Joint Operations

Join Matthew Benko and Shane Smith as they share their experiences as C-130 Crew members in the Marine Corps and Air Force. In this engaging conversation, they delve into the unique aspects of their training, the diverse missions they undertake, and the camaraderie that defines their roles. The discussion covers the cultural experiences gained, the pursuit of better lives for their families, and the differences between Marine Corps and Air Force C-130 operations. Shane Smith highlights the development of the Harvest Hawk, a modified C-130 for close air support, created in collaboration with Skunk Works at Lockheed Martin. He recounts his combat experiences flying the Harvest Hawk and the Marine Corps' initiative to develop their own platform.Matthew and Shane also discuss the importance of embracing discomfort and change, the necessity of discipline and determination, and the role of core values in overcoming challenges. They conclude with reflections on the current state of the world and the need for strong leaders to guide us into a better future. Tune in for insights into C-130 aviation and the enduring spirit of service members. Chapters00:00- Introduction and Background02:52- Training Paths and Roles of C-130 Loadmasters11:34- The Versatility of C-130 Operations in the Marine Corps15:31- Experiencing Different Cultures Through Military Deployments29:03- Introduction to the Harvest Hawk31:30- Success in Combat36:18- Adaptability of the C-13043:45- The Tip of the Spear58:50- Overcoming Challenges01:01:39- The Role of Discipline and Determination01:04:31- Failure as a Stepping Stone to Success01:07:23- The Importance of Core Values01:09:12- Being Smart and Adapting to Change01:21:24- The Need for Strong Individuals to Lead01:27:55- Conclusion