In this week’s episode, we learn the vivid details of the events leading up to the courage, love, and self-sacrifice made by Medal of Honor recipient, Corporal Jason L. Dunham of Kilo Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines in Karabilah, Iraq. What a leader by example Jason was – to the point of throwing himself onto a grenade in an effort to save his comrades. Marcus’ guests, David Kniess (Veteran & Producer) and Lieutenant Colonel Trent Gibson (Dunham’s Company Commander), not only bring Jason’s story to life, but discuss the compelling and engaging upcoming documentary – The Gift. The Gift documentary is a personal project for David, who had a chance to meet with Corporal Dunham. That chance meeting led to lifelong friendships with the Dunham family and a core group of Marines from Kilo Company. David is actively involved in the Veteran community and has volunteered his time, producing content for Veteran Organizations such as Beteran, Stop Soldier Suicide, John Preston Music, and The Boot Campaign. David also served in the United States Navy aboard the USS Normandy (CG-60), a guided missile cruiser.
In this episode you will hear:
- Having the Dunham’s in my life has enriched my life.
- It’s not just about Jason; it’s about everything that has affected all of you all those years.
- Our generation and the younger generation is standing up and saying, “I’m not gonna wait for anyone. I’m gonna jump out there and teach guys how to surf, how to sing with dogs, start a podcast, and we’re talking about our shit.
- [With regard to this film], all I care about is what Marines, Sailors, Airmen and Soldiers think.
- For veterans who are still struggling, I want them to watch it and say “if these kid can do it, maybe I can do it too.”
- I want civilians to know what it’s like for young men & women to go to war.
- [Marcus] If somebody threw one of those “Thank you for service” lines at you – even if you haven’t done something – it’s coming…”
- I believe in 3 things as a Marine. I believe in leadership by example; I believe in self-sacrifice for the greater good; and one man can make a difference.
- Jason had the leadership qualities to lead a rifle squad of American sons.
- Dunham was a big boy. He’s not someone I would choose to grapple with.
- Any leader who inspires his subordinates through personal example, to then return the favor and take care of him – that’s a true leader.
- Jason took off his Kevlar helmet, placed in on the grenade, and then laid down on it.
- Knowing what I know of him now, he loved his marines so much. He didn’t just take care of them, he practiced taking care of them. Who f*cking practices covering a live grenade with their helmet?
