BLACK HAWK DOWN 30 Years Later: Norm "Hoot" Hooten on the Battle of Mogadishu

Join us in an exclusive interview with Norm "Hoot" Hooten, a hero from the Battle of Mogadishu, as he reflects on the harrowing events from 30 years ago. Hoot, a key figure in what became known as 'Black Hawk Down,' shares his personal experiences and insights from that fateful day that changed the course of military history.
In this candid interview, Norm opens up about the challenges, the bravery, and the lessons learned during the intense combat in Mogadishu. He discusses the impact of the battle on modern military tactics and the enduring legacy of those who fought alongside him.
This video is not just a journey into the past but a tribute to the courage and resilience of our soldiers. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in military history, tactical warfare, and Operation Gothic Serpent.
As we commemorate 30 years since the Battle of Mogadishu, this interview offers a unique perspective from one who was there, in the heart of the action. Watch now to hear Norm Hooten's powerful story and honor the memory of those who served. Learn more on www.RecoilWeb.com or Recoil.TV now.
#BattleOfMogadishu #MilitaryHistory #HeroicStories #BlackHawkDown #NormHootenInterview #OperationGothicSerpent

[@RobertSmith-hr6cr]

I doubt you remember me Brother I actually met and talked to you at the Mogadishu airport it was late July. At that time it was Sgt Nunamaker I was with 2nd Force Recon there with 24th MEUSOC. When I heard that the 75th Ranger Battalion was there I caught a ride from the Socor Stadium to the Airport to see if my hometown bestfriend and neighbor Dan Caroll who was an Airborne Ranger was there. I walked up to you and had asked if you knew him and if he was there. I just remember you being absolutely 100% professional and respectful with me as you told me you didn't know him. You told me he must be one hell of friend to go that far out of the way just to see if he was there. The 24th MEUSOC left in early August so I wasn't there when it happened we were back in the States. I remember seeing the news and them dragging those two Hero's through the streets. I was so pissed off and that anger actually made me decide to make the Marine Corps a career. I went on to serve in Bosnia, Kosovo two Deployments in Iraq and 3 in Afghanistan.

[@jackharle1251]

​@@chrismadison305Caution ....

[@natecarter9202]

@@chrismadison305go away troll.

[@user-ci7vu7eo9w]

😂😂

[@harveypointn.a.s.5243]

Really? care to elaborate ..didn't think so @chrismadison305

[@harveypointn.a.s.5243]

​@@chrismadison305 almost forgot FUCK YOU.---OIF-OEF VETERAN 2004-2012

[@desperado8605]

Msgt. Hooten you and your team mates are the guys us regular Army guys look up to great to hear your story. Much respect sir

[@mgway4661]

Sergeant Major ***

[@joseywales8257]

Did you have a Sam Jepsen in the operation?

[@joseywales8257]

I grew up a few miles south of Braketville

[@guardedcitadel5837]

Much Respect.

[@robstanton9215]

I hunted near Bracketville and live near Bandera.

[@liaisonguy]

It's so fortunate that judge sensed his potential and sent Mr. Hooten to the Army instead of forcing him down the criminal justice path. America benefited greatly from that Judge's foresight.

[@RECOILweb]

So true.

[@rezzyn94]

I wonder if he knows (or gives a shit) how much we look up to him and the guys he served with. Some people grew up idolizing athletes or celebrities, and some of us joined up because we saw dudes like this. Cool to hear him talk

[@michaelcooke8989]

So you grew up to somebody who snuck into someone country. No wonder America is the way it is false gods.

[@stephen4763]

Absolutely - Hoot - well spoken, ranch family values, common sense, critical thinking skills, hard scrabble type of a MAN. He’s the guy that would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it.

[@curtiswiley1687]

Seeing this on CNN of these guys being dragged through the streets made me quit my job and join the Army the next day. Did my thesis on this fight at Quantico, spent 22 years in the Army…so much respect for Hoot and his boys, thx for your service!!

[@gaalkacyo1634]

You will face the same end if you try us again

[@theamericancristero7390]

​@@gaalkacyo1634enjoying your starvation, war, and poverty?

[@themangarage2203]

America sent heroes but led by cowards (Bill Clinton) with no stomach for battle. Troops in Somalia were doomed to fail because of that fact. God Bless those brave men with boots on the ground.

[@PaleoVirus]

Same.

[@PaleoVirus]

​@gaalkacyo1634 you are aware of the death count...right mate? Just curious, because you had your arse handed to you skinny.

[@user-vn7wy5vp7r]

A man the modern world should look as an example for morals and serving your country . Thanks hoot and stay safe

[@stephen4763]

Well said. That’s a 💯

[@Mrd1_j6665]

Hoot was my favorite dude in that movie. Listening to him was a real pleasure.

[@MrChuckwagon55]

The character in the movie was actually based upon the story of two operators whose stories they blended together, although they kept his name. I don’t know if I’m allowed to say the other guys name.

[@Idkwhodawg]

@@MrChuckwagon55look at you trying to imply you were there by saying “idk if I’m allowed to say the other names” … it’s common knowledge the character is based off of John Macejunas, Norm Hooten, Matthew Rierson and Thanh Nguyen.

[@MrChuckwagon55]

@@Idkwhodawg - I wasn’t trying to imply I was there, I never even served in the military, but a lot of those guys are very private and don’t like their names being thrown around. I was showing them respect.

[@Idkwhodawg]

@@MrChuckwagon55 it’s on google Bro.. don’t do that 🤣

[@ronlee5571]

@@MrChuckwagon55 ignore the millennial. I fully understand your point. Regardless of what’s publicly available, it’s about respect of which the foundation is built upon self respect. Something that generation is woefully lacking as a whole with a few exceptions.

[@Longjohnsilver58]

Hooten is an amazing man. I loved hearing his take on things. I served with Sergeant Eversman in the 10th Mountain before he went to the Rangers. He was a young private fresh out of training and went straight to the battalion recon platoon. He made rank quick and was highly respected. He went to Ranger school. I think he may have been an E4 when he went through. Later he assisted with the battalion Ranger Indoctrination Program that prepped other soldiers for Ranger School. I thought to myself at the time that guy is sharp and he is definitely going places. I had no idea where that might be but I was right. I got out of the Army and was starting my civilian life so I knew the story of Mogadishu but did not put two and two together. I did not know it was Eversman who did all that stuff. Then I went to a wedding of an old Army buddy and he was like did you hear about Eversman? He’s a frigging hero. That was him in Mogadishu. I had no idea but I was not surprised in the least. I am proud to serve with such a great man.

[@reggierico]

When Norm mentioned Bob Howard as one of his mentors, I knew right then that Norm had the right stuff and outstanding leadership training. Bob was recommended for the MOH three times in his five tours in South Vietnam. A soldier's soldier, Bob Howard is buried in Arlington National Cemetery. One of my heroes. He was from Opelika, Alabama, just down the road from Auburn.

[@Mastermindyoung14]

Not enough people know about Col Howard

[@budgibson185]

Right down the road from me too. I’ve interviewed a lot of men who served with him at CCC on my KZbin channel

[@chrispierdominici3891]

I'd say he epitomizes the "quiet professional" aspect of the spec ops community. Hearing his story was wonderful color on this historic event.

[@calebsuszek9654]

I met Norm at PCA In Vegas and got to talk to him about cigars and whiskey. But his history and stories as a vet are far more amazing than anything PCA related. Pleasure meeting a man like Norm!

[@Jump-n-smash]

It’s always a privilege to watch an interview with a great American.

[@SpyderSuasponte]

It was great working with Hoot and the rest of the guys. I said I want to be like them. Years later I was in SF, never made it to CAG but worked a lot with them.

[@psudoctor3336]

A cadre and friend of mine was Delta and was there with him… At Mogadishu and Black Hawk Down. Much Respect. Thanks for this interview.

[@RP-ks6ly]

As a fellow Texas boy, this interview makes me proud of our state and the people that call it home. His family got here before mine (1918), but amazing man and life.

[@diviningrod2671]

Going on my 3rd year in Texas and it's people honestly make me a better person ,and a better human. Most people just don't understand what it means to live amongst people of this quality.

[@MrBillkaz]

Now just make sure you don’t vote back in the war pig Crenshaw

[@justinsmith4562]

Texas n Texans suck balls

[@M4c223c]

Texas pumps out some quality Americans.

[@LibCon1980]

Great guest. This is the first time I have heard an interview with Msgt Hooten. Very informative and thanks for the new info.

[@RECOILweb]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching, we appreciate it.

[@jacqueshickley]

This guy is legend. Even more so if he is able to keep his desk that clean.

[@wolfhound45]

Much respect to this very humble warrior.

[@dmc3489]

What a fantastic interview! It breaks my heart to once again hear of the days when the U.S. left no man behind - regardless of the circumstances. I know this mantra is still alive and well in many facets of the military to this day, but it used to be a global notion across all of our armed forces, from the top down. God bless our Servicemen!

[@DannyRedCheeks]

Yeah times have changed when our commander in chief allows our enemy to slaughter our allies and hand over $80Billion in equipment

[@roccolavacci1058]

12 year Navy Vet, (Chief Corpsman) 8404. EOD Class SB- 87-2. Thank You for telling your story. Always wanted to get a deeper dive on your life and history. Was serving in the Balkans during MOG. Thank you brother.

[@bobnewfart7630]

God bless Delta .. Thank you for all you did Hoot

[@sarah14black]

To all our Vets past or present THANK YOU so very much, I dont think we could ever repay you for all you have done for us.

[@hypeflexington7081]

Telling your congressman to vote yes for any healthcare bills for vets would help...

[@christopherboulay525]

I always appreciate the thank you’s I get as a vet and I can’t emphasize that enough. However, it does make me feel awkward every time. As for how to repay us… I’m not gonna speak for other vets but as for myself, there is no repayment necessary. I didn’t do what I did with any of that in mind, I did what I did so others didn’t have to do it.

[@peterdemos4023]

Great interview, very humble man, no "I love me" certificates on the wall. In fact, that was the most sterile office I've ever seen, OPSEC at its finest. It was almost like an interview room at the local polygraph center. October 3-6, 1993 was a sad period of time for your unit, my deepest sympathies to those families and members. You all set the standards that we regular guys strive to be. I plan to order many cigars and whiskey from your company to support the cause.

[@dangifford2710]

I served with Norm in A/1/5 on the HALO team. Not only were most of the senior NCOs on the Son Tay Raid, several had been nominated for the MOH.

[@Frank-uw5xq]

Awesome salute to ya sir,my Dad was SF in the 80s,I planned on but got hurt pretty bad,. would you happen to know Karl Erickson, Steve Holland

[@dangifford2710]

@@Frank-uw5xq I'm pretty sure I knew Steve Holland.

[@ed008ue]

Sincere Admiration for this CAG Operator, the guys we Conventional Soldiers look up to. Thank You for your Service and a big Salute...

[@jt-el8540]

The movie got the essence of this gentleman pretty damn well. Nothing but respect to Msgt Hoot.

[@Voots7]

The video immortalizes a badass operator and American patriot for future generations to appreciate and learn from. Awesome. 🇺🇸

[@denysvowell6045]

I had the privilege of doing some training with Norm, during my FAM tour and found him, reserved, highly experienced, extremely capable and a man with a bag full of skills. Spent several days there and saw he as a great instructor as well. A demonstration of the BEST characters that find their way into the service and are made into the great warriors of their time. The "HERE I STAND" breed. Splendid example!

[@TUMATATAN]

Facts: This is the FIRST and ONLY time I have watched a podcast style interview from beginning to end. It was too short. I wanted to know so much more. I'm a MSG myself and our careers are different. I would to sit down with him, drink some whisky, talk about life, and simply enjoy his company.

[@TheAnytony]

Lol

[@Rebel-Forces-Earth-007]

Nothing but absolute admiration and respect for this former Delta operator and SF soldier. I'd always wondered if Eric Banas' character in the movie was based on a real person or a collection of several people who were there in Mogadishu, glad to know the real story. Excellent video interview. And I will be purchasing a bottle or two of the whiskey you mentioned on your website. Thank you for your dedication and selfless service Master Sergeant. Cheers

[@gtcam723]

I swear I’d read that it was a composite of like 3 guys. I had no idea Hoot was a real dude.

[@mikeserot1410]

Bana's Hoot was based on Norm Hooten, John Macejunas, another operator and a Marine.

[@gtcam723]

@@mikeserot1410 ahhh ok. On another note, I always suspected the famous safety quip may have come from Vickers.

[@soldorman]

same @@gtcam723

[@Frank-uw5xq]

Alot of people don't realize AR/M4 won't switch on safety unless it's charged,he had it cleared hammer down , like a D- boy would run around hot safe off, they go on safe in CQB often as possible

[@brettbambouturton3117]

Msgt Norman Hooten thank you so much for your service and encouraging life stories.. Great interview and video🙏

[@mgway4661]

I’m amazed sitting here and listening to this man speak Im reminded that overall he’s just a normal person. Outstanding person of course but just a humble man trying his best to make a difference and live up to expectations. Glad he is open to interviews and is willing to be such a great ambassador for the veteran community at large. My fears for the future being that the average American is detached itself when it comes to how it interacts with veterans. Instead remembering that the military is of the people by the people and for the people. We are a direct reflection and subsection of the people we defend

[@johnconover52]

I wish someone could get John Macejunas to do an interview. Both of these guys (Hoot) and Mace exhibited exemplary bravery that day. Legends.

[@georgelewis5740]

My understanding of the little I could find out is he wants nothing to do with the "limelight"...We all would lve to hear from him but it just aint his thing I guess...there is one picture out there on the internet of him as a private in Grenada?...He is in te middle of a group of guys with his mouth open....

[@mikeserot1410]

Mace and Hooten, along with two others (one was a Marine) were molded into Eric Bana's Hoot in the film

[@georgelewis5740]

Yes that is what I had heard also

[@daveautrey5858]

Not going to talk about stuff that doesn't matter. @@mikeserot1410

[@TheVinnyt63]

@@georgelewis5740 John Macejunas was a SGT in Grenada WEBCO!

[@Johnny-ip4mk]

Thank you, sir, for your service ❤

[@bradparker9664]

An absolutely riveting interview. So many interviewers cut off interview subjects to steer content, but this gentleman did an outstanding job of letting Mr. Hooten tell his story. I would like to thank both of these gentlemen for not only this interview, but for their service as well.

[@robertpalmer7800]

Hoot thank you for your extraordinary service. Your amazing leadership and example. Your mentorship to countless military and civilians. We and our nation cannot thank you enough. There just are not adequate words.

[@blacksabbath2559]

Huge respect for all those US soldiers involved. I m former paratrooper ftom 9 RCP. My regiment was deployed in Somalia for restore hope opération (named oryx operation for us). My buddies had hard times in june 1993, just before Black kawk down events. French foreign legion FFL, infanterie de marine RIMA, helicopters regiments were also involved. I m now police officer. Greeting from France.

[@loarmistead]

Great interview! Mr. Hooten is a solid dude. Didn't know he had a whiskey company, just acquired a bottle of Hooten & Young 6 Year Rye.

[@MrChuckwagon55]

Paul Howe talked about him when he talked about the battle of the Black Sea. (Black Hawk Down).

[@LRRPFco52]

Bob Howard went to Ranger School after many years of service in Vietnam, which included time in SOG. He became an officer in Vietnam after rising through the NCO ranks to 1SG, and served as one of the first Company Commanders in 2/75 when it was stood up in 1974. He went to Mountain Phase for RTB before becoming the OIC out at MacKall. His career was pretty colorful, to put it lightly.

[@JD93089]

He was a Medal of Honor Recipient put in for 3 different MOHs but two were downgraded man was an SF legend what you mean pretty colorful

[@Frank-uw5xq]

Straight legend,watch Reconnaissance Cast,Bud interviews all the SOG cats

[@user-ev8bh3he7h]

What a humble man. Much respect.

[@wesb8159]

Had the privilege of meeting 3 of the Sun Tay raiders. 2 of them were medics then but when they treated me they were Warrant Officers Mr Keel being of them. The other of Jake Jakovenko, i worked with him and his wife Sandy,in Kentucky. Awesome people.

[@bobbyhouston5058]

Listening to a Unit operator talk vs. a SEAL is no comparison in humility. SFOD-D guys are the best in the world - hands down - and the most humble.

[@user-oy4tt4xm8d]

It's so strange that my history has so many intersections with this interview. I was coming into the Army in Dec '90 as the U. S. was winding up Iraq and later Iwas in Panamá as events in Somalia were unfolding. I had Vietnam veterans training cadre much like CSM Hooten. After Gothic Serpent, I worked with Somalia Vets in Central America. Later in'07 and '08, I would be assigned under 10th Mountain and witness the evolution of American TTP's resulting from lessons learned from JSOC and this man's generation. Thank you Sergeant Major, to you and your cohorts🫡To all those still serving, Please continue the fine work,

[@gabrielfelixmunoz739]

finally: a video with Hoot

[@charlesl5226]

I didn’t get in untill 2013, but grew up on this movie and even while I was in we did TDG’s of black hawk down and learned so much about that situation and how to prepare for if that ever happened to us.

[@fettfan91]

This is must watch material along with the book and film, respect to Mr. Hooten and all those who participated and sacrificed in Operation Gothic Serpent.

[@thejackrabbithole-5311]

Thank you for your service, Msgt.. Hooten. I’m in awe of your accomplishments and humble and thoughtful attitude.

[@xxHydroponicxx]

Thank you for your service ❤

[@larryraymondhernandez]

Thank you for your service.

[@Hoodlm13b]

Fantastic interview. Thank you!

[@kevinyoung9557]

What a fantastic interview. Thanks for making it happen.

[@planoman0935]

Not sure how I came across this video but glad I did! MSG Hooten a badass Texan! Americans like him are what lead to the greatest country in History! Thank you and your family for your and their sacrifices of service!

[@Cuefrost101]

Hoot- Respect brother !!! - from a 91-Alpha-coreman-Army 1989-Memphis, TN !!!

[@Citizen-by9vw]

Great video. Thank y'all for the interview, and thank you for your service.

[@308driver]

Thank you for your service! I'm sorry for your losses. Peace.

[@andres.8363]

You can hear when he explains his interactions with the generation that served before him and when he trained with them. I’m part of the generation that used the term “NCO’s”. He (along with my mother) uses the term “Non-Comms”. 👍🏽

[@82lowe36id]

Great interview and thank you for sharing, Norm. As a young 11B in the 82nd when i came in in 1997, we looked up to these guys.

[@RECOILweb]

Thank you!

[@Sifujonrister]

Thank yall for this opportunity to hear this man speak!

[@Frank-uw5xq]

That thumbnail looks like Danny Insonto alot

[@carlosgarza1962]

What an awesome interview. Much respect for all of our soldiers that were involved

[@markstaniland7655]

One of the best interviews that I have had the pleasure of listening to. Thank you!

[@FMD023]

That “this is my safety” quote is by far the most famous quote of black hawk down. I am so glad we finally got the true story behind this story. Their clearing procedures makes a lot of sense. It’s just like how u clear a hand gun during a competition shooting but u just do it with an m4 or m16 rifle. I can see it from both sides. When you are the best of the best that way of clearing a weapon makes sense. As far as big army, Forsure the weapon on safe should be practiced. I promise you a regular army unit on deployment will end up with an ND just clearing their weapons after a long 8-14 hour mission.

[@user-bx3hz6wl5m]

Maybe EVERYONE in the military should be taught the same way and to the highest standards. One thing I have noticed but all you special ops fanboys on youtube is none of you have ever served in the military at all. Most weren't even boy scouts.

[@pladampa]

No disrespect to anyone involved but a Captain of the Rangers didn't know how to drop the hammer or put a weapon on hard safe.

[@FMD023]

@@user-bx3hz6wl5m um ok cool story

[@FMD023]

@@user-bx3hz6wl5m Forsure u never served a day in your life besides hiding behind a keyboard to get some attention. Dont hate just because your life suck

[@FMD023]

@@pladampa he did but just didn’t understand the concept of why the delta guys were doing it that way. He was on the “these guys should lead by example.” Not knowing delta are group of highly skilled and experienced guys that are effective individually and a nightmare when u encounter them as a team. He probably forgot to realize that those guys won’t ND while a regular army unit or ranger regimen chances of an ND is high by not teaching a standard clearing procedure. A ranger unit follows regular army regulations. The only thing that separates them is they have the fundings/ more skills to do those high speed training constantly.

[@sneekn5983]

Thank you, what a great interview. God Bless to you and yours for your Service...

[@JHF1878]

Such a great interview. First time I have came across this channel and I was impressed. The interviewer was briliant, he asked superb questions and allowed Hoot to answer them. Well done, Sir. Thank you

[@Geewattaguy1]

Thank you for your service ! 🇺🇲

[@jasoncoetzeeadadjjzjdatune9617]

Thank you for this boys. It gets hairy when you don't leave your buddies behind. Yet we never leaver leave our friends behind. God bless

[@anthonysmith7280]

Thanks for your service brothr......Love what youre doing.

[@kllbll85]

God bless 🙏🏼 you Mr Hooten... Thank you! 🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲

[@mmsizzlak3726]

Jesus... Every time I hear the name of a small town in Texas, it's another name I've never heard before... Texas, it's friggin huge

[@sferguson1130]

What a legend 🙌 Hoot was always my favorite, from watching the film, growing up. Such a badass warfighter

[@M91TOM]

What a great interview!

[@user-qe6th1gj6f]

Respect and admiration and appreciation. Tim.

[@1775MarineCorps]

Thank you for sharing, you all went through hell, GOD BLESS and STAY SAFE. From a Marine Corps vet

[@RECOILweb]

Thank you for all you did for our country. We appreciate your service.

[@u.s.m.c.fewproudthemarines2987]

23 YEARS IN CORE USMC HOORAY HOORAY HOORAY HOORAY 1986 to 2009

[@unclechappy9074]

Thank you for this

[@danfigueroa4124]

Loved this interview, very cool and calm and capable individual.

[@s.k.mcduffie6475]

I met a retired Sgt major ranger at 85 years old. When I tell you he cried after I asked him about Bob Howard, that said more than words could describe

[@alstahl8574]

Bob Howard was the finest warrior! Honest combat leader! Fearless His raw speaking will never be replaced with a story! Semper Fi

[@MichaelBrown-zj4uw]

Had the pleasure of meeting and rraining with Hoot when i was in 1st Batt. One of the finest soldiers to ever step on this planet.

[@bitemenow609]

Inspiration on the next level.

[@yepyep1013]

Wise man Mr. Hooten is. Did his time and saw the needs of his wife and children and made that a priority. Excellent!!

[@NAVMAN987]

What an enjoyable interview.

[@philchristmas4071]

I really enjoyed this interview.

[@doncase2169]

terrific interview.

[@silversurfer6366]

God bless the Vets, and America 🇺🇸

[@bodazaphfa]

Phenomenal interview.

[@swh0rd682]

Wow this is great. My favorite character from the movie.

[@Unexpected-changes79]

What a man...I wish I'd had someone like that in my live

[@ca47gib26]

A true living legend. Respect ❤

[@sy73326]

One awesome interview

[@MrNcgy]

This was a thoroughly enjoyable, and very educational interview. Thank you for your incredible service career Mr. Hooten. I'm glad you mentioned Bob Howard, I was amazed when I heard his story. I'm glad your business took off, you deserve all the best after all you've given.

[@jcfarcash]

Glad to hear that you're not going to leave us anytime soon!!! Keep on living my brother!!!

[@derekbrown2988]

One of my heroes. This guy needs his on action figure.

[@user-xj8os4cr1l]

Thank you both for this interview. I’m looking into those cigars and whisky now and sharing them with friends and family.

[@manuellabor2759]

Great interview!!!! 👍👍👍👍👍

[@stephencarlson6028]

Thanks man!! MSGT HOOTEN , EXCELLENT INTERVIEW.

[@RECOILweb]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@jesper509]

Extremely interesting to hear. Thank you!

[@BlueWaterSTAX]

Great analysis. Thanks guys

[@RECOILweb]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@yourmomsdildo3938]

Its a real shame what they are doing to the military right now. I served 9 years and some change and i loved it. Part of OEF and OIF 1-4 and beg my kids now not to go in.

[@Frank-uw5xq]

Bob Howard's a legend, Hoot was my favorite character in movie, wanted to join SF my whole life already before, Dad was SF too, but dreamed of role Hoot protrayed in movie, your legendary sir salute to you

[@charlesbandini6650]

Excellent interview.