Colonel Trey Morriss: The Secret 35-Hour Mission That Kicked Off Desert Storm | Author of DOOM 34
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Colonel Trey Morriss, author of 'Doom 3-4', shares the gripping story of the secret 35-hour mission that launched Operation Desert Storm—the first use of GPS-guided weapons in warfare. As a young navigator turned pilot in the U.S. Air Force, Morriss recounts the intense preparation, near-disasters, and human drama of leading seven B-52 bombers on a 14,000-mile, radio-silent mission from Barksdale Air Force Base to Iraq. The mission, known as 'Senior Surprise' or 'Secret Squirrel', involved overcoming engine failure on takeoff, Soviet and Libyan radar threats, chaotic Egyptian airspace, and a near-catastrophic formation breach due to a timing error. Despite these challenges, the crew successfully launched 35 of 39 GPS-guided cruise missiles with unprecedented accuracy, marking a turning point in modern warfare. Morriss reflects on the profound shift from analog to digital combat, the importance of credibility and teamwork, and the lasting impact of his military career, including mentoring future pilots and advocating for veterans. His book, 'Doom 3-4', captures the full arc of this historic mission and the values that define true service. The episode also offers practical wisdom for aspiring military and civilian leaders: the importance of mastering your craft, building trust through competence, and telling your story with humility. Morriss emphasizes that military service isn't just about combat—it's about resilience, innovation, and leadership under pressure. He encourages young people to pursue their 'assignment' with dedication, knowing that even if they serve only a few years, they can build a powerful foundation for civilian life through education, certifications, and networking. The conversation closes with a tribute to extraordinary service members like Johnny Kim, whose life embodies the potential of disciplined, purpose-driven living.
The first use of GPS-guided weapons in combat was a 35-hour, radio-silent mission by seven B-52s during Desert Storm—setting a world record at the time.
Success in high-stakes missions depends not just on technology, but on human resilience, teamwork, and the ability to MacGyver solutions under pressure.
Even with no combat experience, young airmen executed a flawless strike by trusting training, discipline, and each other.
Military service builds transferable skills—leadership, problem-solving, and credibility—that are invaluable in civilian careers.
To succeed in any field, master your craft first, then learn how to tell your story with humility and purpose.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Opening: The Mission That Changed Warfare
“The first time a GPS-guided weapon was ever used in warfare was on this mission. That was the very first time.”
From Arkansas to the Air Force: A Legacy of Service
Morriss shares his roots in Northwest Arkansas, his family’s deep military ties, and how growing up near Walmart and Tyson Foods shaped his early life. He recounts his first flight at age 26 and the pivotal decision to pursue a pilot career despite no prior flying experience.
The Secret Squirrel Mission: Planning and Preparation
“We took off in complete radio silence. We assumed the persona of tankers instead of bombers to blend into U.S. airspace.”
The 35-Hour Journey: Near-Catastrophes and Human Error
“We almost had a midair because human error. We didn’t realize the tankers had slowed down. We were flying 25 knots too slow.”
The Pinnacle: Launching the First GPS-Guided Missiles
“One of the strong, type A personality crews decided we were late and moved out of formation. He was in the outside lane, and we were all in the fast lane.”
“The first time a GPS-guided weapon was ever used in warfare was on this mission. That was the very first time.”
“Our total fuel was at 20,000 pounds. We didn't know if we were about to flame out or had a little bit of extra margin.”
“We almost had a midair because human error. We didn’t realize the tankers had slowed down. We were flying 25 knots too slow.”
Host
Guest
B-52 Bomber
other
Colonel Trey Morriss
person
Operation Desert Storm
other
Marcus Luttrell
person
GPS-Guided Cruise Missile
other
Doom 3-4
book
Navy Federal Credit Union
organization
Johnny Kim
person
Melody
person
Mizzen and Main
organization
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