Combat Story
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The Air Assault That Changed Modern Warfare | Frank Hancock on Desert Storm
Posted
July 6, 2026
Views
6,563
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87
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July 6, 2026
6,563
87
9
1.46%
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2:19:27Now PlayingWhat does it take to plan and execute one of the largest air assault operations in modern military history?
Retired Army Colonel Frank Hancock spent decades leading soldiers in some of the Army's most demanding assignments, but few experiences compare to helping plan and execute the historic air assault during Operation Desert Storm. In this episode of Combat Story, Frank shares what really happened behind the scenes as the 101st Airborne prepared to strike deep into Iraq, how intelligence shaped life-or-death decisions, and the leadership lessons forged under immense pressure.
Frank also explains how the Army transformed after Vietnam, why mission command matters more than ever, and how seemingly small acts of moral courage by intelligence professionals saved countless lives before the operation began.
Beyond Desert Storm, the conversation explores Special Operations support, Cold War readiness, military leadership, intelligence analysis, and how today's leaders—military and civilian alike—can make better decisions in uncertain environments.
Whether you're interested in military history, leadership, Special Operations, or modern warfare, this episode offers an insider's perspective from someone who helped shape one of America's defining military campaigns.
If you enjoy Combat Story, please subscribe and leave a review. It helps us continue bringing you conversations with the remarkable men and women who have served.
Guest: Frank Hancock
Retired U.S. Army intelligence officer, Desert Storm veteran, and author of Operation Desert Storm: How Two Young Intelligence Analysts and an Infantry Battalion Changed the War in Iraq. Frank brings firsthand experience from one of the most successful military campaigns in modern history, offering a rare insider perspective on intelligence, leadership, and warfare.
📘 Operation Desert Storm
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Host — AJ Pasciuti
Retired Marine Force Recon Scout Sniper and Marine Gunner, author of Darkhorse: Harnessing Hidden Potential in War and Life, and host of Combat Story.
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