📍In honor of the 250th Birthday of the United States Marine Corps, David Rutherford sits down with Sgt. Tommy James, a Marine K9 handler whose life story embodies everything the Corps has stood for — discipline, loyalty, and courage under fire.

From his humble beginnings in Arkansas to boot camp at Parris Island, from patrolling Quantico with a 130-pound Czech Shepherd to facing snipers in Afghanistan with his specialized search dog “Rona,” Sgt. James’ journey captures the Marine ethos: “The Few. The Proud.”

Next Steps:

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Timestamps: 

00:00 - The Allure of the Marine Corps

12:57 - Boot Camp Experience and Transformation

27:59 - Military Working Dog Training and Deployment

41:13 - The Battle of Chaparral and Its Aftermath

41:44 - The Journey of a Marine: From Boot Camp to Deployment

48:50 - First Combat Deployment: The Reality of War

01:03:03 - Training and Bonding: The Special Relationship with K9s

01:06:31 - Engagement in Combat: The Challenges of ROEs

01:17:18 - Casualties and the Harsh Realities of War

01:19:34 - Entering the Compound: A Tactical Overview

01:22:06 - The Reality of Combat: Friendships and Loss

01:25:44 - Transitioning Units: Challenges and Adjustments

01:29:04 - The Aftermath of Deployment: Reflections and Regrets

01:36:36 - Life After the Marines: Adjusting to Civilian Life

01:51:01 - Lessons Learned: Integrity and Brotherhood