Name: Episode 105: Steve Russell - From Capturing Saddam Hussein to Continuing to Serve Through JAARS
Uploaded: 2025-01-21T10:00:00+00:00
Duration: 52 min 11 s
Description: In this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry sits down with Steve Russell, the Army battalion commander who led Task Force 1-22 Infantry in the historic capture of Saddam Hussein. Russell shares the

10 months ago

Podcasts Steve Russell Saddam Hussein capture Task Force 122 Military leadership Congressional service Veteran advocacy Iraq War Public service Military transition Leadership principles

In this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry sits down with Steve Russell, the Army battalion commander who led Task Force 1-22 Infantry in the historic capture of Saddam Hussein. Russell shares the details of tracking Saddam through his network of trusted families and the ultimate successful raid in December 2003.

Beyond his military service, Russell discusses his continued dedication to public service as an Oklahoma State Senator and U.S. Congressman, where he championed veteran causes including the Uniform Spouse Protection Act reform. His journey from battlefield commander to manufacturer and elected official demonstrates the lasting impact of military leadership principles in civilian life.

Today, Russell serves with JAARS (Jungle Aviation and Relay Service), where he applies his military logistics and leadership experience to support humanitarian missions in remote jungle locations worldwide. Using aircraft, boats, and four-wheel drive vehicles, JAARS reduces barriers and serves communities across the Amazon, Congolese, and Melanesian rainforests.

Explore Resources from the Episode:
JAARS - https://www.jaars.org/
We Got Him!: A Memoir of the Hunt and Capture of Saddam Hussein - https://a.co/d/496OJyA

0:00 - Initial capture moment of Saddam Hussein
0:16 - Introduction of Steve Russell
2:15 - Beginning of Tikrit occupation
5:10 - Strategy to track Saddam's inner circle
10:27 - Discovery of hiding location
11:16 - Mohammed al-Musslit's role
13:08 - Actual capture moment
15:11 - Aftermath of Saddam's capture and transport
18:14 - Information about Steve's book "We Got Him!"
19:24 - Discussion of JAARS mission work
21:02 - Oklahoma legislative work for veterans
28:01 - Formation of Vets for Victory
29:52 - National tours and White House meetings
30:45 - Formation of Concerned Veterans for America
31:41 - Transition into state politics
32:41 - Two Rivers Arms Company creation
33:35 - Congressional service experience
34:36 - Warriors Caucus formation
35:10 - Veteran representation in Congress
45:30 - JAARS mission and veteran involvement
48:33 - After Action Review