When disaster strikes and hope fades, one elite unit answers the call—no matter the cost. In Episode 140 of the Talk4 Podcast, host Louis Skupien sits down with Command Chief James Loper, the senior enlisted leader of the legendary 920th Rescue Wing, for a raw, powerful, and deeply inspiring conversation.
With over 2,500 Airmen across multiple U.S. bases, the 920th Rescue Wing is responsible for the Air Force’s only dedicated combat search and rescue (CSAR) mission in the Reserve Command. Their motto? “These Things We Do, That Others May Live.”
🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ The untold story behind the real Lone Survivor rescue mission—what Hollywood didn’t show
✅ How the 920th rescued a 12-year-old boy from a cruise ship 400 miles offshore
✅ The insane risks these operators take—like removing weapons from helicopters to reach dying teammates
✅ Leadership lessons from nearly 30 years in uniform—how to influence, not just manage
✅ Why rescue isn’t just a mission… it’s a sacred promise
✅ What young people need to hear about resilience, purpose, and the path to greatness
🎖️ Who is James Loper?
James Loper is the Command Chief of the 920th Rescue Wing at Patrick Space Force Base, Florida. With almost three decades of service, Loper has held multiple senior leadership positions across the Air Force, beginning his career as a nuclear command and controller before stepping into the world of combat search and rescue. His perspective on leadership, sacrifice, and purpose is as profound as it is practical.
💬 Louis’ Take:
“This episode left me speechless. These are the people doing the real work—risking it all for others with no spotlight, no ego, just unwavering purpose. James’ stories will move you, his lessons will stay with you, and I guarantee you’ll walk away changed.”
🎧 Listen Now:
Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms.
📡 Hit the link below to listen, and don’t forget to subscribe and share this episode—this is one everyone needs to hear.
📚 Bonus Resources:
🪖 Recommended by James: “The Enchiridion” by Epictetus – a pocketbook of Stoic wisdom that shaped his leadership mindset
🧭 Looking to join the military? Find a recruiter or speak to someone who’s served—it might change your life.
