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Steve Russell - From Capturing Saddam Hussein to Continuing to Serve Through JAARS
Episode 105

Steve Russell - From Capturing Saddam Hussein to Continuing to Serve Through JAARS

Veteran Led

January 21, 202552m 12s

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Show Notes

In this episode of Veteran Led, John S. Berry sits down with Steve Russell, the Army battalion commander who led Task Force 1-22 Infantry in the historic capture of Saddam Hussein. Russell shares the details of tracking Saddam through his network of trusted families and the ultimate successful raid in December 2003.​

Beyond his military service, Russell discusses his continued dedication to public service as an Oklahoma State Senator and U.S. Congressman, where he championed veteran causes including the Uniform Spouse Protection Act reform. His journey from battlefield commander to manufacturer and elected official demonstrates the lasting impact of military leadership principles in civilian life.​

Today, Russell serves with JAARS (Jungle Aviation and Relay Service), where he applies his military logistics and leadership experience to support humanitarian missions in remote jungle locations worldwide. Using aircraft, boats, and four-wheel drive vehicles, JAARS reduces barriers and serves communities across the Amazon, Congolese, and Melanesian rainforests.​

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Topics

Steve RussellSaddam Hussein captureTask Force 122Military leadershipCongressional serviceVeteran advocacyIraq WarPublic serviceMilitary transitionLeadership principlesJAARSveteran led