The One Woman The Taliban Feared Most "The Angel of Death" | Allison Black

Colonel Allison Black enlisted in the United States Air Force in1992 and served as a SERE (survival, evasion, resistance, & escape) specialist for over 6 years. Allison earned her undergraduate degree from Wayland Baptist University and was commissioned in 1998. She served the next 24 years of her career in USSOCOM & Air Force Special Operations (AFSOC).
She has flown a total of over 3400 hours with 2000 combat hours in the AC-130H Spectre Gunship & U-28A Draco. In 2001, Allison deployed in support of TF Dagger as the initial response to the attacks on September 11th, earning the moniker “Angel of Death” for the decisive battlefield effects of the AC-130 crew.
Allison has commanded at all levels of leadership and culminated her career as the Commander of the 1st Special Operation Wing, Hurlburt Field, Florida, retiring as a United States Air Force Colonel with a distinguished 32-year military career.
Interview recorded on November 8, 2024
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Video Credits:
Interviewer - Tom Gibbs
Director of Photography - Alexey Brazhnikov
Editor - Daniel Taksas

[@americanveteranscenter]

HISTORY LOVERS - before you comment, be sure to subscribe to this KZbin channel and ring the notification bell so you never miss a future upload!

[@kurtvanluven9351]

They are afraid if they are killed by a woman, they do not get the Jihad bonus in the afterlife.

[@Dirk_T_Sanch3z]

No

[@Anime2077yt]

Nope

[@MrAlcline]

Fail forward?? She should run for congress..😂😂

[@CCaraway]

I read and listen to a lot of GWOT books and I've heard that story retold by a couple of authors. It's great to finally put a face to General A.R. Dostrums Angel of Death!! Great video!! Happy New Year 2025!!

[@tribecallharris7668]

Hello Allison you saved my life in Afghanistan. I deployed with 3rd in 8th marines 2010. My command talked to you everyday on the ground. I met you at the dfac that year because you recognized my voice at the end of our deployment you are a true angel and my unit only to about 2 fatalities and a not a ton of casualties under ya watch.

[@sarahb2004]

Omg these comments 😭 I love to see so many people who have directly interacted with her. give her all the awards!!

[@mnm291]

agree awsome interviewer

[@jamiebriggs1249]

Angel Hero

[@jasonbell5129]

Thats so bad ass you must of have got chills watching this meeting the person that was responsible for saving your life. Did you know it was a woman? How did you find out? Just curious I think that’s pretty awesome.

[@tribecallharris7668]

@jasonbell5129 passed chills here i am 13 years later waking my wife up out her sleep saying " this the woman from Afghanistan" in 35 year old man tears. I was a Comm guy in a infantry unit. So I called airstrip myself and higher rankings. When our tour was coming to an end we were debriefing and handing over our gear to another unit. So we were pulled out of the combat zone. I went to the chow hall and was literally having a convo with my peers and she literally turned around and said hey I know u. I was like how seeing that she was a woman officer in the air force. She said you are reaper black. Can't lie im like sh1t I'm in trouble she said I'm your overwatch and immediately I hugged her and thanked her.this was Afghanistan 2009-2010. My unit was 3/8 or 26th MEU.

[@MaceTrek]

My last deployment to Afghanistan I got to share the skies with her. I was on an ISR aircraft and had been giving Air Warden duties by the JTAC, when she checked into the airspace, all the guys on my plane blew up the internal comms.. we sharing the airspace with a legend tonight! And of course they relayed the stories about her to me. It’s great to hear it from the source!

[@TimothyClark-yr6qp]

Thank you for your service.

[@vincep7723]

God Bless This Lady!

[@samluke8121]

All that for the Taliban to retake total power.

[@deanpesci8484]

Are you kidding me??? WOW!

[@ericevans9507]

What was her official call sign? Just curious as we had a female AC130 pilot on over watch with us every night in the second battle of Fallujah. Call sign Basher. Always slept well knowing she was up there circling us every night.

[@ironmyno]

To call your enemy on a walkie, talkie. And ridicule them while you are killing them, and then let them hear the woman who's doing it... That is some of the most cold blooded s*** talk i've ever heard in my life. Bravo Colonel one of the best stories to come out of Afghanistan..

[@alaster67]

Objective achieved. Psychological warfare; excellently played

[@cypher6938]

Ground truth.

[@adohmnail6445]

Beautiful dogs 🐕

[@robertgutierrez8313]

And she is paying for it in her nightmares.

[@isaiahmarquez9717]

@@robertgutierrez8313Nah. She’s good.

[@kassandralevingston9874]

“Failure sucks. But I don’t know how to quit.” Words to live by. 😊

[@mohawkdriver4155]

You have to hate to fail.

[@SAGAWISIW30]

But afterb29 years they all quit.. better than the russians and British long before. 17 century🎉

[@joewizuber415]

defintely bumper sticker

[@scottfleck2223]

The first time I met Col. Black two years ago, she was serving Thanksgiving turkey to me and all the young airmen at the DFAC. Taking care of her people at the lowest level even after a long and illustrious career speaks volumes.

[@Apeiron242]

My dad was the architect of the chow hall at incirlik.

[@Sadweewee]

Higher ups don’t volunteer for those things. Those are details they’re ordered to do.

[@Marynicole830]

@@Sadweewee many higher ups do volunteer for those things. My husband’s captain would do things like this and hang out 1 on one with many of those under him. Not the highest rank but I doubt that attitude went away after his promotion if it lasted till he was captain. (Army)

[@Sadweewee]

@@Marynicole830 captain isnt a higher up. thats a given rank. theyre basically the SPC of the officer world.

[@tommydiquasi1424]

@@Marynicole830don’t bother with the Sadwee person…he/she is the type that always knows more than you and will argue no matter what you say.

[@Brineytoes]

I am female pilot, still holding my license at 82. I married a USAF officer, and we raised three sons, two of whom became Army veterans. I was not allowed to do what she did 20 years later. But I am a woman who is so proud of those who broke through the barriers and showed the world who we really are. We can fight an enemy and hold a child in the other arm. Your story just kept hammering your achievement, right through the General telling Afghan women of your example, making my cheeks wet. I cackled out loud over the General telling the enemy they were being killed by an American woman! GREAT STORY! I am proud of American women for all that they do to help make this country safe and great! Thank you, Col. Black, for showing the world how well we contribute, and for never giving up, and leading the way, by setting a breathtaking incredible example for others to emulate. Brava! Thank you for showing the way by becoming the heroine you are. I am humbled.

[@ConsciousConversations]

❤

[@leslienold7719]

Thank you for paving the way for women! I am the daughter of a Career Army soldier who fought in WWII Korea the duration & Vietnam. He retired out as an NCO. My brother was Career Army as a Tank Commander who served in several 'little' scraps for the US, then went to Iraq & Afghanistan. I was born after Dad retired, and my brother is 17 years older than I am. I was not allowed to serve because of a medical flaw, so I became a FireFighter & served on US Soil. I am so thankful for the women who blazed these trails for us.

[@ronaldfeuerstein435]

Thank you for your service 🙏

[@rokitman5753]

To cool hun ❤

[@ronaldfeuerstein435]

@rokitman5753 Thank you..

[@wjpreslar]

There is NOTHING more respectable than an enlisted airman who advances any commissioned officer's rank. Making it from an enlisted person to full bird Colonel is an accomplishment that few will ever experience. Col. Black is an inspiration.

[@canadiankrispybacon]

Promote within from the floor….unfortunately we’re seeing less and less of this these days….the life experience, training and familiarization is a wealth of knowledge that is hard to put a price on….There a plethora of enlisted service men and women that would make very capable Officers, Leaders…. that would love to advance themselves, for some reason, the upper Brass doesn’t seem to agree and would rather pluck out some green bean fresh outta College, put them through a few weeks of training and start sending them into the felid in charge of group of hardened hardcore individuals who are highly trained, years of service and deployments….not a great working recipe imho.

[@carlospar3727]

She's a Mustang and the USAF doesn't like that concept. It plays well in public relations, but the AF doesn't like for enlisted to make it to the commissioned ranks and they CERTAINLY don't want e-men to make it to the cockpit.

[@Deutscher_Döner_Memes]

they all had no business to be in Afghanistan in the first place it was the long noses who started this

[@kellykwongali]

Yes she is.

[@mattb6646]

It's difficult to do just by the numbers. There's only so many officer positions to fill

[@Therapisity]

As a woman who joined the military in 1992 she paved the way. Thank you.

[@SifuFreeGamer1417]

For what? 😅😅

[@itsUncleMonK]

@@SifuFreeGamer1417gamers don’t belong here. Go play Fortnite.

[@lizzieb6311]

@@SifuFreeGamer1417 For people like you to stay in bed in your pajamas all day and enjoy your safe space.

[@audrei679]

women served in the world wars, theyre just forgotten and erased

[@dorothysimpson7040]

The women who entered into aviation in 1976 paved the way. There were a handful of women who operated before then.

[@brettinnj]

You can hear the great amount of pride in her voice. One of the best interviews I have heard. Thank you, Colonel Allison Black, for the story and your service.

[@carlbruschnigjr1757]

She starts talking about learning new things and she sounds like a giggly teenage girl. When she talks about doing the job, you hear the pride in her voice.

[@SpaceRanger187]

right, what a badazz

[@spoolindsm119]

Absolutely 💯 she's extremely proud of what she accomplished, for being able to serve her country with honor, and to provide support to her fellow service men and women on the ground

[@Deutscher_Döner_Memes]

they all had no business to be in Afghanistan in the first place it was the long noses who started this

[@SAGAWISIW30]

What are they doing there😂

[@kimberlym-67]

She still talks like she's the teenager so engaged and excited.❤

[@janetpartyka5968]

She sounds like a no nonsense colonel.

[@pattygrant7858]

Exactly!!!!

[@kimberlym-67]

@@janetpartyka5968 That too but you can't deny her enthusiasm.

[@juliusduvell4269]

I picked up on that energy immediately. Great human, awesome American!

[@fredaguirre-i3n]

I was stationed with her at Eielson AFB, Alaska. We were assigned to Arctic Survival training School during the 1990's. She was a survival instructor, teaching aircrews how to survive in a cold-weather environment.

[@TheBinaryHappiness]

how many goatherders you got to kill? when is your deployment to u-crane?

[@Michael-r9x7h]

I lived on base there as a 4 year old in 1972.

[@ShiverPlumbingTN]

Wow

[@TheBunky2008]

I mean, is there anything she can't do ? So much respect and admiration. 🎉

[@mattheweagle223]

What a bad ass. I wish she had ahold of me when she was about 28 lol

[@michaelwhitewolf10]

She saved me and my men more than once In Afghanistan! We were special forces and operated mostly at night and would go after Talaban any where we got reports that gave us there locations and a lot of times the only air support we had was these c130 gun ships and they had lots of firepower and at times when we ended up fighting to many talaban they would stay on station and support us some times closeup and never hit any of us with there pinpoint accuracy!SoI Want To Say Thank You Because I would Not be here now without them! These are very special to me!😊❤❤

[@MajorMac621]

You’re lying. You would not say special forces. You’d say SF and then what unit you was in. But you didn’t because anyone reading it could have verified it. I think you’re bullshitting buddy. If you are then shame on you. Walter Mitty

[@mmuzzwell3654]

@@MajorMac621 Seems suspect also that he can spell quite well.

[@cherylfauth9543]

​@@MajorMac621Wow! You are certainly a know-it-all.

[@cherylfauth9543]

​@@mmuzzwell3654That doesn't necessarily mean anything.

[@briangrady367]

Col. Black is a gunship legend and it was a pleasure to serve with her in the 16 Special Operations Squadron.

[@simonsmith1974]

Nightstalkers??

[@briangrady367]

@ Spectre.

[@margaretlouiseable]

I am the daughter of an Air Force pilot and Bird Colonel. This made me cry. What an amazing woman! As a 70 year old southern lady I can't even imagine her guts and how much fun it must have been. God bless America.

[@jesscast5122]

What Amazing woman? I D I OT S is better. The AFGAS NEVER did anything to us. it was the SAUDIS who attacked on 911. and WE attacked the AFGAS for NO REASON. They just DEFENDED themselves....... READ my LONG Comments Above for the Details. and AFTER 20 years of WAR, and TRILLION$$$$ Wasted, WE ACCOMPLISHED NOTHING!! .....again....... SO, WHAT are you crying about?? Nothing to be proud of!!.........

[@cspruitt3190]

​@@philippesails4973Every knee shall bow and every tongue that Jesus Christ is Lord. Don't do it on your way to Hell.

[@FXMAN66]

@@philippesails4973oh get over yourself and grow tf up.

[@bolwinklemoose1999]

​@@philippesails4973 'indoctrinated" Not only did you mispell it, I don't think you even know what it means.

[@mnm291]

She's fearless.

[@RevIreland]

One of the best interviews I have ever seen. She can paint a picture with her words and transport you straight there. Thank you for your service.

[@user-SahmJuanElse]

Her job is painting word pictures. She did an excellent job.

[@sarah20025]

@@user-SahmJuanElse Did your Parrot write that?

[@dtaylor10chuckufarle]

💯%

[@spandel100]

When is the movie coming out?Would love to see that.

[@SnafuBob]

@@user-SahmJuanElse Derp.

[@joshuapatrick682]

The fact that she didn’t keep the AK that was meant only for her but gave it as a memorial for the unit says a lot about her. Thank you for your service!

[@1Buckluck]

Her excitement when she talks about the Gunship tells me all I need to know!!! What a badass!!!! Thank you!!!

[@OnGrade]

@@roro1412 : Just like when more than 3K people were killed when the twin towers were hit right?

[@sarah20025]

@@roro1412 They FA and FO

[@anarchistangler]

Good for her. Imagine meeting her as her enemies did.

[@littlebigfish9205]

@@roro1412 better than a coward commenting on youtube away from the frontlines...

[@tdehnulleinsfunf7746]

Or potentially a civilian or a kid living in a compound?

[@maltomilto]

As an american man with a retired army colonel mother this makes me emotional and unbelievably proud..

[@Rhonda-x3x]

I had the exact opposite reaction. Watching women be turned into men is disgusting.

[@JoeJohnson-i9d]

They let women hold ranks that high 😂😂

[@Jasper118]

@@JoeJohnson-i9dthe KZbin commenter trying to talk trash to a decorated combat tested pilot. You really are delusional haha

[@fishhuntadventure]

As an American civilian man with civilian parents this story made me emotional and proud.

[@RealTanzania]

All could go away if you people could stay in your home country and leave other country alone... thousands mile away ..... what threatening you?

[@rvnmedic1968]

I was an E.R. medic at Tan Son Nhut AB, Saigon, from Jul 68 -July 69. Worked six days a week, 14 hours each night shift. One night when I was off duty, I was sitting on the steps of our barracks sucking down a beer and then I saw it: a good size aircraft pointing a search light down on the ground about 10 miles away. The next thing was ground fire directed at the plane. Poof, the search light went out and what looked like a solid rain of fire from the tracers blasted the enemy position (V.C.). That was my AC-130 introduction and it was unreal. Those aircrews put their lives on the line for those missions. Col Black is an incredible person, a super credit to the AFSOC and our country. I did 35 years in the USAF and offer her a salute. Much respect for your service! Cheers, Bob Powell, CMSgt (USAF Ret.)

[@mwhite7712]

Welcome home, Chief Master Sargent.

[@dothraki7596]

Thank you for your devoted service. 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸❣️ We are living in a different world now.

[@roxannasonora3275]

Thank you for your service ❤

[@badwizard1312]

They do put their lives on the line. We called them Spectre gun ships. At Ubon, after the Vietnam was supposed to be over we were still bombing the Ho Chi Minh trail. A 130 got shot down. It was a training crew so it was double. One guy survived but 17 others were killed. I remember after fifty years because I knew most of those guys. One was a close friend. War is war. The other guy is trying to kill you. You’re in trouble the moment you land in country. Heroes for sure.

[@beverlyhollenbeck3406]

I’m female and a pilot, grounded due to illness. My uncles all served in WWII and some in Korea. I wanted to go in the USAF like my dad, brother, and most of the uncles, but mom talked/cried/screamed and convinced me otherwise. Not at all certain I could ever, with any amount of training, do what you did. I am in awe. If you’ve produced a book, I’ll find it. If you haven’t, why the hell not??? Thank you for your service, and for showing what the right woman can do!

[@demistrong6859]

That is one incredible story! As a veteran of the South African Army, and as a woman who went through much of the same struggles for acceptance as a soldier and a team member myself, this story strikes a chord. Well done, Colonel Black - you are a role model for women, a true heroine and a credit to your country. I salute you.

[@seraphim2525]

Had the honor and pleasure of getting to fly with Colonel Black when I was a young Aerial Gunner at the 16th SOS back when it was at Hurlburt Field (“…if you ain’t Spectre…”😉)-she is as cool as you think she is AND an all-around outstanding and kind human being…awesome to see her telling her story🤗

[@danielforgedragon3446]

My dad was a Crew cheif on a Specter at Hurlburt till 89 went to Grenada and Panama, then Maintenance Instructor till 91. I still have the Ghost Rider LiscTag on my shop wall.

[@danielforgedragon3446]

And as far as Col. Black, I got to meet her when my Brother was the Range Supervisor at Eglin. And yes, she really is cooler than us.

[@TheBinaryHappiness]

how many goatherders you got to kill? when is your deployment to u-crane?

[@nancym5341]

Nice to hear!! I’m very proud of her and all of you

[@alexvanzant1748]

I think you meant Spooky.

[@charlestarver2744]

When I was deployed I didn't no it until later that my unit and a couple of others owe this woman our lives it was amazing what she could do. Her and the A10 pilots have saved thousands of our soldiers lives

[@bugwild1544]

You was all cowards every time the enemy had you pinned you called in an air Strike

[@charlestarver2744]

@bugwild1544 if u say so

[@bugwild1544]

@@charlestarver2744 nearly every video is like that i thord you guys where warriors you had all new weapons vs guys with old ak47 and you always say to one another how great you guys where you are cowards and you Lost

[@sparklight0964]

@@bugwild1544Are you mad because the US used fancy weapons and beat you?

[@bugwild1544]

@@sparklight0964 if usa was my enemy the worst thing there could happen was if they did not go to war usa have ruined themselves they are 34 trillions in dept they destroy themselves fine without My help look ad there middle class ruined in Pieces those Wars should never been started Iraq was one big lie they always Talk about how good they are they lost both Wars had 20 years to win think research things before you talk the enemies the usa have are happy that usa have done what they have done

[@jeffalvich9434]

My wife and myself both worked at Hughes Aircraft Company, who designed and built much of the avionic systems for this aircraft. It puts a small smile on our faces when we hear our personnel speaking proudly of their needed skills and decision-making command, which saved lives and allowed them to return home. Thank you.

[@sandy_sd10]

I built MRAPS buffalo's. I love watching these.

[@duanepierson4375]

I worked at Sikorsky for 45 years, I always get a thrill when I see an aircraft that my team and I laid hands on do Its Thing!

[@KiwikimNZ]

You part of it too ❤

[@lawrenceleggett9534]

My dad worked Pratt&Whitney test area 40 years and will always remember him saying "we never lost a engine in the air ". It's a Team Mission, WE need to stop them dividing 🇺🇸.

[@jeffalvich9434]

@KiwikimNZ Thankyou

[@cmdrcorvuscoraxnevermore3354]

What an amazing interview. In the 90s, I worked for Lockheed Aeronautical Services in Ontario, CA on the AC-130H SOFI Update Program. I was the engineer responsible for the integration of an updated targeting HUD. The engineering team got to visit Hurlburt Field. We met many of the Spectre flightcrews. Oh man, those guys could put away beers. The Lockheed team each received an AC-130H challenge coin, what an honor. Col. Black's interview gave me goose bumps. To Col. Black and to all the men and women who are and have flown all versions of the "Fabulous Four-Engine Fighter", thank you for your valor, courage, dedication, and service. God bless you all. I'm proud to have contributed a very tiny bit to the engineering history of the AC-130H.

[@smal1393]

Thank you for your service! Amazing woman, amazing patriot. My son spent 8-1/2 years as a SOF officer before an IED finished his military career. More than once he called in an AC-130H to save his men and himself. He is forever grateful. Best wishes.

[@Davethreshold]

Thank you for raising one HELL of a Son! ❤

[@smal1393]

@@Davethreshold Bless you for that comment SIR. In an era where the military, LEO's, and first responders are vilified, disrespected, scorned, defunded and cursed, you have no idea what that response means to our family.

[@SonOfaSonOfaMason]

You have my gratitude for your son and utmost respect and gratitude for him.

[@skippylanoue966]

So sorry for your loss, your son was a brave man, as are any who choose to be in harm's way 🙏

[@Brycenwhorton]

Your son is heck of a Hero!! My dad is a Iraq vet '03

[@oldesertguy9616]

It does my heart good to hear someone so dedicated and enthusiastic about their job.

[@Themix274]

enthusiastic thinking how she got to kill hundreds of fish in a barrel. What a 'warrior'

[@harrismagnum04]

@@Themix274 100%

[@TheSystematicPsycho]

Oh I forgot she was supposed to go fight them with her hands and the only important job in the military are the people who fight with their hands 😂​@@Themix274

[@oldesertguy9616]

@@Themix274 you mean like the terrorists that rammed planes into civilian buildings full of innocent people? At least these guys had guns.

[@adiceak7330]

​@@Themix274 exactly, how does the taliban know the pilot is a female in the ac130. The aircraft itself is called angel of death, not the pilot. Bunch of bs.

[@lynnell5993]

I'm so proud of you. You did what I wasn't allowed to do as a female when I tried to sign up when I graduated high school in 74. Every military branch said I would only be given a desk job. I wanted to follow my father as a fighter pilot. He was a WW2 P47 pilot. So instead I got my FAA airman's license and went into aviation for life. Thank you for the kick ass job that you did. When I heard your story, I felt my mission had finally been completed. Well done, AOD.

[@crackersmom2679]

Right there with you! Air Force recruiters came to our high school in '68. Went through everyone's records, met with us individually. I was told they were impressed with my test results both academic and physical, wanted to sign me up. Needed my parents signed permission since I wasn't 18 yet. Went home, talked to my parents, had the permission paperwork in my hand. My dad asked what I was expecting from joining. I told him I wanted combat duty. He told me before he would sign the paperwork I should ask the recruiter if that was possible. Next time recruiter showed up I asked him if there was any chance I would get to see actual combat. He told me no, not really. I, being a female, would probably be a clerk, a typist, a desk jockey something like that or maps, but I would not be considered for combat duty. But I could get a college degree in whatever field I might want, they could help with that. I got up and walked away. I salute this Vet! I'm proud and glad that you got to serve the way you wanted to! Thank you sincerely for your service!

[@JohnDoe-b2u9i]

I bet you are really 20yo dude fishing some thumbs.

[@elizabethl9886]

@@JohnDoe-b2u9i Troll

[@Cab520]

@@HalleluYAH-b5dthank you GOD. I had same experience

[@Cab520]

The first time I saw a marine woman pilot,I cried and hugged her. Then I saw the wings on the group of women. Finely,the dreams of young women possible.

[@RealWoutLies]

Born in 62, there was no incentive to join and was never encouraged to. Watched 9/11 go down after night shift in the ER. When it all went down, I tried to join up, but was one year too old. I’ve always felt I’m not doing what I’m supposed to do. At 62, I’m getting my pilot’s license. I think that’s what I was supposed to do. Fly. Wish I could have experienced serving with a person like this and made a carrier of flying. Thanks Col. Black. You’re awesome!

[@jonnohz1]

My Granddaughter is just finishing HS this year, is a bit overwhelmed and thought wandering trying to find her path. I sent her this video of this Amazing woman, amazing Patriot. Thank you Grandfather, USA Army veteran

[@KidtheBoilermaker]

I’m sure your grand daughter will recognize your struggles. I know it took me awhile until my granddaddy ever told me about his days in the service let alone me asking him only later in life. Thank you for your service sir, keep sending her stuff; us grandchildren secretly love it 😉

[@Cab520]

@@jonnohz1 what a grandfather!, believes his granddaughter can do anything . Great

[@andrewwebb-trezzi2422]

Clearly an incredibly talented and intelligent lady. She saved a lot of lives and we should all be proud that such women exist.

[@alanhelton]

Person. Why do we constantly bring up man or woman. Do we constantly want to perpetuate the cycle…?

[@jimmyz2098]

@@alanhelton Are you for real? Get over yourself, and grow up.

[@dgordon130]

@@alanhelton Alan, from what I can tell, this person is a lady. And the fact she is so is important to the story as shared in the ending minutes of the interview. She is everything she wanted to be, a professional, expert and respected at her job and frankly an incredible person indeed. HUGE respect to her.

[@PeriluneThePierrot]

​@@alanhelton if this comment was rewritten with the words man/men instead of woman/women there wouldnt be anything wrong with it and iv seen comments on the channel that look almost the same as this one just sub in man/men for woman/women. it doesnt have to do with the gender and i dont think the original poster meant anything by it either :p

[@Jimmythefish577]

So she did all that stuff single handed? I thought the AC-130 was crewed by multiple people? Did she fly it and fight it all on her own?

[@jeffk1482]

The colonel’s storytelling is SPELLBINDING. I could listen to her all day, any day.

[@SandyBarbee]

Girl !!! I'm seldom at a loss for Words !! I'm SO GLAD that I clicked on this !! I'd never heard anything about It ! So Proud of You and what You've accomplished !!

[@xvexxdx5848]

Fail forward and never quit. This is the true recipe for success. What an incredible inspiration. Thank you!

[@gringopaul3423]

Reading the comments, I have nothing new. But I still wanted to add my voice to the respect, admiration and gratitude expressed on this page. What an inspiration! Thank you, Colonel Black.

[@TeamBailey1]

DITTO!

[@cvbluegrasspatriot9157]

I got set back in the Air Force boot camp, because my reading and comprehension skills were bad! I squeaked through!! Got to tech school, loved aircraft!! I excelled! could not learn enough!! Became an Air Force One Crew Chief! Never count anyone out!! Thank You Col. Allison😎😎

[@TranscendentaLobo27]

Well, even with bad reading comprehension skills, at least you’ll be in good company aboard Air Force One for the next four years. JK, seriously, thank you for your service.

[@theflowerhead]

That's the most explanation points I've ever seen. 😂 You're very pleased. Congratulations on sticking through it and succeeding! Some people think if they fail its over, but imagine how far we wouldn't have come if we all gave up immediately after failing? Everyone experiences failure, but the real failure is _not_ trying. Then you don't have a chance, you fail 100% of the time. Have a good day. ♡

[@carlospar3727]

From a former USAF buck Sergeant, become Army combat pilot...my hat's off to you. I was USAF '80 - '84, when I was notified that the AF would pay me to go to college and pay for my college education, "Sign right here, tell us what you want to be as an Air Force officer." I responded with pilot, weapons system officer or navigator. No dice. Losing F4s faster than receiving F15s and F16s. Putting pilots in bombers as weapons systems officers and navigators to keep them in the service, buying time. I made the decision to jump to Army. Joined a Guard unit. Within 6 months, I had orders to begin flight training at (then) Ft Rucker, AL. My state has AH64s, eventually (after 6 yrs as a Scout Pilot) I received orders to the Apache transition course. Flew them from '95 until I retired in 2019. Never give up, dont waste time. If flying is your thing, pursue it with all your energy and own it! Col. Black, BZ!

[@JonathanBoden-e4j]

As an old fourth generation vet, I so loved that story. As a great general and a president once phrased, " It's not the size dog in the fight, it's the size fight in the dog. She wanted to prove by action that she was an asset any team she was placed with and was determined to succeed at it. Not as the first woman, but as one of the best navigators in knowledge and training which showed in her performance. You can see it in the eyes. The pride can't be hid by the modest smile and her lady like demeanor. She is a soldier in all the meaning. Thank God she never had to end up being boots on the ground, but there is no doubt in my mind, she would have been a handful to any enemy and considering how little the enemy view the value of a woman's capabilities, I think she would have still had the upper hand by the underestimation.

[@Cab520]

Exactly

[@simonsmith1974]

She's exactly the kinda lady that scares the enemy. Because she takes her role seriously. And chooses and works to excel

[@scott1395]

Wow great interview, as a former weapons mechanic on the AC130H Gunship back in the early 80s it makes me proud for the 16th and this warrior! Her passion and love for Air Force Special Ops is great! ANYTIME ANYPLACE !

[@MichaelJacksonProvenGuilty]

Colonel Allison Black is the best! A true American we can all be very proud of!

[@PatrickHoodDaniel]

Allison Black was in a time loop, honing her skill, dying over and over until she succeeded with perfection.

[@justme-ys5pd]

Allison just held my full attention for the whole interview.What a inspiration to complete her role no matter what,and a very clear and concise story teller.I salute her and wish her and her husband many happy years ahead.

[@kathleendossett3819]

Man this takes me back to Vietnam in 72! As a lowly mortar guy during Easter offensive apr. 72, these aircraft saved us on more than one occasion!! Spooks,stingers(c119s),an cobras were busy Very busy! We all survived an all of us have a special place in our hearts for all these air people (even if somewhat grudgingly), they never left us during any fight!!!!! Thank you Col. Keepem flying!

[@j_mc5240]

I'm grateful too. We ground pounders got great support in Desert Storm too, including from. Specter that was part of a joint strike packages (F4E, A10, B52) that took out an Iraqi armored brigade that was coming to take out our cav screening position on a hill. Seeing the 130 work and that rope of light just after dusk as it suddenly showed up was impressive and scary. I was a ju ior enlisted guy at the time but knew enough to lose my taste for mocking squids and zoomies after that. It's great to see the teamwork continuing with more recent generations, and all credit to this warrior, COL Black. Just the kind of resolute pro you would want covering you in a pinch. Quarter Cav 1ID.

[@Kennymac8251]

This is what a true Warrior looks like. America is lucky to have people like her.

[@Nigfis]

But she missed Saudi Arabia by, how many miles?

[@ReflectedMiles]

@@Nigfis And then a US Commander-in-Chief ended up surrendering to the Taliban, anyway, so what was it for, again? As I recall, Osama was found hiding in Pakistan, not there.

[@JimNortonsAlcoholism]

War criminal

[@darthsilversith667]

She won’t sleep with you bro

[@AmericanTeacher-USA]

😂​@@darthsilversith667

[@chrisgoodwill3818]

Absolutely every bit of a role model for women and girls around the world, what a woman ❤

[@JeannetteTSpencer]

What a HUMAN BEING!

[@barramundi1479]

Amazing woman and warfighter. The pride she has is captivating. Her words are even better. “If you are good enough it doesn’t matter if you are male or female”. Amen 🙏

[@tattii4u]

Ma’am you were THE crew man. Being a woman didn’t stop you from bringing justice for USA and everyone affected by 9/11. Thank you for your service.

[@LayLoow]

911 was an inside job The government screwed its own citizens

[@nathanneal160]

This has nothing to do with 911 clown the war over the oil started late 70’s and many excuses have been used to fund a war over oil under other countries ground.

[@nathanneal160]

Didn’t even take the time to listen to what the woman has to say but came to run your mouth

[@BK_ZERO]

I mean, she wasn't bombing Saudi Arabia, so idk how you think what happened in Afghanistan was "justice" for 9/11 victims.

[@melanin_n_kinks]

Was an inside job 😅

[@ThomasCarrels-to5xe]

She shows the added dimension that women bring to any enterprise: perceptive, courageous, driven, and humble. I trust decisions made through a humility filter

[@simonwiltshire7089]

What a great point!

[@rhunter203]

Absolutely! I've always been a strong advocate for your perspective!

[@jasonsachinger3276]

@ThomasCarrels-to5xe I think you missed the part of the video where she stated she didn't like being called out for being different. She just wanted to be good at her job and not be defined by her gender.

[@Cab520]

@@ThomasCarrels-to5xe you are wise.

[@yascohpho]

Thank you for your service ❤ Sincerely , an Afghan woman.

[@johnguyton589]

Absolutely gorgeous Afghan woman!!

[@jason698]

From one veteran to another I salute you Colonel Black. Thank you for your service and your unbridled commitment to the protection of our country.

[@Brunzy1970]

Protection of our oil supply so we can save ourselves for the next 500 years.

[@Shihai6]

​​@@Brunzy1970Oil runs out - renewables don't. Get used to it.

[@philalcoceli6328]

​@Brunzy1970 Oh, so we should be stupid instead and let America's and humanity's enemies get the oil? Being truly American is about being kind and generous, not kindly and generously stupid.

[@marieheck416]

These are the type of people that should be talking to the youth of our country. What a sense of unity ,what it means to believe in yourself . Thank you for your services and message of being the best you can be even if you question the ability to do a task.

[@kittyblaine7917]

She is the full package…the way she tell her story…tells volumes about her and the way her mind works…all in from beginning to end of her journey and then some….what an incredible human being!! I just love her💖 Her parents must be awesome to have raised one that so young in her life had had the tenacity and focus she had…an incredible story👍💪🌹 GOD had a plan for you and you stepped up every step of the way to complete “the mission” that was yours🙏Thank you so much Thank you🙏💪🇺🇸

[@hartgodson9863]

Thank you so much Colonel Black for your service and for being candid about fears and self doubt. Thank you so much.

[@jimmillet1442]

Thats is one smart woman!...bringing the fired brass back to the source that started it all..Imagine being one of the responders to that hell on earth and then someone laying spent shells in your hand that helped eradicate the people responsible. She's pure gold!

[@HandlingItAll]

Too bad that the ones really responsible live here in America or are from here.

[@HandlingItAll]

Too bad most are from here... pretty fcked up and a damn fact

[@philliplopez8745]

" I know how to fail forward " probably the wisest words I have ever did hear .

[@charlesfritz7131]

She loves the Spectre almost as much as us Rangers .....thank you for your service and support and help making our job easier and most of all for saving our SIX. RLTW

[@Gabe-ABNCW3]

RLTW!

[@charlesfritz7131]

@Gabe-ABNCW3 Rangers LEAD THE Way.

[@Cab520]

@@charlesfritz7131feeling left out of great story?

[@charlesfritz7131]

@Cab520 not at all. You must be though.

[@Cab520]

Nope. I’m a marine.

[@williamgauthier7122]

Thanks for keeping myself and my fellow soldiers safe on our QRF missions

[@glennbrymer4065]

What a stunningly exciting interview! Best ever. My older brother served as a gunner on Spooky gunships in Vietnam. 1964, 66, 68. Mad respect for you Colonel. Thank you so much for giving us your history. Amazing.

[@PoleyB1]

This is a true Warrior. A real Valkyrie!!! My hat's off to you. I was a Crew Chief on Wild Weasels then spent 3 yrs as a Flight engineer on 141's before going back to Crew Chief due to critical career field issues. I never made it back to Flight Engineer as they kept me locked into CC but I was blessed to get a hands on ride in an AC130. I was in AWE and still am over the complete control over a battle field it had. The teamwork in that bird was par none. Truly mission driven! Not cutting out the Fighter Crew Chiefs at all. The Air Force mission is totally different from all other Branches. It takes dedication and determination to keep our birds in the air and it takes that same dedication and determination to fly the myriad of missions we get assigned.

[@JonahzVoice3-4]

My father was career AF. Joined shortly after HiSchol, '40, then called ArmyAir Corps. He loved flying & stayed with AF when Corps split. Veteran of WWII & Korea. He taught pilots Instrument Flight Training. In his day, it was called Link Trainers. I was born '47, Tyndall Field (changed '48 to AFBase). He was stationed at Maxwell several times, also Tyndall. I remember when sound barrier was broken! Heard sonic booms many times, and Base Housing suffered many ceiling cracks! Great memories of ɓeing a "Brat". After AF retirement, he went with the FAA for an additional Career. He's now stationed somewhere in the Universe serving with the Lord's Heavenly Army, probably training new recruits in some spectacular spacecrafts. My salute to you, Col Allison Black. I truly understand your love of our USA and military service. Thanks,🫡! Although not military related, my grandfather's name was Clarence Black (Iowa & Canada roots).

[@tommyjoestallings855]

Mine was a bombardier in the army aircor during ww2

[@JonahzVoice3-4]

@@tommyjoestallings855 🫡 not an easy job back then

[@MFBURNS7909]

My grandfather was in WWII and the Korean War too. I don't know what he did. His name was Everett Shadle and he was from Iowa also

[@bettysullivan863]

Allison black you are my new HERO... I am living vicariously through you!! I'm 70 and at 18 I worked in a coke works mill in 1974 in PA them a state liquor store for 33 years but you are awesome...I feel like a wusscompared to her!!! Women in the military weren't heard of back then though! And to fly planes!! Heck no women there!! Happy retirement although with your DRIVE I'm sure you'll never stop!! My mother taught business/ typing for 42 years through WW11 until 1984 she is one of my HEROES also!! Men would come up to her in the stores in their 60's and hug her and thank her for saving their lives... teaching them typing saved them from the front lines in WW11 they were communications which was a VERY IMPORTANT job also.... THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE.... my father, 2 uncles were in WW11...one uncle reupped and fought in Korea... Navy welder very much needed! My brother was in Vietnam paratrooper...173rd the HERD... in Nam.... my son-in- law was in Iraq.... we are service oriented proud patriots.... I'm a staunch DEMOCRAT so don't take that patriot wrong... I'm a true one.

[@timnye718]

So incredibly proud of this soldier and her team, as well and the thousands of others that took the fight to the enemy! "The Angel of Death" intimidating the enemy is such an iconic story!

[@richiestarks609]

Her storytelling is so authentic, you can’t help but listen through. Thank you for service.

[@PerryMurphy-hw4me]

No DEI “Just wanted to be good at my job” exactly how it should work. Thank you for being good at your job . What a warrior!

[@thoughtank1019]

You can see it in her eyes and hear it in her voice, passion and strength.

[@SomeDudeOnYoutube16]

why you bringing the culture war into actual war

[@J-Bird88]

​​@@SomeDudeOnKZbin16 I'm not being snarky when you read this, but it's precisely these areas of hire that should not be DEI. Tho it has happened in the past. I understand the topic of this video didn't include that but the pride of her accomplishments is an example. she deserves this honor above any DEI hire. I don't think OP was being facetious

[@barryfleming8488]

@@SomeDudeOnKZbin16the culture war is attempting to insert itself into every aspect of society. The goal is personal as opposed to mission success to the organization that it penetrates. It is opposed to advancement through merit and will undermine any organized activity it penetrates.

[@EndlessAmmunition]

yet we abandoned them and left the Taliban in charge, sweet. Oh, with all the weapons we left to the "real Afghan Army"

[@victoriasafradin6134]

What a badass. Genuinely such a great role model for what women can do!

[@user55890]

This is the only recruitment video they need. Wow.

[@dtaylor10chuckufarle]

EXACTLY!!

[@HSunday40]

Yes! They should show this to every kid in high school, especially young ladies.

[@AllThePeppermint]

Hell yeah. I had seen this video as a teenager (instead of just the horror stories from my brothers), I think I would have fought hard to join the USAF.

[@yeos_angel_]

​@@HSunday40yeah that's called indoctrination.

[@bruerR8757]

Fascinating. I could listen to the Colonel relating her missions for hours. No days! So inspiring. I never thought I would follow a woman into battle but I just found her.

[@Cab520]

Many have been killed following a man into combat that were useless. It’s the individual,not the sex.

[@Philbo_Baggins_67]

i am from long island ny. im not in the military and have a desk job. ive been sitting here at 38 trying to really figure out what i want and need to do to do a job that makes me feel like im doing something for myself and be better. you inspired me to stop thinking and start doing. im looking into going into business management for school to open my own business finally as i was always "scared" i wasnt good enough to make those type of decisions. i appreciate you.

[@komplichated]

Man... This is one of the best interviews I have ever seen and I read a comment below about someone meeting her for the first time and she was serving them turkey. Taking care of her people at every level. Not enough respect in the world for someone like that. Love this

[@charlesrussek7118]

That fact that you "just wanted to do your job" says it all. Incredible story. I am sure bringing that brass to those firestations was great for those surviving firefighters and thier families. Thank you.

[@Linda-it6ci]

I'm a Granny, 70 year old ...I'm so proud of you as a human and a lady........BLESSINGS darling girl from Granny Linda in OZ.....

[@l.landriault9465]

I want to share, that eventhough a certain someone is trying to devide us! I watched this with pride, and was amazed how dedicated she is to have served! From your Canadian friend! ❤

[@tomroderick8213]

Wonderful Story! I served at Nakahon Phenom RTAFB in 1971-1972 where the tactics and equipment was being first used. I got a direct duty assignment there with NO training of any kind after basic training in San Antonio. The USAF had a program at that time for enlistees that had degrees in Science, Math or Engineering and if the Air Force thought they could use you as is you were assigned to a special program and deployed. I had orders for the 56th Combat Support Group at some secret base, but when I finally got there I was assigned to Task Force Alpha. I had two weeks to understudy the man I was replacing then he was gone. I was in my early 20's and I learned more that has been useful to me for the rest of my life in that one year than at any other time. I will be turning 78 years old in four months and other than marrying my late wife years latter that was the year that was the best year of my life. Special Ops pretty much owned the base at NKP and I have never known such competent and dedicated people at any other time in my life. I salute you with all my heart.

[@paullevins5448]

It is so refreshing to hear and see this highly competent Lady, speak about ordinance and capabilities. Col. Black in my mind is a Badass . Sere training , navigator, on an AC 130 gun ship. I dislike when so called legacy news talking heads attempt to speak about ordinance , and weapons systems they know nothing of what they are talking about. Well she is a hero, she did her job. Col. Black made history with her crew, that night. What an extraordinary Lady, When she was made , the mold was thrown away. She is a one in a million. America could only hope to have more of her caliber of service member !...

[@Shihai6]

I think they whole point was that she is a normal human being doing an extraordinary job. Training and commitment is what I got from her story.

[@paullevins5448]

@ She is more than just normal. She is competent, articulate, highly motivated. Went through tough training SERE school. I went through that back in the late 80s , and it’s no joke. Most women today are not at all like her. It was refreshing to know that women like her exist. I just didn’t want to express that she is a woman. Although that was the reason I expressed my thoughts on the podcast. I watched the twin towers burn from Sandy Hook New Jersey . I felt her enthusiasm …

[@jeffbaxter8770]

❤ col Black. South Africa🇿🇦

[@janetpartyka5968]

Paul, all we have to do is open our eyes and look around, you will see MANY in a MILLION. They just need to be given an opportunity.

[@shooter2055]

Daughter is an O-5 serving in Space Force. Great gratitude for your pioneering service in special ops!

[@missingutah]

Space Force...how freakin cool is that!? Good for her! Send her my best . My dad was an Army Air Corps pilot in WWII. What advances we have made in less than a hundred years . Tell her God bless and God speed...and thank you!

[@CarbideSix]

Your daughter is an OG (Original Gangsta) on Space Force!? That’s literally once in a lifetime. Your daughter is LEGEND… wait for it… DARY!

[@lizamaj]

What an amazing woman. Her ability to recount and to tell a story shows how sharp of mind she has. Thank you Col Black for everything you did. A true American hero

[@RichardHopkins-ht3bz]

I'm a retired US ARMY Reserve CID Special Agent. I was detailed to the protective service detachment at the Pentagon and spent over 8 months tracking down an Islamic Terrorist hit squad sent to America to assassinate an American citizen declared a Treasure to the American public. Your history brought tears to my eyes. I known the pride you must feel knowing that you are tasked with the impossible and yet accomplished your mission. I am so proud of you and send my prayers for your future happiness With great respect. HOOAH.!!

[@Dennis379c16]

Col Black is definitely a 1 Percenter. While 99.9 percent of us do it for the dollars, she did it for the love of country and service. That makes her a 1 Percenter! Thank you for your service!

[@Themix274]

How insane do you need to be to join the military for the dollars or to be able to go to school? Sickening

[@marlboroman71818]

No one joins the military for the dollars...

[@TheBinaryHappiness]

lmao so when are you invading israel? it seems to be the only country controlling America

[@Make-Asylums-Great-Again]

@@marlboroman71818I joined for $ and school.

[@bolwinklemoose1999]

I was active duty Army from 1978 to 2008, and DoD contractor for 15 more years 2023. After 9/11, I never again met a Soldier who "did it for the dollars".

[@grr1120]

Colonel Allison Black and her team are heroes in every sense of the word. Colonel Black understands and emphasizes "team" in her comments...this fact wasn't lost on me during her commentary. She is proud, humble, kind, caring and a perfect example of the word "leadership" based on comments I read. I teared up a couple of times listening to her.

[@rlyman111]

Thank you Col. Black! I am proud of your willingness to be available to do what you did. I am glad you are able to share your story and do it for the correct reasons. Thanks, thanks, thanks!!!

[@ninji5226]

She's a mom of 2 according to the interwebs and I cant imagine what her kids think while playing COD knowing their mom is a legit badass. And taking the shells to the fire stations made me tear up, very cool.

[@christopherjones4484]

I'll bet they are good kids and well behaved

[@Under-Kaoz]

I mean the gunners do all the moral work. She's basically a giant bus driver.

[@daddyrabbit835]

​@@Under-KaozYes. We are so eager to promote women we fall all ourselves. Men have been doing this for thousands of years without extra acknowledgement.

[@mikeanon3090]

@@Under-KaozYou’re just JEALOUS! Sitting on your Mom’s couch in her basement. You only wish you could be 5% as courageous as her.

[@ilomars281]

@@Under-Kaoz? What’s wrong with you?

[@user-DrJoe-Future]

Allison Black -- Good going! Great story. I served 24 years in the Air Force and 3 years in the Army. I had no idea what I was doing, but did things I never in my life I thought I would be doing -- like working on the Development and Production of the B2 Stealth Bomber, operation and production of nuclear ICBM and SLBMs, Brilliant Pebbles Space-Based Missile Defense System, Director of F16 Fighter Production, and many other things such as developing the RIFF Explosives & Firearms detection Kits (RIFF KITS - Rapid Identification Friend or Foe) during the 2003 Invasion of Iraq, and many more things.

[@superdad1067]

Wow! I'd like to hear your story! Often times the stories of how our military hardware is developed, procured and manufactured are just as interesting as the stories of those who used the equipment.

[@danduffy7974]

From this Air Force vet to you, thank you for your service. I got out in 76, but when 911 hit Had I been younger, I would have gone back in. Thank you again!!

[@andree-annblais9221]

What a very inspiring and strong women warrior. She still have sparkles of passion in her eyes. Thank you so much for sharing your story with us Colonel.

[@vv4g]

Her humility is so powerful it’s almost making me tear up

[@scarecrow27jf]

You are BADASS!! You bringing that brass back gave me chills. I'm proud to be an American and I thank you for your service 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@beachamgroup2482]

What an incredible lady. Thank you for your service. The world would be a better place if people applied that level of commitment.

[@nickfamulary1697]

Thank you, Colonel Anderson and the crew you served with, for your truly committed service to America and her soldiers. Thank whatever higher power you believe in that people like Colonel Anderson serve in our armed forces. She is the embodiment of what an American is.

[@carlospar3727]

(Allison)

[@lindseybraconnier9101]

So happy KZbin has these stories to share. A real pioneer woman! What a bad@$$. Thank you for your passion and service.

[@brostelio]

I'm not American, but boy do I feel proud having you guys defending our values. Excellent, infectious interview.

[@lucetothebridge]

me too

[@Cab520]

And gals!

[@brookswilson1072]

I served in the Marine Corps before Col. Black's time, but remember fondly watching the C-47 "Spookies" decimating grid squares with mini guns in Vietnam. Awesome fire power! Good to see we still have great folks in our military.

[@MrJim5280]

My uncle was at Khe Sanh. He swears the only reason he stayed alive was because of “Puff.” He was wounded by a mortar that blew part of his right calf off.

[@brookswilson1072]

@@MrJim5280 Very glad your uncle made it home. I had forgotten they also called "Spookies" "Puff The Magic Dragon." Ah, memories.... I wasn't at Khe Sahn, but was shortly thereafter. I watched the B-52's level the place after our forces vacated the place. Awesome seeing Arc Lights in daytime!

[@warhorse03826]

my dad (seabee, NMCB-10) was at chu lai in '65, welding steel planks down on the runway, and someone was shooting at the arcs from up in the hills. they marked where they thought the shooter was with tracers from a BAR, and the AC-47 did the rest. got him or not, they stopped shooting at the welders....

[@TheBinaryHappiness]

how many goatherders you got to kill? when is your deployment to u-crane?

[@AlphaGator9]

I am a proud retired Redleg - a Field Artilleryman, that served on an M102A2 - 105mm Field Artillery Piece. It is my understanding that this was the model that was 1st used to be slapped into a C130 like that. I love to play partisan inter-branch rah-rah, Go Army, but i am very proud to hear to listen to when any service member brings the rain on our enemies. Thank you for sharing your story, "Angel of Death", Col. Black.

[@Phildo8]

This woman came to the aid of my ODA more than once. Amazing woman both in the skies and on the ground. So great to hear her tell her story, she can paint such a picture with her words.

[@B.Hollis]

As a woman what an honor to watch and listen to a true hero Colonel Black. I hope many young women now will be inspired by her and consider joining the service. My husband and I were in Japan at an Air Force base in the early 60ies with the wonderful C130 aircraft. My husband was a doctor but when the planes were gone from the base and on their flights to Vietnam the base seemed silent and we all were especially quiet and nervous waiting for their return. Those planes were amazing with such short take offs and landing and hauling everything in the world. With her description of all the updates and the addition of armament in the 90ies it sounded truly lethal for close combat. Thank you Colonel Black and all the brave military member who serve and have served.

[@Themix274]

Don't join is my advice

[@Cab520]

@@Themix274we don’t want cowards,mister.

[@Themix274]

@@Cab520 Cowards? lol you all got played into believing this war was going to matter. A couple years later yall are doing the 22 push ups a day in honor of 22 veterens unaliving themselves every day... How can u still eat up the military Dont call me a coward, pal

[@TheWalkerdog]

Thank you from an "ol" Vietman Vet who loves the guys in air that gave me and my buddies lifesaving cover.

[@SoundPeaceLover]

Thank you Colonel Black!

[@reggierico]

You guys over at the center really knocked it out of the park with Col. Black's story! A really out standing narrative about the very beginning of the post 9-11 war on terror. Colonel Black's recall and ability to tell this riveting story of the 16th SOS and the initial days of the war was perfection! Although I flew gunships before her time, I would have been very proud to have been able to fly with her! Thank you again for the great post and sharing Colonel Black's amazing story.

[@DeicideB5S4]

I met her once during a family event. My Step Dad was stationed at Hurlburt Field/Duke Field and was part of the ground crew for the A/C-130's. Extremely nice lady. One of my fondest memories of the Spookies was as a kid Duke Field held a "Family Night" for the Spooky crews and families. They did live fire at Eglin live fire training area, close enough we could see and hear the spooky's. I'll never forget the announcer telling everyone to look up at a point in the sky and then seeing what was literally a dragon breathing fire out of the sky. Then THUMP THUMP THUMP THUMP, BRRRRRRRRRRRRR, THUMP THUMP THUMP THUMP. One of the coolest memories I have had as a kid growing up on Hurlburt Field.

[@mattheweagle223]

Thats so incredibly cool

[@spacecad5031]

Incredible to see and experience that without being the target!!

[@brianp316]

Dear Allison Black, I don't know you and I've never heard of you, but I want to thank you. THANK YOU for your sevice and Thank You for all your hard work and determination. THANK YOU!!!

[@gregorymceaddy8884]

Thank you for being a badass protecting our nation.. You put your life on the line for the American citizens and we love you for it..

[@janetpartyka5968]

All we have to do is look around, you will see badass women everywhere.