ESP Ep. 52 SFC Stephen Kilionski U.S. Army (Retired)

From the Field to the Frontlines: A Conversation with SFC Stephen Kilionski, U.S. Army (Retired)

In this episode, we sit down with retired U.S. Army Sergeant First Class Stephen Kilionski to explore his remarkable journey—from his early years and deep-rooted passion for Football to his dedicated military service. Stephen reflects on his two tours in Iraq as a Combat Medic, first during the Persian Gulf War in 1990 and later in 2004 during Operation Iraqi Freedom. He shares powerful insights and stories from both the playing field and the battlefield, offering a candid look at the challenges, triumphs, and life lessons that have shaped his path. 

Chapters

• 0:00 Introduction & Opening Remarks
• 5:12 Growing Up Years
• 20:35 Childhood Sweethearts
• 31:40 Football Career & Opportunities
• 52:40 Track & Field Career
• 1:01:50 Best Football Movie Ever?
• 1:11:40 Best Spots Movies
• 1:17:55 Joining the Army
• 1:23:51 Medical Field & First Deployment
• 1:36:10 A Wild Night & Persian Gulf War
• 1:45:10 Delivering a Baby in the Desert
• 1:59:12 Operation Iraqi Freedom
• 2:07:20 Sadr City
• 2:15:02 Coming Home
• 2:21:20 Painful Reality of Leaving Family
• 2:32:55 Favorite Military Movie?
• 2:46:10 The Emotions of Gettysburg
• 2:51:40 Closing Remarks