Defend Us in Battle: An Interview with Author Rose M. Rea

·1 hr 2 min·5 clips

A Navy SEAL saw feathered wings surround him as bullets flew, and not one hit him.

The episode begins with casual banter between hosts Luke and Gomer and guest Rose M. Rea, reminiscing about their time at Franciscan University of Steubenville. After a sponsor ad for the Saintly app, the conversation shifts to Rose's books, focusing on 'Defend Us in Battle,' which details the life and death of Navy SEAL Michael Monsoor. Rose explains how she became involved with the project after her husband attended the commissioning of the USS Michael Monsoor and felt compelled to share the story. She describes the challenges of gaining the trust of Monsoor's father, George Mansoor, who initially refused for two years before agreeing. The hosts discuss key moments from the book, including a miraculous account where a fellow SEAL saw feathered wings during a firefight, attributing it to Saint Michael's protection. They highlight Monsoor's heroic act of diving on a grenade to save his teammates, which earned him the Medal of Honor posthumously. The episode delves into the themes of faith, with Monsoor's Catholic background and his regular participation in confession and Mass while deployed. Rose shares insights from her research, including interviews with other SEALs and the role of her husband, a former Navy SEAL, in ensuring accuracy. The conversation touches on the intense training of Navy SEALs, with high attrition rates and the mental fortitude required. Luke and Gomer reflect on how the story resonates with their generation, reminding them of the sacrifices made during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. They discuss the importance of remembering such heroes in contemporary culture, contrasting it with superficial concerns. Rose emphasizes the collaborative effort behind the book, involving multiple voices to paint a full picture of Monsoor's character. The episode concludes with information on where to purchase the book and audiobook, and a note on the additional materials like government citations included in the back.

As heard by us

A familiar Franciscan reunion widens into Michael's BUD/S setback and the demands of Navy SEAL formation.

Rose Rae joins the Catching Foxes hosts for a conversation that begins in familiar Franciscan territory, with memories of Austria, class years, and the ache of a missed semester, before settling into Defend Us in Battle and Michael's story.

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Why you'd press play

You get old Franciscan friends, Austria memories, Navy SEAL training, Michael's bell, and a prayer added to the show notes.

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