Abbey Gate Tragedy Four Years Later

Steve and Norm sit down with Master Sergeant Stephen Walter (retired), a Columbus native, Marine Corps Reserve veteran, and local historian. Together, they discuss the tragic events of Abbey Gate at Kabul Airport on August 26, 2021—the day a suicide bomber took the lives of 13 U.S. service members and wounded many more, including Ohio's own Corporal Kelsey Lainhart.

This episode is a sobering reminder of the realities faced by our armed forces—and the price still paid by many, years after the headlines have faded. We reflect, honor, and discuss what’s changed (and what still needs to change) since Abbey Gate, and find out how you can support those still living with its aftermath.

Moments

00:00 Seriousness vs. Culture Disconnect

06:50 "Chaos From Avoidable Decisions"

14:47 Diplomatic Tensions and Tragic Losses

17:50 Abbey Gate Blast Chaos

23:09 "Soldier Perspectives in Battle History"

32:02 Marine Tragedy: Personal Reflections

37:17 Ford Halts EV Transition for Trucks

42:56 Politicized Reaction to Assault Incident

43:54 Community Policing Decline Discussed

50:10 Ohio National Guard Deployment to D.C.

54:23 Trump's Flag-Burning Order Debate

01:02:48 DC Crime Drops, Critique of Trump

01:05:56 Criticism of Trump's Federal Overreach

Here are three key takeaways from the episode:

Leadership Decisions Have Lasting Consequences: The decision to reduce evacuation gates from three to one, and the manner of the U.S. withdrawal, created tragic vulnerabilities that led to overwhelming chaos and loss.

Human Impact Is Ongoing: We heard the harrowing, personal account of Corporal Kelsey Lainhart’s experience—wounded at just 19, now facing ongoing medical and accessibility costs. Even with VA benefits, the financial and emotional burden on veterans and families is immense.

Donate to Kelsey's recovery here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/Kelsee-Lainhart-Fund

The Importance of Remembering and Learning: Master Sergeant Walter’s historical perspective reminds us that observing anniversaries like Abbey Gate isn’t just about honoring the fallen. It’s about learning from our mistakes, holding leaders accountable, and working to prevent similar tragedies.

www.commonsenseohioshow.com
www.facebook.com/commonsenseohio/
www.rumble.com/user/CommonSenseOhioShow
www.youtube.com/@CommonSenseOhioShow
https://x.com/Common_Sense_OH
www.brighteon.com/channels/commonsenseohio

Harper & Co CPA Plus - www.harpercpaplus.com
CPAs and accountants providing accounting, tax, and business advisory services. You deserve a trusted CPA firm partner who has helped hundreds of businesses go from paying the bills to building the business and lifestyle of their dreams.