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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.
A Big Thanks to our sponsor, Harper Plus Accounting. They provide more than just basic transactions, offering expert business consultation as well. They go beyond the basics, providing comprehensive advice on saving, planning, and optimizing taxes.
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.
Recorded at the 511 Studios, in the Brewery District in downtown Columbus, OH.
Copyright 2026 Common Sense Ohio
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/
Stephen Palmer is the Managing Partner for the law firm, Palmer Legal Defense. He has specialized almost exclusively in criminal defense for over 26 years. Steve is also a partner in Criminal Defense Consultants, a firm focused wholly on helping criminal defense attorneys design winning strategies for their clients.
Norm Murdock is an automobile racing driver and owner of a high-performance and restoration car parts company. He earned undergraduate degrees in literature and journalism and graduated with a Juris Doctor from the University of Cincinnati College of Law in 1985. He worked in the IT industry for two years before launching a career in government relations in Columbus, Ohio. Norm has assisted clients in the Transportation, Education, Healthcare, and Public Infrastructure sectors.
Brett Johnson, My Podcast Guy®, is an award-winning podcast consultant and small business owner for nearly 10 years, leaving a long career in radio. He is passionate about helping small businesses tell their story through podcasts, and he believes podcasting is a great opportunity for different voices to speak and be heard.