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Episode 006 of the Former Action Guys Podcast focuses on Marine Corps AH-1W WTI pilot and 1st Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company (ANGLICO) Forward Air Controller (FAC), Major Michael “Archer” Cullen.

During this episode we first discuss the process Archer completed in order to become a Marine officer and aviator. We also discuss his deployment to Afghanistan, his time with 1st ANGLICO, transitioning from the Marines into the corporate world and what he is up to today.

Because Archer is our first officer guest, I ask specific details regarding his training at Officer Candidate School and contrast them with my own experiences from Parris Island. We then discuss the screening process and major training events involved in becoming a Naval Aviator. Specifically, his thoughts about flying the T-34 and TH-37 aircrafts.

Following that, Archer details his AH-1W Cobra specific training he received before being assigned to the Gunfighters (HMLA-369) for their deployment in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. During this portion of the podcast we discuss different engagements and weapons effects in the real world.

Following his deployment to Afghanistan he attended Weapons and Tactics Instructor (WTI) Course and then later ordered to 1st ANGLICO to complete his ground tour. Him and I detail our time together at ANGLICO and on a Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) deployment.

Finally, Archer descries leaving the Marine Corps to work in corporate America, covering the good and bad. He also explains his reasoning for leaving his corporate job to attend a Master’s of Business for Veterans program at the University of Southern California.

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Glossary:
7-Ton – Medium Tactical Vehicle Replacement
ANGLICO – Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company
BLT – Battalion Landing Team
EOD – Explosive Ordnance Disposal
FCT – Firepower Control Team
GBU – Guided Bomb Unit
GLT – Georgian Liaison Team (Georgian military advisors)
Hesco Barrier – Earthen filled barriers
HMMWV – High mobility multi-wheeled vehicle
IED – Improvised Explosive Device
JDAM – Joint Direct Attack Munition (GPS guided bomb)
JTAC – Joint Terminal Attack Controller
M-ATV – MRAP All-terrain vehicle
MRAP – Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (armored vehicle)
RO – Radio Operator
SALT – Supporting Arms Liaison Team
S Shops – S-1 (Administration), S-2 (Intel), S-3 (Operations), S-4 (Logistics), S-6 (Communication)
SVBIED – Suicide vehicle-borne improvised explosive device
VBIED – Vehicle-borne improvised explosive device