Nick Palmisciano is a West Point graduate, former Army infantryman, founder of Ranger Up, and CEO of Diesel Jack Media. In this episode of Battleground, Nick shares his story of how he ended up in the military, which was not originally a part of his plan. His father, a Vietnam vet, never pushed the military on him, but Nick ended up taking the SATs and doing well, prompting him to look into West Point. His father encouraged him to visit and consider it, and he ultimately decided to attend.

Nick also shares his experience of being asked to assist in Afghanistan with the evacuation of civilians in 2021. Nick, and fellow veteran Tim Kennedy, said yes to the opportunity, even though they were unsure of what they were getting into. The experience was emotionally taxing, but it was also an opportunity to do something meaningful and make a difference. Nick's experience in Afghanistan teaches valuable lessons about courage and taking risks, and shows how saying yes to meaningful things can lead to personal growth and a greater understanding of the world.

Highlights:

(00:25) Left Behind story

(03:45) Nick’s father

(15:50) Journey to wrestling

(18:50) Legacy and history of West Point

(37:43) Bad leadership

(44:40) Grad School

(52:30) Ranger Up

(1:12:45) Nick doesn’t care

(1:16:50) Divorce and stoicism

(1:33:00) Afghanistan Withdrawal

(2:03:00) Diesel Jack