Deep Intel on the U-2 Spy Plane

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Colonel Merryl Tengesdal joins Ward to talk about her amazing military flying career, starting with U.S. Navy SH-60B helicopters and then pivoting to the legendary and mysterious U-2 spy plane.
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Пікірлер: 1 100

  • @WardCarroll
    @WardCarroll Жыл бұрын

    Compare news coverage from diverse sources around the world on a transparent platform driven by data. Try Ground News today: ground.news/wardcarroll

  • @ground_news

    @ground_news

    Жыл бұрын

    It was great working with you, Ward! Keep up the great work.

  • @JonHuhnMedical

    @JonHuhnMedical

    Жыл бұрын

    Never heard of this before; this is what the world needs right now. Thanks!

  • @michaelinsc9724

    @michaelinsc9724

    Жыл бұрын

    @WardCarroll, you should link her book in your description or pinned comment.

  • @steveshoemaker6347

    @steveshoemaker6347

    Жыл бұрын

    Merrill is an amazing woman.....Thanks Mooch & Colonel Merrill Tangestall for this awesome video......... Shoe🇺🇸

  • @andyc6766

    @andyc6766

    Жыл бұрын

    Holy crap, I went through this entire video thinking Merryl was 30 or 35 years old at most, in my head saying "Man I'm so envious this 'kid' had such an amazing career" and then you got to the part where you talked about her service length/retiring and my jaw dropped. Turns out she has a few years on me, and for damn sure looks a lot younger than I do. I always thought that operating under that kind of pressure had to cause premature aging, but clearly either I was wrong or there are exceptions! Awesome content as always Mr Carroll, just ordered her book and am going to check out Ground News as well. Thank you not only for your service in our armed forces, but also your continued service via this channel!

  • @ralphwatten2426
    @ralphwatten2426 Жыл бұрын

    About as close to an astronaut as a person can get. Thanks Merryl for keeping us safe. Thanks Ward for bringing us her story.

  • @davidsmith8997

    @davidsmith8997

    Жыл бұрын

    I find it incredible that these pilots are willingly and knowingly risking brain injuries to fly for their country. Pretty damn impressive!

  • @sonnygoc-ong7011

    @sonnygoc-ong7011

    Жыл бұрын

    @Ralph Watten.. Close but no cigar Sir.. apples and oranges comparison; omitting cumulative time, physical conditioning with unknown age limits.. Armchair quarterbacking aside, I've to hand it to MsMerryl for her alert, dynamic and smart precise management of all the systems she had total control of.. precision management over at least four maybe up to five dimensions. I'm Star Trekking now.. Excellent presentation Mooch (MrWard Carroll).. ALOHA UALL..

  • @lohikarhu734

    @lohikarhu734

    Жыл бұрын

    You brought us a couple of very interesting, very powerful, Colonels!

  • @Kenneth_James

    @Kenneth_James

    Жыл бұрын

    Joe Rogan gets higher technically

  • @merryltengesdal4674

    @merryltengesdal4674

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you for the kind words.

  • @leandrocosta3709
    @leandrocosta3709 Жыл бұрын

    As a Trekkie an an aviation enthusiast, WELL DONE, Colonel! You rock! Live long & prosper, Ma'am!

  • @pwlebrun4573
    @pwlebrun4573 Жыл бұрын

    Col. Tengesdal’s story is an incredible, inspiring, and truly American one. To go from the Bronx to flying one of the most challenging planes ever built is an amazing accomplishment. Her intelligence, dedication, and character are evident and humbling to this civilian.

  • @SilveniumTheDrifter

    @SilveniumTheDrifter

    Жыл бұрын

    Well said!

  • @adamdejesus4017
    @adamdejesus4017 Жыл бұрын

    This is the most compelling interview I've seen on this channel. Col Tengesdal sold a copy of her book (to me) before I finished watching. She makes me proud to be an American today.

  • @merryltengesdal4674

    @merryltengesdal4674

    Жыл бұрын

    Adam, I appreciate you. Thank you.

  • @dwightmoore3060

    @dwightmoore3060

    Жыл бұрын

    Couldn't have said it better. Leaving KZread right now to go to Amazon for the book. Terrific interview!

  • @turbo-6.7l21

    @turbo-6.7l21

    Жыл бұрын

    I agree! I can’t wait to give it a read as well!

  • @lonl123
    @lonl123 Жыл бұрын

    If only the media would focus on people like Col Tengesdal as role models for our messed up kids of today instead of sports figures and social media "Influencers", we might be in much better shape than we are. What a true inspiration the Col is. Have always loved the U-2 and it's awesome to see an interview with one of the few pilots (Aviators) that are good enough to pilot them.

  • @magnubeido8832

    @magnubeido8832

    Жыл бұрын

    Well said. I'm only 3 minutes into this video and I already have a feeling Col. Temgesdal is going to be a very impressive role model that any of us can be inspired by

  • @gregknipe8772

    @gregknipe8772

    Жыл бұрын

    the media is an ice cream vendor. the customers choose the flavor and servings. its not a forced feeding tube. thats how we got to wards space here.

  • @donalddepew9605

    @donalddepew9605

    Жыл бұрын

    I wish the media could focus on her also, but the media is comprised mostly of under achievers who whine and complain, and basically achieved nothing significant in life.

  • @johnnunn8688

    @johnnunn8688

    Жыл бұрын

    @Joshua Jones, you truly think it’s ‘free’. 🤣😂

  • @flagmichael

    @flagmichael

    Жыл бұрын

    @Joshua Jones It is more effective to back up your arguments rather than challenge people to prove you wrong. It makes you sound weak.

  • @intrinsicimagery
    @intrinsicimagery Жыл бұрын

    Holy crap. I don't know if anyone has EVER gotten Black History Month this right. Thanks for introducing us to Colonel Tengesdal.

  • @adamdejesus4017

    @adamdejesus4017

    Жыл бұрын

    💯

  • @will3kgt

    @will3kgt

    Жыл бұрын

    My mother did with me in the early 80's.👍🏽

  • @Synergy7Studios

    @Synergy7Studios

    Жыл бұрын

    Black history month is fucking stupid.

  • @will3kgt

    @will3kgt

    Жыл бұрын

    @@Synergy7Studios You're absolutely right.

  • @mmckenzie9367

    @mmckenzie9367

    Жыл бұрын

    Amen.

  • @apenza4304
    @apenza4304 Жыл бұрын

    Gene Rodenberry would have loved to know that Star Trek motivated this pilot to soar.

  • @tayzonday
    @tayzonday Жыл бұрын

    Such an amazing interview! Thanks so much! 🙏

  • @Blackhawks87

    @Blackhawks87

    Жыл бұрын

    I see you everywhere now Mr. chocolate rain!!!! Glad to see you have good taste. Any plans on some more music in the near future? Hope you're doing well my man!

  • @tinaverras1278

    @tinaverras1278

    Жыл бұрын

    Such an amazing person! Thank you, Col. Tengesdal!

  • @WardCarroll

    @WardCarroll

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks, Tay! Hope you're well!

  • @Evergreen1400

    @Evergreen1400

    Жыл бұрын

    @@Blackhawks87. I was just coming to say the same thing lol. I see him comment on a ton of my favorite channels and love when I randomly see him in the comments 😂

  • @DogsOrlaNugget

    @DogsOrlaNugget

    Жыл бұрын

    @@WardCarroll curious the reason you referred to the Colonel as a U2 “driver” instead of pilot. Interchangeable terms? P.S. Videos and interviews are fantastic.

  • @Celtkin
    @Celtkin Жыл бұрын

    What a wonderful interview with Col. Tengesdal! I loved the "Unarmed and Unafraid" motto and thinking about how much courage it takes to be a proverbial sitting duck at times and still staying on mission.

  • @comontoshi

    @comontoshi

    Жыл бұрын

    ALONE unarmed and unafraid . . . 😎

  • @Justanotherconsumer

    @Justanotherconsumer

    Жыл бұрын

    Alone unarmed unstable and unafraid. Not quite YBGSM but definitely not for the timid!

  • @tacocin

    @tacocin

    Жыл бұрын

    I remember that saying being used by the RF-4C operators in SE Asia during the late 60's to early 70's.

  • @SoloRenegade

    @SoloRenegade

    Жыл бұрын

    to be fair, in many places, such as OIF/OEF, there was basically zero risk of a U-2 being shot down. Doesn't take much courage to do that. But takes courage to knowingly risk physical injury flying a mission.

  • @usaturnuranus

    @usaturnuranus

    Жыл бұрын

    ​@@SoloRenegade What you say is undoubtedly true but I would submit that just to get in the mental and physical condition necessary to face the particular challenges of flying such aircraft at extreme altitudes and survive the mission, especially in the event of the inevitable and unforeseeable mechanical system failures that all complex systems are apt to experience represents a whole set of challenges (and fears) that only this category of pilot will expect to face. I am very impressed by the knowledge, discipline, and dedication of these warriors.

  • @chaunceywilliams8405
    @chaunceywilliams8405 Жыл бұрын

    Impressive aviator. Love that she knew what she wanted at an early age. And did the work to get it. She will succeed at everything she chooses to do.

  • @501ldk
    @501ldk Жыл бұрын

    Just added Colonel Tengesdal to my list of all time personal heroes. Thank you for your service and inspiration. The world needs to hear a lot more from you. Going to order your book now.

  • @j.johnson3520

    @j.johnson3520

    Жыл бұрын

    Me too.

  • @tonya8094

    @tonya8094

    Жыл бұрын

    Do we have a link for her book?

  • @merryltengesdal4674

    @merryltengesdal4674

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you.

  • @drtomdrabczyk

    @drtomdrabczyk

    Жыл бұрын

    ​@Merryl Tengesdal I had to do a double take when I saw this video. Merryl. Do you remember me from USS Normandy (GWBATGRU 88-1). I was the Air Defense Officer. I'm so in awe of what you accomp lished!

  • @enoughrope1638
    @enoughrope1638 Жыл бұрын

    I am a simple man. When Perun uploads a powerpoint, Hardcore History uploads a podcast, or Ward Carroll uploads an interview I click and I am never disappointed.

  • @mcpojack
    @mcpojack Жыл бұрын

    Only a former pilot/backseater could have pulled off this outstanding interview. Your insight and questions were spot on. Thanks to you both for your service. 30 year MCPO sends.

  • @WardCarroll

    @WardCarroll

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks, Master Chief!

  • @mikedrop4421
    @mikedrop4421 Жыл бұрын

    Oh man a Col and a U2 pilot? What an honor! Thank you both for this.

  • @Dr_Kenneth_Noisewater
    @Dr_Kenneth_Noisewater Жыл бұрын

    What an amazing pilot! I just think about the wide range of types of flying she did over her career. Unbelievable. Massive respect!

  • @comments.cuestionsandconcerns

    @comments.cuestionsandconcerns

    Жыл бұрын

    agreed!

  • @vmpgsc
    @vmpgsc Жыл бұрын

    Col. Tengesdal is an absolute badass. Great video, Mooch.

  • @ChristofferETJ
    @ChristofferETJ Жыл бұрын

    Those clips of helicopters on small decks are from some of the Danish navy's largest ships. Quite necessary to be able to land on rolling decks in the North Atlantic. Merryl is very likable. No surprise she passed the U2 interview.

  • @Blackhawks87

    @Blackhawks87

    Жыл бұрын

    She's one inspirational human being!! Unlike the lazy youth of today, this woman is a complete badass and all around likeable character. I sleep a little easier knowing we have professionals like her to suit up and help protect the U.S. and all of our allies!! Cheers to the Danes from Chicago!!!

  • @timpost2981

    @timpost2981

    Жыл бұрын

    @@Blackhawks87 LMFAOOOO

  • @jons1148
    @jons1148 Жыл бұрын

    What a story, what an honor, what an inspiration! Thank you Colonel Tengesdal for all that you have done.

  • @bnaivar
    @bnaivar Жыл бұрын

    A true Dragon Lady. Thanks Ward!

  • @yellowboxster06
    @yellowboxster06 Жыл бұрын

    Most of the people in the world have little awareness or appreciation for the selfless accomplishments and dedication of people who live with an unlimited liability clause in their professions. It makes me proud to breath the same air.

  • @ThorstenWieking
    @ThorstenWieking Жыл бұрын

    Impressive career, impressive aviator and I just love how Star Trek (once again) was the impetus for dedication to reach a goal.

  • @garycoloradosprings3947

    @garycoloradosprings3947

    Жыл бұрын

    Absolutely. I can picture her sitting in the living room studying the Star Trek episodes and dreaming about her future. Well done!

  • @Raist474
    @Raist474 Жыл бұрын

    Maintenance being able to talk to the aircrew whenever they have a problem is a groundbreaking advantage that I'm surprised isn't talked about more. I've done it before as a Crow on the ground and I can rest comfortably knowing that I've saved lives both in the air and on the ground. Aircrew can't know everything on the fly, and having a technical expert on call who has access to a cheat sheet earned through thousands of hours of troubleshooting is game-breaking. I've even flown combat missions as MEP for known issues and have seen first hand the relief of the crew that they have a more educated than usual grease monkey than your average FCC to fix a problem on the fly, or worse case ghetto-rig a quick fix to accomplish the mission.

  • @Justanotherconsumer

    @Justanotherconsumer

    Жыл бұрын

    Especially with a plane as notoriously temperamental as the U-2.

  • @kudukilla
    @kudukilla Жыл бұрын

    My brother in law transitioned from C-130’s to the U-2 in the 90’s. He now flies for Southwest.

  • @landm223
    @landm223 Жыл бұрын

    My grandfather was a maintainer on the Dragon lady in Vietnam before Vietnam was Vietnam. He kept telling my grandmother it was a very long TDY up until the late 70's. Thank you ward for giving this amazing bird and this amazing aviator their due recognition.

  • @jason7775600
    @jason7775600 Жыл бұрын

    Thanks! Most excellent! From a non-military person, who loves military shows.

  • @tjzulu1
    @tjzulu1 Жыл бұрын

    An amazing woman!! America needs millions more like her!! God bless her always!!

  • @jumpinjakeflash1
    @jumpinjakeflash1 Жыл бұрын

    Fantastic. I can tell she was an outstanding instructor because I followed everything she was explaining. Thanks, Mooch, for another great episode.

  • @donalddepew9605
    @donalddepew9605 Жыл бұрын

    She is one fantastic Lady who should be highly regarded as a role model for all of us. So is the U-2. Great Video Mooch!

  • @Ifoughtpiranhas
    @Ifoughtpiranhas Жыл бұрын

    I live about 20 miles south of Beale AFB, and get the opportunity from time to time to see the U-2 cruising in back to Beale. I almost always stop what I'm doing and just observe the beauty and grace of the jet flying over. I get an overflight by their T-38 trainers almost daily.

  • @jimmysweet8907
    @jimmysweet8907 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you for your service colonel.

  • @chrisquinn4022
    @chrisquinn4022 Жыл бұрын

    This lady is so very humble and a true patriot!

  • @thomasquinn284
    @thomasquinn284 Жыл бұрын

    Fabulous interview Mooch. What a brave and dedicated woman.

  • @Blackhawks87
    @Blackhawks87 Жыл бұрын

    What a motivating human being. Amazing accomplishments! Continue to fly high in your dragon lady, dragon lady!!!! Respect!!!!! Edit: retired dragon lady*

  • @JonHuhnMedical
    @JonHuhnMedical Жыл бұрын

    Ward, everyone you interview both humbles me for how little I've accomplished compared to them, but also makes me so proud to be an American. And thank you Col. Tengesdal for your inspiring story and your service! God bless.

  • @channaw.3538
    @channaw.3538 Жыл бұрын

    What an inspiration and a roll model for young people, especially for young girls in America! Absolutely respect for the Colonel!!

  • @glencrandall7051
    @glencrandall7051 Жыл бұрын

    Interesting career. Rotary wing, fixed wing, glider (U-2). Thank you for your service. Ward, thank you for your service and thank you for sharing.🙂

  • @slurpat7162
    @slurpat7162 Жыл бұрын

    Your book's in my AZ cart, Col. Tengesdal. Thank you for your extraordinary story and exemplary service, and LOVED all those great photos. And Mooch, if it weren't for you and your channel , I would NEVER have been introduced to such an amazing and inspiring aviator. This is one of my all-time favorites of yours. I was on the edge of my seat from start to finish. The way the two of you told this story begs for a return visit, big time! "You've got to go there to know there," and wow, when two people who've gone there and know there get together, well, it's just what it is: magic! Much thanks!

  • @WardCarroll

    @WardCarroll

    Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for the generous support!

  • @merryltengesdal4674

    @merryltengesdal4674

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you!!

  • @mmckenzie9367

    @mmckenzie9367

    Жыл бұрын

    I second that. I'm already looking forward to a follow up.

  • @digitalwoodshop
    @digitalwoodshop Жыл бұрын

    Interesting Video. 1975 High School Classmate Mario Buda was the U2 pilot for a Behind Closed Doors TV Program where Joan Lunden went for a test ride. At our 35th Class Reunion in Milford, PA, he showed the program and got a standing ovation. Made this Retired Navy Chief proud.

  • @I-0-0-I
    @I-0-0-I Жыл бұрын

    Wow, that is quite a physical sacrifice. Hats off to colonel Tengesdal. Were their cockpits not pressurized enough?

  • @tscottme

    @tscottme

    Жыл бұрын

    I believe U-2 cockpits are only pressurized to high 20s to low 30s. It's a weight-saving consideration. Airliners are usually pressurized to 8,000 feet. Some newer airliners are pressurized to 6,000 ft.

  • @braincraven

    @braincraven

    Жыл бұрын

    The more structure to keep the cockpit pressurized at the lower altitude adds more weight. They need to keep the weight very low.

  • @merryltengesdal4674

    @merryltengesdal4674

    Жыл бұрын

    When I flew the cockpit cabin pressure was at approximately 29K. The aircraft was modified around 2012 to a cabin pressure of 15k. Quite the difference.

  • @carabela125

    @carabela125

    Жыл бұрын

    It's like the Apollo spacecraft, with pure oxygen, they only needed 5 psi to breathe. Regular air is 78% nitrogen, which we don't need.

  • @billjamison2877
    @billjamison2877 Жыл бұрын

    The view must be SPECTACULAR! Thank you for your service Colonel Merryl Tengesdal ! God Bless America !

  • @Justanotherconsumer

    @Justanotherconsumer

    Жыл бұрын

    There’s a Top Gear special “James May at the edge of space” that includes some footage from a U2.

  • @MultiZirkon
    @MultiZirkon Жыл бұрын

    Norwegian air control center, a normal rainy day in the fifties: Unknown aircraft on the radio: "...am I cleared for 60000 feets?" Norwegian air control: "By all means, if you cab reach that altitude, please go ahead. (Snort)" Unknown aircraft on the radio: "I am DESCENDING !"

  • @bikenavbm1229
    @bikenavbm1229 Жыл бұрын

    a natural behind the camera, happy to listen to more, love stuff about the special high flying birds , thanks Col.

  • @NoName-zn1sb

    @NoName-zn1sb

    Жыл бұрын

    before the camera

  • @DonnerPassWhisky
    @DonnerPassWhisky Жыл бұрын

    Great stuff Ward. Spent 1984-1989 working on SR-71's at Beale and Kadena. The U-2/TR1 were our next door neighbors and this is a great blast from the past for me. Cheers

  • @twright3802

    @twright3802

    Жыл бұрын

    First time I saw the Habu, I was a young Marine walking out of the PX on Camp Foster, Okinawa 1987. I looked up while coming out of the PX in March 1987 and said " what the hell is that? " Cpl Carlson said " man that's a Habu getting ready to land". For the next 6 months, I would hear the SR 71 take off early in the morning from Kadina Air Base.

  • @DonnerPassWhisky

    @DonnerPassWhisky

    Жыл бұрын

    @@twright3802 Very cool I got there January of 87 so we were there at the same time. Cheers

  • @VAhistTeach
    @VAhistTeach Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for this episode. I am a Social Studies teacher in Hampton, VA, and for the past several years I have been contributing facts to be read during our morning announcements for Women's History Month. I will include her story in this year's Women's History facts.

  • @TorToroPorco
    @TorToroPorco Жыл бұрын

    What an unique career path, rotary wing to fixed wing and all the way to the exclusive U2 community. Hopefully she doesn’t suffer any long term health effects from flying the U2.

  • @waywardronin8755
    @waywardronin8755 Жыл бұрын

    This was an absolutely fascinating interview. I have never learned so much about U2 pilots and U2 missions in my entire aviation career. Col. Tengesdal is amazing and inspiring.

  • @jamesvarnado3269

    @jamesvarnado3269

    Жыл бұрын

    I am proud of you !

  • @t3chnicianb3000
    @t3chnicianb3000 Жыл бұрын

    Just downloaded 'Shatter the Sky' to my Kindle. Thank You Commander Carroll for introducing us to the amazing talent and courage of Colonel Merryl Tengesdal. Thank You both for keeping America free!!

  • @timothyosborn1697
    @timothyosborn1697 Жыл бұрын

    Col. Tengesdal is an amazing woman who is very inspiring! Thanks for the interview!!!!!!

  • @thedamnyankee1
    @thedamnyankee1 Жыл бұрын

    Kelly Johnson sure loved his yokes.

  • @ryanbradley5192
    @ryanbradley5192 Жыл бұрын

    What a great interview Mooch. She was a stellar military officer.

  • @kcpilot63
    @kcpilot63 Жыл бұрын

    I fly with 2 former U2 pilots that know Colonel Tengesdal and they say she is the “real deal”. She is highly respected, very well thought of and reported to be an outstanding pilot and officer.

  • @merryltengesdal4674

    @merryltengesdal4674

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you. Which guys have you flown with?

  • @kcpilot63

    @kcpilot63

    Жыл бұрын

    Hello Merryl, my wife recently met you when you spoke at the book club she belongs to at Catta Verdera. As expected, the book club members were very impressed with you and your history. The 2 former U2 pilots I fly with are Beau Miller and Matt Acer.

  • @mmckenzie9367
    @mmckenzie9367 Жыл бұрын

    "My call sign's Mooch, so..." "OF COURSE! OF COURSE!" Priceless. Thank you both for your service to our great nation. We civilians appreciate you.

  • @thedownwardmachine
    @thedownwardmachine Жыл бұрын

    What an impressive and inspiring individual, thank you for hosting her!

  • @erichaury7663
    @erichaury7663 Жыл бұрын

    Great interview. If you happen to read this comment, feel free to pass along my greetings to her. I knew her when she was in flight test. My favorite memory of her is one time she told me I was "geeking out" when briefing the engineering behind a flight test effort to her and two other test pilots and asking them about the best approach to flying the test. She was good to work with and a real down-to-earth person.

  • @merryltengesdal4674

    @merryltengesdal4674

    Жыл бұрын

    Thank you my friend.

  • @thenorseman2804

    @thenorseman2804

    Жыл бұрын

    @@merryltengesdal4674 Hi, For an accountant or an auditor, retirement must feel like an adrenaline filled scary journey of discovery, into a new and strange world. When you, with your insane career, retired. Did you get the same feeling as the accountant, but in reverse? Leaving an exciting adventure and going to an endlessly boring world? I was a little curious about your name Tengesdal. I am from Norway and this is a surname from Denmark or Norway, most likely Norway. Do you have ancestry from Scandinavia / Norway? Sorry it wasn't meant to be rude but I have an interest in history and the emigration of my countrymen to America! So when I see names from Norway that are not Americanized, my curiosity is piqued. Must congratulate you on your amazing career, it deserves respect!

  • @lemiphil2388

    @lemiphil2388

    Жыл бұрын

    ​@@thenorseman2804so I went to do a little digging, apparently that is her husband's last name. Her husband is Kjell Tengesdal. So you're probably right about the Scandinavian connection. Her maiden last name was David. She's married with two kids according to Wikipedia.

  • @thenorseman2804

    @thenorseman2804

    Жыл бұрын

    @@lemiphil2388 Thank you for the update Lemi! Yes he has genes from Norway, the family name comes from the WSW of the country! Have a nice day!

  • @merryltengesdal4674

    @merryltengesdal4674

    Жыл бұрын

    @The Norseman Thank you! Believe it or not, life has been very busy after retirement, and I love it. Yes, my husband is 1/3 Norwegian. This dad was an immigrant from Norway.

  • @brandonsimunac
    @brandonsimunac Жыл бұрын

    I love her mindset of "I wanted to learn". Hugely admirable. Great interview, Mooch!

  • @nealf5885
    @nealf5885 Жыл бұрын

    As a long time follower of the channel I have to say this is one of the best yet. Love the first hand details of U2 ops. Hopefully the Colonel will be a huge inspiration to young people especially women and minorities.

  • @franksouthcott3740
    @franksouthcott3740 Жыл бұрын

    Commradrie, professionalism, and experience... Great combinations for great interviews!! Thanks Mooch! Keep up the good work!!

  • @cloudinthewind
    @cloudinthewind Жыл бұрын

    Fantastic interview and a really interesting experience in making the absolute best of a military career. We're so lucky to have had your service Col. Tengesdal! Thank you for sharing your experience and I hope we hear more from you again!

  • @oculusangelicus8978
    @oculusangelicus8978 Жыл бұрын

    Wow, this woman is a force of Nature! She's done almost everything, with a few exceptions. Talk about Laser focused on the goal of getting into a spacesuit! Thanks for your service Colonel, You have been an example of someone who has looked to the future and set her goals to get there, I hope that you will someday catch the eye of the people at NASA and you can get your Bucket list totally scratched off and fly into space! Your military career has had it's effect upon you, when you go deadpan, you have a poker player's face, I might as well be staring at the face of a mannequin! It's disconcerting but most definitely a result of your military service.

  • @Pincer88
    @Pincer88 Жыл бұрын

    Again, what a great interview! Col. Tengesdal has got to be an amazingly level headed lady. Imagine doing ten hour - if not (much) longer - missions high up, completely on your own, controlling all the sensors, navigation and communications in an uncomfortable pressure suit and cramped cockpit, have a few days of light duty and then going back to do it all again! Not exactly star ship Enterprise, but it's definitely going boldly where only a few have gone before. Going to look for her book right away! Thanks!

  • @j.p.5954
    @j.p.5954 Жыл бұрын

    This is one of my favorite interviews you have done! She is so intriguing, but at the same time she seemed so driven of what she wanted to accomplish! Although she speaks so reserved and is very articulate you can tell she took her job serious as a heart attack! Just awesome to see her speak! 👏

  • @robertgray4374
    @robertgray4374 Жыл бұрын

    What a fascinating interview with dedicated U2 pilot. Thank you for your years of outstanding service.

  • @vandalorianvandalorian4769
    @vandalorianvandalorian4769 Жыл бұрын

    She’s a Angel! Thank You, Col. for you over-watch of our boys and girls in theater.

  • @davemoore6690
    @davemoore6690 Жыл бұрын

    Great line! "My call sign is Mooch, so of course I'm gonna let you buy the first round!" Excellent interview. Thank you for bringing COL Tengesdal's story to your channel.

  • @corvanphoenix
    @corvanphoenix Жыл бұрын

    U-2 Pilots are another breed of human. Outstanding interview, thanks so much! What a human Col. Tengesdal is!

  • @Kelly-oq9nh
    @Kelly-oq9nh Жыл бұрын

    One of the best interviews I’ve seen on your channel. Makes me proud of our nation in that we have such committed individuals that secure our safety and well-being. I love learning about the different platforms and had no idea of everything involved with this airplane. we are blessed to have such people as yourself and others that are so willing to serve. Great channel… Thank you

  • @Jason-35D
    @Jason-35D Жыл бұрын

    That was awesome interview Mr. Ward. Col Tangesdal, like all of your guests, is some to aspire to be like.

  • @m.childinflorence1760
    @m.childinflorence1760 Жыл бұрын

    Important life lesson about the value of developing more tools just to expand your tool belt, even if not connected with an immediate goal. She literally said, “I didn’t know for what purpose.” Amazing interview.

  • @ericdeer5887

    @ericdeer5887

    Жыл бұрын

    That is a great mindset to have.

  • @wangchung8134
    @wangchung8134 Жыл бұрын

    Best and Brightest.....Great interview Ward.

  • @warwolf6359
    @warwolf6359 Жыл бұрын

    Great interview! I wasn’t aware of the amount of physical stress U2 pilots have to face. Her description of the difficulty to work within a pressurized suit reminded me of pictures I’ve seen of some of the Apollo astronauts hands returning from the moon. Often scarred from manipulating equipment while in a spacesuit in a vacuum. Well done!

  • @dicktiionary
    @dicktiionary Жыл бұрын

    I'm not an American, but with programs and people like this, it is why the US will always prevail.. Always so impressed by the professionalism and rigor of the US armed forces.

  • @gordjenkins9574
    @gordjenkins9574 Жыл бұрын

    Great interview! As a pilot who flies at the opposite end of the altitude spectrum, and a scuba diver, I was especially interested in the DCS discussion.

  • @paulm749
    @paulm749 Жыл бұрын

    Ward, you keeping knocking these interviews with extraordinary aviators out of the park. Well done, sir! edit: To show how topical this discussion is, I just saw a close-up photo of the Chinese spy balloon released by the DoD, and you can clearly see the silhouette of a U-2 in the shadow cast right on the balloon - so the Angels are still up there, protecting all of us!

  • @kenh7181
    @kenh7181 Жыл бұрын

    Career USAF & airline pilot. Although I had nothing to do with the U-2, I somehow ended up either being friends with, or working with, ten U-2 pilots in my career; that's a large number, considering how small the community is. What a wonderful group of Americans. I don't often watch an entire interview end-to-end, but I did this time. Merryl was such a great guest! Keep up the good work, Ward.

  • @PJNiteballer
    @PJNiteballer Жыл бұрын

    Ward Carroll=awe-inspiring guests. Great American heroes. These podcasts seemingly get better and better. Thank you for all you do.

  • @yeetsaspizzas3921
    @yeetsaspizzas3921 Жыл бұрын

    Col Tengesdal is an undeniable badass.

  • @On-Our-Radar-24News
    @On-Our-Radar-24News Жыл бұрын

    What an amazing individual and a inspiration to everyone that you can achieve your goals no matter where you come from in the socioeconomic ladder!! Thank you, Mooch for doing this one and thank you, Col. T for your service to our country!! I am definitely getting the book.

  • @user-ge6hf2xs4r
    @user-ge6hf2xs4r Жыл бұрын

    That was eye opening, well done to you both and thank you for your service!

  • @AndySpicer
    @AndySpicer Жыл бұрын

    Your greatest talent may just be your ability to connect with some of the most amazing people on the planet. She is awesome. Well done.

  • @edwinlegatie2459
    @edwinlegatie2459 Жыл бұрын

    Excellent interview. Col Tengesdal is a role model and IMO a Patriotic American. Thank you Ma'am!

  • @infectedvector
    @infectedvector Жыл бұрын

    One of the best episodes yet, Ward. It'd be great to have you interview an SR-71 driver and maybe a F-111 driver.

  • @JHillNC
    @JHillNC Жыл бұрын

    Ward, you have the most fascinating and capable guests. Thank you for giving us a tiny peek behind the curtain on the U2. Col. Tengesdal was a great guest and ambassador for the U2 community.

  • @drtomdrabczyk
    @drtomdrabczyk Жыл бұрын

    I couldn't believe it when I saw this interview, Ward. Merryl was an SH-60B pilot aboard the USS Normandy during GWBATGRU 98-1. I was the Air Defense Officer. Merryl and I were good friends during the cruise. She was amazing, and I was not surprised that she went on to great success. I couldn't be happier for her! I live in Bowie, MD, and would love to buy you lunch sometime. Your videos are fantastic!

  • @petevb
    @petevb Жыл бұрын

    As a former maintainer: “You flew my plane!” (one of those rare trainers, or on TDY or the 5th RS). Gratitude to you both for bringing this world to a wider audience. “Defending democracy” or “the tip of the spear” comes off as a sales pitch, but the impact of these efforts (and those who made them possible) is literally immeasurable. To the next generation: I hope you’re taking notes.

  • @merryltengesdal4674

    @merryltengesdal4674

    Жыл бұрын

    🙌🏿🙌🏿

  • @scottmcclure8316

    @scottmcclure8316

    Жыл бұрын

    @@merryltengesdal4674 Well done Merryl! Congrats on your retirement and the release of the book! Miss the old days at Beale…

  • @nickd2575
    @nickd2575 Жыл бұрын

    Loved hearing her story and perspective. The Colonel is bad ass!

  • @jamesallen3799
    @jamesallen3799 Жыл бұрын

    Amazing. This shows how all the services work together when it is time to work. When it is time to play, we pretend to fight with each other. We all have the greatest respect for each other. This is amazing.

  • @williamkaczmarek3996
    @williamkaczmarek3996 Жыл бұрын

    "My call sign is Mooch"! Good one sir. I wasn't aware that we were still flying U2's.

  • @hoghogwild

    @hoghogwild

    Жыл бұрын

    Since 1955.

  • @bobdubree4718
    @bobdubree4718 Жыл бұрын

    Very Awesome! Thanks to you both for you Service.

  • @michaelinsc9724
    @michaelinsc9724 Жыл бұрын

    Wow!!!!! What an absolutely amazing lady! Thank you for your service! Thanks for getting her on here, Mooch! Very impressive and moving career.

  • @jonathancarroll1283
    @jonathancarroll1283 Жыл бұрын

    Thanks for another intriguing interview. My favorite part… “First round is on me. Do you drink?” “My call sing’s Mooch.” LMAO

  • @hpodgurski9055
    @hpodgurski9055 Жыл бұрын

    Great interview. I had no idea about the physical consequences of flying the U-2. One more group of service people we owe a debt of gratitude to.

  • @cyclemike5182
    @cyclemike5182 Жыл бұрын

    A fascinating interview Mooch and what an inspiration Merryl is. Many thanks indeed.

  • @grovepeate3316
    @grovepeate3316 Жыл бұрын

    Go Bronx as a native NYer and an altitude chamber tech and having worked at Wiesbaden late 60's none of the U2 pilots we fitted for their suits or tested in the chamber were female.What an inspiration to all women.Another great interview.

  • @mikesnider8234
    @mikesnider8234 Жыл бұрын

    Our country was blessed by her service!

  • @melancholiusmonkey-mann5749
    @melancholiusmonkey-mann5749 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you Colonel Tengesdal for your service. You Ma'am are a great American!

  • @marks93cobra
    @marks93cobra Жыл бұрын

    I have a new appreciation for the difficult and challenging missions those U2 drivers endured, damn impressive if you ask me. Thanks to the Colonel for her service to this country, and thanks Mooch for doing this interview, loved it!

  • @nschlaak
    @nschlaak Жыл бұрын

    Mr. Ward Carol sir; once again, as is always the case per usual, you brought for us the audience to hear, from the absolute most interesting perspectives, the people who have served and still serve our country with honor, and who do things that only your platform allows us to hear and see about. From my bowed head in respect, Thank You.

  • @joek6661
    @joek6661 Жыл бұрын

    Loved witching this video. Bookshelf behind the Colonel looks like every pilots home office I've ever been in. I was raised on Beale and loved seeing the U2, SR, flightline, Sutter Buttes, etc. Sounds like a fantastic career - I wish we could have put her in space too.

  • @barrygrant2907
    @barrygrant2907 Жыл бұрын

    Great interview! The most impressive aircraft I ever watched was the U-2 taking off every morning at U-Tapao in '72. Takeoff roll was next to nothing, and the plane would pull its nose up and climb nearly straight up out of sight, even if slowly. Landings were just as impressive. That plane could surely float if not handled just right. The mobile at the time had a 396 El Camino. The ground crew would ride in the back when the U-2 crossed the threshold, and the El Camino would race down the runway to try to reach out to catch the wingtip so it didn't drag.

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