Interview: Mark Harmon and Leon Carroll Jr

Mark Harmon co-authors “Ghosts of Honolulu” with his longtime “NCIS” technical advisor, Leon Carroll, Jr.

Video Content: Mark Harmon and Leon Carroll, Jr. (2023)

Host Lori Rosales is joined by actor Mark Harmon, the former lead star of “NCIS,” and Leon Carroll, Jr., a former NCIS Special Agent and technical advisor for the TV show. Together, they have co-authored a book titled “Ghosts of Honolulu: A Japanese Spy, A Japanese American Spy Hunter, and the Untold Story of Pearl Harbor.” This book delves into the true-life account of Douglas Wada, the sole Japanese American agent in naval intelligence, and Takeo Yoshikawa, a Japanese spy assigned to gather intelligence on the US fleet stationed at Pearl Harbor. Within its pages, readers will uncover a tale of deception, discovery, and perilous encounters.

Mini-Biographies:

Mark Harmon, who was born in Burbank, CA, gained recognition as a former starting UCLA quarterback for two years. However, he has also made a name for himself in the entertainment industry, showcasing his talent on screen, television, and stage. With a long-standing acting career, Harmon is best known for his portrayal of Leroy Jethro Gibbs on the hit series “NCIS,” which he had the lead role for an impressive 19 seasons. In addition to this iconic role, he has graced numerous TV series with his presence, including “Sam,” “240-Robert,” “Flamingo Road,” “St. Elsewhere,” “Reasonable Doubts,” “Charlie Grace,” and “Chicago Hope.” Harmon has also taken on recurring roles in popular shows such as “Moonlighting,” “The West Wing,” and “NCIS: New Orleans.” Not limited to television, Harmon has also showcased his acting skills in various films, including “Let’s Get Harry,” “Summer School,” “The Presidio,” “Stealing Home,” “Prince of Bel Air,” “Wyatt Earp,” “Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas,” “Freaky Friday,” and “Chasing Liberty.”

Leon Carroll, Jr., a native of Chicago, Illinois, began his career in the United States Marine Corps as a commissioned officer. He devoted six years to active duty and an additional three years in the Marine Corps Reserves, ultimately attaining the rank of Major. During his military tenure, Leon fulfilled various roles, including assignments in the Fleet Marine Forces and Sea Duty aboard the USS Ogden (LPD-5). After his service in the Marine Corps, Leon embarked on a remarkable 20-year journey as a Special Agent with the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS). He was stationed in seven different locations, undertaking notable assignments such as serving as a Special Agent Afloat on the USS Ranger (CV-61) and as the Special Agent in Charge of NCIS offices in the Republic of Panama and the Pacific Northwest. Following his retirement from NCIS, Carroll, Jr. was selected to serve as the technical advisor for the immensely popular TV series, “NCIS.” He held this esteemed position for an impressive 20 seasons, lending his vast knowledge and expertise to the show’s triumph.