Helo's to Hornets to Headlines with "Chopper" (ep. 169)
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- Опубліковано 26 січ 2025
- Retired #usnavy Captain Brett "Chopper" Crozier describes his career from flying SH-60B Seahawks to returning to flight school to learn the F/A-18 Hornet to nuclear power school and eventually command of the USS Theodore Roosevelt, including his very public firing at the beginning of COVID.
Order Chopper's book, 'Surf When You Can,' on Amazon here: amzn.to/3CieUuf
4:19 Early Career
12:20 Rotary to Jets
18:21 1st Trap
23:45 Still Learning
37:46 Nuclear Training
48:50 Japan
54:30 Captain of the Ship
59:58 Managing the Team
1:03:00 COVID 2020
1:20:30 It was MY CALL
1:25:04 Ruffling Feathers
1:38:38 Reinstated?
1:43:50 Patreon Questions
2:07:41 Flying together
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That’s my Captain. A class act. Never dissed anybody. Cares about his sailors. Truly a man of honor.
Capt Crozier saved my husband & his crew. Your loyalty to your crew lives on & we are forever grateful for the bravery you showed in standing up for what was right. Thank you so much!
You've had a lot of really impressive guests...but Captain Crozier is by far the most impressive of them all. Though all COs claim to, he truly viewed his crew as people and not commodities and put them above his own career concerns. Fantastic interview. Thanks for posting.
You’re welcome. Thanks for the kind feedback.
My husband was on the USS Theodore Roosevelt while they were deployed during the pandemic! The entire crew had so much respect for Captain Crozier and losing him the way they did was such a blow to the morale onboard. My husband is completing his bachelor’s degree now and is working on a paper for his leadership class. The subject of the paper is the importance of leading with empathy, and a significant portion of his writing in that essay is about Captain Crozier.
I served with both of you gents in VFA-94 and VFA-125 as your Senior Maintenance Controller. Glad to see you guys are doing well! Thanks for sharing ✌️😎🇺🇸. If Captain Crozier called me today and asked me to be somewhere tonight - I'm there!
Chopper exemplifies leadership and humility. His care for the 5K navy folks never waned. No one in the USN will ever criticize his efforts, except for the politicians. He will stand as a testament for doing the right thing.
Captain Crozier is the very epitome of American Leadership, Character and Honor. He’s an American Hero in every sense of the word.
Even from this interview, I get the sense of a confident yet humble and caring man. His reputation is well earned as an inspiring leader and he proved himself when it mattered most.
I got out of the military just as covid started. As soon as i heard about his story i immediately had respect. This is the type of guy the military needs in charge of troops. Someone who cares about them and their wellbeing. I hope more guys like this can find their way to the higher ranks.
You had respect because he was terrified of COVID? Are you sure?
@@LFOD1776 Not terrified of anything but his troops suffering on a ship in the middle of the ocean for months on end while covid circulates throughout the already uncleanly, barely liveable ship he was in charge of. I've lived on an aircraft carrier. It's not fun. The entire ship being sick all at the same time? I couldn't imagine. It's not like they can just stop working either. Alot of their jobs are mandatory for the ships operation.
@@LFOD1776 If thats what you took from his position I am glad you never filled a Commanding role in the Military.
@@siegodanchez6487 You wouldn't do well is sustained ground operations if you can't imagine everyone sick with something at the same time.
@@LFOD1776 Its different at sea. Being sick is one thing. Being sick at sea on a 9 month deployment is something else. Imagine going to take a shower after a 16 hour shift 6 months deep into deployment and you walk into the birthing to find the whole place flooded with shit water. Literal turds floating around the living area. Now imagine that but with covid.
My Dad was a career guy. 7 in the Navy starting in WWII, then 23 in the Air Force. I was appointed to Canoe U. and Disneyland East. Sat down with my Dad and he was clear, Go Navy young man. This was before Top Gun (movie). I fully support Capt. Crozier in what he did and how he did it. He put his crew before himself. I went to school with Modly, his actions didn't surprise me at all. I'll leave it at that.
Capt. Crozier performed my reenlistment in VFA-94 back in '04 or so. I transferred to shore duty before they went UDP. He also gave me the opportunity to test out the f-18 simulator in Lemoore during my emergency procedures training. Just an awesome Naval Officer all around. Glad to hear he's still there for the military in the form of helping veterans.
From an old Navy helicopter pilot - his description of day 1 trying to hover is right on
😅
What an amazing human being Krozier is. I've always been in awe of the degree of training and personality qualities a carrier captain has to have, but he stands out among the giants. The handling of his command post the email sending really was a benchmark for bizarre events during the pandemic, and despite it all, he handles the whole thing with a high degree of dignity, humility and professionalism. Outstanding interview!
This is an outstanding leader/hero that conducted his duty as a commanding officer, which is ensure the health and safety of his crew even at the detriment of his career. Outstanding job Capt Crozier!
There’s no wonder why his crew gave him such a huge sendoff after he was relieved and was leaving his ship. God bless you, Brett Crozier, for doing the right thing, even knowing it could well cost you your career.
This podcast is a national treasure. I’m a Canadian and I can’t get enough of US Navy stories. You guys are class acts, and what an opportunity to serve on a Navy as great as yours. God Bless.
Wow. Had no idea that Captain Crozier was working with VVSD. As a former patient / student at VVSD and then a graduate of the Aspire Center in S.D., thank you, Captain Crozier for giving your time and leadership to this critically needed organization, Veterans Village of San Diego!!
Thank you so much for this interview. I found the videos of his crew sending him off so moving at the time it happened. I wanted to know more of Capt Crozier’s side of the story. Turns out to be a real lesson in leadership that I really try to keep in mind as a senior leader in my organization. I was hoping Mooch would give us the story but I’m glad it was Jello who got the scoop. Thanks again!
You can be given gold braid and all kinds of decorations, but integrity is everything And you either have it or you don't. Much respect for Captain Crozier.
Skipper, it was a honor serving with and under you as Mighty Shrikes. By far, my favorite tour in my 20 year Navy career, I have many great memories! Thank you for your leadership and wisdom and
I’m enjoying the book! Jello, thanks for the interview and content!
Few in or out of the military have the courage of a Captain Crosier! Great Hero!
This was the episode I was looking forward to. You have to respect a leader that makes a decision he knows could likely end his career or stop any advancement, because it's the right thing to do for those he's responsible for.
Just discovered this wonderful podcast last night. As long as we can produce men like the good Captain we'll be fine. Thank you for your service Captain Crozier. God bless! PS I am Canadian and I want to join the US Navy now.
Class act "Chopper." Like you said, "Watch out for your sailors."
A hero! Thanks for having Capt. Crozier on. A man of integrity. This was an awesome non-air combat related episode.
Well, much air combat originates from the decks of aircraft carriers.
@@FighterPilotPodcastIndeed!
Outstanding! As a retired Chief, I enjoyed his comment about the advice the Chief he "worked for" gave him as a JO. I used to tell the JOs that "worked for me" that same thing, some listened, some didn't.
Everyone is different.
Man flies helicopters, doesn’t make headlines. Man flies fighter jets, still doesn’t make headlines. Man sends one email and is immediately front page news. What a strange world we live in!
I believe this is best pobçast for pilots. I like yours best. Also, I asked you about mig31.adverside cruise speed and you answer me about 1.5 hrs. Thank you. Most would put my back burner but you gave me an answer fast
Thank you my friend, I wish you all the best, your friend, Greg Hames
Ps. Your guest is great. I wish had done what he has done! Nothing but the best, I've got to more of this podcast!
Greg Hames
A man's gotta do what a man's gotta do
Chopper would make a great Captain America. What a great guest and interview. He did it right! Thank you both for your service.
Wow - the Capt was VERY gracious and kind when talking about the Acting Navy Sec'y and his antics...... very classy Capt Crozier !
This man would make it excellent secretary defense or secretary of the navy
What a great interview. When my daughter graduated from the Air Force Academy I told her the same thing. Take care of your people. She still lives by that advice.
CPO USN (Retired)
Not a subscriber but UA-cam recommended this to me… and wow so glad it did. I never got into military aviation but had dreams of it as a kid. Ended up in civilian aviation instead which I enjoy. I really respect men like Chopper. He seems like the kind of man young men and boys should aspire to be.
I can certainly see that Captain Crozier is still walking the line with the Navy narrative. 30 years he has been trained well. Even though he was hurt, he is a professional, and he will not disrespect that crazy Acting Secretary of the Navy, (who shall not be named to honor the legacy of Captain Crozier in this case.)
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I do observe that the captain has lost weight and still carries the stress in his facial features. He is going to need more time to heal fully, which he will. Captain Crozier I honor you. 🫡
The great thing about being on top is that everyone around you is also at the top of their game. No one is trying to take your spot. You are highly trained and extremely experienced. Everyone knows your name and respects your rank. It's truly rarified air and great to be in!
Capt. Crozier was my captain for the last two months of his command on TDR. I was still a blue shirt brand new by then. He deeply cared about his sailors and crew, and not just about numbers or anything else.
Great interview Jello! Wonderful stories that are applicable to military and business leadership, not to mention some good sea stories. Love the long format as well. Thank you to both Chopper and you!
I'm a vaxx retired aviator. It's wild how Chopper acts in the best interest of the sailors under his command, and arguably one could say that he was duty bound to act the way he did, and yet this happens. Perhaps inaction was the SOP until the bureaucrats in uniforms wearing rank insignia had a scapegoat? He did the right thing. He knows it, they know it, everyone knows it.
Guys a Hero…Can’t wait to hear the whole story
I was a C-130 maintainer in the Navy. These podcasts are fascinating. Go Navy!
Thanks!
I was on the ship when everything happened. That was a deployment for the books.
So it seems.
Great leader and a great human being. If you can, inspire your kids to be a Captain Crozier.
By far the best podcast yet bud.. they’re all great but my god the Captain just blew my mind. I hope he reads some of these comments. I was in the Nav 93-97 based in Oklahoma of all places.. but I’d sail to the gates of hell with this man!!!
This is pretty silly, but when I play DCS the Teddy Roosevelt is my favorite carrier to play with. From now on I'll be pretending Captain Crozier is in command. It'll add some extra fun to the experience. ;)
There you go. 👍
Seriously one of your best interviews yet. Really enjoyed this discussion. A true leader.
Fantastic content. Thanks much from a former Army Armor E-5 Sgt. Also thanks for promoting The VA. Best safety net ever for veterans.
Amazing. Surprised this is not getting more attention.Hope the algorithm improves for this because it`s deserving.
I have so much respect for this man. He was a real Skipper.
Epic interview. This is what real leadership looks like. “Chopper” seems like a very humble/regular guy just trying to do the right thing for his people. It’s a guy like that I’d want for a commander 🫡🇺🇸
From someone who’s currently in the nrotc program, I look up to him tremendously. Great interview, thank you!
Great interview. I’ve been looking forward to this since the 13 minute teaser you released a few days ago.
Great episode! Thank you Jello & Capt Crozier for your service!
On behalf of us both--you're welcome!
Thank you Captain Crozier for your contributions and decisions in doing the best for your crew!!!
Not of military background but the more I read the more admiration I had for Captain Crozier. Even better that he's charismatic and great to listen to. Secnav's ego might have pushed him off the ship, but it couldn't silence the truth!
Good to see him back.
Really impressed by this down to earth, humble and obviously very sharp man! Your legacy is a great one!
Thank you both for sharing. So much good to take away from your talk.
Teamwork makes the world better, and in a world where individual is so heavily exploited, it is good to see someone advocate for the group effort.
Sounds like MR. Crozier is a people person all the way. Welcome to the club, if it takes one at the time, well so be it. :)
Thank you again.
Super pro on all the potential touchy topics.
A man who put his men and women first rather than his career. A true hero.
enjoyable interview with a class act
Jello, this is exactly why people love you, your show and trust you when you speak. Thanks.
Well thank you, Gene.
Thank gentlemen for your service. Amazing story. Chopper and Jello are unwitting US heroes. Thank you again.
When i say this was the best spirit ive ever served under 💪🏿 Crozier was different different i wish you best
Thanks for sharing your experience, and I gained great insights from Captain Brett Chopper.
Great interview of a hugely accomplished naval officer.
Thank you for having him on!❤
Trust me, it was my pleasure!
Captain Crozier tested positive for COVID just before leaving the boat - in Rockstar, Order of the Sword fashion I might add - but what would have happened if the senior officers (CO, XO, CAG, etc.) all needed to be quarantined? I wonder how that would have impacted decisions of the CNO and SecNav and how much more weight his message would have carried then.
Jell-O, please let Captain Cozier know how much we enjoyed his episode and listening to his inspiring US Navy career.
Indeed, looking back I imagine the other senior officers (CO, XO, CAG, etc) wish they'd stood in "that Gap" with honorable Crozier over their careers as well, could of, should have, might very well would have put a now politicized Trump early on with covid taking over his presidency putting a stop to what Trump ran on - back on track - looking back now... Trump lost his head / defaulting to being knee-jerk like the rest of the world, not Capt Crozier: never lost his head/becoming knee jerk, rather followed the science/common sense... indeed, I agree with your "what if" question...
Glad I could see the premier of this at a reasonable time here in NZ, really love your podcast Jelly-O, I would love to see you interview my friend who flew F15s and as hobby builds amazing scale models. Mad respect to this legend.
Outstanding episode Jell-O. Great to see the character of Cpt Crozier on display seeing where he ended up after his service. Any future episodes that also take a look at policy and operational realities would be great to see.
Good on Chopper, damn few commanders have the class and integrity that this CO has exhibited. Even us grunts can recognize an exceptional CO. Go Army, Beat Navy!
You had me til the end there.
An amazing and very interesting interview. One of your best to date!
Was lucky enough to cross paths with both of these fine gentlemen when I checked into the Warhawks of VFA-97, my first operational squadron. Great times!
Edit: I completely forgot about Chopper Rovenholt (spelling). Another solid dude!
Impressive, sir. Thank you for your service and duty to your sailors and command.
Outstanding …….Great interview!
Thanks, Eric. Wish I was more eloquent but I'm always my own biggest critic.
Veteran of VA-56 USS Midway, VA-147 USS Constellation, VA-94 USS Enterprise..
I was always under admired and outstanding leadership. The United States Navy's process for promotion is untouched. Would have been honored to have served under
"Chopper"
🇺🇸
Navy officers very special thank you. Lucky to say I once served on a carrier Flight Deck , nothing in the world like it
Best interview. guest yet ! Thanks to both of you !
Seems to be a great skipper who care about his sailors… I wish him well.
Senior Chief, Retired.
Jello, I enjoy all your content, but this one is going to be compelling.
Let me know after how you like it. 👍
Chopper thanks for your service and job well done. Go Navy
An amazing episode. Learnt so much.
Thank you 10x10^6 😮 What a legend! Loved watching this episode thank you!
Jello, could you explain: “Flyby Change of Command”? (55:39)
That is where the outgoing and incoming commanding officers each pilot an aircraft by a crowd on the ground and the outgoing says, in effect, “I had it. You got it” and pitches out and lands. Then the new commander lands.
It is more casual and more fun than other ceremonies .
With all the training you've done and all of the things you achieved, I swear you should be at least 120 years old! Impressive...;-)
Such a professional and a fantastic leader.
Thanks. My guest wasn't bad either, huh?! 😜
@@FighterPilotPodcast 😂😂
"Take care of your sailors, take care of your sailors, take care of your sailors" This guys media reputation seems decently accurate.
Served with you on the Crommelin. Class guy
Character. Values. Hard decisions are easy to live with when based on conviction. BZ!
Through comment section I found out that he is the guy! You don’t see very many leaders in the military these days.
It wasn't clear from his description of the sending of the wider audience email about his expectation of public dissemination. By that I mean, did he try to minimize dissemination outside of Navy, was it just a possible secondary possibility of necessary communication to those superiors, or was going outside of Navy even if not explicitly a helpful occurence to get the results he was seeking through increasing attention about the situation.
It didn't seem clear to me, which of those 3 thoughts were in Cap. Crozier mind at the time.
Jello, this has been one of your best episodes, easily top 5
Thanks, Chris.
Do you have a P-8 Pilot Podcast? As I’m flying the 737 I would LOVE to hear from those Guys!!!
ua-cam.com/video/xWuRW7KUZhM/v-deo.html&ab_channel=FighterPilotPodcast
Excellent interview; covered a lot of topics. The description to become a nuke carrier CO was very interesting. I have a question that I hope you can answer. Are CQ pilots trained to untether the ejection seat parachute after ejecting from a failed catapult launch? I served on the Kitty Hawk as ship's company in the late 1970s and a dead cat launch of an A6 occurred, the seasoned pilots (a Cmd. and Lt. Cmd.) ejected just as the aircraft cleared the bow and began to drop. The pilots did not disconnect from the chutes after landing in the water, they were both waving signaling they were ok, then the wake turbulence dragged the chutes down and both pilots perished. It was a tragic loss.
Yes, not only are we trained to do just that but the parachute attachment fittings are designed to automatically disconnect when immersed in seawater
@@FighterPilotPodcast Thank you for responding. Interesting that an automatic disconnect was available. I am very certain this feature was either not available at the time, or it failed for both pilots, because I spoke with the SAR diver who reached one of the pilots after the wake pulled the pilot under. The diver used his knife to cut the chute cords and brought the pilot to the surface. However, the pilot did not survive despite every effort, including open heart massage, to save him. The other pilot's body was never recovered even after stopping the ship and divers searching the salt water intake ducts, rudders, and screws. This incident occurred in late December 1979 in the Indian Ocean during the deployment of the Kitty Hawk in response to the U.S. Embassy personnel in Iran being held as hostages. Again, thank you for responding. I will share your response with a few shipmates who served with me at that time. Until now, we all speculated about the protocol for ejections after a cold cat launch.
@@Chriskranenberg you’re welcome.
rip little chopper
🐠
@@FighterPilotPodcast
🫡
Captain, the Chief was right…”Take care of your people” and the rest will work itself out. You did what you felt was right to take care of your people, and the Navy, My Navy, punished you for that, that’s a raw deal no matter how you shake it. I am embarrassed that My Navy would eve think that way. My hat is off to you Sir, Well Done, BZ! Senior Chief, USN (Retired) 1970-1993.
Captain Crozier, your one of the few persons to Fly Both of Navy Aircraft Built in the 1980's because of politics . The Flying Carp (SH-60B) and the Lawn Dart (F-18), they were never the best design and the Navy could have done much better, But they did keep Sikorsky and Mac Air from going under. Check that History
Great man, legend..
As someone that grew up in the area, I feel bad that Captain Crozier had to experience Millington,
The military needs more Capt Croziers. Leaders more concerned about their troops than career progression.
Really interesting path that he took through the Navy. Do all carrier captains CQ, before taking command? I didn’t realize that they still fly. Do they fly often?
True leader!👏👏👏
i dont know how much the US navy pays its men, or what is his financial situation getting fired this way.
But did he get to keep his pension, bonus etc?... if US navy has any such things to start with.
Yes. Captain Crozier retired earlier after 30 years of service and enjoys a rewarding pension.