John E. Hudson is a remarkable individual who dedicated over 35 years of his life to serving the United States. His career spanned six U.S. Presidents and included numerous senior leadership roles. Hudson was a Commanding Officer of two Reserve Units and led a team of over 400 personnel supporting military efforts in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria.
Hudson began his military journey in 1981 when he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force as an Airborne Cryptologic Linguist. He served on active duty for five and a half years, followed by another six and a half years in the Air Force Reserves before separating in 1993. In 1994, he was commissioned as an Ensign in the U.S. Navy Reserves as a Cryptologic Officer, now known as an Information Warfare Officer. Throughout his career, Hudson held a Top Secret Security Clearance and received numerous awards, including the Defense Meritorious Service Award, multiple Navy Commendation Awards and Navy Achievement Awards, multiple Combat Air Medals, and Expert Marksmanship Awards.
“Afghanistan – A Year in Pictures, Missions, & News with the Special Operations Command”
John E. Hudson’s book, “Afghanistan – A Year in Pictures, Missions, & News with the Special Operations Command,” is a collection of stories- an experience that takes readers into the heart of the war in Afghanistan through the eyes of a special operator who lived it. The book pays tribute to the brave and professional Special Operations Command, and highlights some of the most critical and challenging operations of the conflict.
The book showcases with pictures some stunning landscapes, cultures, and people of Afghanistan. It reflects on the commitment of those who served in the Special Operations Command.
During his year in Afghanistan, Hudson helped establish security at various levels, from village to provincial. He also played a role in providing essential resources such as wells, clinics, and schools. In his own words, Hudson describes his book as focusing on “The year I spent in Afghanistan active duty in the United States Navy from 2011 to 2012. It focuses on the mission that the Special Operations Command did – supporting and establishing Afghan Local Police throughout the country. Incredible pictures throughout the country.”
Conclusion
John E. Hudson’s extensive military career and his firsthand experiences make “Afghanistan – A Year in Pictures, Missions, & News with the Special Operations Command” a compelling read that offers a new perspective on the war in Afghanistan, and dedication of the Special Operations Command. For anyone interested in military history or the story of Afghanistan, Hudson’s book is a must-read and available on Amazon.