Michael Jones

Michael “Mike” Jones - Airforce Special Warfare Veteran - Combat Survival Instructor - Online Personality

Michael is a retired U.S. Air Force Special Warfare veteran, former Combat Survival Instructor, and the charismatic force behind the hugely popular YouTube channel Garand Thumb. With nearly a decade of elite military experience and a degree in biology and immunology, Jones is a rare blend of warrior, scientist, and storyteller. Michael is inherently curious, and has always wanted to probe into topics he found interesting. Many of the topics are military, survival, tactical and physics related. His online presence sees Michael carrying out experiments on topics and questions he finds interesting- often including a gun, a weapon, or something exploding. 

In the Air Force, Mike served as a Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) specialist (AFSC 1Z3X1), working alongside conventional forces, Special Operations units, and Tier 1 teams. Embedded with frontline Army and Marine units, he was entrusted with the critical task of coordinating airstrikes, artillery, and naval fire support in combat zones, decisions that could change the outcome of entire battles. Known for his calm under pressure and technical mastery, Mike underwent some of the most grueling physical, mental, and technical training in the U.S. military. His expertise in battlefield communication, air-ground coordination, and survival ensured mission success in the harshest environments.

As a Combat Survival Instructor, Mike also trained others in enduring extreme conditions, further honing his skills in resilience, leadership, and self-reliance. Since retiring from active duty, Mike remains committed to service, mentoring future leaders, sharing survival knowledge, and keeping his audience informed, prepared, and laughing. Part warrior, part scientist, and always ready to push the limits, Michael Jones is a true American original.