was based on the belief that removing him would lead to a more stable and democratic Iraq, potentially reducing threats in the region and promoting U.S. interests. The rationale included the goal of eliminating weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) that Saddam was suspected of possessing, which was a significant concern for global security at the time. However, the aftermath of the invasion revealed challenges in governance, sect ...
Counterarguments
- The military's incorporation of LGBTQIA and BLM imagery could be seen as an effort to foster inclusivity and reflect the diversity of the society it serves, rather than a politicization of the institution.
- The shift in military values and priorities may reflect an evolving society and the need to adapt to new challenges and norms, rather than a betrayal of traditional values.
- Emphasizing diverse rights does not necessarily overshadow hard work and fair treatment but can be an extension of those values to ensure all service members are treated equitably.
- The Rules of Engagement are often designed to minimize collateral damage and protect non-combatants, which can be seen as aligning with American values and strategic interests.
- The critique of non-engagement strategies may overlook the complexity of modern warfare where winning hearts and minds can be as crucial as military victories.
- The prolonged conflict in Afghanistan can be attributed to a variety of strategic, political, and humanitarian considerations, not solely financial or personal gain.
- The strategic benefit of the Iraq War is debated, with some arguing that removing Saddam Hussein did eliminate a tyrannical regime and could have led to a better outcome with different post-war strategies.
- The increased influence of Iran in Iraq post-intervention is a complex issue that involves regional dynamics and is not solely the result ...
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The speaker's personal life, including his marriage, family, and the decision to transition to a rural, self-sufficient lifestyle after retiring from the military
Dale Stark speaks openly about his personal journey from a military career to ranch life, highlighting the influence of his family's needs and the desire to create a nurturing environment for his children. His transition to rural living, homeschooling, and incorporating family values into daily life reflects a significant shift in priorities after retirement.
The challenges the speaker's family faced due to the frequent relocations and demands of his military career, and the decision to prioritize his children's wellbeing
The Starks endured many obstacles associated with military life. Dale Stark describes the negative impact of frequent moves and separations on his eldest daughter, which took a toll her well-being—altering her from a cheerful child to one who was reserved and lashed out. Observing this downward shift in his daughter's behavior, Stark and his wife decided that stability was crucial. They sought to establish a consistent and grounded lifestyle for the betterment of their family as a whole.
To prioritize their family correctly, Stark hints at a lifestyle change that led them to a rural, self-sufficient life. Details about transitioning to ranching emerged as Stark discusses his current life after military service. On his 58-acre property, he raises Angus, grass-fed, grass-finished beef, and engages in a level of farming that establishes a strong connection with the land and food production. Although they remain connected to the power grid and visit grocery stores, they produce the majority of the food they consume on their farm, facilitating a clear transition to agrarian living.
The speaker's decision to pursue a rural, self-sufficient lifestyle as a rancher and the benefits it has brought to his family
Transitioning from a stressful military career to a more tranquil rural lifestyle, Dale Stark remarks on the advantages this change has brought. The revitalization of an old dairy farm into a functional cattle ranch has not only been a meaningful endeavor but has also reinforced the family's connection to nature and each other. This new lifestyle enables them to focus on their core values and gives their children a more enriching environment. Stark shares his satisfaction with ranch life, particularly the rewards of seeing the birth of a calf and the fulfillment that comes with feeding his family the meat they've raised and processed themselves.
The speaker's commitment to homeschooling his children and the educational opportunities he and his wife have created for them
Dale Stark and his wife have embraced homeschooling for their children. It's a pathway that allows them to tailor their children's education and establishes a close-knit community with fellow homeschoolers who share similar values. Stark notes the modernity in homeschooling, as many families participate and support one another. This contemporary approach to education has proven successful for the Starks, as evidenced by their children's academic achievements, including standardized test scores that surpass expectations.
Stark mentions the involvement of his own and other famili ...
Here’s what you’ll find in our full summary
The speaker's personal life, including his marriage, family, and the decision to transition to a rural, self-sufficient lifestyle after retiring from the military
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Counterarguments
- While Dale Stark's transition to a rural lifestyle may have been beneficial for his family, it's important to recognize that such a move is not feasible for everyone, as it requires significant resources and may not align with other families' values or needs.
- The decision to homeschool can be advantageous, but it may also limit children's exposure to diverse perspectives and socialization opportunities that traditional schools offer.
- Prioritizing stability for children is important, but frequent relocations, as experienced in military families, can also provide valuable life experiences, such as adaptability and cultural awareness.
- The self-sufficient lifestyle described may romanticize rural living without acknowledging the hard work, unpredictability, and potential isolation associated with it.
- The community approach to homeschooling is innovative, but it may not have the same level of accountability and standardized educational outcomes as public or private schooling systems.
- While the Stark family's educational approach includes practical skills, it's important to ensure that children also receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for a variety of futur ...
Actionables
- You can explore a lifestyle shift by starting a small garden to connect with nature and teach your children about self-sufficiency. Begin with easy-to-grow plants and use the experience to educate your kids on where food comes from, the importance of caring for the environment, and the basics of nutrition.
- Create a family learning project where each member teaches the others about a unique skill or interest they have. This could be anything from baking, basic car maintenance, to stargazing. It encourages shared learning experiences and helps to identify each family member's teaching strengths and interests.
- Consider setting up a monthly ' ...
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1-Page Summary- The speaker's military career as an A-10 pilot, including his training, combat experiences, and the capabilities of the A-10 aircraft
- The speaker's transition to the MQ-9 drone program and the challenges and differences he faced in that role
- The speaker's reflections on the state of the military and the country, including his concerns about the direction of the military's leadership and values, and his broader observations about the conflicts in Afghanistan and the geopolitical landscape
- The speaker's personal life, including his marriage, family, and the decision to transition to a rural, self-sufficient lifestyle after retiring from the military
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