How Did a Hells Angels Leader Work for the DoD?

TL;DR

George Christie, former Hells Angels leader, simultaneously held a top security clearance with the Department of Defense. Despite being given an ultimatum to choose between his government role and the Hells Angels, he chose the latter. His military background influenced his leadership style within the outlaw motorcycle club.

Transcript

Did you live in Glendo yourself or on and off? I did. I had apartment down there. Yeah. I still had a a wife and a kid and I worked a lot of people don't know this. I worked for the Department of Defense. While you're part of Hell's Angels. While I'm the leader in the Hell's Angels, I had a top security clearance. I uh worked at Point Magoo and Por... Read More

Key Insights

• George Christie held a top security clearance while leading the Hells Angels.
• He worked at Point Magoo and Port Wayne, maintaining a secret submarine surveillance system.
• Christie was given an ultimatum to leave the Hells Angels or lose his security clearance.
• His military experience as a Marine influenced his leadership in the Hells Angels.
• Christie was recruited into the Hells Angels by Old Man John in the mid-1970s.
• He was perceived as a strategic leader within the Hells Angels, similar to historical mob figures.
• Christie lived a modest lifestyle despite his powerful position within the Hells Angels.
• A book by Julian Shear, which included interviews with Christie, contributed to a fallout with fellow leader Sunny Barger.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did George Christie manage to work for the DoD while leading the Hells Angels?

George Christie held a top security clearance and worked at the Pacific Missile Test Center during his leadership of the Hells Angels. His dual roles were possible because he maintained his responsibilities at the DoD while applying his military experience to his leadership in the Hells Angels. However, he eventually faced an ultimatum to choose between the two.

Q: Why did George Christie choose the Hells Angels over his DoD career?

George Christie chose to stay with the Hells Angels when faced with an ultimatum from the Department of Defense. He identified as an outlaw and valued his position and influence within the motorcycle club over his government career. His decision was influenced by his commitment to the club and its lifestyle.

Q: What role did George Christie's military background play in his leadership of the Hells Angels?

George Christie's military background as a Marine played a significant role in his leadership of the Hells Angels. His discipline and tactical training helped him rise to a position of power within the club. His strategic thinking and ability to lead a group of undisciplined individuals were key factors in his success as a leader.

Q: How was George Christie recruited into the Hells Angels?

George Christie was recruited into the Hells Angels by Old Man John in the mid-1970s. He was introduced to the club by members of the Saint Slaves and the Question Marks. Old Man John recognized Christie's discipline and potential, which led to his invitation to join the Glendale Clubhouse and eventually rise in the ranks.

Q: What impact did Julian Shear's book have on George Christie's relationship with Sunny Barger?

Julian Shear's book, which included interviews with George Christie, contributed to a fallout between Christie and Sunny Barger. The book's portrayal and the attention it brought to the internal dynamics of the Hells Angels caused tensions. Christie and Barger had different visions for the club, and the book highlighted these differences, leading to a strain in their relationship.

Q: How did George Christie perceive his comparison to historical mob figures?

George Christie was compared to historical mob figures like Myer Lansky due to his strategic and intellectual approach to leadership. He took these comparisons as compliments, acknowledging his role as a strategic thinker within the Hells Angels. His ability to navigate the complexities of outlaw life drew parallels to the calculated nature of mob leadership.

Q: What was George Christie's lifestyle like during his time with the Hells Angels?

Despite his powerful position within the Hells Angels, George Christie lived a modest lifestyle. He resided in a family home that had been owned for generations, avoiding the lavish lifestyle often associated with significant power. His home was described as a unique, museum-like space, reflecting his personal history and values.

Q: What was the significance of Anthony Tony Tate in the Hells Angels' history?

Anthony Tony Tate was an FBI informant who infiltrated the Hells Angels, posing as a member for several years. His presence led to significant legal troubles for the club, including the conviction of Sunny Barger. Tate's infiltration was a major tactical error for the Hells Angels, as he was introduced as a promising leader, only to be revealed as an undercover operative.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• George Christie, a former leader of the Hells Angels, managed to work for the Department of Defense while holding a top security clearance. Despite an ultimatum to choose between his government role and the motorcycle club, he chose to remain with the Hells Angels, leveraging his military background to rise in power.

• Christie's recruitment into the Hells Angels was influenced by his discipline and strategic mindset, traits that were recognized by Old Man John. His leadership style was shaped by his Marine Corps experience, making him a respected figure within the club.

• The book 'Hell's Angels Angels of Death' by Julian Shear featured interviews with Christie and contributed to tensions with Sunny Barger, another prominent Hells Angels leader. Despite the power struggles and challenges, Christie maintained a modest lifestyle, living in a family home that had been owned for generations.