The Kagan Dunlap Show #40 - Sergeant Major Mike R. Vining - The Most Legendary Delta Force EOD Operator In History
Jan 30, 2026
Sergeant Major Mike R. Vining, retired U.S. Army legend and Delta Force’s first EOD technician, shares vivid war stories and career-defining moments. He recalls Vietnam cache destructions, joining and shaping Delta Force, the Desert One disaster, and intense combat in Grenada. He also discusses major investigations, special operations evolution, and life after a storied military career.
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Buying Dynamite At The Hardware Store
- As a civilian in Michigan Vining legally bought dynamite after getting a permit and used it for blasting stumps and making ponds.
- He described storing nitroglycerin-based dynamite at home and using ammonium nitrate with dynamite as a main charge for demolition.
Original Delta Operator Training
- Vining volunteered for the original 1st SFOD-Delta and entered the first Operator Training Course (OTC1).
- Of five EOD NCOs starting OTC1, only he and Dennis Wolfe finished the course.
Selection Focuses On Load, Navigation, Pace
- Delta selection emphasized land navigation, load discipline and relentless pace with strict pack-weight standards and a 40-mile final ruck.
- Vining completed the 40-miler with a 58 lb pack in 15 hours and used breathing and caramels to regulate pace and energy.
