The Untold Story of Special Forces and the Iraqi Kurdish Resistance | Mark Grdovic

This conversation delves into the experiences of Mark Grdovic, a member of the 10th Special Forces Group, during the Iraq War, particularly focusing on their operations with Kurdish forces. It covers the planning, execution, and challenges faced during the invasion, including the establishment of relationships with local forces, the importance of communication, and the dynamics of military strategy in a complex environment.

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00:00 Introduction to Special Forces and the Kurdish Resistance
07:55 Planning for the Invasion of Iraq
11:51 Establishing Relationships with Kurdish Forces
16:06 Challenges of Communication and Coordination
23:54 Infiltration and Initial Operations
27:51 Operation Viking Hammer: The Assault Begins
31:57 The Role of Air Support and Tactical Decisions
35:56 Engagements with Enemy Forces
39:54 The Dynamics of Kurdish Politics and Warfare
43:56 The Aftermath of the Initial Assault
01:07:21 The Kurdish Liberation and the Battle of Halabja
01:10:07 Iran's Strategic Alliances and the Role of Terrorists
01:11:32 Missed Opportunities: The Zarqawi Connection
01:12:51 Challenges with Coalition Forces and Coordination
01:17:04 The Complexities of Surrender and Iraqi Army Dynamics
01:28:02 Restoring Order: The Role of Basic Services
01:31:57 The Transition from Occupation to Governance
01:38:33 Lessons Learned and Reflections on the Operation