82nd Airborne in Iraq Tasked with TST Missions | Lance Strong | Ep. 325

Enlisting in the Army at 17 under the Delayed Entry Program, Lance began his military journey as an Airborne Infantryman, inspired by Band of Brothers. After completing training at Ft. Benning, he was assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division at Ft. Bragg and quickly deployed to Iraq in 2007. Integrated into a RSTA Squadron, he participated in high-intensity combat operations, including nightly raids and Hunter-Killer Team missions. On September 10, 2007, during a major operation targeting 19 high-value individuals, his convoy suffered a catastrophic accident, resulting in multiple casualties. Severely wounded, he underwent extensive medical treatment and a grueling 10-month recovery before being medically retired at just 20 years old. Transitioning to civilian life was challenging, but he became an advocate for veterans, working with high-profile figures, including Gov. Schwarzenegger, to push for veteran-friendly programs.