In this episode, we sit down with retired Lieutenant Colonel John "Karl" Marks, the A-10 Warthog pilot with the most A-10 flight hours in history (7,500+ hours), for an incredible, in-depth conversation. Karl shares his experience flying combat missions from Desert Storm to Afghanistan, earning a Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, 18 Air Medals, and 13 combat deployments along the way.

We discuss:

Karl’s journey from a childhood fascination with aviation to becoming a legendary A-10 pilot
The evolution of close air support (CAS) and the future role of the A-10 vs. F-35
First-hand stories from Desert Storm, Afghanistan, and more
How the A-10 adapted tactics for modern warfare
Preserving institutional knowledge of CAS amid today's changing military priorities
The importance of trust between pilots and ground forces
Lessons on preparation, opportunity, and resilience in combat
Karl also shares behind-the-scenes moments from pilot training, getting his call sign "Karl” Marx, his first combat strike, and reflections on 37 years of service.

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On this intense episode of The Dale Stark Show, we sit down with Jay Humphrey, a retired HH-60G rescue pilot whose service record speaks volumes of his dedication and bravery. Jay, who has been awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his valor in combat, shares insights from his nine combat deployments. His most gripping narrative yet unfolds as he recounts the mission that led to his distinguished award, offering a rare glimpse into the life of a rescue pilot. From the high stakes of aerial rescue operations to the emotional toll and triumphs of combat, Jay's story is one of courage, skill, and an unwavering commitment to saving lives. Don't miss this compelling episode where bravery meets humanity.

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Interview with my friend and neighbor Jessy Holmberg. We talk about his journey enlisting as an F-15C Crew Chief to the Captain seat of a major airline. Enjoy!

In this episode we sit down with Glen Eberle, a multifaceted individual who has soared as an Air Force fighter pilot, competed in the Olympics as a biathlete, and innovated in the field of shooting and hunting gear with his company Eberlestock. Listen as Glen shares stories from the cockpit, insights from the Olympic field, his journey in invention, and how these experiences fuel his entrepreneurial spirit.
 
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Join us for an inspiring episode with Jacob Adoram Hendrickson, who transitions from piloting the A-10 Warthog to rowing across the Pacific, setting a world record for the longest solo ocean row. Discover how this journey from the skies to the seas shaped his life's adventure.

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In this thrilling episode of our podcast, we sit down with Jack Stewart, a former US Navy F-18 pilot with over two decades of service. Transitioning from the skies to the pages, Jack now captivates readers with his adrenaline-pumping thriller series, The Battle Born Series. Join us as we explore his journey from the cockpit to the writer's desk, diving into tales of aerial combat and the world of his novels. Get ready for an exclusive look at how real-life military experiences fuel the imagination behind modern military fiction.

In this episode, we journey through the extraordinary life of Alek Skarlatos—from his heroic actions thwarting an ISIS attack, to his stint on "Dancing with the Stars," his leap into acting with Clint Eastwood, and his latest venture into Oregon politics. Alek shares insights into these chapters, offering a captivating look at a life defined by bravery, unexpected turns, and ambitious political aspirations.

In this episode of the Dale Stark Show, we sit down with an extraordinary individual whose story transcends the boundaries of resilience and determination. Our guest, a seasoned F-22 pilot with two decades of service, shares his gripping journey from the skies to a battle of a different kind—against stage 4 non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. 

Despite the daunting prognosis, his spirit remained unbroken. This episode delves into his fight for survival, the grueling recovery, and his triumphant return to the cockpit. His story is not just about flying jets; it's about the human spirit's capacity to soar over adversity. Join us for an incredibly inspiring narrative that will leave you in awe of the strength found in those who serve.