On this episode of Shoot Me Straight, Eddie Gallagher and Dave sit down with retired Marine and former law enforcement officer Sean Kirby for a conversation about the Marine Corps, military brotherhood, combat, fallen officers, and the importance of remembering those who gave their lives in service to others.

Sean shares how growing up in Pensacola, Florida, watching action movies, and hearing stories from friends who served in the military inspired him to pursue a career in the Marine Corps. What started as a decision to join alongside a friend turned into a career spanning more than two decades, taking him from the infantry to marksmanship instruction, and deployments overseas.

As Eddie and Sean revisit their early years in the military, they discover that they served in the same Marine Corps battalion and even shared a deployment more than 25 years ago. Together, they reflect on the culture of the Marine Corps during that time, the demanding standards they experienced, and the brotherhood that shaped their lives long after leaving the service.Sean also shares how the September 11 attacks changed the direction of his career.

After initially leaving the Marine Corps with plans to pursue a career with the U.S. Marshals Service, he made the decision to reenlist rather than remain on the sidelines while his former brothers prepared for war.The conversation explores the differences between the Marine Corps they experienced and the military of today, including changes in training, leadership, discipline, and the warrior mentality that initially inspired them to serve.

Sean also opens up about his experiences in Iraq, including his time in Fallujah and the Marines he served alongside during combat operations. He and Eddie share stories about the men who influenced their careers, the realities of operating in dangerous environments, and the friendships that remain long after their time in uniform.

After retiring from the Marine Corps, Sean found himself struggling to find the same sense of purpose he had experienced throughout his military career.That changed when he became involved with the End of Watch Memorial Ruck, an organization dedicated to honoring fallen law enforcement officers and ensuring their sacrifices are never forgotten.

Sean explains how the annual event brings together veterans, law enforcement officers, families, and community members for a grueling 42-hour ruck march. Participants walk one mile every 30 minutes, carrying weighted packs and individual memorial weights representing officers who lost their lives. Along the way, their names and stories are shared, reminding everyone that behind every badge was a person, a family, and a life that mattered.

The conversation takes an emotional turn as Sean shares stories of fallen officers and the families who continue showing up year after year to honor their loved ones. He explains why remembering these individuals means more than simply recognizing their service and how the End of Watch Memorial Ruck has given him a renewed sense of purpose after leaving the military.Together, Eddie, Dave, and Sean discuss Marine Corps culture, combat deployments, military brotherhood, law enforcement, fallen officers, life after military service, leadership, sacrifice, and the importance of finding something bigger than yourself to serve.

This episode is a reminder that service doesn't end when you take off the uniform—and that the men and women who gave everything deserve to have their stories told long after they're gone.

End of Watch Memorial RuckOctober 9–11, 2026 | Santa Rosa County Fairgrounds

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