WAR ON TERROR FROM THE SKY: U.S. AIR FORCE SPECIAL OPS AIRCREW REVEAL UNTOLD COMBAT STORIES Artwork

GOLD SHIELDS

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Welcome to Gold Shields, your ultimate source for true crime stories, real-life heroism, and military and law enforcement adventures. Hosted by the brave men and women who lived through these incredible moments, our channel takes you behind the scenes of dangerous missions, high-stakes investigations, and real-life stories that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

We bring you exclusive, first-hand accounts from law enforcement officers and military veterans who have dedicated their lives to serving and protecting others.

Our channel offers you a unique "Back Stage Pass" to crime investigations, military operations, and the true grit it takes to bring justice to the world.

Whether you’re a fan of true crime documentaries, military missions, or heroic stories, Gold Shields will deliver gripping tales of courage, dedication, and the heroes who risk everything to protect and serve. Tune in every week for new episodes, in-depth interviews, and exclusive content that highlights the incredible work of real-life heroes.

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GOLD SHIELDS

WAR ON TERROR FROM THE SKY: U.S. AIR FORCE SPECIAL OPS AIRCREW REVEAL UNTOLD COMBAT STORIES

January 22, 2026 • Tom Smith/Dan Murphy • Season 4 • Episode 151

0:00 | 50:56

We hope you enjoy this episode of Gold Shields, let us know how we did.

GOLD SHIELDS returns with a high-impact episode featuring U.S. Air Force Special Mission Aviator Anthony Dyer who will bring you inside the fight for air superiority during the War on Terror.

When troops are in contact, control of the skies is the difference between survival and sacrifice. In this episode, Anthony Dyer shares firsthand accounts from above the battlefield—where split-second decisions, constant overwatch, and relentless vigilance protected American and allied forces on the ground.

These are the untold stories from the aircrews who never left the fight, even when the fight was at its most desperate.

This is the war seen from above.

This is how warriors in the sky shield those on the ground.

This is GOLD SHIELDS.

Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to Anthony Dyer
02:14 Growing Up in Appalachia
04:12 The Impact of 9/11 on a Young Airman
06:05 Transitioning to the AC-130 Gunship
09:22 High-Risk Missions and Combat Experiences
18:26 The Jolly Green Rescue Mission of the Year
23:40 The Emotional Toll of Combat
27:35 Finding Help and Healing Through Storytelling
30:15 The Journey to Recovery
33:02 Faith as a Cornerstone
35:02 The Importance of Sharing Stories
37:56 Current Work and Future Aspirations
41:52 Rapid Fire Questions

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