Bullets n Bourbon Podcast mfgundlach

 










In an insightful interview with Col Greg Jones, recently retired Commanding Officer of Weapons Training Battalion, Marine Corps, key discussions included advice for various career stages, from newly promoted NCOs to fresh lieutenants, and characteristics of successful officer/SNCO collaborations. Col Jones reflected on pivotal duty stations and relationships that shaped his career, overcoming significant challenges, and the importance of maintaining pride and goals during the transition to civilian life. He shared examples where diplomatic and aggressive leadership approaches yielded the best outcomes, emphasized the role of hobbies in personal development, and discussed the future of Marine Corps Marksmanship, highlighting necessary organizational and cultural changes for continued progress.

In this episode of Bullets n Bourbon, hosts Matt Gundlach and Frank Gao are joined by Darin Morrel, owner of Red Stitch Targets and Match Director for the upcoming Intergalactic Falling Steel Championship at Shadow Hawk Defense. Darin shares his background, including his service in the Marine Corps, and discusses his journey into the steel target business, highlighting his commitment to creating challenging targets. He reminisces about the old North Mountain USPSA matches and compares them to contemporary matches. Darin explains the inspiration behind the name "Intergalactic Falling Steel Match" and his objectives for the stage designs. He reflects on the lessons learned from planning the match and emphasizes the importance of his relationship with Shadow Hawk Defense's owners, Lynn and Randy, in successfully organizing the event.






 

n this episode of Generation GWOT, Michael Phillips discusses his roles as a mentor with FourBlock and a member of American Corporate Partners, programs that aid service members transitioning out of the military by providing career guidance and networking opportunities. Phillips manages his time between these organizations and his own pursuits, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the veteran community. Phillips highlights how military experience can translate to civilian success through skills like leadership and resilience. He shares his passion for competitive shooting sports, specifically 3-gun competitions, and underscores the significance of such events in fostering camaraderie and competition among both active-duty and veteran service members. The Generation GWOT 3-Gun match, which Phillips describes as a unique and challenging competition, aims to engage participants with new experiences and growth opportunities. Phillips envisions the competition expanding in the future while maintaining its core mission of supporting the veteran community.

Harrison Vansky, a former Army member, discovered competitive shooting during his service and sees valuable lessons the military can learn from the sport, such as dynamic movement and quick decision-making. As a left-handed PCC shooter, he advocates for more balanced USPSA stage designs to ensure fairness. Achieving Grand Master status shifted his focus to overall match performance. Vansky, who also golfed competitively in high school, finds parallels in mental focus and precision between golf and shooting. Despite the accessibility of golf, he notes USPSA’s need for better infrastructure, professional management, and media exposure to elevate the sport. This season, he aims to compete in major matches to further improve his skills and rankings.

Rafael Fuentes, a seasoned shooter and reservist, reflects on his journey from active duty to the reserves, highlighting the benefits of transitioning into the reserves after active service. He shares insights gained from his experience in competitive shooting, including his recent successes and learning moments. Rafael discusses his role in the shooting community, both as a competitor and as an aspiring match director, emphasizing the importance of preparation and leadership. He also touches on the challenges and rewards of instructing others in firearms skills, stressing the significance of credibility and effective teaching. Throughout his narrative, Rafael's dedication to excellence and growth in the shooting world shines, alongside his distinctive personal style, including his memorable Luigi mustache.

In the latest episode of the Bullets n Bourbon Podcast, Chris Singley, the current SgtMaj of the Warfighting Lab, shares insights from his life and career. Originally from a small town, Chris discusses his journey into hunting, a passion he either grew up with. He details the extensive preparations required for significant hunts, like his upcoming trip to Colorado, emphasizing the meticulous planning and equipment checks involved. Chris talks about his comfortable engagement distances with a rifle, amongst other things.
Chris's love for turkey hunting shines through as he recounts his early season success and the challenges of staying motivated when the hunt doesn't go as planned. He shares a memorable hunting experience, highlighting what made it particularly special. As the first SgtMaj at the Warfighting Lab since 2009, Chris elaborates on the unique environment and his role in the grand scheme of things. He also discusses the Marine Corps' recent focus on wargames and the state-of-the-art Neller Center, which aims to enhance training for all ranks.
Reflecting on his 26-year Marine Corps career, Chris talks about his journey and any unexpected turns along the way. Despite the current challenges of limited direct interaction with young Marines, he outlines his strategy for influencing positive change throughout the ranks. Finally, Chris leaves listeners with some parting thoughts, encapsulating his experiences and the wisdom gained over the years.