John Chapman didn’t become a hero the day he died — he lived like one every day before that.

In Part 1 of our interview with Lori Chapman Longfritz, we trace John’s journey from a soft-spoken, fiercely loyal kid to one of the most lethal and respected warriors in the U.S. military. We talk about his early life, the moment he nearly washed out of CCT training, and how he clawed his way into the 24th STS before being deployed to Afghanistan after 9/11.

His final mission would push the limits of human endurance. After being shot and left for dead, John regained consciousness — and chose to stand and fight. He took out multiple enemies, engaged in hand-to-hand combat, and defended the incoming QRF team until his last breath.

🎧 Part 2 begins with the KIA notification and the family’s fight to bring the truth to light — a battle that still isn’t over.
📲 Listen, follow, and read the blog at beyondthedispatch.com

This is Part 2 of Mike’s story. If you haven’t listened to Part 1, start there — it’s one of the most powerful interviews we’ve ever released.

Mike’s journey continues as he returns home from war and trades one uniform for another — stepping into the world of law enforcement alongside his twin brother. But the battle didn’t end overseas. In this episode, Mike opens up about FTO trauma, burnout, panic attacks, and the mental toll of life behind the badge.

From SWAT team camaraderie to therapy breakthroughs, this is a brutally honest look at the cost of service — and the road to healing.

🎧 Follow, rate, and share if this story moved you.
📲 Find more at beyondthedispatch.com or on all social platforms.

Episode 15: From Abandonment to Afghanistan – Mike’s Story (Part 1)
Mike’s journey begins in China, where he and his twin brother were abandoned at age 4 when their mother emigrated to the U.S. Reunited years later, they came to America at 11 and would go on to serve together in the Marine Corps during the deadliest year in Afghanistan.

In Part 1 of this powerful two-part episode, Mike shares the raw truth about loss, brotherhood, and war—from the frontlines of Helmand Province to moments of dark humor that helped them survive. After leaving the Marines, both brothers planned to return as officers... but life had other plans.

Next week: Part 2 – Their life on the force, and the war that followed them home.

Follow, share, and leave a review if Mike’s story moves you.