Cleared Hot Episode 275 - George Monsoor

George Monsoor is the father of Michael Monsoor and a Marine veteran. He was born in Wisconsin and moved to Southern California at an early age where and his wife, Sally, were married for forty-nine years and have four children, including Michael, along with nine grandchildren. He has spent more than five decades in the business and entrepreneurial fields and continues to reside in Southern California.
George and Rose Rea are the co-authors of "Defend Us in Battle". The book includes a foreword by Dr. Donald C. Winter, former Secretary of the Navy. Through interviews, military documents, and eyewitness accounts, the authors detail Michael’s remarkable military career and devotion to God and others. The book highlights how Michael prepared for this selfless act all his life-a life that will inspire readers to have a similar generosity of heart.
George's son, Michael, was a Navy SEAL, and was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions on September 29th, 2006.
His Medal of Honor Citation reads:
The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pride in presenting the Medal of Honor (Posthumously) to Master-At-Arms Second Class (SEAL) Michael A. Monsoor, United States Navy, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as Automatic Weapons Gunner in SEAL Team 3, Naval Special Warfare Task Group Arabian Peninsula, in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM on 29 September 2006. As a member of a combined SEAL and Iraqi Army sniper overwatch element, tasked with providing early warning and stand-off protection from a rooftop in an insurgent-held sector of Ar Ramadi, Iraq, Petty Officer Monsoor distinguished himself by his exceptional bravery in the face of grave danger. In the early morning, insurgents prepared to execute a coordinated attack by reconnoitering the area around the element's position. Element snipers thwarted the enemy's initial attempt by eliminating two insurgents. The enemy continued to assault the element, engaging them with a rocket-propelled grenade and small arms fire. As enemy activity increased, Petty Officer Monsoor took position with his machine gun between two teammates on an outcropping of the roof. While the SEALs vigilantly watched for enemy activity, an insurgent threw a hand grenade from an unseen location, which bounced off Petty Officer Monsoor's chest and landed in front of him. Although only he could have escaped the blast, Petty Officer Monsoor chose instead to protect his teammates. Instantly and without regard for his own safety, he threw himself onto the grenade to absorb the force of the explosion with his body, saving the lives of his two teammates. By his undaunted courage, fighting spirit, and unwavering devotion to duty in the face of certain death, Petty Officer Monsoor gallantly gave his life for his country, thereby reflecting great credit upon himself and upholding the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

[@martinbarthjr.5111]

Long live the memory of Mikey... forever immortalized on my right forearm... proudly served with him before he was a SEAL...

[@JW-28]

Hell yeah, Barth! Hooyah!

[@Mwdmessi]

Were you a MA with Mikey?

[@martinbarthjr.5111]

Yes when he was waiting his year to return to buds he served with the same Security Team as me

[@erikpaterson748]

I've heard, read, and watched stories of Mike for a few years now. You guy's are keeping him alive to people who never knew him. It's incredible to see.

[@internet_internet]

You’re not crying, I’m crying.

[@RollieFingers59]

A grateful nation will never forget Michael Monsoor and God Bless his parents, family and friends. Thank you.

[@HighReadyBoutique]

Amen 🇺🇲

[@832KJV]

Very emotional interview - well handled by Andy. Michael obviously had wonderful parents and its no wonder he turned out like he did. George, I am so sorry for your losses and I hope you can find joy again. You had two amazing people in your life for a while and I pray you will be reunited one day. God bless you sir.

[@suzettekrasner]

This was such a sweet interview. Watching Mr. Monsoor tell this story of his life, his son, and his wife; just shattered my heart for him. Losing my Mother in 2022 still puts me on my heels some day. Praying for him daily. 💛

[@davidbillings615]

Just listening to George you can see and hear where Micheal learned to be the man he is. George know that you are a blessing to this world. Especially through your family.

[@Addmoreboost]

I don’t think George gives himself enough credit for what a truly amazing man, husband, and father he is. I’ve listened to damn near every podcast on this channel, and this was one of the best and most powerful yet.

[@catfolan4065]

My boyfriend starts every day after Praying 🙏 watching videos of Michael Monsoor and all the heroes of our military especially his Seal Heroes whom he calls real life DC and Marvel Superheroes...God Bless all our heroes and their families past,present and future and God Bless America 🇺🇸

[@parklloyd6690]

Two main takeaways for me. First, Michael Monsoor was a hero from a strong and supportive family, and we as a nation and as humanity are blessed by Michael’s sacrifice and the Monsoors’ efforts in raising their son. Second, Andy is a really good interviewer. He gave Mr. Monsoor the time to tell stories, and more importantly, to grieve, as he spoke. You could hear Andy’s concern for Mr. Monsoor at the end, and his description of Vaughn’s losses and eventual finding of happiness again was offered to comfort and give hope. Not sure what I was expecting, but another outstanding episode. Cheers Andy, and thank you.

[@briangrady367]

Mr. Monsoor, you are an inspiration and the type of man, husband and father I hope to be. Thank you for sharing Mikes story, but more importantly thank you for sharing your story. God bless good sir.

[@shadihaddad7]

Certainly one of the most impactful episodes I’ve listened to so thank you Andy. No amount of gratitude is sufficient for the sacrifices Mikey and the Monsoor family has made for our country. I really hope George can find peace with the losses he’s experienced. Can’t wait to read the book.

[@pixel956]

Such a beautiful human.❤

[@robertwildes7550]

R Lee Ermey was the DI in Full Metal Jacket.

[@Highlander111172]

R Lee Ermy was the DI in "Full Metal Jacket"

[@dforgash]

Emotional episode for sure. Vaughn and George would be amazing together.... The parenting advice would be awesome. Stand Strong.

[@falcon5215]

Very moving and poignant story. Andy, what a great job you did facilitating what must have been a difficult conversation at times. I wish all the best to Mr. Monsoor.

[@griffoutdoortv5882]

I frequently break out into tears listening to cleared hot and this one was definitely one of those episodes thank you George for your stories and time to share this and thank you Andy for the job you do it’s more important than you realize

[@gordonshrubb7155]

Get help.

[@griffoutdoortv5882]

@@gordonshrubb7155 if hearing about our service members losing their lives and their families dealing with that doesn’t affect you in some way I think you need help

[@stephensmith5551]

@@gordonshrubb7155 Says the dude shit-posting on KZbin comments….Hopefully someday you won’t find yourself in a similar situation as this gentleman. God Bless you sir.

[@gordonshrubb7155]

@@stephensmith5551 I'm not shit posting.

[@tapufool]

My heart goes out to Mr.Monsoor . So much to deal with. I watched and helped my Mom take care of my grandparents who died of cancer and other illnesses. I do not wish that on anyone. All the while having to deal with a child dying. Be strong and be well!

[@lm-usmc]

Man, he has been dealt some tough blows. I pray he finds joy in his life after such tragedies. Your son is a hero. Semper Fi, Brother! 🙏

[@petergallina9911]

Sending Mr Monsoor positive thoughts. God Bless

[@jprw]

What a beautiful guy

[@internet_internet]

May god bless you, George.

[@vitigaymer1053]

Heroes raise Heroes. Thank you Mr Monsoor and God Bless your Family for your sacrifice!!

[@josephmitchell1513]

What an amazing and powerful interview. Every father should watch this one.

[@DJake78]

George Monsoor is epitome of a role model and a fighter. That is what a hero looks like.

[@klmorg63]

Absolutely awesome episode! I’ve heard Jocko moved to tears talking about Mikey with Mr Monsoor on his podcast. Thank you Andy for having Mr Monsoor on, R.I.P. Mikey, hero, son, brother, and warrior! Thank you for giving everything for your friends and teammates!

[@mobilejake1973]

What a podcast, wow. Great job on this one, Andy.

[@shanewaldrop1625]

God bless the Monsoor family.

[@MrCoryRM]

George just seems like a genuine wonderful guy, I like hearing him speak pretty much anything , it chokes me up even getting into the conversation about Mike , for the pain and pride his family probably have

[@kellinarramore6480]

Hi Andy,I watch every week and love the show.This was sweetest,heartbreaking love story I have heard.Thank you both

[@heatherhillman9605]

Wow. How brave he is to talk about his struggles. I hope he continues to live.

[@marcgingras9135]

What a great great one Andy! Mr Monsoor looks like a amazing human being! God bless his son and the Seals who served! From Québec, Canada !

[@logicrollin7418]

Thank you both for this. I'm a former CAF airborne member & this was heartfelt. Ex Coelis

[@BirdDogey1]

This is a tough one to listen to. I worked with Michael Mansoor's brother who was a Marine. Listening to his father you realize where his son's got their character.

[@fadedlogic1]

What a fantastic episode, would love to hear more from George. A great and sobering reminder of the amazing people that make this country one of the greatest places in the world; warts and all.

[@jasons4882]

I watched George on the Jocko podcast and didn't get the same take-aways that came from this one. The in-depth story of his wife and losing her was emotionally charged. Awesome podcast and story, and I hope George finds the light at the end of the tunnel on a new mission.

[@11bravo1789]

God bless this man and his family.

[@VicVonDoom97]

Truly inspirational. That last part really got me❤

[@revans4774]

If most of become half the man George is . We will be doing good .

[@cool_breeze_actual9643]

Respect

[@spudgrunwald8529]

great men do great things, we as a people owe a debt that can never be paid to the men & women who sacrificed everything.

[@kenteas9461]

George is a REAL one!

[@paulc8588]

Job well done keeping Mike's name alive. 👏

[@TheNukite]

From one veteran to another, Thx for your service and your work.

[@jesussaves_316]

American hero

[@Nalu.Emperado]

Thank you Andy, George, and Michael for the sacrifices you all made and continue to make. Mikey will never be forgotten and his legacy lives strong. Love is the best thing to ever come into your life and also the worst pain can be delivered from Love. But to understand Love is hard. My wife had a stroke less than a month ago and almost loss her. Till this day I feel I could've done more before and after even tho she's OK now and had minimal effects but in it was the hardest time I've experienced even more than my time deployed. Love the podcast and thanks for keeping it real. God bless you all.

[@chrisbertrand5878]

Thank you for bringing that to us Andy. It was incredibly meaningful.

[@kmm8020]

Great show!!! You need to have him back on with your Dad!!!

[@antoniomilone5472]

Powerful stories! As always, you bring a lot of comedy. Thank you for a great start to the week, Andy. Enjoy you being able to share stories like these. Thank you again.

[@imagetf]

What a great interview!! God bless the Monsoor family! Well done Andy!

[@clatonbigsby662]

Whoever called his parents leaving bad messages should be in jail

[@andygerman285]

Andy- every time I think you knocked one out of the park a new conversation like this happens and the bar is raised once more. You not only honored Mike but also his family. Thanks for what you do and keep it up.

[@calebcutler7439]

Never forget. Thanks Andy

[@kevme15]

By far, best podcast to date, and I've watched or listened to nearly all of them. Much respect to Mr. Monsoor and you, Andy.

[@keithschreiner2819]

Thank you for sharing this with us Andy… Awesome…

[@robsivec5463]

This was by far the best and most moving interview I have ever seen. Well done Andy!! and George thank you for the sacrifice your family made for this nation. God Bless.

[@jopattix]

Thank you for hosting George Monsoor and your compassionate tone especially at the final third of his interview. He was brave and honest about the ache, the absence of joy and the shock of lonelness losing both his son and his wife. As someone who lost a son and husband (at the same time) I appreciated continuing the conversation into the "hard parts" of his life with the process of both members of his family.

[@mikehergenroether6160]

Didn't think I'd get a casino management anecdote with this one. Great listen.

[@GG-tw1qw]

While I'm listening to Mr George Monsoor , I'm thinking about why even though I never meet Seal Monsoor when I ear about how he is and the sacrifice he make , it's still brings me to tear and I wonder why. I think that beautiful burden it's related to one of the first verses of the bible. When Adam eat the apple he realized he was naked ( meaning he realized he's vulnerable) and he hides from God. And why would he hide from God because he's vulnerable ? One of the most beautiful symbolical explanations is because when your vulnerable do you really have the nerve to let the divine in you to shine through ? I believe that Michael's sacrifice is the embodiment of the divine and that's why we cry in the presence of something so heavy and so beautiful. Michael was a God among humans just as the person who chooses to fight for good, freedom and justice. What did Michael sacrifice for ? Extreme friendship, such an extreme love can only be the divine part of our souls. I catch myself thinking about his last moments , to have a heart so full of love that your brain is not even there anymore it's just your heart and nothing else ... One with the Infiniti. I pray to God I have one portion of what Michael have. Thank you Michael for the great light.

[@rebeccapelegrin7898]

Made me cry. Well handled, Andy.

[@Nick-cn2fb]

Man this one has me feeling a level of gratitude I don’t feel often. God bless you and your family. I’ve listened to this story many times but never by the father.

[@brentnelson1270]

Andy- you handled that interview masterfully. You gave it the time and respect that it deserved and you knew when to just let the moment breathe. I am a retired Navy Chief, but never a SPECOPS guy. My time in CODs and H46s did allow me small glimpses into your world and I still hold all you guys in high regard, without ever crossing over into fan boy territory. Although, I had a female CO at one of my COD squadrons and she was married to Mike Thornton, a legit living legend. So, I may have been slightly star struck there. 😂 Anyway, great job!

[@stephbrandenburg9957]

Sweet emotion…

[@kdbe11]

Pod Cast with your dad and Mr. Monsoor would be awesome!

[@randymichel459]

Fantastic episode Andy. George had me shredded in tears as I had to pause it a few times to clear myself. That happened when he was on Jocko’s podcast too. My heart breaks for him but I also admire him for having the will to carry on with what he has lost. A testament to the man Michael was, is evident in his memory and how his memory is carried by George. There is still a mission for him to continue on with and I hope he can gain fulfillment from that.

[@garybellish9586]

I took care of my mother when she got cancer and then my brother after he had a TBI, it's very very hard

[@rostamr4096]

I cried so much watching this

[@JohnnyK62]

I am proud to wear his bracelet everyday

[@larryapl]

Thank you Andy for this man and his story. Tears of respect.

[@kevinpierce1735]

Great job

[@hiphopman72]

Powerful

[@maryboros-te8wn]

What a wo derful man

[@mmustang94]

Incredible episode. What an incredible man and family.

[@tylerpohler3271]

American politicians could learn a lot from Michael Monsoor, legacies are naturally created when you lay down your life for your fellow countryman

[@jimmiller5455]

Great podcast.

[@christopherpeterraby]

Mike's Dad is cool as shit

[@MrCoryRM]

Damn it Andy that last question, broke my heart

[@mattramirez4172]

Great show

[@rezzyn94]

1:29:00 - here's the answer... Blood means you're related, love and loyalty means you're family

[@f82dot]

After seeing Mr. Monsoor on this podcast episode, it’s very easy to understand how Mikey was such an exceptional and selfless human being, so much so he jumped on a Grenade to save the lives of his Brothers!! George is just a kind hearted, smart, fun man and I’m sure his children are more than proud to call him Father! Thanks for this podcast man, this is my new favorite!!

[@jimpiepenbrink946]

An incredibly powerful episode.

[@billmorton6977]

Happy Monday everyone . Have a wonderful day and a blessed week . Stay safe and stay strong

[@nathanbuck7572]

Thank u again for all u have done and the great content much respect from Missouri

[@BirdDawg1]

Excellent interview, great guest!

[@dannywhisnant4582]

Great job Stumpf man! Powerful episode !

[@xvsj-s2x]

Thank you for sharing this content Andy , ❤🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@camron1501]

Thank you.

[@jengunter7446]

Damn, that one hurt

[@GG-tw1qw]

Uau Andy just fucking Uau ! This is going to stick with me. Mr. George is an example of a man. So much heavy stuff on him and he's carrying that with such a grace and humility, it's hard to imagine how he does it. Thank you for that.

[@secoff1]

outstanding

[@roselee1974]

Happy Monday. Another amazing podcast.

[@tryptaman4315]

Make your son start putting time stamps on these videos. For all the different topics y’all cover. Pay him 11 extra a month

[@jeremycaraway950]

I just wish these podcasts had time stamps.

[@jeffclymer5810]

I'd give this episode a 1000 likes if I could. Great podcast.

[@charliefoxtrotter]

I like andy, but was a bit let down with how the best he could offer mike's dad after he led the father to spill the beans about his wife dying (and being lonely...this was especially heartbreaking) was, I can direct you to a good local 4x4 dealer?

[@jacobdavis9654]

Hooyaaaaah Mikey monsooooooooooor!

[@jayjohnson3732]

Wow.

[@heathhines5034]

we need david goggins on the pod

[@erickiyoshiphillips2323]

Lol I remember people had blood all over their head I'm lucky I didn't have anything on my head. Good old fort Benning. Then the black chow hall ladies haha