The First American Soldiers in Afghanistan post 9/11 | ft LTC Perry Blackburn

Welcome to the Not A Grayman Podcast, where your host, RK Gray, speaks with her unique network of professionals who have stepped out of the shadows. Among them is today's guest, LTC (R) Perry Blackburn, a true American hero who is a retired U.S. Army Special Forces Officer and the CEO of AFGFree and 18 Series Coffee Company.

Perry’s military career is the stuff of legend. As a Green Beret with the 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), he served as a team commander during Operation Anaconda, one of the largest and most intense battles of the early Afghanistan War. Perry was among the very first Americans on the ground in Afghanistan after 9/11. One of the original “Horse Soldiers” (the men who famously rode on horseback alongside Afghan warlords), Perry helped lead one of the most daring and successful missions in modern unconventional warfare, blending indigenous tactics and local alliances with modern strategy and airpower to topple and defeat the Taliban and Al Qaeda in the early days of the Global War On Terror. His story was portrayed in the Hollywood film 12 Strong.

But beyond the battlefield, Perry’s life has been one of purpose, grit, and heart. From a childhood that forged his resilience, to leading some of the toughest missions as a Special Forces scuba team leader — one of the most demanding roles in the military — his journey is a testament to leadership under fire.

Perry also opened up about the challenges of seeing his own son struggle with the silent wounds of TBI, a reminder that the costs of service are not always visible. He’s found an outlet and a mission in sharing powerful stories through acting, performing in “Last Out: Elegy of a Green Beret,” a powerful stage production that honors the physical, emotional, and spiritual toll of war.

Today, Perry continues his mission of service as an actor, non-profit owner, and founder of AFGFree, helping Americans, Afghan allies, and Ukrainians impacted by war. His courage, humility, and relentless dedication to others embody what it truly means to live a life of service.

This conversation is filled with powerful lessons, raw moments, and plenty of laughter — a reminder that even in the hardest times, strength and humor can carry us through. It was an absolute honor to have LTC Perry Blackburn on the show. He is an American hero, a warrior, a patriotic leader, and a man whose legacy will continue to inspire many generations to come.

DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of the host or this platform.

Statements made by the guest have not been independently verified and should not be taken as facts.

Viewer discretion is advised, especially regarding sensitive or potentially controversial topics.

Media used in this production is sourced from publicly available/open-source video and image clips and included solely for context and educational storytelling purposes. All original media is the property of its respective copyright holders. Footage © original creators. No copyright infringement intended.

🇺🇸 Links to Support LTC Perry Blackburn's Efforts:

18 Series Coffee Company

(helps feed, house, & support vets)

Donate to AFGfree

(helps our allies)

🇺🇸 Timestamps:

#usarmy #specialforces #cia #011 #operationanaconda #12strong