Shawn Ryan Show - Episode #227: Henry Dick Thompson - MACV-SOG Operator, Codename "Dynamite"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Shawn Ryan Show
• Host: Shawn Ryan
• Guest: Henry Dick Thompson (Codename "Dynamite")
• Release Date: August 14, 2025
• Description: Hosted by Shawn Ryan, former Navy SEAL, CIA Contractor, and Founder of Vigilance Elite, the show delves into the real-life stories of individuals from diverse backgrounds, exploring their triumphs, struggles, and experiences with candor and respect.

Introduction

[00:00 – 03:07]
The episode opens with a warm welcome to Henry Dick Thompson, known as "Dynamite," a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel, Green Beret, Ranger, and veteran of the MACV-SOG (Military Assistance Command, Vietnam – Studies and Observations Group). Shawn Ryan and co-host John Stryker Meyer highlight Thompson's extensive military background and personal accolades, setting the stage for an in-depth discussion about his experiences in Vietnam and beyond.

Notable Quote:

• John Stryker Meyer [00:51]: "This is the last interview in the studio and I wanted the perfect guest."

Early Life and Military Background

[35:09 – 66:52]
Thompson recounts his upbringing in Walhalla, South Carolina, where military service was a family legacy, with multiple relatives having served in World War II and Korea. From a young age, he was fascinated by the military, forming his own "69th Ranger Company" with cousins, which mirrored his aspirations to join the elite Ranger units.

Notable Quote:

• Thompson [35:13]: "When I was about seven years old, I decided, I'm going to have an army."

His passion for military service led him to pursue a career in the Army, enrolling in Officer Candidate School (OCS) and advancing through Airborne and Special Forces training. Thompson emphasizes his desire to serve his country, inspired by a sense of duty and the influence of his family's military history.

Joining MACV-SOG and Early Missions

[72:13 – 114:43]
Upon joining MACV-SOG, Thompson describes the clandestine nature of the unit's operations, which often bypassed the Geneva Conventions by operating without official identification. This allowed for greater operational flexibility but also increased the risk of being classified as spies if captured.

Notable Quote:

• Thompson [91:45]: "We were considered spies if we were caught, and it also gave the US Government plausible deniability."

Thompson details his first mission, including the harrowing experience of sensing an impending attack and executing rapid defensive measures. He shares a poignant moment where a premonition of mission failure comes true, highlighting the intense psychological stress soldiers faced.

Notable Quote:

• Thompson [161:37]: "I had a couple of minutes to make a decision. Get down, get all the team members down because it's coming."

Combat Experiences and Tactical Innovations

[114:43 – 199:23]
As a team leader, Thompson implemented several tactical innovations to enhance his team's effectiveness and survivability. He discusses the strategic use of claymores, ammunition management, and behavioral insights into enemy tactics. His approach emphasized quick decision-making, adaptability, and leveraging psychological warfare to outmaneuver the enemy.

Notable Quote:

• Thompson [127:51]: "You need to be able to load faster and shoot longer."

Thompson also delves into his studies in psychology, which equipped him with a framework to understand combat stress, sleep deprivation, and the mental toll of warfare. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing these issues to prevent long-term psychological harm among veterans.

Notable Quote:

• Thompson [170:02]: "There are ways to do some of that that we worked on getting ready."

Post-Military Life and Helping Veterans

[225:20 – 199:23]
Transitioning to civilian life, Thompson faced significant challenges, including societal indifference and hostility towards returning veterans. He highlights the lack of support systems for veterans during the Vietnam era and shares his commitment to creating programs that help veterans reintegrate into society by leveraging their military-acquired skills.

Notable Quote:

• Thompson [194:43]: "I hate that it happened. I think we screwed up Vietnam royally."

Through his company, Thompson advocates for initiatives that honor veterans, provide psychological support, and utilize their unique skill sets in the civilian workforce. He underscores the importance of continuous support and recognition to prevent veterans from falling into despair or addiction.

Notable Quote:

• Thompson [204:52]: "Moving forward is moving forward mentally as well as physically."

Personal Life and Reflections

[257:56 – 267:15]
Thompson shares personal anecdotes, including meeting his wife under unconventional circumstances and maintaining a long-lasting marriage despite the traumas of war. He reflects on the psychological scars left by combat, the loss of comrades, and the enduring impact of his military experiences on his personal relationships and mental health.

Notable Quote:

• Thompson [260:56]: "She's always right. And I would do well to remember that, whether I think so at the time or not, she's going to end up being right."

Advice to Veterans and Moving Forward

[267:07 – 199:23]
Drawing from his extensive experience, Thompson offers practical advice to veterans struggling with PTSD, addiction, and reintegration challenges. He emphasizes the importance of continuous movement, both physically and mentally, to prevent stagnation and psychological decline. Thompson advocates for strong support networks, personal accountability, and leveraging one's skills to build a fulfilling post-military life.

Notable Quote:

• Thompson [251:51]: "You have to keep moving forward and keep remembering."

Conclusion

[267:06 – End]
As the episode wraps up, Thompson expresses gratitude for sharing his story and reiterates his commitment to supporting fellow veterans. The hosts commend his resilience and the invaluable insights he provides, bridging the gap between military experiences and civilian understanding.

Notable Quote:

• Thompson [265:21]: "I appreciate it. It's a great honor to be able to come in and do this."

Key Takeaways:

1. Military Service and Sacrifice: Thompson's extensive military background showcases the dedication and sacrifices made by elite soldiers in complex combat scenarios.

2. Psychological Resilience: His experiences highlight the profound psychological impacts of warfare, emphasizing the need for robust support systems for veterans.

3. Tactical Innovations: Thompson's contributions to military tactics demonstrate the importance of adaptability and strategic thinking in high-stress environments.

4. Veteran Support Advocacy: Post-military, Thompson's efforts to aid veterans reflect a commitment to addressing the often-overlooked challenges faced by those who served.

5. Personal Resilience: His ability to maintain personal relationships and build a life after combat underscores the human capacity for resilience and healing.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• John Stryker Meyer [00:51]: "This is the last interview in the studio and I wanted the perfect guest."

• Thompson [35:13]: "When I was about seven years old, I decided, I'm going to have an army."

• Thompson [91:45]: "We were considered spies if we were caught, and it also gave the US Government plausible deniability."

• Thompson [127:51]: "You need to be able to load faster and shoot longer."

• Thompson [170:02]: "There are ways to do some of that that we worked on getting ready."

• Thompson [194:43]: "I hate that it happened. I think we screwed up Vietnam royally."

• Thompson [204:52]: "Moving forward is moving forward mentally as well as physically."

• Thompson [251:51]: "You have to keep moving forward and keep remembering."

• Thompson [260:56]: "She's always right. And I would do well to remember that, whether I think so at the time or not, she's going to end up being right."

• Thompson [265:21]: "I appreciate it. It's a great honor to be able to come in and do this."

Conclusion: Henry Dick Thompson's narrative on the Shawn Ryan Show offers a profound glimpse into the life of a decorated MACV-SOG operator. His stories not only underscore the valor and tactical acumen required in covert operations but also shed light on the enduring psychological challenges faced by veterans. Thompson's dedication to supporting fellow soldiers post-service exemplifies the vital need for comprehensive veteran assistance programs. This episode serves as both a tribute to Thompson's service and a call to action for better support systems for those who serve.