How US Marine special operations actually work, according to a former raider

Nick Jones is a former US Marine Raider who served in MARSOC, the Marine Corps’ elite special operations unit.

After starting his career as an infantry mortarman and scout sniper, Jones went on to complete the rigorous Marine Raiders training and deployed multiple times to Iraq and Jordan. In 2020, Jones was awarded the Navy Cross for his actions during a chaotic firefight with Islamic State fighters in northern Iraq in which he repeatedly charged into enemy fire to rescue wounded teammates despite being shot in the leg himself.

Jones speaks with Business Insider about Marine Raiders selection, advanced infantry tactics, and operating alongside allied forces. He goes into detail about the intense realities of close-quarters combat and the firefight that led to his Navy Cross. Jones also reveals the mental and physical toll of combat, detailing his personal struggles with trauma, injury recovery, and alcoholism.

Following his retirement from active service, Jones has dedicated his career to supporting the veteran community. He is the founder of the Talons Reach Foundation, a nonprofit based in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

If you or someone you know is dealing with substance misuse or mental illness, call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Helpline (1-800-662-4357) for 24/7, free, confidential treatment referral and information.

For more:
https://www.talonsreachfoundation.org/
https://www.instagram.com/itisnickjones/