On Nov. 9, 2016, Donald Trump stunned the world when he defeated Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton to become the 45th president of the United States. The day he was sworn in is well known, but the day he truly became commander in chief is not. Secretary Ryan Zinke was there to witness the president’s transition.

Here is the exclusive story.

Former SEAL Team Six commander and current Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke is no stranger to the military. He knows the grueling, hard work and countless sacrifices that come with protecting our great nation.

He is also acutely aware of the unfortunate reality that lives are lost on and off the battlefield.

We met with Secretary Zinke to discuss his experience in the Armed Forces, but ended up learning much more.

He described to us the exact moment he realized Donald Trump had transcended the presidency to become the commander in chief.