The Bridge - The true story about the Evacuation of Kabul, Afghanistan with Tyler Vargas-Andrews

Tyler Vargas-Andrews is a man with an iron will, a heart of gold and an incredible journey. Tyler is an active duty Marine Infantryman who was the most critically wounded during the attack on HKIA during the evacuation Afghanistan in 2021. The attack that took the lives of over 200 people and 13 fellow US service members. A year later, he tells the untold story of that terribly gruesome, yet beautiful day and his path to recovery.
The Bridge Homepage:
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Travis Haley (Host)
CEO, Haley Strategic Partners:
/ dragonflyhaley
Tyler Vargas-Andrews:
whistlingde...
Charities
Ranger Road:
rangerroad.org/
Semper Fi Fund:
give.thefund.org/fundraiser/4...
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#haleystrategic #haleystrategicpartners #thebridge #thebridgepodcast #thinkersbeforeshooters #tylervargasandrews

[@dereksolano2421]

Not sure if you’ll see this, and you probably don’t remember me, but I met your team and you briefly in Kuwait. Your team relieved mine (3/1 STA) out there. After numerous “we got the call, we’re going in” situations getting pulled last minute I remember the feeling you talk about of not getting to play your sport. After getting relieved by you a couple months prior, I remember hearing that you guys got the call to go into Afghan, and naively being envious of your team. Then I remember getting a short glimpse through the media of the chaos and absurdity of the situation there. Seeing that y’all were thrown into a no-win situation and still crushing it. And then I remember hearing that you guys got hit. And I remember seeing your picture and recognizing you and my heart sank. Over the last year I’ve been thinking about y’all and imagine my team and I in your shoes. The dedication of your team to the mission, the lives y’all saved, and your personal perseverance have been a motivation for me and many others man. Since then, I wrapped up my time in the Corps and jumped ship over to the Army, but I share your story with my guys any chance I get. It’s guys like y’all that make the Corps what it is and make me proud to be a Marine. I hope and pray your teammates, your families, and you all live happy fulfilling lives. Thank you for all your boys and you did out there. Take care, Breathe Reticle Squeeze, Suffer Patiently, Semper Fi brother.

[@X3AmySarah]

Thank you for your service! God bless you 🙏🏼❤️

[@angelalapiene-kurz2855]

Thank you for your service!

[@fowchiiiliedpuppiesdied]

This was beautiful. Praying for you.

[@SaltyChip]

“Every kids dream, and every old man’s nightmare.” As a 37 yr old… this is the most true statement ever,

[@fndoc68967]

I gotta say, I watched this again as a reminder to myself that as a husband, a father with a wonderful healthy family here in America. I am, and we are blessed to have men and women like this, who bleed and put their lives on the line to protect this great country. Because of people like this, I am able to raise my daughters and take care of my wife. So, I am extremely grateful for our men and women who serve. So thank you for everything thing you sacrificed. You are not forgotten or alone. Their are a lot of Americans across this country who truly care.

[@powerbottom4971]

Cool story bro

[@java9090]

The amount of fight in this marine makes me proud. This is the type of perseverance we should all work to achieve.

[@TheBridgePodcast]

He's got a level of perseverance that few have

[@briannewland828]

Very well said. 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@PPMAK777]

God Bless this Young Man🙏🏽🇺🇸 Wondering if the bomber was the guy who showed him all his family passports & he kindly put him to the side to wait for his family in the carnal???!!

[@susanfitterer3695]

​@@TheBridgePodcast000 Pp😂l😊😊¹

[@barnhousedesignspa9251]

I just watched his testimony from the hearing on Capitol Hill. He has such an incredible story. I'm sorry the US govt left your requests to neutralize the threat go unheard.

[@PostUp_Time]

*ALSO WATCHED THE SAME. CAN YOU IMAGINE HE ID'D THE SUICIDE BOMBER. ASKED PERMISSION TO TAKE HIM OUT AND TOLD NOT TO. NOW A MILITARY SNIPER LOSES HIS ARM. THE SINGLE MOST IMPORTANT THING OTHER THAN HIS EYES.. DO NOT KILL THE SUICIDE BOMBER. STILL CANT UNDERSTAND THE IGNORANCE RULLES OF BIDEN ADMINISTRATION. BIDEN WORST PRESIDENT IN THE HISTORY OF UNITED STATES*

[@Floridaman1780_]

Wow, his mother had him at 20 as a single mother and now runs a law firm. No wonder he's such a great human.

[@hansblitz7770]

That's not a good thing to do. Then, apparently, she had a later relationship with a Pdf file. Wowza. Single mammys for the win, I mean loss.

[@fowchiiiliedpuppiesdied]

Confused by the father being allowed to re-enter their lives, as a child molestor, however. I think that’s a major fail.

[@tulayamalavenapi4028]

Only the body of the indestructable, immeasurable, and eternal living entity is subject to destruction. The material body is perishable by nature. It may perish immediately, or it may do so after a hundred years. It is a question of time only. There is no chance of maintaining it indefinitely. But the spirit soul is so minute that it cannot even be seen by an enemy, to say nothing of being killed. Soul is so small that no one can have any idea how to measure its' dimension. So from both viewpoints there is no cause of lamentation because the living entity can neither be killed as he is, nor can the material body, which cannot be saved for any length of time, be permanently protected. To mother and son. The Vedas are now beautifully translated in to English. They will be the lawbooks for the next 10,000 years. As bhagavad-gita is spoken on a battlefield I highly request reading this book. Here : vedabase.io

[@jasonmann7232]

She’s the most prominent family attorney who owns multiple firms in Cali…. She made mistakes but who are you to judge her

[@Soup2Nuts]

The world needs more people like this. Your purpose now is bigger than ever.

[@Jomitheelf]

When I watch the people that represent us in our federal government, I find it difficult to find one person that is impressive. This young man impresses me. To be damaged physically in the way he was, and to not be stuck at home wallowing in self-pity would be enough, but this kid is still serving. I hope and pray that God blesses this man and uses him to make meaningful change in this world.

[@amandacantrell1146]

Amen!!! I 100% agree with everything you said.

[@claudiaperfetti7694]

An honor to meet you Tyler❤! Thanks for being all you are , such a great example for future generations, for our youth. May God make you a thousand times more a blessing to many!

[@colleenmonfross4283]

Wow, I am so incredibly grateful to know that our country still produces men like these.

[@cal9220]

Tyler this quote was written for you over 1000 years ago... you are a true warrior! "No carelessness in your actions. No confusion in your words. No imprecision in your thoughts. No retreating into your own soul or trying to escape it." Marcus Aurelius

[@kathyborthwick6738]

Beautifully stated! This young man was raised right! Respect & High Regard!

[@DayBowBow]

This man has so much strength, he's able to tell his story and still be able to hold his composure and to find a way to chuckle at his own story. It's insane. There are no words, I'm sorry this happened to him and I am so grateful there are soldiers like him out there. It's shit like this that makes me proud to be American and be thankful for the good things the military can do

[@HaleyStrategicPartners]

Hes super resilient. Mountain of a man.

[@thecodyexperience7373]

Facts, had me tearing up

[@j.thomas3207]

I just took an hour and thirty six minute break from work, to listen to this young man tell his story. It was horrifying, honest, inspirational and left me feeling Proud AF to be an American. I wish you all the best Sir, 🤘🇺🇲 .

[@NickCat]

Thank you for introducing us to Tyler. I didn’t know who he was yesterday, and now I’ll know his name for the rest of my life. Incredible man.

[@amandacantrell1146]

Agreed 💯%!

[@X3AmySarah]

Same

[@LouiThePenguin]

As a Marine Vet, it struck a deep nerve with me with what happened. I've been reminding everyone I know about the HKIA situation and to never forget what happened. Been following his recovery and this is a great listen on the drive home. Sgt Vargas is an inspiration.

[@garrettbull7357]

Agreed brother!! I got out the corps 2 months before this event and i ended up losing 3 dudes i was super close to! Never forget that day and Semper fi

[@melaninjay592]

2/1 was my unit. I was shook. But not surprised.

[@candacehandyside903]

He deserves to walk right up to Biden and punch him right in the face! At the very least! As an American, never served in the military sadly. My Dad was a Marine. My heart hurts for this man and any other soldier or Marine who died during the disastrous withdrawal that the crypt keeper caused. The military advisors tried to warn the crypt keeper, but the dumbass didn’t listen. He deserved impeached, arrested for war crimes, tried and sent to prison. Period.

[@lindabergman3127]

@@garrettbull7357 please watch the Brendon o Connell interview with Mike Gill video about politicians who are in bed with the cartels n money laundering banks! Goes to the top leadership ❤that’s why they’re after any ppls that love n uphold our military n constitution ❤thank you for your service and sacrifices!! You ppls are our national treasures ❤❤love you all

[@lindabergman3127]

@@melaninjay592 thank you for your service and God bless you n yours❤

[@samrussell0331]

I was in 2/1 WPNS company 2013-2017. I didn’t realize at the time my purpose was to keep passing the torch to these guys. I struggled with not getting to do my job at the time. They gave my time meaning.

[@fowchiiiliedpuppiesdied]

It all has meaning. Your service, in and of itself, has such meaning.

[@Justforfun-ek7et]

Nothing is considered a Conspiracy theory after time has its way, they always come out to be facts. Glad Tyler survived. A good friend of mine and at one point a junior Corpsman of mine was there during the withdrawal and was on the last plane that left the airport. Took me a couple of days to get a hold of him to make sure he was okay. Pretty insane how things played out and how poorly the withdrawal went. Makes me think about all my Marines and my Corpsmen that I worked with and the sacrifices that we made and some who gave all. It hurt, but I try to live my life for them now. Thanks for sharing all this. Like Tyler said, most Americans don't understand how good we have it in the USA, too many people are too weak and too cared for and so easily take this life for granted.

[@xjbeater8638]

Gosh. I'm a Afghanistan OEF vet. And I just want you to know you sure know how to make me cry. But you help give courage buddy. Your amazing. So strong. Salute brother... God bless you and your mother.

[@emmanuelawosusi2365]

Thank you for your service

[@X3AmySarah]

Thank you for your service 🙏🏼

[@xjbeater8638]

@@emmanuelawosusi2365 thank you

[@xjbeater8638]

@@X3AmySarah thank you

[@emmanuelawosusi2365]

@@xjbeater8638 no problem

[@allihatw]

Travis, thanks for putting this guy on. The world needs more dudes like Tyler.

[@jamesduval7296]

This dude is a solid human being... tons of respect for this kid.....well done... well done.

[@SecondHandManKase]

Hearing Tyler speak about his mother's interaction with the Afghan woman as well as the little girl and her family he saved got me a little choked up not gonna lie. Incredible story from someone who sounds like an incredible human being

[@Bond.JamesBond00]

This man is still probably feeling mental struggle after this loss, thank you for your service. Remember you have friends and family whether you know it or not. A meal, a beer on me anytime Tyler, cheers brother.

[@jimfuller5559]

My life is enriched by this mans story, it was an honor to meet you Tyler, we all know that you will do many more great things with your life, much respect sir!

[@lindabergman3127]

Absolutely wonderful man!! Deep love n respect for you and your friends in military ❤will never forget all you n other military friends fallen n active have sacrificed for our freedoms ❤️👍👍👍👍

[@briannatarelli430]

@@lindabergman3127 This kid got blown up because traitors have seized power. When will we stop sending our sons and daughters to fight illegal wars. The CIA facilitated the attacks on the twin towers so they would have the support of the American people to invade the middle east for profit. We are less free then we were pre 9/11.

[@mrbillcollector]

You never "met him" its ridiculous and sad, that nowadays we have all formed parasocial relationships, in one way or another with complete strangers... you literally could never actually know, if thats really who they are off camera. when they arent in control of "the viewers" perception of their reality

[@mrbillcollector]

If your life is enriched by this guys words and stories, than you gotta read the bible and get to know Christ and his words and stories...he fulfills and enriches more than any man ever could!

[@epap1375]

@@mrbillcollector you literally could never actually know, if that’s who they are off the bible. When they aren’t in control of “the readers” perception of their reality

[@gladysover5368]

What an exceptional individual. He will go far in life an accomplish things that most are incapable of. Thank you for all you have sacrificed and all you will do. Semper Fi

[@paulabaggett735]

Tyler! God Bless You and Your wonderful Mother!! Our country needs more people like you and your mom…

[@BasedDynamics]

That thumbnail is badass. Like archive history book worthy 🤙🏿. So sad what this young man has gone through 😔

[@jessaguilar4747]

"Every young guys dream, and every old guys nightmare" ........he has a way with words that captures you.

[@jianhuang1483]

狐狸精

[@jianhuang1483]

😮

[@jianhuang1483]

一元

[@jianhuang1483]

互娱户

[@jianhuang1483]

7句😊雨雨

[@thelegionisnotamused8929]

These men have done more than just tell their stories. They speak for all of us, who have kept their pain secret, and hearing them tell their stories have done more than years of counseling's and drugs. Semper Fidelis.

[@daniowen6720]

Amen....I totally agree. Semper fi.

[@colemanmize3779]

Travis, another homerun with the Bridge. Thank you for letting Tyler tell his story so people could get the real view through the lens on what happened that day, and the spirit and resolve people like Tyler have that allows them to keep on serving no matter what life throws at them.

[@Handcannon77]

One of the most incredible, most squared away men that we have in this country, and an exemplary role model for young(hell, and old) men in this country. We need more men like Tyler if we want to turn this country around.

[@Mrskorba]

Tyler’s Moms strength and heart, raising him to be the man he is today, then connecting with the other mama on the plane. Thank you Tyler for sharing, praying for peace and healing for you and the others that were over there.

[@fowchiiiliedpuppiesdied]

But she allowed the despicable pedo Dad back in their lives, how can you say that?

[@Mrskorba]

@@fowchiiiliedpuppiesdied What? Idk what you’re talking about.

[@angiefoster3141]

Thank you all for your service. I have seen Tyler tell his story a couple times now. Forgive me for wondering and asking, I assume the interpreter did not survive the blast. Any idea what happened to his wife and four children? I hope they survived and got out. God Bless America and those who fight to keep her free.

[@SovereignExecution]

Tyler's a hero, awesome head space. Amazing interview man. It means a lot to hear from these guys and listen to how the see/deal with their lives post service. Keep up the good work!

[@jappropriatetechno-logic1504]

plus one for Tylers Mom!

[@OrganicHispanic209]

I want to thank Tyler and Travis for sharing this. I'm not military but his story is truly inspirational. Keep helping others Tyler, you are a tank!

[@selador4698]

To raise awareness, I would love to see a movie made about these heroes. Similar to the movie 13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi

[@travisha8272]

Kid you are a TRUE PATRIOT AND A ANGEL. Thank you for your service bro from me and the rest of this great country

[@flashpb04]

What an absolute incredible young man. The best of us all. He deserves the world.

[@TheRaccoonGoonGT]

Massive amounts of respect and gratitude to Tyler, and the men and women like him. -edit- As a civilian, I can tell you the story about his mom and the ride home absolutely did paint a picture and personally that hit me hard. I count myself fortunate for each veteran I've ever been given the chance to take fishing (volunteer for an NPO) and listen to. Tyler's outlook is pretty damn admirable and I'm glad to have heard his story/message.

[@democratssuck8610]

I’m glad u gave him this platform. I’ve wanted to hear from someone who was in the Afghanistan situation. Extremely motivating material. God bless these men and women

[@ajahashian8727]

This really puts things in perspective. There are no proper words to thank you for your dedication, your service, and your mindset, Tyler. This interview touched and moved my soul. Wishing you all the best 🙏❤️

[@sportcardcollector9599]

Wow What An Amazing Story God Bless This Great Country And Those Brave Men And Women That Fight For Our Freedom 🇺🇲

[@JaneLaPlace]

I saw the scans this brave warrior's mom took. He has the most beautiful skin & body i ever saw. Respect, sir. Saw you on Shawn Ryan. Watched twice & am impressed at seeing a REAL MAN at such a young age. You make our country proud and that is rare in earth school today.

[@Oshidwhaddup]

There is someone who cares. We're out here man and we're tired of going to funerals about it. Thanks for your service Tyler. There's many men who couldn't have done what you did in better conditions.

[@harveypointn.a.s.5243]

Props to all who endured the hell at HKIA..It will forever be a part of their lives for as long as they live,and a stain on the failed leadership that sent them in there ..to say nothing of those many we left behind, who gave their lives to help us with our mission for 20 plus years.I am truly sorry and ashamed for how our leaders failed you!

[@kevincochran5844]

Thank you sir... You helped in ways I'm not gonna try to explain. We need more men like you

[@Jewls1000]

Yep the hardest thing for my husband was not being able to see combat. Never having a chance to prove yourself. Thats what he joined for and why he did Infantry. Thank God you survived and are here to share this incredible story❤️ God bless you

[@Floridaman1780_]

In 20 years we westernized Kabul, liberated Muslim women, allowed children to be educated, and ended tyranny as a whole. An entire generation grew up free from the Taliban's grip, then gave it back in less than 30 days under the worst leadership this country has ever seen. I couldnt even watch anything about Afghanistan when this happened. This is actually the first thing i have ever watched on this debacle. I cant even put in to words my anger and frustration. My first tour in Afghanistan was in 2002, within the first 6 months of the war. I went back in 2012, and got a pretty good look at the American influence over that period of time, not to mention all the men killed and injured that i witnessed. Its hard to feel like anything we did mattered much, if at all.

[@karenfuller1268]

Tyler, it was an honor to meet you and hearing your story, you’re so inspiring ❤ Thank you Travis for sharing your discussions with everyone.

[@markdittbenner9949]

Wow wow what a inspiring human being...he is....he's got a whole life ahead of hem to give to the world... amazing human ...love ya Brother...

[@NotShiggy]

It's always sad when a select few let down so, so many people, and its brave men like Tyler that try their best to right their wrongs.

[@GypsyGirl2865]

Great interview. Incredible Marine!! Thank you Tyler for your service and sacrifice. ❤️🇺🇲

[@Rush-ld2qr]

God bless you for your service! The utmost respect to you! 🇺🇸

[@youngman850]

Thank you Tyler. For your service and of being one of the real ones. Too many people don't know of the real world and what it takes to face it. And Travis, you're an amazing host. Thank you as well. This whole podcast had my heartrate and heartstrings on lifeline the entire time.

[@lowlifegarage]

That moment he discussed what he mother said on the plane. Lost it. That's impossible not to hit home. Great interview.

[@Brandonthesnifferofall]

Here after listening to this brave man’s testimony.. thank you sir, sorry we’ve failed you. Edit* Jesus Christ we’ve got almost identical childhoods 🤦‍♂️ Soo sorry brother. I hope you get the accountability you deserve ❤️🇺🇸

[@cnknguyen]

Just what my insomnia needed. Love these interviews.

[@Crystal-vs4qb]

I’m so proud of you Tyler. You’re a real life hero! I love you ❤️

[@reno6.7-32]

Thank you for sharing your story and for your service.

[@estrada20100]

Love your interviews and talks. Can’t wait to watch the next one and every one after.

[@MichaelPCarr10]

Better than Joe Rogan

[@beardedshooter9540]

100%, Travis is perfect at asking the right questions and just listening. No interruptions just let's the guest say what they want/need to say

[@TheBridgePodcast]

🙏🎙️ thanks for tuning in

[@damiansechelski1]

Yeah shawn ryan is great too

[@QuantumblockVC]

I want to meet this young man and shake his hands. He is inspiring!

[@annaclark4534]

God bless Travis and the men and women willing to lay down their lives for us. How could we repay? By living a life worth these men and women getting wounded and dying for! Honor our men and women by living your life in a manner worth their sacrifice!! Amazing podcast it was an honor to hear your story. Thank you for sharing!!! ❤

[@AirCondaTV]

Thank you for this. His story was hard to hear but needs to be heard.

[@davidswitzer5743]

Tyler, thank you for your service! True Patriot and warrior…

[@pelicanbeak5884]

Insanely inspiring.

[@Jay-O_Carlow]

First time ever seen this channel , Now im a huge fan.. Just Thank You! Tyler thank you!

[@user-sk6mj8yu7r]

Thank you for your service.

[@barnyardgirls]

Powerful- thank you warrior ♥️

[@JoseLopez-oe3qb]

The best for you in the life ahead ,much love for who you are and your love and dedication for our country.

[@teresamartin8344]

Deeply grateful for you and to you, Tyler ❤

[@ReeseMacalma]

Man, this was a beautiful interview.

[@ODG-22]

Such an amazing interview!

[@1973hondacb450]

This is really good stuff here, well done.

[@BezmenovWasRight]

What a special episode, inspiring for sure.

[@genepanasenkostraightunfiltere]

Truly an amazing interview! Thank you, Sgt. Tyler Vargas-Andrews, for your service and sacrifice!!

[@johngileon2422]

Best one yet

[@beccab7522]

Awesome guy!! Great interview. Thank you for the sacrifice you've made & live with. You're an amazing person & have a great outlook on what's right & what needs to done for others.

[@dutchschultz3076]

Hang tight Tyler. Love and prayers from Detroit. 🙏💙

[@lionittslegen2290]

ThNk you for your service SIR Blessings from the HOOD🙏🏿🙏🏿

[@roadqueen1972]

Thank you

[@jacqueline8668]

I wish you could speak to middle school students both boys and young girls need to be inspired by truly good men. U have a mission in lif and listening to you I think it’s to enlighten. God bless you you and re a warrior

[@cammed_chevy9285]

One hell of a story man glad you’re still w us to tell your story Tyler thank you for your service 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 he’s the definition of a true American

[@junkdaddy8081]

A true American hero, great podcast. Thanks for sharing your story.

[@danddcandr6719]

Hey, Tyler !.......Thank you

[@sterlingarcher4282]

Great podcast and great interviewer and interviewee. Thank you for letting him tell his story

[@jonathanayala4595]

Thank you for your service and I am glad you’re alive you’re a hero 😊

[@seandewees786]

You checked that beast mode box brother. Much love and respect sir.

[@bradpittman5075]

Thanks.

[@salokrajven453]

Amazing episode dude

[@katel6748]

Tyler is a bad ass!!

[@grimtea1715]

Love this channel, just found it, and you have anew subscriber sir.

[@Jake-Drake]

A man of strong character, conviction and integrity. I like that he said he’s a casualty of war, but not a victim. God bless him and others like him.

[@KizzMyAbs]

HERO LEGEND AND ABSOLUTE WARRIOR I’m not American but I live as close as you can to America in Canada and we all salute 🫡 you

[@jg5875]

Great story at 1:23:40 of helping a little girl get her family to safety/freedom 👍🏻

[@sallymcmurray949]

I just watched the House Foreign Affairs committee where he was there to testify. Heart wrenching story so get the tissues out

[@nicpete492]

Having a missing arm must suck but it’s got to be one of the coolest looking injuries, he looks like a bad ass cyborg and prosthetics will only get better with time

[@scotttaylor4694]

God bless this young man

[@TopNotchSkillZz100]

amazing

[@rachellebelcastro911]

Watching this now, at almost 2 yrs, I'm both disgusted and inspired. Disgusted by Gen Staff, and inspired by him and many others like him. To me, that is the heart of the military. When asked if I trust the military, I often pause. I am a vet of the Cold war. I have issues! That said, he and many like him make me proud as hell to have served. o7 to you 🇺🇸

[@stevesandford1437]

This is what true heroism looks and sounds like. Whatever about Tyler's awful and traumatic injuries, his ability to recover and conquer is beyond resiliant... More people should view this post. Powerful, inspiring, emotional. xx SF

[@thomasowens3135]

What an example of what we should all strive to be.