So There I Was

Latest Episodes:

You Tight Like Onion Episode 65 Jul 27, 2023

Show notes

Onion shares gripping stories from his time as a Marine Fighter / Attack Pilot. He recounts a situation in Iraq where he witnessed the resourcefulness of Marines who called for an air strike in a very unconventional manner when they were surrounded by Iraqi tanks. Onion's most coincidental story involves helping Vapor (episode 62) who ejected from a Harrier without hydraulics and wound up navigating a minefield to reach friendly territory. He then completes the story that opens the show where he describes what is essentially, "waiting to die" in an inverted pull out close to the ground - bottoming out below 200 feet. The episode delves into the tight-knit Marine Corps aviation community and Onion's experiences during the Gulf War. He recalls flying night missions, learning how to use the F/A-18 D night attack to its fullest and facing intense AAA fire while marking targets. Onion reflects on the challenges of aging and how his sons remind him of his declining abilities. He expresses gratitude towards influential figures in his life. The episode concludes with lighthearted reflection on Marine Corps Officer Candidate School and appreciation for guest Onion's service. Won't you please go to Apple Podcasts and give us a positive review? Here's how!

You're Going To Have to Talk Me Out Episode 64 Jul 20, 2023

Show notes

This week's description is short and sweet. One-Eye joined us to talk about becoming a Marine and his career... punctuated by one of the most heroic acts ever performed in a helicopter. Nothing more to say. Don't miss this show!

Get the Money First Episode 63 Jul 13, 2023

Show notes

Lawman returns with an action-packed show. Get ready for intriguing stories, heartfelt tributes, and unforgettable moments. Lawman kicks off the show with a touching tribute to our friend and fellow pilot, Brian Shul, with reflections on their shared experiences. Then, he takes us on a crazy adventure with the 13th MEU, exploring vibrant cities like Hong Kong, Singapore, and Phuket. It wasn't good. . . but we set a record for about six potential show titles in under two minutes! Then, Lawman humorously ponders the whereabouts of his comrades on HMS Invincible; needless to say, hungover and naked is no way to brief a flgiht. The episode takes unexpected turns with stories from Phuket, Mexico, and Lawman's days as an Arizona State Trooper. From "Pimping Thai Whores" to "The Two Pretzels," Lawman's tales will keep you hooked and howling! Don't miss this thrilling and entertaining show.

Stay In the Ejection Envelope Episode 62 Jul 06, 2023

Show notes

This week Vapor Joins us to talk about his remarkable journey from flight school through his extraordinary career. From the Far East to Desert Storm and beyond, Vapor's stories will keep you hooked, blending humor, tragedy, and spine-chilling moments. Prepare to be transported as Vapor recounts his unbelievable experience; of ejecting from a crippled jet over enemy territory; catapulted back in time from 20th century attack pilot to 1st century foot soldier alone in the desert with the enemy he’d just been bombing close at hand. This episode is a thrilling ride that is longer than usual, but trust us, time will fly by. While you’re listening in the Apple Podcasts app, would you please give us a 5-star rating and write a review of the show? Also, please share this show to your Facebook page so others can discover the fun we’re having with these amazing guests! Thank you. This episode is made possible by our incredible sponsor, Hello Fresh. Plus, we're excited to announce a special show-swap mention with the Flight Safety Detectives Podcast this week. Tune in for an unforgettable adventure! https://youtube.com/live/Jig3kKN-3VI?feature=share Our raw recording session with Vapor!

Don't Ever Do That Again Episode 61 Jun 29, 2023

Show notes

Welcome to episode 61 of "So There I Was"! Get ready to be captivated by an extraordinary tale that starts with a group of Vietnam buddies, hunting pheasants and sharing stories on a family farm. Little did they know, these gatherings would ignite a passion in a young boy, propelling him to become a Marine helicopter pilot. But here's the twist - Doober already had a staggering 1000 hours of flight time before he even attended Officer Candidate School! His journey continued as a high school student, working alongside his father as a ground controller for heavy lift operations. The foundation was being laid for something truly remarkable. In flight school, Doober's extensive flight experience couldn't stay hidden for long. A daring move that shouldn't be repeated revealed his true skills, setting the stage for his entrance into the legendary Ugly Angels, HMH-362, and earning the callsign "Doober" along the way. But that was just the beginning. Doober's career took an unexpected turn as he found himself flying the President and Vice President in HMX-1, the prestigious Marine Helicopter Squadron responsible for such crucial duties. And when it seemed like the story had reached its climax, Doober made a life-altering decision. He retired from the Marine Corps as a Lieutenant Colonel and returned to the family farm, where his journey had all begun. Throughout his incredible journey, one person stood out as a guiding force - his dad. Prepare to be inspired as we delve deeper into Doober's extraordinary life. This episode of "So There I Was" is brought to you by Hello Fresh, America's #1 Meal Kit. Get ready to indulge in delicious, hassle-free cooking. Visit hellofresh.com/sothereiwas16 for an exclusive offer of 16 free meals and free shipping. Stay tuned for more details about Hello Fresh during the show! Doober & Dad in the simulator Dad & Doober Go in the Corps Doober in Front of Marine 1

White Horse Scotch & Vinegar Episode 60 Jun 22, 2023

Show notes

Lieutenant Colonel "Moose" Lutes, a Marine Helicopter, Fighter and Attack pilot with an incredible career spanning over 20 years joins the Fig & RePete to tell about his career spanning from the 50s through the mid 70s. Moose's journey began with an airplane ride to Memphis. He decided to take the Navy up on an offer of a plane ride because he thought he "probably wouldn't ever get to fly again." Little did he know, this would be the start of an amazing adventure that would take him to the Philippines, Japan, Hawaii, Vietnam, North Carolina, and even a daring rescue of stranded climbers on Mount Whitney. Moose's incredible career is highlighted by his bravery and skill as a pilot, earning him a Distinguished Flying Cross and 28 Air Medals. He is a true legend in the aviation community, and we are honored to have him share his experiences with us. Don't miss this unforgettable episode as we hear firsthand from Moose about his incredible adventures and the lessons he's learned along the way! https://rumble.com/v2rpzew-so-there-i-was-with-moose.html?mref=1af92d&mc=erjxj Video of our raw recording session. Audio podcast episode below.

I'll Get an A for Effort Episode 59 Jun 15, 2023

Show notes

Join hosts Fig and RePete for a fantastic interview with Blackhawk pilot, KO, as he takes us on a thrilling ride through his remarkable military career. From his enlistment in the Marine Corps to his deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan as an Army H-65 Blackhawk pilot, KO shares challenges and moments of camaraderie, and resilience throughout his service. With heart-pumping stories of intense and dangerous situations, emotional aspects of serving in a war zone, and hilarious moments, this week's episode is a must-listen. Get ready to laugh-out-loud and gain a deeper appreciation for the honor and service of this great American. https://rumble.com/embed/v2p2zh0/?pub=1af92d Our raw video recording session with KO Audio podcast player below.

The Hammer of God Episode 58 Jun 08, 2023

Show notes

In this interview with Navy Fighter pilot and Top Gun Instructor, Kemo, listeners are taken on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. Kemos energy is contagious as he shares his experiences of flying and training with the best of the best. He opens with this weeks ‘title story,’ a 1v1 Top Gun fight he won in spite of being in an inferior aircraft. Sadly, the theme of killing livestock continues this week when they found themselves late for a target time and pressing to make time on target doesn’t end so well for a bovine that happened to live too close to NAS Fallon. Later a tragic incident where his wingman, Bluto’s jet blew up next to him and a hydraulic failure that forced him to return to the boat with his RIO, Chunx. In retrospect, Kemo is glad he was ignorant of the extremis he was in. His time flying with the ‘Taco Guard’ ended by proving the adage, “If you’re not having fun, you’re doing it wrong!” Kemo's stories are funny and tragic. He describes, “a knife fight in a phone booth” which is eerily similar to the vertical spiral captured in TG-II Maverick. When he was still a young J-G he was surprised to learn he would fly the sortie with ‘CAG’ in his backseat, and verified the adage, ‘It’s better to be lucky than good!’ The show concludes with Kemo's description of the outtakes from ‘Speed & Angels’ which he’s grateful didn’t gain wider appeal whilst the statute of limitations hadn’t expired. Kemo's energy and storytelling make for an engaging and memorable show. Special thanks to Jordan Harbinger for the Podcast Swap with this show! https://rumble.com/embed/v2mdb98/?pub=1af92d

A Water Buffalo for Tam Ky Episode 57 Jun 01, 2023

Show notes

In this episode, A Water Buffalo for Tam Ky, Gunny returns to share more incredible tales: Gunny recounts a humorous, yet impactful incident involving a screwed up lieutenant and the practical joke / unusual method used to teach him a lesson. Hear about "One Eye's Last Mission," a literal blind flight that testifies to incredible bravery in combat. This week's title comes from the misadventures during an attempt to replace a water buffalo that was killed in a nearby village. Disaster was narrowly averted when a quick thinking Marine saved the day, but unfortunately, not the water buffalo. The unpredictable nature of a 1500 pound beast on board a helicopter, resulted in an important lesson about how to transport large animals! Hint - it isn't inside the chopper! Gunny also shares a chilling close call with a sabotaging grenade that was found in the nick of time and his chance encounter with John McCain, revealing a less-known side of the senator. Personal stories include his roommate's captivity in the "Hanoi Hilton," his decision to leave and ultimately return to Harvard, and the two distinctly different welcome-home encounters he received back in the USA. We close out talking about a heartwarming tradition of a 'Jarhead Breakfast' at Lou's Restaurant, Hanover, NH. A potent mix of courage, humor, and humanity, Gunny's narratives capture the essence of a Marine's life. Special Thanks to our sponsor, RobinsBirdBrainDesigns.com https://rumble.com/v2o0gjc-so-there-i-was-with-gunny.html?mref=1af92d&mc=erjxj Video of the recording session with "Gunny" available on our Rumble Channel

Beware the Duck Episode 56 May 25, 2023

Show notes

Gunny joins Fig and RePete for an extraordinary episode. An H-34 pilot and Vietnam veteran, Gunny comes out of the blocks at full throttle and doesn’t stop for the entire hour. Riveting stories will keep you on the edge of your seat. From intense combat moments to profound reflections, Gunny shares his firsthand experiences. From the very first tale of "That's My $#(@*# Rockets You Moron!" and the hilarious "He Wears His Wings Deep Inside" - Well, let’s just say you probably shouldn’t be driving while you listen to this without being prepared to pull over and catch your breath. Captivating anecdotes on engine failure, overloaded helicopters, and even a crazy encounter with communist monkeys. On Gunny's last day in Vietnam he had two forced landings… and was willing to ride in a truck vice be flown out - find out why! Don't miss this one! "Beware the Duck," is a rollercoaster of remarkable stories from this remarkable veteran. Special Thanks to Hello Fresh for sponsoring this show. Listen to get the link to get an amazing deal of 16 free meals and free shipping from America’s #1 Meal Kit. https://rumble.com/v2o0gjc-so-there-i-was-with-gunny.html?mref=1af92d&mc=erjxj Video of the recording session with "Gunny" available on our Rumble Channel

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