Episode 85: Green Beret Ryan Hendrickson's Journey from IED Injury to Landmine Removal

Join us on this episode of Veteran Led as we sit down with Ryan Hendrickson, a former Green Beret and author of Tip of the Spear. After surviving a near-fatal IED explosion in Afghanistan, Ryan returned to combat after 27 surgeries and earned the Silver Star. After retiring from military service, Ryan embarked on a new mission: clearing landmines in war-torn areas like Ukraine. Hear his inspiring journey from soldier to humanitarian, and learn how his organization, Tip of the Spear Landmine Removal, is making a difference. Don't miss this episode about resilience, leadership, and the drive to protect innocent lives.

Learn more about Tip of the Spear Landmine Removal and how you can support their efforts: landmineremoval.org

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@TipoftheSpearLandmineRemoval

0:00 - Ryan's reflection on not leaving anyone behind
0:21 - Introduction of Ryan Hendrickson
0:53 - Start of mission that changed Ryan's life
1:59 - Afghan forces reluctant to move forward
3:28 - Ryan steps on IED
5:11 - Immediate aftermath of IED explosion
8:23 - Team works to rescue Ryan
10:53 - Taliban closing in as team evacuates Ryan
12:43 - Doctor gives Ryan 10-15% chance of saving leg
14:24 - Decision to attempt experimental limb salvage
15:31 - Ryan cleared to redeploy to Afghanistan
17:03 - Sent to dangerous Panjwayi District
18:05 - Mission where Ryan earned Silver Star
19:22 - Clearing orchard on night mission
20:29 - Team encounters trip wire explosive device
23:02 - Decision to drop 500 lb bomb danger close
25:41 - Continuation of 18-hour firefight
33:09 - Mission to recover missing Afghan soldiers
34:27 - Apache helicopter gun run to cover recovery mission
35:52 - Reflection on not leaving anyone behind
36:20 - Decision to go to Ukraine after military service
39:39 - Training Ukrainians on landmine removal
39:54 - Starting Tip of the Spear nonprofit for landmine removal
40:06 - Ryan's ongoing work in Ukraine with Tip of the Spear
42:04 - How to support Tip of the Spear Landmine Removal
42:38 - After Action Review
44:06 - Importance of bringing team members into the mission
46:56 - Leading by fear as a toxic leadership trait

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Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only. It does not create an attorney-client relationship between the firm and the viewer and does not constitute legal advice. Legal advice must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case, and the content of this video is not a substitute for legal counsel.