Veterans Radio (Veterans Radio America)

We’ll also learn about the Veterans Bridge Home buddy program:

Host Dale Throneberry talks with Nicole French, Clinical Director for Veterans Bridge Home (VBH). VBH is a non-profit organization that connects veterans and their families, in any state of transition, to the community, and has a unique program that pairs veterans receiving services through them with a “buddy.” The buddies are veterans who have received basic mental health training that can be there for their friends and are equipped to know the difference between a bad day and a situation that requires more professional help.

GET ANSWERS FROM OUR EXPERT PANEL!

• Dale Throneberry – Founder and Host of Veterans Radio
• Brig. Gen. Carol Ann Fausone (ret) – Legal Help for Veterans
• David Saims – Director, Washtenaw County Veterans Affairs

(Previously Aired on 3/23/2021) We talk to James Carl Nelson, author of "The York Patrol - The Real Story of Alvin York and the Unsung Heroes Who Made Him World War I's Most Famous Soldier."

York grew up in the backwoods of Tennessee. After being a hell-raiser in his teens, he found his way to a fundamentalist Christian church. When drafted in World War I, he struggled to take arms with the commandment "Thou Shall Not Kill." He did his duty and found himself in a bloody offensive in the Argonne Forest in October 1918. His platoon leadership was decimated, and he found himself in charge. They captured roughly 130 Germans after a harrowing firefight.

This is a story of the other men and what Sgt. Alvin York went through for the rest of his life. He became the poster boy of WWI, with books and movies were made of his efforts. Gary Cooper starred in "Sergeant York" a blockbuster biopic in 1941 when the country needed a shot in the patriotic arm while heading into WWII. Listen to James Carl Nelson tell his story to host Jim Fausone.

This week we hear the incredible story of Father Philip Salois, Vietnam Veteran and Silver Star recipient.

In this episode, host Dale Throneberry speaks with Fr. Phil, as well as the two authors of the book that tells his tale. In the Shadows of Vietnam: The Gallant Life of Fr. Philip Salois, written by Julien Ayotte and Paul F. Caranci, is the true story of Fr. Phil’s experience in Vietnam and his lifelong dedication to fellow servicemen.

From the book’s description:

In 1970, an infantryman and his platoon encountered a horseshoe-shaped ambush in the jungles of Vietnam.

Six members of the young soldier’s unit were trapped behind enemy lines, facing no chance for survival if rescue were not imminent. Twenty-one-year-old Specialist 4 Philip Salois and a fellow grunt were determined to save their six comrades. Before crawling out into the line of fire, Phil asked God to protect him and see him through this ordeal unharmed in return for a promise to do anything wanted of him afterwards. It is a promise that many men about to do battle make, but few keep.

Four years later, while attending a Catholic seminary in California, this Rhode Island native heard an inner voice reminding him of the promise he had made, and informing him of what God had planned for his life. Fourteen years after the ambush and rescue, that young soldier became Fr. Philip Salois, a Catholic priest about to embark on a new charge. This time, the mission was to rescue veterans who suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) caused by the horrors of their deployment in Vietnam.

Over nearly forty years, Fr. Phil brought spiritual healing to countless troubled veterans, from infantrymen to chaplains alike, in his role as the Chief of Chaplains in the Boston VA Healthcare System, and in numerous retreats and conferences that he organized all over the U.S.

This is the awe-inspiring true story of the life of a gentle giant, a man who received the Silver Star for his acts of valor in Vietnam, and a man who has merited the highest distinction for his service, from veterans’ organizations to religious and civic groups alike.

We hear from Vietnam Veteran Bill Sheehan, author of “Together We Served,” and a storyteller from his book, Dan Thompson.

Sheehan and Thompson served as Navy Corpsmen in the Vietnam War. Sheehan’s book is a collection of stories from combat Navy Hospital Corpsmen serving in the jungles of Vietnam. Sometimes difficult to talk about, but always heart wrenching, these stories are true and a reminder of the consequences of a war that has initiated PTS, various cancers and emotional trauma that they still battle.

For more information about the book, click here.

Camp Liberty Michigan

Camp Liberty is a local Michigan nonprofit that provides access to outdoor recreation for Veterans and their families. They’re hosting fundraiser on June 29th, the Car & Motorcycle Show & Family Picnic with live music, lunch, and activities for all ages.

The USS Stennis is named after a Mississippi Senator John Stennis (1901-1995) who was an avowed segregationist and racist. Navy veterans Capt. John Cordle and LCdr R Keith Green, both retired, talk about Stennis, his history and the afront it is to still have an aircraft carrier named after him.

(Previously Aired on 5/25/2017) Fr. Vincent Capodanno, known as Grunt Padre, died in a firefight in Vietnam. His heroic service to others resulted in his being awarded the Medal of Honor and being advanced for Canonization in the Catholic Church. Listen to George Phillips, Marine Corps, tell of his personal experience with the Grunt Padre, and recount Fr. Vincent's life.

This week we share an interview from VVA Veteran “Dispatches” series, hosted by Marc Leepson.

Marc Leepson interviewed author Kristin Hannah about “The Women,” her new novel, which shot to the top of all the bestseller lists when it came out February 6 and has remained there ever since. It’s the compelling story of a young woman who joins the Army Nurse Corps at twenty and within months finds herself in just about the worst that war can offer in an evac hospital in South Vietnam—as well as what she faced after coming home from the war. The full interview can also be found on the archive.

In this episode, Vietnam War veteran Diane Carlson Evans, who served as a U.S. Army nurse in Vietnam and later was the driving force behind the Vietnam Women’s Memorial, discusses her intense tour of duty; her adjustment problems after she came home; the amazing story of her successful fight to have a memorial to the American women who served in the Vietnam War installed on the National Mall in our Nation’s Capital; and much more.

For the full interview, visit the VVA Veteran Dispatches Archive.

We thank VVA Veteran Dispatches for sharing these interviews for our Veterans Radio audience!

Jim Fausone talks with Jim Cowper of the NVBDC for our monthly NVBDC Council Highlight.

Army Ranger/Green Beret Jason Van Camp talks about Warrior Rising's mission to assist veterans start their own businesses. He explains to host Jim Fausone the Warrior Academy, a free on line course, and the other offerings of Warrior Rising.

Dr LaMarre is the Assistant Under Secretary for Health for Dentistry at the VA. She discusses with host Jim Fausone the qualifications for dental services from VA, the availability of services , the 5.5 million annual procedures and the VA dental insurance program.

Join us this week for a discussion on US foreign affairs, military conflicts, weapons, and air power, with national security analyst Dr. Rebecca Grant and host Dale Throneberry. This is our tenth year hosting Dr. Grant and she remains one of our most popular guests!

Dr. Rebecca Grant is a national security analyst based in Washington, DC. She earned her PhD in International Relations from the London School of Economics at age 25 then worked for RAND and on the staff of the Secretary of the Air Force and Chief of Staff of the Air Force.

Dr. Grant is Vice president and Senior Fellow at the Lexington Institute researching military and tech/artificial intelligence topics.

In today's program we look at the Iran attack on Israel and Israel's response. Ukraine, Israel and Hamas, Russia's threat to Europe's security, China, Iran and Russia meetings, and much more.

(Previously Aired on 3/24/2020) Jeffrey Copeland is a professor at the University of Northern Iowa and prolific author. He talks with host Jim Fausone about lessons the military and society should learn from COVID-19, the Spanish Flu of 1918 - its incredible death toll - and the Black Plague of 1924 in LA.

Our Memorial Day Program this year will include a reading of names of service members who made the ultimate sacrifice for our great nation. Thank you to those who remembered and honored those lost by submitting names for the program.

Dale speaks with Melissa Youngblood, President and Clinical Director of Therapeia Counseling. Melissa is a licensed professional mental health counselor and a Master-Certified Accelerated Resolution Therapist (ART). Melissa specializes in PTS in veterans, first responders, and healthcare workers, and has devoted much of her professional and personal life to helping veterans.

We also talked with Doug Bradley, Vietnam Veteran, author, and educator, about his recent publication, “He Ain’t Heavy” (Medium, Warriors Publishing Group). Doug has authored many works about his Vietnam and post-Vietnam experiences, including:

• Who’ll Stop the Rain: Respect, Remembrance, and Reconciliation in Post-Vietnam America
• DEROS Vietnam: Dispatches from the Air-Conditioned Jungle
• We Gotta Get Out of This Place: The Soundtrack of the Vietnam War, which was named “the Best Music Book of 2015” by Rolling Stone Magazine.

Law Professor Yelena Duterte talks about Veterans Basic Income as a "big idea" to help veteran transitions, VA processing problems, and as a recruitment tool. Yelena is a professor at the University of Illinois-Chicago and Director of the Veterans Legal Clinic. She talks to host Jim Fausone about the benefits a veteran basic income could provide.

This week we feature a program from the archives, “Medal of Honor Heroes from Iraq and Afghanistan”

Host Dale Throneberry talks with James Kitfield, author of “In the Company of Heroes: The Inspiring Stories of Medal of Honor Recipients from America’s Longest Wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.“

An award-winning military journalist tells the amazing stories of 22 soldiers who’ve won the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military award.

In the Company of Heroes will feature in-depth narrative profiles of the 23 post-9/11 Medal of Honor awardees who served in Afghanistan and Iraq. This book will focus on the stories of these extraordinary people, expressed in their own voices through one-on-one interviews, and in the case of posthumous awards, through interviews with their brothers-in-arms and their families. The public affairs offices of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the individual armed services, as well as the Congressional Medal of Honor Society, have expressed their support for this project.

Stories include Marine Corps Corporal William “Kyle” Carpenter, who purposely lunged toward a Taliban hand grenade in order to shield his buddy from the blast; Navy SEAL team leader Britt Slabinski, who, after being ambushed and retreating in the Hindu Kush, returned against monumental odds in order to try to save one of his team who was inadvertently lost in the fight; and Ranger Staff Sergeant Leroy Petry, who lunged for a live grenade, threw it back at the enemy, and saved his two Ranger brothers.

Book description and image from Amazon.com. Episode originally aired in on October 17, 2021.

Army Veteran Mark Kelm suffers from Parkinson's Disease, and John Lehr is CEO of the Parkinson's Foundation. Both talk with host Jim Fausone about the disease, veterans who have it from Agent Orange exposure, TBI, or other environmental pathways. Kelm talks about living well with Parkinson's and Lehr discusses resources available at the Parkinson's Foundation.

(Previously Aired on 7/24/2018) Ryan Pitts served for 6 years in the US Army. During a firefight in 2008, Ryan was wounded but fought against overwhelming odds. He was awarded the MEdal of Honor in 2014. Today, he works in the defense industry and is an ambassador for the Cohen Veterans Network of 10 mental health clinics which provide free care to veterans, service members, and family members. Jim Fausone explores Pitts' service and checks in for an update on CVN.

Veterans Radio has a partnership with the Literature of War Foundation to exchange podcast content to reach a wider audience. This week, Army Ranger, editor, and author Marty Skovlund, Jr., sits down with the LitWar Podcast to discuss his book, SEND ME. It tells the powerful story of Shannon Kent, a Cryptologic Technician who rose to the apex of the military as an intelligence operative in elite special operations units. She spent a career hunting the world's most ruthless terrorists while navigating a multitude of other roles and challenges. It is a story that will resonate with future generations of servicemen and women.

MARTY SKOVLUND, JR. is the editor-in-chief of Task & Purpose, a military news and cultural publication. He is a former Army Ranger and an experienced conflict reporter who has reported on assignments from Afghanistan, Iraq, and Ukraine in addition to embedding with the U.S. military around the world.

Learn more about our Platoon Book Club Initiative in which we are funding and facilitating platoon-sized book clubs for active duty and reserve platoons in every branch of the military.

Dr. Lanny Snodgrass was 63 yrs old when going thru basic training. As an experienced psychologist his expertise was needed and his desire to serve burned hot. He talks about age and military service in his book Ageless Call to Serve. The correlation between age and PTSD is discussed with host Jim Fausone along with ideas on how the military could rethink the age issues and redeploy older Americans wishing to serve.

Listen to Army veteran and supplier diversity expert Annette Stevenson talk about veteran certification, NVBDC and the value of supplier diversity. She talks to host Jim Fausone about these issues and gives common sense explanations from North Carolina.

Army veteran Pazzella Colton Bonner tells her story of service, struggling to get VA benefits and turning into an advocate for homeless veterans to host Jim Fausone.

GET ANSWERS FROM OUR EXPERT PANEL!

• Dale Throneberry – Founder and Host of Veterans Radio
• Brig. Gen. Carol Ann Fausone (ret) – Legal Help for Veterans
• Dr. Paul R. Lawrence – Former Under Secretary of Benefits, Dept. of Veteran Affairs, and author of “Veterans Benefits for You: Get What You Deserve“

Topics covered include:

• PACT ACT
• Camp Lejeune
• Homeless Veterans Emergency Help Number: (877) 424-3838
• What to do about VA Claim Denials
• Spousal Benefits
• And much more.

John Basilone (November 4, 1916 – February 19, 1945) was a United States Marine Corps gunnery sergeant who received the Medal of Honor for actions during the Battle for Henderson Field in the Guadalcanal campaign, and the Navy Cross posthumously for extraordinary heroism during the Battle of Iwo Jima. He was the only enlisted Marine to receive both of these decorations in World War II.

This week we talk with two authors and Veterans of the War in Afghanistan.

Staff Sergeant Travis Harman, U.S. Army Pennsylvania National Guard (medically retired), writes about going to war with his father. Travis was in Afghanistan while his dad, Dean, was in Iraq. Travis explains to host Jim Fausone the life at Outpost Nigel and discusses his book “Remote Outpost: Fighting with the U.S. Army in Afghanistan.”

Staff Sergeant Mikael Cook, U.S. Army (ret.) writes about the fall of Afghanistan and the Operation to Save our Afghan allies in “Life and Death at Abbey Gate: The Fall of Afghanistan and the Operation to Save our Allies.” He tells host Jim Fausone about the failure of American policy and the ‘Digital Dunkirk’ efforts of many to try to get a few more Afghan allies and families out.

National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC.org) Founder Keith King talks about the success over the last decade of certifying veteran-owned businesses with host Jim Fausone,

This week we talk with author Tom Williams about his new book, “Doorsteps of Hell”

Lt. Col. Tom Williams, USMC Veteran and author, joins us to talk about the first part of his series “Heart of a Marine,” a book titled “Doorsteps of Hell.”

“Doorsteps of Hell focuses on Tom’s service during his first tour of duty in the Vietnam War, 1969 – 1970 as an infantry platoon commander then later, a recon platoon commander. It is an enthralling account of what really took place on the battlefield. The hardships, the misery, the deprivation of amenities, the perils, the bloodshed, but more importantly the lessons learned.”

We also learn about Elder Warriors, a healing experience for Veterans

We’re joined by Michael Patrick Brewer and Peter Sternberg, who serve on the Board of Directors for Elder Warriors. This organization provides a guided journey of reckoning and reconciliation between Veterans and civilians for healing associated with PTSD.

Marine Michael Plunkett talks about the Literature of War Foundation which supplies copies of the same book to units to read so they have a common experience to discuss. They read and discuss military history, leadership, recent engagements, etc. Plunkett explains how the nonprofit works to host Jim Fausone. Currently, 50 units have asked to start this military book club!

(Previously Aired on 6/8/2016) Dr. Juan Quintana is a USAF Reserves veteran and President of the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists. Dr. Quintana holds a Doctorate from Texas Christian University (TCU) and a Master's degree from Texas Wesleyan University. He talks about his time in the 59th Medical Wing at Lackland Air Force Base with host Jim Fausone.

(Previously Aired on 8/27/2019) The battle at Tam Ky and Nui Yon Hill in Vietnam on May 13-15, 1969 is retold by the surviving medic Jim "Doc" McCloughan. His rescue of the wounded is recounted as are other battlefield acts of bravery. He explains also to host Jim Fausone the 47-year odyssey after the battle to upgrade his Bronze Star "V" to a Distinguished Service Cross but ultimately elevated to the Medal of Honor. His Lieutenant never let this issue go and it took over 6 years to get all the necessary signatures and work through the Army boards. McCloughan made a deal with God that if he survived he would tell his Dad he loved him, and be the best coach, father, and husband possible. He honored that deal as he explains in this candid interview. Jim McCloughan is an honest, direct, and humble guy.

Veterans Radio has a partnership with the Literature of War Foundation to exchange podcast content to reach a wider audience. This week, New York Times best-selling author Sebastian Junger sits down with the LitWar Podcast to discuss his thoughts on death, the healing power of having a stage with an audience that is willing to listen, and his new book, In My Time of Dying.

SEBASTIAN JUNGER is the New York Times bestselling author of Tribe, War, Freedom, A Death in Belmont, Fire, and The Perfect Storm, and co-director of the documentary film Restrepo, which was nominated for an Academy Award. He is also the winner of a Peabody Award and the National Magazine Award for Reporting.

Learn more about our Platoon Book Club Initiative in which we are funding and facilitating platoon-sized book clubs for active duty and reserve platoons in every branch of the military.

Looking for the best military and history books of 2024? Join us for this year’s 2024 Book Guide episode!

Host Dale Throneberry is joined by Marc Leepson, arts editor, senior writer and columnist for The VVA Veteran, the national magazine published by the VVA.

Dale and Marc talk about the best military and history books of 2024. Just in time for the holiday giving season!

Here are the books we discussed:

1. The Vietnam War: A Military History by Geoffrey Wawro
2. Drafted by Rick Parker
3. The Heart That Fed by Carl Sciacchitano
4. If I Don't Laugh, I'll Cry by Molly Stillman
5. Diplomats at War by Charles Trueheart
6. The Women by Kristin Hannah
7. Home Before Morning by Lynda Van Devanter
8. Healing Wounds by Diane Carlson Evans
9. Found by Jack McLean
10. Loon by Jack McLean
11. The Face of the Enemy by David Chung
12. In the Shadow of Vietnam: The Gallant Life of Fr.Phillip Salois. by Julian Ayotte, Paul Caranci, and Fr. Phillip Salois
13. Send Me: The True Story of a Mother at War. By Shannon Kent
14. Team America: Patton, MacArthur, Marshall, Eisenhower, and the World They Forged. By Robert L. O’Connell
15. Jeep Show by Robert B. O’Connor
16. Veterans Benefits for You: Get What You Deserve. By Dr. Paul Lawrence
17. If I Don’t Laugh, I’ll Cry by Molly Stillman
18. The Heart That Fed by Carl Sciacchitano
19. Diary of A Young Man: 1968-1969: Coming of Age at a Cultural Crossroads. By Dan Dana
20. Always Faithful: The Story of the War in Afghanistan, the Fall of Kabul, and the Unshakable Bond Between a Marine and an Interpreter. By Major Tom Schueman and Zainullah Zaki
21. I Will Tell No War Stories: What Our Fathers Left Unsaid About World War II. By Howard Mansfield
22. The Unlikely War Hero: A Vietnam War POW's Story of Courage and Resilience in the Hanoi Hilton. by Marc Leepson

All of these books can be found online or at your favorite bookstore. Enjoy!

Vice Admiral Kevin P. Green (ret.) talks about the fleet numbers, naval drones, partners as force multipliers, the 35-year building cycle, and other challenges facing the Navy today from budgets and defense industrial base. Green talks to host Jim Fausone about the good jobs in shipbuilding as well as the Navy.

Jessie and Jennifer Wine served a combined 20 years in the National Guard. They got out and wanted to be business owners. They researched and bought into puroclean.com a property restoration company. They talk to host Jim Fausone about the business and their military career. They encourage veterans to take the plunge and get into business as a way to serve and because it is rewarding.

(Previously Aired on 1/16/2018) Florent Groberg's book, 8 Seconds of Courage, is the astonishing story of how he saved lives in Afghanistan by tackling a suicide bomber, becoming the first immigrant since the Vietnam War to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor for his heroism. Medal of Honor recipient Florent Groberg discusses his book with host Dale Throneberry.

(Previously Aired on 2/18/2020) Jocko Willink is a retired Navy SEAL commander. He spent 20 years as an enlisted man and officer. He shares lessons of leadership the SEAL team experiences taught him with host Jim Fausone.

Jocko has written a new leadership field manual with instructions in simple, clear, step-by-step language to help soldiers complete their mission. In the civilian sector, books offer information on everything from fixing a leaky faucet to developing an effective workout program to cooking a good steak. He's co-authored other books, including "Extreme Ownership" and "The Dichotomy of Leadership". But "Leadership Strategy and Tactics" is the first leadership field manual with a direct and situational how-to guide anyone can instantly put to use. It explains how to take leadership theory, quickly translate that theory into applicable strategy, and then put leadership into action at a tactical level.

This book is the solution that leaders at every level need, not just to understand the leadership game, but also how to play the leadership game, and win it.

(Previously Aired on 6/16/2019)

MAJOR GENERAL WILLIAM "BILL" HENDERSON'S CAREER

Major General William A. "Bill" Henderson was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan. As a Marine pilot, he flew 125 combat missions over South Vietnam, Laos, and North Vietnam. From 1970-1974, he served as an F-4 check pilot and instructor. He left active duty and then joined the Michigan Air National Guard, flying F-100s and A-7s. He was named commander of the Michigan Air National Guard in 1992 and was promoted to Major General in 1996. He also served as the corporate pilot, chief pilot and director of flight operations for General Motors Corp.

AUTHOR DWIGHT ZIMMERMAN - THE HISTORY OF TOP GUN

DWIGHT JON ZIMMERMAN is a bestselling and award-winning author, radio show host, producer, and past president of the Military Writers Society of America. A writer of extraordinary scope in genres, he has written everything from comic books to young adult, adult histories, biographies, and more. He has received critical praise for his skill in adapting bestselling adult works into young adult and graphic novel formats.

Zimmerman's new book is TOP GUN: 50 YEARS OF NAVAL AIR SUPERIORITY, and was scheduled for a May 2019 release. It is an exciting history of the U.S. Navy's fighter pilot training program that includes the origin and evolution of aviation combat and the impact of the Tom Cruise "Top Gun" movie.

This week, following the 80th anniversary of D-Day, we’re sharing stories from the archives that remember and honor WWII veterans.

First we hear an interview with Len Lomell, originally aired in 2006. SSGT Lomell was a WWII Veteran and the last survivor of the assault on Pointe-Du-Hoc.

D-Day, 6 June 1944, was the largest invasion in the history of the world. Pointe-Du-Hoc was a nearly 100-meter high cliff, with perpendicular sides jutting out into the English Channel. You won’t believe the story of this incredible example of American ingenuity as we learn how this small group of Rangers was finally able to accomplish their mission despite all the SNAFUs. Join us as we talk with Len Lomell, the last survivor of the assault on Pointe-Du-Hoc. Len was a Toms River, NJ man. After the war he married and had 3 daughters while building a successful law practice. He passed away in 2011 at the age of 91.

Next we hear from author and history scholar Robert Lundgren, author of “The World Wonder’d: What Really Happened off Samar,” in an interview recorded in 2015.

This year marks the invasion’s 80th anniversary, and the last of the battle’s veterans are dying off, which makes honoring their sacrifice all the more important.

“The battles of WWII are not only part of our immediate heritage; our success in the war is why our heritage survives today,” says Lundgren, who adds that other veterans of the war also deserve to be honored. Throughout a 10-year period, he wrote “The World Wonder’d: What Really Happened Off Samar”. In the process of writing he had to learn how to read Kanji, which, in 1944, was closer to Chinese than what is spoken today in modern Japan.

“Accuracy in history matters,” he says. “Not only does it inform our current and future decisions – we also owe that integrity for those who fought for our privileges today.”

Lundgren discusses more details from WWII in honor of D-Day.

For the original program information, click here.

As National Nonprofit Day approaches (Aug. 17), it’s important to recognize the powerful role business-nonprofit partnerships can play in changing and saving lives in our community.

Wounded Warrior Project partners with organizations across the country to expand reach, enhance programs, and improve advocacy efforts for post-9/11 injured veterans and their families. In return, the organization provides companies with a way to support their communities, involve their employees, and make an impact in the lives of wounded, ill, and injured veterans.

USAF Col. Jim Warner (ret) is the executive director of the Association of Air Force Missileers and he talks about the job missileers do projecting deterrence in a dangerous world. He talks about the past , present and future of missile defense and blast door art with host Jim Fausone.

Join us on Mother’s Day, 2024, to hear the incredible story of Navy Senior Chief Shannon Kent, mother of two and Navy intelligence warrant officer and language specialist. Senior Chief Kent was KIA in Syria in January 2019. Her story is told in “Send Me: The True Story of a Mother at War” co-authored by her husband Joe Kent and Marty Skovlund Jr. (editor-in-chief, Task & Purpose). Host Jim Fausone speaks with the authors.

To learn more, see this recent article from Task & Purpose.

To find a bookseller, visit the publisher page.

Jim also speaks with Carrie Filipettie, executive director The Vandenberg Coalition: can civics education help solve the recruiting crisis?

Learn more about Carrie here.

(Previously Aired on 10/5/2020) Another 22 Helicopter Rescue missions from the Vietnam War as told by the very youthful aircrews who flew those missions in their wondrous machines. All stories are told with no holds barred. Climb into the aircraft with them and re-live their “adventures”!

Phil Marshall was a 21-year-old Warrant Officer in Vietnam as a Huey Dustoff pilot. In November of 1969, he was wounded on an insecure night rescue of 3 seriously wounded soldiers. Marshall’s ever-growing series of Vietnam Helicopter Rescues documents the helicopter rescue missions that were flown by very youthful crews. The stories are all told by the men who flew the missions and are not embellished. They are as true as they can be remembered; a truly amazing series of missions flown by very humble men doing uncommon things.

Learn about the very successful program US Chamber Foundation runs HiringOurHeroes.org. Navy Veteran Eric Eversole , president of Hiring Our Heroes, talks with host Jim Fausone about the program. Over 700 companies work with HoH to create opportunities and internships for transitioning military. Over 12,000 service members have been placed with thousands of companies for a great first job post military service.

Host Dale Throneberry and Carol Ann Fausone, (USAF Brig Gen ret), from Legal Help for Veterans answer your questions during our monthly Benefits Program.

Topics on this program include: Upgrading your current rating. Reapplying for conditions now covered by the Pact Act. New ratings for gastrointestinal conditions.

Contact Veterans Radio with your questions for our next Benefits Program on Sunday, May 5th at 5 PM eastern.

National Small Business Association CEO Todd McCracken talks about veteran certification by the National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC.org) with host Jim Fausone.

(Previously Aired on 10/27/2020): Captain Steven J. Craig (ret.) tells the story of the grounding and rescue of the USCG Cutter Jarvis on its maiden voyage to Alaska in 1972. He tells the story of its namesake, Lt. David Jarvis, and his 1897 rescue of icebound whalers in Alaska. A Japanese fishing trawler came to the rescue in the best tradition of the sea. The Captain discusses the Coast Guard and his 38 years in the service with host Jim Fausone. "All Present and Accounted For" is a Military Writers Society of America award-winning book, go pick it up today.

In a program originally aired on January 24, 2016, host Dale Throneberry speaks with Douglas Bradley, US Army Veteran and author. Bradley has written three books, including “We Gotta Get Out of This Place: The Soundtrack of the Vietnam War” which Rolling Stone magazine named “the best music book of 2015.” Visit the original program page to learn more about the episode.

Today is also our annual fundraiser, Radio on the River!

Visit www.givebutter.com/rotr2024 for event information and tickets. Join us for an afternoon with Doug Bradley and supporting the future of Veterans Radio!

(Previously Aired on 5/19/2020) Andy Kubik spent 15 years in USAF Special Operations. He was stationed in theatres like Bosnia, Afghanistan, and Iraq. But his six overseas deployments as a combat controller and rescue man took its toll on his mental health and family. He talks about the heroic actions on November 23, 2001, that led to a Silver Star award. Substance abuse, PTSD, and TBI are mentioned; and the relationship with his son is highlighted with host Jim Fausone.

JENNA CARLTON – THE MILLENNIAL VETERAN

US Navy Veteran and Author, Jenna Carlton, is also known on social media as The Millennial Veteran. She talks to host Jim Fausone about her time in the Navy, her transition to a government job, and a Task & Purpose opinion piece written on the current military recruiting crisis. Carlton contends younger veterans will not help until their transition, mental health, and physical health issues are all addressed by the Department of Defense and Veterans Affairs.

To learn more about Jenna and read her latest articles for Task & Purpose, click here.

Find The Millennial Veteran on Instagram

Learn more about “The Veteran Workbook,” a journal published by Jenna to help veterans as they transition out of the military.

KEVIN GREEN & BRUCE LEMKIN – THE CURRENT STATE OF NATO

As NATO approaches its 75th anniversary, Admiral (ret.) Kevin Green and Captain (ret.) Bruce Lemkin join Jim for a discussion on the value of NATO today. Is everyone paying their fair share? Is there a risk of isolationism in the future? These fellows of the American College of National Security Leaders (ACNSL) give a broad and knowledgeable perspective of world threats and the value of NATO.

This week’s program honors the late Michael J. Martin and his commitment to fellow Vietnam Veterans

In a program originally aired in November 2019, host Dale Throneberry shares music from Michael J. Martin and his partner, Tim “Doc” Holiday, both Vietnam Veterans. They started writing and recording their music back in late 70s and early 80s and led marches from Texas to Washington to make people and the government aware of what was happening to a whole generation of Vietnam Veterans.

Since meeting Michael J. Martin, by way of Gary Lillie, in 2004, I have been mesmerized by his music. He was a frequent guest on Veterans Radio and was always one of our favorites. He was one of those “old fashioned tried and true ol’ troubadours”.

Michael J. Martin lived the music he wrote and sang. His music had some miles on it. He and his partner, Tim “Doc” Holiday, both Vietnam Veterans, started writing and recording their music back in late 70s and early 80s. They led marches from Texas to Washington to make people and the government aware of what was happening to a whole generation of Vietnam Veterans.

They are both gone now, but their music is still inspiring veterans of all ages. It’s as powerful as it is emotional. It’s letting the veterans, and their families know that “They Are Not Alone”.

Some of their music has been remastered and can be acquired by contacting Michael’s daughter Andy Martin. You can contact Andy at andymartin23@rocketmail.com or you can text her at 615-692-4103.

(Previously Aired on 7/15/2020) This spotlight on NVBDC-certified business is with Sid E. Taylor. The National Veteran Business Development Council is the leading Veteran-Owned Business Certification organization developed by Veterans, for Veterans. Its purpose is to provide a credible and reliable certifying authority for all sized businesses ensuring that valid documentation exists of a Veterans status, ownership and operational control. Many lucrative business opportunities are available to VOBs through Supplier Diversity programs offered at many corporations and government agencies. The total spend available from corporations to qualifying Veteran businesses is estimated to be more than $80 billion annually.

Mr. Taylor is a U.S. Marine and Vietnam combat veteran. He has over 48 years of service in the Automotive Industry. Following a 22-year career with GM, Sid founded SET Enterprises, Inc. in 1989. Through his dynamic leadership, it grew into the 8th-largest African-American-owned company in the United States with revenues exceeding $500 million. An industry leader in Metal Processing Services, SET Enterprises, Inc. expanded to six locations following its acquisition of Noble Metal Forming & Processing-Midwest in 2001, and Michigan Steel Processing in 2003.

These acquisitions expanded the company’s range of metal processing services to four states, servicing customers including Ford Motor Co., Chrysler, GM, Honda, Nissan, and FCA to name a few. Built on quality, service, and innovation. Sid talks to host Jim Fausone about his business career and charitable activities.

(Previously Aired on 11/26/2019) Taras Lyssenko wrote a new book with everything from mystery and adventure, to government dealings and World War II history. "The Great Navy Birds of Lake Michigan" documents a 30-year-long effort to recover WWII-era Navy planes from Lake Michigan. He introduces the long-lost history of how Navy pilots trained and sometimes lost their lives and aircraft over Lake Michigan. It offers an inside look at his company’s recovery & salvage efforts and their sometimes-contentious relationship with federal agencies. These submerged Navy planes now find themselves in muesums and public spaces around the United States. Taras talks with host Jim Fausone of VeteransRadio.org to explain how this passion started for two Army guys and how it keeps history alive.

Veterans Radio has a partnership with the Literature of War Foundation to exchange podcast content to reach a wider audience. This week, Marine Corps veteran and author Mac Caltrider sits down with the LitWar Podcast to discuss his memoir DOUBLE KNOT: A War Memoir in Seven Essays. It approaches his time in service as an infantryman, but the moments he chooses to write about might surprise you. He covers his experiences in combat but also the quieter moments and everything that comes after.

MAC CALTRIDER is a Baltimore-based writer and educator. His award-winning work has previously appeared in Coffee or Die Magazine, Leatherneck Magazine, Dirtbag Magazine, and a poetry collection In Love... & War: The Anthology of Poet Warriors. Before pursuing writing, Caltrider served in the United States Marine Corps.

Learn more about our Platoon Book Club Initiative in which we are funding and facilitating platoon-sized book clubs for active duty and reserve platoons in every branch of the military.

Air Force veteran Brandy Hill talks about her research on PFAS exposure of military service members and recent study to be undertaken by VA on PFAS and kidney cancer. Dr. Hill talks about what PFAS, where they are found in the military environment and potential health effects with host Jim Fausone.

US Marine Corps Colonel Jason K. Fettig (ret) was the 28th Director of the "The President's Own" USMC Band. He talks with Veterans Radio host Jim Fausone about his career, famous composer John Philip Sousa, tradition, and music in the military.

(Previously Aired on 10/20/2020): Captain John L. Kaul (ret) served as a full-time Navy Catholic chaplain for 26 years. He spent time with Marines, Admirals, and other chaplains of all faiths. Fr. Kaul was born in Wyandotte and attended Sacred Heart Seminary in Detroit and St. John’s Provincial Seminary in Plymouth Township. He also attended Mercy College in Detroit.

He was ordained on May 24, 1975, at St. Joseph Church in Wyandotte. After 7 years of parish ministry, he was allowed to join the Navy full-time. Twice he was stationed as a chaplain at Camp Lejeune, N.C. Upon retirement he worked for the Archdiocese for the Military Services, Fr. Kaul has worked to facilitate contracts and faculties for priests serving the military on a non-active-duty basis and a short time as vocations director.

Fr. Kaul has earned several honors and recognitions for his service, including the Meritorious Service Medal twice, the Navy Commendation Medal four times, the Overseas Deployment Ribbon four times, and the Joint Service Achievement Medal. He talks about his career and the needs of chaplains with host Jim Fausone.

GET ANSWERS FROM OUR EXPERT PANEL!

• Dale Throneberry – Founder and Host of Veterans Radio
• Brig. Gen. Carol Ann Fausone (ret) – Legal Help for Veterans
• David Saims – Director, Washtenaw County Veterans Affairs
• Chris Arbino – Assistant Communications Director, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System
• Mike Cox – Attorney, Former MI Attorney General, USMC Veteran

Topics include; Camp Lejeune Deadline, Pact Act Deadline, Survivors benefits, Burn Pit Registry, and much more.

DO NOT CALL THE NUMBER GIVEN. THIS PROGRAM WAS RECORDED ON 4 August 2024

GET ANSWERS FROM OUR EXPERT PANEL!

• Dale Throneberry – Founder and Host of Veterans Radio
• Brig. Gen. Carol Ann Fausone (ret) – Legal Help for Veterans
• Brian Hayes – Director of Communications, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System
• David Saims – Director, Washtenaw County Veterans Affairs

Author Michel Paradis offers a fresh look into General Dwight D. Eisenhower in "The Light of Battle: Eisenhower, D-Day, and the Birth of the American Superpower". Paradis' research shines as he discusses Ike's relationships with Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Winston Churchill, Thurgood Marshall, Omar Bradley, James H. Doolittle, etc. He talks with host Jim Fausone about how he faced adversity, dealt with ethical issues on race & chemical weapons, and carried the pressures of D-Day.

This week’s show features the Michigan Military and Veterans Hall of Honor

Our host Jim Fausone interviews board members from the Michigan Military and Veterans Hall of Honor ahead of the 2024 Hall of Honor ceremony on Friday, October 25, 2024.

2024 Military Inductees

• Edgar Culbertson, U.S. Coast Guard
• Oliver Dillard, U.S. Army
• Michael Hanks, U.S. Marine Corps
• Andy Kubik, U.S. Air Force
• Karl Richter, U.S. Air Force
• Harry Stewart, U.S. Army Air Corps

2024 Veteran Inductees

• Bruce MacDonald, U.S. Army
• Michael Peck, U.S. Army
• Robert Secrist, Army National Guard
• Stephanie Shannon, U.S. Army
• Robert Smith, U.S. Army
• Guy Stern, U.S. Army

Learn more about the Hall of Honor and the Inductee ceremony here.

Robert Middleton talks about the Montford Point Marines history, Association and its upcoming Gala on June 23, 2024 in Livonia, Michigan, and its keynote speaker Maj. Gen. Cornell Wilson (USMC-Ret) with host Jim Fausone.

Our first guest this week is Dr. Christine LaMarre

Dr. LaMarre is the Assistant Under Secretary for Health for Dentistry at the Department of Veterans Affairs. She discusses with host Jim Fausone the qualifications for dental services from VA, the availability of services, VA dental insurance program, and the 5.5 million procedures performed annually.

Jim also talks with Mark Kelm, US Army Veteran

Rev. Mark Kelm is a US Army Veteran living with Parkinson’s Disease. He shares his own story and talks about his work as a policy advocate and supporting fellow Veterans who have been diagnosed with PD.

Retired Army Lieutenant Colonel Beth Kubala is now a professor at Syracuse Law School. Retired Navy Veteran Angela Hamilton earned her MBA and is now attending law school. Both join host Jim Fausone to discuss the US Supreme Court case deciding you can use both Montgomery GI Bill and Post-9/11 GI Bill benefits.

(Previously Aired on 5/25/2020) This week’s broadcast is apropos for the Memorial Day weekend when we honor the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military.

Dale Throneberry will interview Joe Galloway, a civilian war correspondent. Galloway served four tours as a war correspondent in Vietnam and also covered the 1971 India-Pakistan War and half a dozen other combat operations.

In Stilwel, Kansas there is a family run foundation that offers combat veterans equine therapy. War Horses for Veterans is the premier horsemanship, networking and personal growth program in the U.S. They are a Kansas City based nonprofit that brings combat veterans from across the country together in a safe and peaceful environment.

What are ethics? What is morality? How can one behave in a moral manner? These are among the most difficult and most interesting questions that face people of any age. What defines a “Warrior” today? We explore these important questions with our guest, Dr. Shannon E. French, (then) Assoc. Prof. Associate Chair, Department of Leadership, Ethics, and Law at the United States Naval Academy and author of The Code of the Warrior.

More info on the book can be found here.

About the book:

Warrior cultures throughout history have developed unique codes that restrict their behavior and set them apart from the rest of society. But what possible reason could a warrior have for accepting such restraints? Why should those whose profession can force them into hellish kill-or-be-killed conditions care about such lofty concepts as honor, courage, nobility, duty, and sacrifice? And why should it matter so much to the warriors themselves that they be something more than mere murderers? The Code of the Warrior tackles these timely issues and takes the reader on a tour of warrior cultures and their values, from the ancient Greeks and Romans to the Vikings and Celts, from legendary chivalric knights to Native American tribesmen, from Chinese warrior monks pursuing enlightenment to Japanese samurai practicing death. Drawing these rich traditions up to the present, the author quests for a code for the warriors of today, as they do battle in asymmetric conflicts against unconventional forces and the scourge of global terrorism.

Guests this week include two service nurses

• Brig. Gen. Carol Ann Fausone USAF (ret) – Legal Help for Veterans
• Lt. Col. Sandie Wilson USA (ret) – Director at Large, Vietnam Veterans of America and Chair of the VVA National Agent Orange and Toxic Exposure Committee. Topics covered in today program included:
• More presumptive conditions covered by the PACT ACT.
• Deadline for filing for benefits from Camp Lejeune-August 10th, 2024
• Effects of Toxic Exposure on Veteran's Offspring
• And much more.

The song at the end of the program is God Bless America and America the Beautiful performed by Brothers of the Heart

Michigan Military & Veterans Hall of Honor board members V Garcia, R Near and J Dempsey talk about the military and veterans being inducted into the Hall of Honor in October 2024. They tell the stories of the dozen men and women to host Jim Fausone.

Join host Jim Fausone this week for three interviews:

• Dr. James Rogers, war historian and drone expert, about modern drone warfare, the use of drones around the world, and where the military applications are headed.
• Robert Middleton, US Marine Corps veteran and National Commandant of Montford Point Marines of America, discussing the history of the first Blacks in the Marine Corp. He also shares details of the 14th Annual National Heritage Military Banquet & Awards Ceremony, a gala from the organization on June 23rd.
• Literature of War Foundation’s Michael Plunkett regarding its military book club approach to providing troops literature that unit members can read, discuss and bond over.

(Previously Aired on 9/3/2019)

In December 1890, the Army engaged a band of Lakota Indians at Wounded Knee Creek. Who shot first is lost to history, but the deaths of approximately 350 Lakota and 30 Army troops made it one of the bloodiest engagements of the American-Indian period. The Army calls it a battle; the Lakota people call it a massacre.

Multiple times the Lakota people have sought an apology (received), reparations, and revocation of the 20 Medals of Honor awarded. Historian and Army Colonel Samuel Russell (ret.) discusses the history, and his submittal to the House Armed Services Committee regarding HR 3467 "Remove the Stain Act" of 2019. Russell offers host Jim Fausone why the bill is misguided and what precedents it would set.

Our first guest this week is Brigadier General John G. Kulhavi, US Army (Ret.)

BG John G. Kulhavi is the subject of the book, “No Soldier Left Behind: The Life and Times of Brigadier General John G. Kulhavi, United States Army, Ret.” by Dr. Don Steele.

From the book’s Amazon description:

We’ll also feature an interview with our newest sponsor, PuroClean!

Host Jim Fausone talks with PuroClean franchisee Jessie Wines about services offered and their culture. Since its founding in 2001, PuroClean has become one of the leading property damage remediation franchise organizations in North America. Learn more about PuroClean here.

Dale also talks with co-founders of the Heritage Distilling Co, Sara and Drew Kellerman

The Kellermans are co-founders of the Heritage Distilling Co, the largest independently owned craft distillery in the Pacific Northwest and the most-awarded craft distillery in North America from the American Distilling Institute. Heritage is a longtime supporter of military and Veteran related nonprofits and features two series that honor our Veterans: The Special Operations Salute and Service to America Salute brands. Learn more about the Salute Series here.

Vice Admiral Kevin P. Green (ret.) has been thinking about recruiting challenges for over two decades. With the Navy and other services in the worst recruiting crisis of the all-volunteer service, his insights are instructive. He talks with host Jim Fausone how recruiters must use leadership and meeting today's youth where they are. He asserts if the youth have "ambition and heart" they will be able to enlist. It may take time to overcome limitations like physical fitness, but it can be achieved and a world of opportunities exist.

Listen this week for a program from the archives: Army Flight Training with two former US Army Pilots!

In a program originally aired on April 18, 2021, former Army aviators Kate Melcher, an AH 64D-Apache Longbow Attack Helicopter, and Phil Marshall, a Medivac Pilot in Vietnam, talk with Dale about their experiences during flight training right up to the day they soloed. Read more about the program on the original program’s page.

We also have our monthly NVBCD Highlight, featuring Todd McCracken

Todd McCracken is the President and CEO of the National Small Business Association (NSBA). Todd was featured as the keynote speaker at the 8th Annual “Doing Business with the Federal Reserve and Corporate America” Conference hosted by the National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC). The NSBA is a nonpartisan organization that advocates on behalf of America’s entrepreneurs. As the nation’s first small-business advocacy organization, NSBA is dedicated to promoting the interests of small businesses and developing economic opportunities for growth.

A suicide bomber took the life of Senior Chief Petty Officer & Cryptologist, Shannon Kent (U.S. Navy), on her 5th overseas deployment in 2019. Now her husband and father of two, Green Beret Joe Kent (11 deployments), tells her story with Marty Skovlund Jr., Army Ranger & Editor of Task & Purpose. Shannon Kent was an incredible linguist, patriot, and mother. This story is inspiring and uplifting notwithstanding the tragic circumstances of Shannon's death in Syria on an intel mission. Joe and Marty talk to host Jim Fausone.

(Previously Aired on 11/21/2017) Dave Biller discusses the environmental contamination at Andersen AFB, Guam, and its impact on him as an airman in a Civil Engineering Squadron in the mid-1980s. Dave talks to host Jim Fausone about the VA's handling of his claim and the impact of groundwater contamination on the new Marine base in Guam.

As the world recognizes the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge, we talk with two authors and historians about the historic five-week offensive.

Kevin M. Hymel

Kevin M. Hymel has served as a historian and writer for the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force for the last fifteen years. He is a regular contributor to Naval History, WWII History, and WWII Quarterly, and the author of three books, Patton’s War: An American General’s Combat Leadership, Volume I, November 1942 -July 1944, Patton’s War: An American General’s Combat Leadership, Volume 2: August–December 1944, and Patton’s Photographs: War as He Saw It. He also leads tours of General George S. Patton’s battlefields for Stephen Ambrose Historical Tours.

Hymel is an expert on General George S. Patton and has given presentations about the Maverick General at the Library of Congress, Eisenhower Presidential Library and Army Navy Club. He has served as a historian at the U.S. Army Combat Studies Institute at Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas. He was also the Research Director for WWII History and Military Heritage magazines and has written numerous articles for each. His article “WAC Corporal Lena Derriecott and the 6888th Central Postal Battalion,” is being made into a movie by Tyler Perry.

Robert B. O’Connor

Robert B. O’Connor is the author of “Jeep Show: A Trouper at the Battle of the Bulge.” The book follows a show business drop-out who enlists in the US Army in 1943. From the book’s website:

With its realism and emotional depth, Jeep Show is a must read for WWII buffs and lovers of historical fiction alike. The story will fascinate fans of Band of Brothers, Saving Private Ryan, Ken Burns’ The War, The Thin Red Line, With the Old Breed, The Red Badge of Courage, Slaughterhouse Five, and Catch 22. Americans whose father served in WWII will be particularly interested.

Learn more about the book here, or visit Amazon to purchase.

Tune in for an interview with Charles Lachman, author of “Codename Nemo”

Host Dale Throneberry talks with Charles Lachman, author of “Codename Nemo: The Hunt for a Nazi U-Boat and the Elusive Enigma Machine.”

On June 4, 1944—two days before D-Day—the course of World War II was forever changed. That day, a US Navy task force achieved the impossible—capturing a German U-Boat, its crew, all its technology, Nazi encryption codes, and an Enigma cipher machine. Led by a nine-man boarding party and the maverick Captain Daniel Gallery, US antisubmarine Task Group 22.3’s capture of U-505 in what was called Operation Nemo was the first seizure of an enemy ship in battle since the War of 1812, one of the greatest achievements of the US Navy, and a victory that shortened the duration of the war.

Charles Lachman’s white-knuckled war saga and thrilling cat-and-mouse game is told through the eyes of the men on both sides of Operation Nemo—German U-Boaters and American heroes like Lieutenant Albert David (“Mustang”), who led the boarding party that took control of U-505 and became the only sailor to be awarded the Medal of Honor in the Battle of the Atlantic; and Chief Motor Machinist Zenon Lukosius (“Zeke”), a Lithuanian immigrant’s son from Chicago who dropped out of high school to enlist in the Navy and whose quick thinking saved the day when he plugged a hole of gushing water that was threatening to sink U-505.

Three thousand American sailors participated in this extraordinary adventure; nine ordinary American men channeling extraordinary skill and bravery finished the job; and then—like everyone involved—breathed not a word of it until after the war was over. Nothing leaked out. In Berlin, the German Kriegsmarine assumed that U-505 had been blown to bits by depth charges, with all hands lost at sea. They were unaware that the U-Boat and its secrets, to be used in cracking Nazi coded messages, were now in American hands. They were also unaware that the 59 German sailors captured on the high seas were imprisoned in a POW camp in Ruston, Louisiana, until their release in 1946 when they were permitted to return home to family and friends who thought they had perished.

We also feature an interview with leadership from the Wounded Warrior Project to recognize National Nonprofit Day.

As NATO reaches its 75th Anniversary, VADM Kevin P. Green (ret.) and Navy Captain Bruce Lemkin (ret.) discuss its value today. Host Jim Fausone asks if everyone is paying their fair share and if isolationism is in the future. These fellows of the American College of National Security Leaders give a broad and knowledgeable perspective of world threats and the value of NATO.

This week we talk with author Robert B. O’Connor

Robert B. O’Connor is the author of “Jeep Show: A Trouper at the Battle of the Bulge.” The book follows a show business drop-out who enlists in the US Army in 1943. From the book’s website:

With its realism and emotional depth, Jeep Show is a must read for WWII buffs and lovers of historical fiction alike. The story will fascinate fans of Band of Brothers, Saving Private Ryan, Ken Burns’ The War, The Thin Red Line, With the Old Breed, The Red Badge of Courage, Slaughterhouse Five, and Catch 22. Americans whose father served in WWII will be particularly interested.

Learn more about the book here, or visit Amazon to purchase.

We also have our monthly NVBDC Spotlight!

Dale speaks with Annette Stevenson, US Army Veteran and member of the Board of Directors of the NVBDC. Stevenson is the President of Stevenson Consulting Group and has over 30 years’ experience in driving supplier diversity initiatives.

(Previously Aired on 5/25/2017) "Delay, Deny, Hope You Die" is a new Burn Pits documentary produced by Greg Lovett. It tells the story of military contractor KBR's use of hundreds of giant waste burn pits in Iraq and Afghanistan which poisoned soldiers with toxic fumes. Greg discusses with host Jim Fausone what is now being denied by DoD, KBR, and VA.

Former F16 pilot Heather "Lucky" Penney talks about the shrinkage of the Air Force's fleet and its impact on national security. She is a senior fellow at AFA's the Mitchell Institute. At this think tank, she speaks and writes on US Air Force related issues and discussed them with host Jim Fausone.

Staff Sergeant Travis Harman, U.S. Army Pennsylvania National Guard (medically retired), writes about going to war with his father. Travis was in Afghanistan while dad, Dean, was in Iraq. Travis explains to host Jim Fausone the life at Outpost Nigel and his book "Remote Outpost - Fighting with the U.S. Army in Afghanistan."

Jim Cowper has had a long career in placing temporary technical talent in jobs for major companies. He explains up to 15% of the workforce is in "temporary" slots which provides companies and individuals with flexibility and great pay. He talks about the value of NVBDC with host Jim Fausone and about why veterans should look at such positions.

Randee Howard is an Operations Associate for The War Horse. Originally from Chicago, she earned her B.A. in Urban Studies from Columbia University in 2021. She was the women's veterans representative for two academic years and volunteered as a non-fiction writing tutor to incarcerated women at Rikers Island.

Before her enrollment, she served four years on active duty in the U.S. Navy as an Aviation Electrician on helicopters in San Diego. She deployed on USS Makin Island (LHD-8), an amphibious assault ship to Southeast Asia and the Middle East. Currently, she volunteers as Director of Policy for the Black Veterans Project. She talks about the Navy and the Black Veterans Writing Project with host Jim Fausone.

(Previously Aired on 9/12/2017) Army veteran Andrew Wilson talks about the advantages of veterans owning a franchise business with host Jim Fausone. Wilson owns a " You Move Me" franchise in Oklahoma. He offers to mentor veterans looking to go into business.

This week’s show includes guests from the Congressional Medal of Honor Society (CMOHS), the National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC), and the Patriot Promise Foundation.

Dale speaks with Laura Jowdy, Medal of Honor historian and resident archivist from the CMOHS. Laura’s role is to ‘keep the memory of our nation’s heroes alive.’ You can learn more about Laura and her work here, and learn more about the CMOHS here.

Dale also speaks with former Air Force General Bob Taylor, founder of the Patriot Promise Foundation. Bob is a former B-52 navigator, veteran of the Gulf War, and author of “From Service to Success,” a roadmap of how other veterans and their families can find their new purpose.

We also hear from NVBDC founder and CEO Keith King, who speaks with host Jim Fausone. Keith is a US Army and Vietnam War Veteran, has over 40 years of experience in advertising and public relations, and has an extensive background of lobbying for and assisting veterans with the transition from military to civilian life.

This week’s first guest is Colonel Jason K. Fettig (ret.), internationally recognized musician

Colonel Jason K. Fettig is the 28th Director of “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band. Col. Fettig joins host Jim Fausone to discuss his career, famous composer John Philip Sousa, tradition, and music in the the military.

Learn more about Col. Fettig here.

We also hear from two Navy Veterans on the renaming of the USS John C. Stennis

Navy Veterans Capt. John Cordle and LCdr Keith Green, both retired, talk with Jim Fausone about the USS Stennis, which is named after former Mississippi senator John C. Stennis (1901-1995) who was an avowed segregationist. Cordle and Green talk about Stennis, his history, and the afront of having an aircraft carrier named after him. Several servicemembers, current and retired, are pushing for the USS Stennis to be renamed once it sets sail after a maintenance overhaul currently taking place.

Cordle wrote an article on the subject for the Navy Times, called “Now is the time to rename the carrier John C. Stennis.”

CAPTURED AND CONFINED

Captured on November 2, 1950, by North Korean-Chinese Soldiers, Father Kapaun was confined at Prison Camp #5, Pyoktong, North Korea until his death, at the hands of his captors, on May 23, 1951. Granted the title of “Servant of God” by the Catholic Church Father Kapaun is the Most Decorated Chaplain in US military history.

In April of 2013, President Obama awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for Father Kapaun.

THE MIRACLE OF FATHER KAPAUN

Join Veterans Radio Host Bob Gould and guests: Father John Hotze, Priest, and Judicial Vicar for the Catholic Diocese of Wichita, Roy Wenzl, national award-winning reporter for the Wichita Eagle and co-author of The Miracle of Father Kapaun, and William “Bill” Funchess, soldier and fellow POW who was there at Camp 5, all together to honor a great humanitarian.

Join host Jim Fausone and our two guests for an episode on the Air Force and Navy fleet condition and effects on National Security.

We hear from Heather “Lucky” Penney, former F-16 pilot and a Senior Resident Fellow at the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies. Penney talks about the aging air frames and needs of the Air Force.

Jim also talks with VADM Kevin Green (USN, ret) about Naval fleet readiness. Our guests discuss how fleet readiness impacts National Security.

(Previously Aired on 11/10/2020) Col. Clifford Worthy, the great-grandson of slaves, was one of the first African-American men of his generation to be accepted and excel as a Black Knight of the Hudson, a traditional nickname for West Point cadets.

In the late 1940s, the doors to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point were closed to most young African-American men. The few who had attended before were subjected to relentless abuse and few survived. Worthy took the chance of reaching out to U.S. Rep. John Dingell Sr., who had been a proud part of the New Deal in Washington, D.C., and was ready to unlock closed doors.

Col. Clifford Worthy’s commitment to faith, family, and service included his loving support of his son Mark, who was born with developmental disabilities at a time when they were not widely understood. That part of this memoir is already inspiring readers who share the journey of loved ones living with disabilities. Cliff talks to host Jim Fausone about life over 5 decades and the lessons he has learned.

(Previously Aired on 10/15/2019) On November 21, 2010, U.S. Marine Lance Corporal Kyle Carpenter was posted atop a building in violent Helmand Province, Afghanistan, when an enemy grenade skittered toward Kyle and a fellow Marine. Without hesitation, Kyle jumped on the grenade and somehow lived, while severely injured, to speak about it. You Are Worth It is a story of rebirth. In 2014, Kyle was awarded the nation’s highest military decoration, the Medal of Honor, for his “singular act of courage” on that rooftop in Afghanistan, an action which had been reviewed exhaustively by the military. Kyle became the youngest living recipient of the award - and only the second living Marine so honored since Vietnam. You Are Worth It is a memoir about the war in Afghanistan and Kyle’s heroics, and it is also a manual for living. Organized around the credos that have guided Kyle’s life (from “Don’t Hide Your Scars” to “Call Your Mom”), the book encourages us to become our best selves in the time we’ve been given on Earth. Above all, it’s about finding purpose, regardless of the hurdles that may block our way. Kyle discusses his family, military service, his Marines, and overcoming his struggles by taking one small step at a time with host Jim Fausone.

This week’s first guest is photographer and US Navy Veteran Richard Sherman

Richard Sherman is a Navy Gulf War veteran and a professional photographer who recently published “Never Home: Remembering the Military Heroes Who Never Returned,” which honors the more than 207,000 men and women who are memorialized in America’s 23 overseas WWI and WWII cemeteries. He traveled and photographed all 23 American overseas WWI and WWII military cemeteries over the course of six years (8 trips to 3 continents): from Normandy to Tunisia, from Florence to Manila, and from England to Luxembourg. The book features more than 50 biographies of those who never made it home: from names you know, like Roosevelt and Patton, to ones you never heard of like Vinsant and Summers. The book includes more than 225 photos including several of his images from the 75th anniversary ceremony of the D-Day landings at Normandy American Cemetery.

The Foreword of the book was written by Vice Admiral Doug Crowder (Ret.), the former Commander of the US Navy’s 7th Fleet (Asia).

Learn more about the book here.

We also hear from Robert S. Colella, President and Founder of The Debrief Project

Dale speaks with Bobby Colella, who served in the United States Army Infantry for 21 years reaching the rank of First Sergeant. Bobby’s service includes 27 months leading soldiers in combat during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2004-2005 (Ramadi/Fallujah) and 2005-2006 (Baqubah). After retiring as a First Sergeant in 2010, Bobby was recruited by a private contractor and supported both Operation Iraqi Freedom from Kuwait and Operation Enduring Freedom in Kabul, Afghanistan. After two years overseas, Bobby returned to Central Florida and continued his work with PEO-STRI in Research Park as a Subject Matter Expert and later as a Military Analyst for the U.S. Army’s SOF Training Systems, Engagement Skills Trainer Program until January 2016.

In 2012, Bobby published “Battle for Baqubah: Killing Our Way Out.” In 2016, Bobby shifted his career toward the healthcare industry, where he held the position of director of new hire training and operations for AdventHealth’s Central and East Florida Divisions (15 hospitals and growing). Though Bobby’s post-military career was focused on supporting the training of newly hired nurses and other clinical staff, Bobby has maintained his passion for taking care of the troops and giving back to his community through various volunteer programs including assisting with establishing the Orlando and Daytona Beach Chapters of Team Red, White, and Blue and current administrative director for Redemption Community Biker Church in Daytona Beach. Bobby recently retired from AdventHealth to focus on The Debrief Project and its mission.

Learn more about The Debrief Project here, and tune in to hear from Bobby himself about this nonprofit aimed at helping Veterans tell their stories.

The Six Triple Eight is a Netflix film directed by Tyler Perry that tells the inspirational story of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, an all-Black, all-female unit in World War II. Tasked with clearing a massive backlog of mail for American troops in Europe, these women overcame racial and gender discrimination to boost soldiers' morale and highlight the significant contributions of Black women in the war.

Confirming our earlier reporting, the movie will be released globally on Friday, December 20th, 2024. The film will also screen in select theaters beginning December 6th.

(Previously Aired on 10/13/2020) LCDR Reuben Keith Green (ret.) from Florida talks about his book "Black Officer, White Navy" (2017). It is likely the first memoir of a Black naval officer who rose from high school dropout to unrestricted line officer in the post-Vietnam War era. Reuben's unique career path/insightful analysis of personal experiences and others give a clear picture of what was happening in the service. Including how the forces of discrimination, institutional denial, and damage control efforts can make a career in the military fraught with obstacles. But there are also opportunities for well-qualified minorities of any gender, race, or ethnic origin. Reuben talks about what it was like being a minority sailor or officer between 1975 and the mid-1990s. Great opportunities and great challenges are explained and explored by LCDR Green with the host Jim Fausone.

Dr Helen Burgess and Dr Alyson Zalta discuss their research involving morning light or blue light therapy on veterans and its impact on pain, depression and PTSD. The early studies suggest that clinical meaningful reduction in PTSD symptoms may occur when using this simple, at home , non pharmaceutical therapy. Dr. Burgess explains the type of light needed and its daily and weekly usage. Dr. Zalta explains what additional research is necessary. They discuss this promising therapy with Veterans Radio producer Jim Fausone .

GET ANSWERS FROM OUR EXPERT PANEL!

• Jim Fausone – Host of Veterans Radio
• Brig. Gen. Carol Ann Fausone (ret) – Legal Help for Veterans
• David Saims – Director, Washtenaw County Veterans Affairs
• Brian Hayes – Director of Communications, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System

Join Jim and the rest of the panel for our live broadcast

Julie Dyer, a 20-year Navy veteran, started her promotional business while on ship. She has owned Express Yourself Promotional Products, LLC for over 20 years, and is an NVBDC-certified veteran-owned business! Julie talks to host Jim Fausone about the value of certification and the importance of the National Veterans Business Development Council (NVBDC.org).

Army veteran Steve White talks about ROTC, six years of military service, and a 30-year career in franchising for multiple companies. Steve is now President of PuroClean USA a disaster restoration company that is veteran-friendly. Steve talks with host Jim Fausone about what he learned in the military that applies to business today.

Colonel Stephen Perkins talks about Major General Oliver W. Dillard, Sr.'s career from enlisted to officer. Ultimately rising to Major General in the U.S. Army focusing on military intelligence. Perkins explains Dillard's commands from Korea, Germany, and stateside. Dillard was the first black general officer in the Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff for Intelligence. Dillard retired in 1980. Perkins chats with host Jim Fausone on this remarkable military officer.

Join us for a discussion with three Veterans Radio board members on their experiences as women in the military, serving in operational and technical roles, the transition to civilian life, and more. Featuring:

• Kate Melcher, U.S. Army (2005-2020)
• Dr. Christine Cook, Army National Guard & U.S. Army Res. (1986-2016)
• Lydia Pinkham, U.S. Coast Guard (2011-2017)

ILLUMINATE - ADVOCATE - EDUCATE

Our mission since 2003 has been to advocate for the veteran and provide education for veterans and their families along with illuminating the extraordinary actions of ordinary people who have gained and preserved the freedom all Americans enjoy - and the ultimate price that is often paid.

Veterans Radio includes our listeners' stories and experiences, not only while in the service, but afterward as well. Interviews with guest speakers and authors are a weekly feature.

Veterans Radio is a production of Veterans Radio America, Inc. a 501(3) non-profit corporation. EIN # 83-2746681

Navy Capt. John Cordle and LCDR Reuben Keith Green, both retired, talk with Veterans Radio host Jim Fausone. They discuss the lack of African-American nominations to the U.S. Naval academy, the importance of officer diversity, and more Black ensigns graduating from the academy so that 30 yrs later there will be more Black Admirals.

Dr. Mark Moyar has written books on military history involving Vietnam, special operations, counterinsurgency and recently "Masters of Corruption". He is a professor at Hillsdale College and heads it Center for Military History and Strategy. He talks to host Jim Fausone about lessons learned .

US Army Master Sgt Earl Plumlee (ret) received the Medal of Honor for his actions in Afghanistan in 2013. He talks about his battle actions, being terrified of wearing the medal, daily efforts to live up to the MOH, and life long quest to be worthy and measure up with host Jim Fausone.