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All Secure

Tom Satterly, Steve Jackson

Duration16 min
Key Points8 Key Points
Rating4.1 Rate

What's inside?

Dive into the gripping journey of a Special Operations Soldier, navigating the challenges of the battlefield and the struggles of life back home.

You'll learn

Learn1. A peek into a Special Ops soldier's life
Learn2. The tough stuff soldiers deal with in war
Learn3. The tricky switch from soldier to civilian
Learn4. How PTSD messes with vets and their families
Learn5. Tips to beat PTSD
Learn6. Why a strong support crew is key to healing.

Key points

01From a weakling to a national hero

Tom Satterly's life story is one of transformation, from a timid, bullied kid to a brave American hero. His journey wasn't a quick one, but a slow and steady change, shaped by the ups and downs of his life. Tom grew up in a small town in Indiana, where he was often picked on by bullies. His brother would tell him to stand up for himself, but Tom was too shy and unsure. That all changed one day when he'd had enough of the name-calling and beatings. He stood up to the bullies, defending himself and a friend. This was a big moment for Tom, giving him a new sense of confidence and bravery. As he got older, Tom thought he might go into construction. But he felt stuck, unsure of what he really wanted to do. He found comfort in watching war movies. The bravery of the soldiers and the grand parades when they came home fascinated him. He didn't fully understand the harsh realities of war, like the loss of life, at this point. In February 1986, Tom's interest in war became more than just a fascination. He joined the army, starting a new chapter in his life. Basic training at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri was tough, but Tom loved the challenge. He enjoyed learning new things, like how to shoot a gun, and found the hard work fulfilling. Being in the army gave Tom a sense of belonging. He wasn't the lonely, bullied kid from Indiana anymore. He was part of a team, working with other young soldiers. This sense of camaraderie and shared purpose really hit home for Tom. He realized he'd found his purpose - to protect his country and stand up for those who couldn't defend themselves, just like he once couldn't. Tom's journey from a bullied kid to a decorated soldier shows his strength and determination. His story is both inspiring and heartbreaking, highlighting his acts of courage in the face of danger and the mental battles he still fights.

02Striving to be the best can be tough

Tom Satterly's story is one of grit, determination, and sacrifice. It's about a man who had his eyes set on joining the most elite group in the military, known as the Unit. This group was no joke. They were the ones called in for the most dangerous missions around the world, like taking down terrorists, saving hostages, and breaking up violent drug cartels. But to be a part of this group, you had to be the best of the best. And Tom knew he had a long road ahead of him. Before he could even think about the Unit, Tom set his sights on becoming a Green Beret, a part of the Special Forces. In August 1989, he got his chance. He was accepted into the selection process for the Special Forces, a brutal 28-day training course that pushed him to his physical and mental limits. But Tom didn't back down. He made it through and graduated, marking a big step in his military career. But his journey didn't stop there. Two mysterious army guys approached him, talking about the Unit. They saw something in Tom, something that made them believe he could be a part of this elite group. They encouraged him to apply for the selection process. Tom knew it would be tough, but the idea of being recognized as one of the best in the US military gave him a sense of belonging. The selection process for the Unit was a whole new level of tough. It was here that Tom truly understood what it meant to push to be the best. He had to push himself harder than he ever thought possible. But this relentless pursuit of excellence came with a price. He didn't know it then, but this would have serious effects on his future physical and mental health. Tom's story is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices one must make in the pursuit of excellence. Pushing to be the best can lead to great achievements and recognition, but it can also take a serious toll on your physical and mental health. It's a reminder that the pursuit of excellence is not without its costs.

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03Mogadishu was a scary and risky mission

04A failed operation led to death and chaos

05The Somalis were ready, the Americans were struggling

06War isn't glorious, it's gruesome

07A hero in war and at home

08Conclusion

About Tom Satterly, Steve Jackson

Tom Satterly is a highly decorated combat veteran, having served in the Delta Force for 20 years. Steve Jackson is a bestselling author, known for his true crime and adventure narratives. Together, they co-authored "All Secure," detailing Satterly's experiences in the military and his struggle with PTSD.

Featured Excerpt

The true cost of war is not just measured in lives lost, but in the toll it takes on those who return.

note: excerpts from the original book

There is no such thing as a 'normal' after war; there is only a new reality to navigate.

note: excerpts from the original book

The journey home from war is often the most difficult battle of all.

note: excerpts from the original book

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