Jocko Podcast 63 w/ Colonel Bill Reeder: "My Captivity in Vietnam"

Join the Conversation on Twitter and Facebook: @jockowillink WilliamReederJr @echocharles
0:00:00 - Opening
0:05:46 - Intro to Bill Reeder "Through The Valley: My Captivity in Vietnam"
0:09:35 - First Tour in Vietnam
0:15:23 - Second Tour in Vietnam
0:35:23 - The Crash
0:49:55 - The Capture
2:10:10 - Freedom from Capture
2:19:04 - Aftermath and the Take-Away
2:33:14 - Support, Cool Onnit, Amazon, JockoStore stuff, with Jocko White Tea and Psychological Warfare (on iTunes). Extreme Ownership (book) and The Muster002
2:39:09 - Closing Gratitude

[@joeybudafuco6062]

"How are we on time? Cause we just keep going on and on and on...." if only he realized, these podcasts put people in a trance, where time holds no value....I personally can not seem to get ENOUGH!!!

[@dean7673]

Very true man

[@rvz77]

I run to this podcast.

[@warlockish8362]

Truth. I planned on going to bed after work. Then this popped up. It's now 3am. 🤣

[@WarHammer1989]

They could’ve made this a day by day podcast of him re telling his story day by day and I’d listen

[@catherinegrace2366]

I have been binge watching these videos.

[@johnrobinson4061]

This video deserves 1 million views. If only they taught us about this man in school.

[@johnrobinson4061]

Right after I finish Extreme Ownership, I am reading this.

[@aaronanderson7619]

Johnny Robinson how was it? Sounds like a not put down read.

[@molassio1989]

I started reading it recently and only put it down to work and to watch/listen to these podcasts.

[@FUZYsquatch]

I had a good history teacher a few years ago who had started living history at our high school... it was sweet, I remember one veteran who’d bring in real equipment including the M2 browning. Long story short all of the war veterans had good stories to tell.

[@DISmith]

I’ve served with Colonel Bill Reeder… an American Hero!

[@stin8108]

"good evening echo" "good eve... "back to the book"

[@Raumance]

Oh shit! I like it when there's military guests. I ordered a book couple weeks ago and Echo sent a message asking how I want it signed and I replied "Just write 'Free your mind' on it' or any of the other Jocko sayings, BUT NOT 'discipline equals freedom'." Because I also ordered the discipline equals freedom patch. So I got the book and first thing it says is "Discipline Equals Freedom" hahahha, and after that Free your mind. I can only imagine how the conversation went. Echo "So he wants the Free your mind on there, BUT NOT the discipline equals freedom one." Jocko "You know what I'm gonna write here?" Echo "Just don't write the discipline equals freedom thing that he specifically asked you not to write." Jocko "I'm gonna write 'discipline equals freedom'"

[@JohnSmith-jb8rb]

hahahaha

[@VisualVortexArtStudio]

Raumance so true, you can fully imagine exactly how it went down

[@FlightOfJatayu]

Did you order a book from the Jocko store? How did you get the opportunity for a signed book?

[@Raumance]

Yeah Jocko Store. I don't know. Is it not normally signed?

[@FlightOfJatayu]

Raumance I've yet to order something from the store. It's cool to hear they do that

[@peterfichtner1]

I've been trying to gain perspective on my "problems", and was having a particularly rough night and last night I listened straight through to the Jocko podcast about unit 731, and this podcast. I think more people with depression should be exposed to these wartime stories to help gain perspective. This was just what I needed to put my day back on track and pick myself and start getting things done again. Thanks for this podcast and your service in the military guys, it is incredible what you all and others have gone through and it makes me sick to think that I ever complained about anything in my life after hearing this. I'll keep taking one step at a time towards discipline and strength in my own life.

[@daddycool3186]

Peter your in my prayers Brother ,life's a marathon not a sprint, we are all on a path

[@AngryOscillator]

I agree. That leg story.... 😬 my necks a bit stiff but, y'know, its fine now I come to think about it, no worries at all

[@mq9893]

That's some damn deep truth! Thank you. Hope its going good for you Peter.

[@1toRespectReggae]

Great comment, exactly how I feel. My problems are NOTHING compared to these heros.

[@catherinegrace2366]

Beautiful response

[@stefang8952]

My God this man is an absolute bad ass. Thank you, Jocko for sharing this. It's a privilege to hear this mans story.

[@fishduckdog]

Found it. Got my Letter for Recommendation for OCS from him! Served 86 -89 under his command. He never quits.

[@guitarthrasher81]

Thanks Jocko for bringing light to true American heroes

[@kyledamron]

I get so much more than watching an interview with a "celebrity" or something like that. Guys like this are role models for kids not people like Justin Bieber or some other spoiled rich kid

[@brockc8785]

If you ever find someone who looks at you the way Jocko looks and Colonel Reeder, keep that person in your life.

[@flatericccc]

Make the podcast as long as it needs to be. If people have issues with war heroes talking for 4+ hours they should find something else.

[@benjaminfranklin4149]

I think Jocko and Echo do a good job with the lengths. Of course I could listen to these guys talk all day too, but think it's better having them back on for a follow up or a series of the podcast. I would love to hear/see a part 2 or 3 for some of these.

[@kyledamron]

I agree with you! They should just be able to speak for as long as they need to to talk about everything they need to. I would much rather listen to veterans talk than a celebrity. I also wouldnt mind of they broke an interview into 2 or 3 parts if they dont want to upload too much more than 2 hours, as long as the guest gets to get his full story out.

[@seraphx26]

I agree, look it's not complicated if you don't have time to listen to the entire thing in one go, pause it and come back later to finish the rest.

[@raimundosilva4382]

Mandei para lá vou ligar para ele tá as provas que dormi a cabeça e que era dele o Santuário Aquele lixo covarde que ele é um covarde eu ligo para lá e dou minha cabeça que era dele se quiser fazer esse teste quiser aceitar a proposta eu tô qualquer dia qualquer hora eu vou fazer a proposta com ele e juízo na cabeça dele que eu quero mesmo eu vou falar na cara dele que eu quero a cabeça dele eu falo na cara dele que eu quero a cabeça dele não sou covarde igual aí não vou mostrar para ele como é que o homem faz como que é um pega outro de frente com covardia Não é colado ele não é homem não ele é uma p*** o homem que é covarde ele é uma p*** Você tem o nome de homem mas ele não passa de uma p*** online

[@raimundosilva4382]

Mas não tenho nada contra você não meu amigo Você tem todo respeito eu não tô entendendo muito bem suas mensagens aí você tá falando que tá escrito que escreve que eles falaram Não entendi sua mensagem nada contra você tá bom não me leva a mal que eu conheço as pessoas sair ver bater os olhos sei quem é você eu sei quando a pessoa é boa quando eu bato o olho da pessoa sei se ela é boa ou não a gente não sabe por dentro mas eu tô por fora a gente sabe se a pessoa é boa não é eu não tenho nada contra você não tá bom

[@georgeg2369]

Jocko should start a book reading channel. Best reader Best interpretations Best commentary and insights 💕

[@DangerousFreedoms]

“The strength of our American democracy is that we can have different views and people disagree and the health of the democracy is when those disagreements can be argued and discussed and you reach a solution...a democratic solution and you go forward.” 2021 really needs this.

[@StaleyTraining]

When I learn of accounts like this, and having no military experience, I wonder how I might respond and seriously doubt that I could respond with half the courage and dignity as Colonel Reeder did. What an inspiring man.

[@bach68sfg]

If you think you have "Problems" after listening to Colonel Reeder's story you'll be thankful you have them.

[@Jk-dr7kd]

The irony of promoting joint pain supplements with a POW guest

[@mpz9771]

You know it's a good podcast when 3 hours feels like 30 minutes.

[@fishduckdog]

COL Reeder! Glad he is still kicking! We knew he was a POW when working for him, but never knew the details. My father was over there from 60-62, but left unscathed the 1st soldier to marry a Vietnamese National, my Mother. Thanks Joko for having him on your show.

[@antwannn111]

The level of respect Jocko has for his guests is unmatched elsewhere. Love this shit, getting me fired up for my workout.

[@hobbsmakescomics]

Jocko should do books for Audible, and keep in his additions and explainers. "Back to the BOOK!" So much respect for William Reeder, such an amazing and heavy story.

[@tobygoodman9134]

"Hope is such a powerful thing. Its there for all of us. We just need to grab a hold of it, and hold it tightly." What an absolutely amazing quote. 1:11:40

[@TeamTriumphHQ]

Col Reeder: “.....how are we on time?” Jocko: “we’re good....”

[@adanacman666]

I travelled to Vietnam in 2018 I walked thru hard packed trails in comfortable running shoes in fairly sparse jungle well dressed and very healthyand the heat and humidity was unbearable I cannot even begin to imagine what this man endured it simply blows my mind ...incredible !!!what a story and what a true hero.....

[@jimtarrant3337]

This man is a genuine hero. Thank God for men and women like him!

[@adamdenton8472]

Sir, I am one of those guys who retains almost nothing when I read, so most of my books are listened to on audiobooks. I went to find this one after listening to the podcast and it did not exist yet. So I started thinking, you should be the one to narrate this book. I have listened to a lot of war books, and often the reader does not capture the tone of the moment the way I believe you can. Just a thought, Sir. Thanks for all you do here, the men once of 1st Recon appreciate you message.

[@joshmaag2457]

I second this

[@MrGilRoland]

Very old comment, but seven years later what you said is true more then ever. He is an outstanding reader, this is literally the first thing that comes to mind when you listen to him reading something. Outstanding reader, he can give words a soul, possibly the best reader I’ve ever heard.

[@aureliusrusticus2320]

Jocko Podcast is awesome as-is, but it's even better when he has military guests. Jocko is an outstanding host.

[@seriouslyrelax7306]

Literal tear as they rose out of SAM range. This guy is a beast. Thank you Jocko.

[@Tagezs8]

I don't know what else to say but , Thank You.

[@aureliusrusticus2320]

Regarding the 8 points Jocko reads in the end: *"Do not give up or be disgusted with yourself if you do not act from right principles in every situation; but, having been driven off course, return again and rejoice if most of your actions are worthy of a human being, and love that to which you are returning."* - Marcus Aurelius: Meditations, 5:9

[@onepunchflan3071]

Marcus is one of my favourite philosophers and Is definitely useful for every person

[@FarmBuilder]

Such a humble warrior and true hero, Colonel Bill Reeder.

[@ericb2409]

So much respect

[@easy6training822]

I love that Colonel Reeder advocates TALKING ABOUT IT!!!! This was insanely awesomely inspiring! Thank you, Jocko. Thank you, Colonel Reeder FOR EVERYTHING! For the podcast, for the book, for your heroism, for my FREEDOM! THANK YOU!

[@flatericccc]

The most respect for Bill Reeder. Thank you sir.

[@benyoung552]

Wow that room is bright compared to the episodes I’ve been watching all over in the high 200’s.

[@1toRespectReggae]

How could he walk for months and sit stand do anything with a broken back? I’ve had 2 herniated disks and that pain was so bad I almost passed out from spasms many time and I was only 15! What a hero and tough as shit to go through that. I love these podcasts. It really puts our freedom fighters in prospective. Freedom isn’t free! It’s a buck-0 five! Merica.

[@ommeon623]

The alternative was death. Other South Vietnam Soldiers carried him in different parts of a 3month trail with little food and 16hours of walking.

[@1200JML]

What a story... Can't imagine all the suffering he went through. Still he seems to be such a hearty and joyful man. Gotta get that book.

[@fishduckdog]

When I was working for him before he retired, 86-89, he would still lead us on our 5 mile and 10 mile runs! Don't know quit!

[@kathyborthwick6738]

This man deserves every second! He lived it-We only need to listen! 🦅🌸🦅🙏🏽🦅🌸🦅👵🏽👋🏾 Thank You Sir!

[@killerscorner6283]

I am about a month into the jocko podcast and I could talk for hours about the respect I have for all that is on here thank you for giving them a voice!! RESPECT SIR

[@christx3326]

Pilot taking the POW's home: "WE'RE OUT OF SAM MISSLE RANGE NOW. I thought y'all would like to know" Tears ensue...

[@JohnSmith-jb8rb]

I'm still amazed this podcast doesn't have a bigger following. I hope the viewers here can help change that.

[@BadActor-]

Should Be Required Watch For The Lost Generation Of Youth In Modernity.....Thanks Semper Fi GB

[@travisn346]

My Dad served in Vietnam (USAF) and he told me that the sacrifices made would be forgotten by the youth in coming decades. I'll never forget. Thank you for your service my friend.

[@frankythehatchet3206]

These people are amazing, I really respect American military, what a hero, greetings from Ireland

[@camkraw893]

Thank you for your service Colonel, glad you came back alive and in great shape now mentally and physically! And of course thank you Jocko for having got this great man to be in your podcast!

[@danieldeshler9326]

Jockos got the perfect reading voice man I love this guy thanks for your service gentleman

[@jeremyhansen8186]

Again, humbled. How is it that I was so blessed to be born in this great nation?

[@benbirdman53]

I have listened to all 63 episodes up to this point and this may be the most impactful. The quiet and unassuming grace, dignity, and strength with which Colonel Bill Reeder carries himself is such an example of how I would love to be able to carry myself. What an awesome guy! Who needs a pre-workout supplement when you are listening to Colonel Reeder talking about walking through the jungle... Definitely helped me bust out a few more reps :)

[@itachisenju5303]

BTF. Thank you for the privilege to hear This Man story

[@therock809]

You can tell jocko was excited during this podcast as was I.

[@duckcall96]

Definitely a favorite so far. God bless you Bill Reeder. Thank you so much for your service. 🫡🇺🇸

[@757optim]

When I read "When Hell Was In Session" by Jeremiah Denton (couldn't put it down, read straight through in one night), he alluded to the needed change to the code that Jocko mentioned, based on his POW experience. Given that every man can be broken, it is important psychologically to resist fully and completely, but if broken, to begin again to resist fully, so that being "broken" is not permanent. POW Jeremiah Denton, an American hero, became a Rear Admiral and served as a U.S. Senator from Alabama. William Reeder sir, welcome home. Salute. RVN, 170th AHC, Class of '69. Your experience, your faith, brings me to tears.

[@dcancel1960]

Thank you so much Jocko and Echo for bringing Col. Reeder to the podcast, it was a very moving and inspirational podcast. As a former US Navy Special Boat Operator suffering from PTSD, it made me reflect on my past and how I deal and adjust to today's world. The fact that Col. Reeder and all of his experiences and horrifying ordeals still has a non prejudicial outlook on humanity speaks volumes for his character and gives me the courage to face my issues and realize that there are many good people in the world, despite the circumstances. It makes me reflect on the saying: darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can drive out darkness. Thank you brothers for your honorable service and sacrifice defending the very freedom we take for granted today. Fair winds and following seas, always!!!!

[@giusepperesponte8077]

If I can achieve his level of strength before I die then I’ll have no regrets in life.

[@Stanley5551234]

This may be the best podcast ever. Thank you, Jocko and Echo, for bringing this to us. G-d Bless Colonel Reeder!

[@Iheartdgd]

1:31:30 this segment literally brought tears to my eyes.. what an incredible story. I don’t even know what to say...

[@anthonygabriel855]

Jocko, this was a great podcast...What a story......What a great service you are doing to the public to bring all of this to light and give these great men a chance to share their experiences with all of us. I am 59 and missed Vietnam and I am not a service member, but I am in full support of what you are doing....With all of the nonsense that we are all living with these days it's great to see what kind of fellow Americans I am walking these streets with, including yourself. America will always be a great country as long as we have selfless soldiers such as yourselves serving this great country. Thanks to all of you. T

[@glennsparks919]

My father was an RF4C pilot and his biggest advice and stories given to him through pilot training was from Gerry Venanzi. Glad vets are coming forward with their experiences.

[@jeffwhite5149]

Wow! A simple Thank You, is an understatement! But Thank You for your service and for being a humble servant!

[@joemac7043]

Col. Reeder is a true American hero

[@robertshi5161]

Jocko would love if you could get a MACV SOG veteran on the podcast to get some more insight on the secret war in Laos and Cambodia during that war. John Stryker Meyer would be an incredible interview and his book, Across the Fence, is excellent!

[@JARP173]

This comment aged so well! Lol

[@eddymullins5857]

I wonder if he read this and that’s what made it happen, and if so thank you Robert shi!! Some of the best war stories of all times.

[@shanecyclesdotcom]

Good evening Echo, great that the allowed 2 such heroes on your show ;)

[@danielpohl29]

I have never cried listening to a jocko podcast. Well there's a first for everything

[@deathintheair8453]

This is one hard tough man he has my respect the Vietnam war was such a huge clusterfuck.

[@CrossLBar1883]

Wow wow wow !!! Amazing interview Jocko , GOD BLESS YOU Mr. REEDER 🇺🇸

[@truebornsonofliberty554]

I need a "Back to the book" coffee cup, NOW, G-D dammit.

[@kellyfj]

That on one side and on the other side of the mug "Back in the DAY"

[@Jayarea5]

Frank Kelly and a "GOOD EVENING ECHO" t shirt

[@0num4]

Or one which reflects my study habits: "Back to the books" in the bottom of the cup.

[@davidkostreva1179]

Front: "Good Evening Echo" with an image of a microphone Back: "Now back to the book..." with an image of cover of "About Face"...

[@cdellbrumley]

This is my favorite episode. Thanks so much for making these podcasts.

[@FabledKnell]

I don't think anything has ever made me cry more and feel better than Jocko Podcast.

[@duroisgawd]

Thank you Sirs, brought tears to my eyes.

[@tonyjacob5835]

Bill your story helped me, just the remembrance that God helps those who helps themselves brought be strength.

[@axeaddiction796]

This episode was amazing. I will never complain again. They need to make a movie about this. The human spirit is amazing

[@twags10]

Incredible man, incredible story.

[@generalcarver]

EXCELLENT VLOG! What a true honor to listen to this. Some very helpful and important lessons on personal survival and enduring suffering that apply to civilian life even. Your guest was right, probably the greatest thing he did was to start talking about his experiences. They are worth sharing.

[@joecamacho21]

Thank you. Gentlemen!

[@jonathanlamont853]

Big Bill, New Bill, Old Bill, Young Bill....awesome!!

[@srtcharger6525]

What a bloody Champion. Bill you are a hero. *Aussie Salute

[@superfly2201]

Unbelievable! Definitely a privilege to hear this podcast! Thank you for posting.

[@mattclarke4698]

I listen to this podcast and I'm thinking what the hell am I complaining about!! It's not shame I'm feeling but close. There is no damn excuse for me quiting in this life! none! Thank you Colonel Reeder! you have paved the way for us to follow from here on out.

[@typ044]

Same, it helps remind me not to be such a crybaby and spend any time whining about the shi t modern society tries to convince me I should be whining about.

[@tpnovrbeats6719]

one of those podcast that I wish was 6 hours. Wicked inspiring!!!

[@bigiron5508]

Boy there's a whole lot of people that need to hear that opening statement these days......thank you for your service...

[@thejiujitiero1571]

Absolutely amazing and inspiring book and podcast, thank you for your service sir

[@thetazman666]

Major Duffy has been honored with 64 awards and decorations, including the Distinguished Service Cross (awaiting Board decision to upgrade), his nation's second highest award for valor, the Soldier's Medal, four Bronze Stars with "Valor" device, eight Purple Hearts, seven Air Medals (6 with "Valor" device), three Army Commendation Medals with "Valor" device, Viet Nam's highest award for valor: Cross of Gallantry with Palm, plus two with Silver Stars, three Presidential Unit Citations (Army), one Presidential Unit Citation (Naval), Vietnam Cross of Gallantry w/Palm (Unit), Vietnam Valorous Service Medal (Unit), the Combat Infantry Badge, Master Parachutist Wings, plus numerous other awards for service and merit.

[@seanelgie]

Man as the story keeps going you think it can’t get worse and it just keeps going. I can’t believe he managed to survive with all of those major injuries and diseases all bombarding him at the same time. Just mind blowing.

[@user-ge1yj7vr3e]

Thank you for sharing this heroes story Jocko!

[@artk6998]

Amazing interview. Thank you for sharing and your service 🇺🇸!

[@jakeestes7403]

Love these podcasts man heard about yours shows from a friend and probably one one the best things I’ve gotten into in a long time. Keep it up man. I would imagine you are helping more people than you think.

[@kheperainherhiding6522]

This a beautiful, inspiring and horrifying episode all in one. Thank you.

[@ryandickson2478]

Truly a remarkable human being and an outstanding patriot. Ordering this book ASAP

[@eddieryan127]

Jocko... just took in this podcast.. through the tears Col. Reeders story and you reading has completely changed my life. All to say from this troop is THANK YOU THANK YOU BOTH

[@kacieogle513]

God bless you Colonel Reeder!

[@jacobabe5573]

What an incredible man. A true war hero! Thank you for your service Bill Reeder.

[@davewade30]

Jocko is like a little kid in a candy store while talking to someone he obviously respects and admires. Not a side we see from him often. Very cool.

[@shannonjoker8527]

Thank you so much for your service as a young man not knowing what he was getting into. Did awesome

[@shaunosborne2533]

Great Podcast! Thank you for your service.

[@bach68sfg]

Next time you want to complain listen to Colonel Reeder.

[@joshsmith-it5uk]

Yep next time you "Think" your having a bad day, just remember his bad days.

[@hillbillypsycho8883]

This man is The Bad Ass! I am leaving tomorrow to take my 13 yo on a 42 mile 5 day backpacking. Now my son knows why it is so important to do this trip. Thank You Jocko for bringing this story to my family.

[@mq9893]

how was the trip with the kid? Mine still resonates I went on with my pop 24 years ago. It took me a few years after the trip to really appreciate what my Vietnam Vet father wanted me to appreciate. Thanks

[@Iheartdgd]

Awesome ! Where did you guys go?

[@The_Brew_Dog]

Support these heros and buy their books!

[@molassio1989]

"The radio will always work if you test it." I feel like that transfers over to life in general, as a bigger metaphor. Also, the only part of this story that I can relate to is having malaria and I currently live in Vietnam. Other than that, I cannot imagine what this man has been through.

[@garybellish3908]

True American Hero!!! Thank you for your service and for sharing.. I don't feel worthy of hearing your story but thank you!!

[@Sigfrido-xc3nf]

Love this podcast, man. My #1 by far.

[@turtlenemo]

What an amazing man. I definitely need this book!

[@AndreaTheArcher]

Hey Jocko,you could add links to your merchandise in the description,making it easier for people to find it

[@AngryOscillator]

Have to look for the merch? GOOD, weed out the weak. Don't get as many sales? GOOD, its about quality not quantity.

[@ericb2409]

What an outstanding and exemplary human being. Every day is a gift. Every day is beautiful. Thank you.

[@diggitydank1083]

I read this book in jail and several of Jockos list of books and they totally gave me an idea about how i had no reason to complain thank you jocko and Mr Reeder for changing way life.

[@OneShotOkie]

Fuck ya dude this made me happy. Hope your doin well

[@aleforte]

Amazing....thank you guys!!