Veterans Radio

Gen. Larry O. Spencer, USAF (ret.), was born and raised in a tough inner-city street in southeast Washington D.C. Both parents lived in the rural south under Jim Crow and "separate but equal" laws. Spencer's father was a career Army soldier who lost his left hand during the Korean War and suffered from post-traumatic stress. Growing up Larry suffered from being overweight, having poor self-esteem, and a bleak outlook for the future. He experienced summers on his grandfather's tobacco farm, which shaped him as did inner-city sports and fights. Quite by chance, Spencer enlisted in the U.S. Air Force where he continued to struggle with the racial turmoil of the 1970s. He talks about how various NonCom's took him under their wing and mentored him with host Jim Fausone. He moved up the ranks in Financial Management to become a 4-Star General in the Pentagon.

GHOST ARMY OF WWII AWARDED CONGRESSIONAL GOLD MEDAL Host Dale Throneberry and guest: Rick Beyer, author and filmmaker The existence of the Ghost Army was top secret for more than 50 years until it was declassified in 1996. That’s when the public first learned of the creative, daring techniques the Ghost Army employed to fool and distract the enemy about the strength and location of American troops, including the use of inflatable tanks, sound effects, radio trickery and impersonation. The Congressional Gold Medal is Congress’s utmost expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions by individuals or institutions. Dating back to the American Revolution, The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest distinction Congress can bestow. There are just nine surviving Ghost Army veterans scattered throughout the U.S. https://www.ghostarmy.org/

The newly appointed Commandant of Cadets at the Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina, talks about its history and current activities. Col. Thomas Gordon (ret.) USMC is the new Commandant and is a graduate of the Citadel. He talks about his dream job at his alma mater with host Jim Fausone.

THIS WEEK’S PROGRAM Dale Throneberry, CW2 Helicopter Pilot in Vietnam in 1969, hosts this month’s VA Benefits program hour with the following guests: Matthew Raad, LMSW – Community Engagement & Partnership Coordinator, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare SystemBrian Hayes – Communications Director, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare SystemBrig Gen Carol Ann Fausone (ret) – Legal Help for VeteransMichael G. Smith, Jr. – Director of Washtenaw County (MI) Dept. of Veteran Affairs Matthew Raad discusses the initiatives to build partnerships within communities and counties to collaborate with the VA for services to the local veteran.

Lonnie Gaudet joined the Army in 2009, within a month of landing in Afghanistan was in his first IED explosion that resulted in brain trauma. The second IED explosion, six months later, resulted in the loss of his right leg. Lonnie talks about recovery, sports, family, and friends on the road to recovery since his discharge in August 2012. He offers some advice for those suffering from post-traumatic stress and depression. The power of a solid family unit, and recognizing when he is angry without cause, is discussed with host Jim Fausone.

Dr. Eric Fretz, a Faculty Lecturer at the University of Michigan, discusses the degree programs for Veteran Studies with: Jim Craig – University of Missouri – St. Louis, Veterans in Society; Veterans Studies AssociationErnest (Luke) McClees, PhD – Saint Leo University and Director, Military Affairs & ServicesTravis L. Martin, PhD – Author, Professor EKU, and Director, Kentucky Center for Veterans StudiesBruce Pencek, PhD – Professor, Virginia Tech, and Co-Founder VT Veterans in Society (ViS) initiative THE FUTURE OF VETERANS STUDIES This program is a follow up to the earlier one on Veteran Studies as a topic, journal, and association. In this episode we talk about: The Evolution of the Discipline of Veteran StudiesChallenges in creating and growing such academic programs (Majors, Minors, Certificates)Goals for the futureWill there be a PhD program in Veteran Studies in the future?

Marine Maxims is a collection of fifty principle-based leadership lessons that Col. Thomas J. Gordon (ret.) acquired commanding Marines over a career spanning three decades of service. Dealing with the complexities and challenges of the contemporary operating environment requires an internal moral compass fixed true. These maxims focus on developing inner citadels of character, moral courage, and the resilience to persevere in a contested domain where information is key. Its purpose is to provide future leaders with a professional development plan that will steel their resolve and enable them to lead with honor. We talk about Col. Gordon's career and leadership advice like "treat them like adults"; "don't be an ass" and "don't be in a hurry to make a bad decision." Tom discusses his lessons with host Jim Fausone. .

Join our guest Robin Hutton as we talk about her wonderful books about these award winning animals who served in the military. Sgt Reckless, the four-legged Marine braved minefields to deliver ammunition to her division on the firing sites. In one day alone, performing fifty-one trips up and down treacherous terrain, covering thirty-five miles, and rescuing wounded comrades-in-arms, Reckless demonstrated her devotion to the Marines who had become her herd. In War Animals: The Unsung Heroes of World War II you’ll meet: • Judy, the POW dog who helped her beloved human survive brutal Japanese prison camps • Cher Ami, the pigeon in WWI who nearly died delivering a message that saved American troops from death by friendly fire • Beauty, the “digging dog” who sniffed out Londoners buried in the wreckage of the Blitz—along with pets, including one goldfish still in its bowl! • Olga, the horse who braved shattering glass to do her duty in London bombings • Smoky, the Yorkshire terrier who did parachute jumps, laid communications wire through a pipe so small only she could navigate it, became the first therapy dog—and starred on a weekly TV show after the War • Simon, the war cat whose campaign against the “Mao Tse Tung” of the rat world saved food supplies and his ship’s crew • Chips, who guarded Roosevelt and Churchill during the Casablanca Conference, and the only dog to earn a Silver Star for his heroics The shining loyalty and courage of these heroes is a testimony to the enduring bond between us and the animals we love.

Keith King is a Vietnam-era Army Vet, and Founder and CEO at NVBDC, the nation's premier SD/VOB certification organization. He joins host Jim Fausone to discuss their exponential growth the last two years, as well as what veteran-owned businesses should expect in 2022.

ETHICAL LEADERSHIP How can you improve your leadership skills? What ethical dilemmas will you face as a manager, and how do you confront them? What can you do to become a leader your people will respect and trust to lead them in a crisis? These are questions that so many business leaders ask themselves today. And they’re the very same questions that Brig. General Joseph Medina (Ret.) faced during his time in the United States Marine Corps and the business world. Veterans, active-duty service members and their families are nearly 40% more likely to lose money to scams and fraud than the civilian population, according to a new AARP report. AARP surveyed the military community to learn about fake charities, bogus medical equipment claims, fraudulent records scams, and identity theft. Troy Broussard, a senior advisor to AARP’s Veterans and Military Families Initiative, speaks with host Jim Fausone on things to watch out for and ways to protect yourself.

Military veterans are 40% more likely to be victims of scams than the civilian population. AARP surveyed the military community to learn about fake charities, bogus medical equipment claims; fraudulent help on government forms, and identity theft. Troy Broussard, a senior advisor to AARP's Veterans and Military Families Initiatives, speaks with host Jim Fausone on things to watch out for and ways to protect yourself.

Dr. Rebecca Grant has been a regular contributor on veterans Radio since 2012. She is a Military Historian/Author/Commentator and President of IRIS Independent Research. She is a regular guest on Fox Business with Charles Payne and occasional appearances on Fox ‘n Friends to inform citizens of the facts related to global military status. In this interview Dr. Grant covers the Russia Ukraine conflict and many other areas of interest around the world – including China and Iran. Get the straight facts on what's really going on in the world right here on Veterans Radio..

Nathan Ainspan and Kristin Saboe compiled and edited a book to help HR directors and business owners understand the case for hiring veterans, Guard and Reserve members and military spouses. A variety of experts wrote chapters in a book that is full of good information, statistics and data. The authors tackle myths and stereotypes in the military veteran hiring space. Ainspan and Saboe go indepth on the challenges and rewards of hiring veterans with host Jim Fausone.

Happy Holidays to the active duty military at home and abroad! Part of this week’s program is a pre-recorded program about the history of the USO. It was founded in 1941 and is now in it’s 80th year of operations! Our 2012 interview with Mr. Hanson, former head of the USO, will be of interest to you. And on the page below you will find a link to their website and the CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS and financial support. When we support our active duty military men and women we are supporting them wherever they are and whatever their task – “a force for good in the world.” United Service Organizations (uso.org)

Dr. Laura E. Purdy received her medical training from the Uniformed Services University of Health Services. She spent 14 years in the Army. Now with MD Integrations, Purdy is assisting in the rollout of telehealth to a wider cross-section of health providers and patients. She talks about some of the challenges of telehealth (acceptance, security, technology) at a time when VA has increased its use by over 1000% post-pandemic. Dr. Purdy, now living in Tennessee, talks with host Jim Fausone about the changes that are coming to this health care delivery mechanism.

DECEMBER 19, 2021 Our radio broadcast with host Dale Throneberry has three guests. Don Milne, Stories Behind the Stars of WWIIAlexis Casiday, publishing stories from OEF/OIF veteransKeith King, Founder and CEO, National Veterans Business Development Council, aka NVBDC DON MILNE AND STORIES BEHIND THE STARS OF WWII We are doing something historic that has never been done before – we find volunteers to write short stories of the US World War II fallen. These stories will be available via a free smartphone app at any gravesite or memorial. Going forward, visiting any WWII fallen gravesite will come with a story and a photo. A MESSAGE FROM LEXI We are looking for Veterans from Operation Enduring Freedom/Operation Iraqi Freedom who have poems, journal entries, artwork, short stories, etc. from their time in service, deployed, or stateside to create a coffee table-style book. We want veterans to have the opportunity to tell their stories through the creative mediums of their choice. NATIONAL VETERANS BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL The NVBDC is the nation’s leading third party authority for certification of veteran owned businesses of all sizes and the corporations wanting to engage them.

How can you improve your leadership skills? What ethical dilemmas will you face as a manager, and how do you confront them? What can you do to become a leader your people will respect and trust to lead them in a crisis? These are questions that so many business leaders ask themselves today. And they're the very same questions that Brig. General Joseph Medina (Ret.) faced during his time in the United States Marine Corps and the business world. He discusses with host Jim Fausone his unique insight into the leadership style of a decorated Marine and business leader.

Host Jim Fausone and guests: Dr. Samuel Kalush, Vietnam Battalion Surgeon and Bronze and Silver Star RecipientLt. Dustin Picard, NOAA Corps Earth Science Specialists DR. SAM KALUSH – ARMY BATTLION SURGEON IN VIETNAM Dr. Samuel Kalush graduated from medical school in 1966. He was interning at Milwaukee County General in 1966-67 when Uncle Sam came calling. After a month of learning to be a medical officer, he was sent to Vietnam as a battalion surgeon overseeing a squad of 7 medics. He recounts his experiences in multiple firefights and what he learned from those experiences. The NOAA Corps is one of 8 US uniformed services. Its history goes back to 1807 as the civilian Coast Survey, and 1917 as the U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey Corps. In 1965 its ancestor Environmental Science Services Administration Corps came about and finally in 1970 it was named the NOAA Corps. Lt. Dustin Picard talks about the history/mission of the Corps, as well as its interesting and important work. The Corps has coordinated with the USCG, U.S. Navy, and other services at times. It supports the mission of NOAA and is today part of Homeland Security. Its missions involve ocean and coast survey work, fisheries compliance, ocean research, and weather aviation. Picard talks with former NOAA Corps officer Lt (j.g.) Jim Fausone.Dr. Sam Kalush

Adient is an international seating system manufacturer. It has a focus on increasing its supplier diversity including veterans. Adient is a National Business Development Council (NVBDC) sponsor and veteran advocate. Senior Manager Sherry Diccion discusses with host Jim Fausone supplier diversity and its involvement with NVBDC. All Veteran-Owned Businesses should listen in.

Listen in to this week's program where we talk with representatives from a few veteran owned businesses offerring Gifts For Veterans. Take a look at these veteran focused businesses and support them with a purchase. Authentically AmericanPinups for Vets“Mended Wings”OthersOverSelf™Military Writers Good ReadsVeterans Radio

Dr. Eric Fretz, a Faculty Lecturer at the University of Michigan, discusses the Journal of Veterans Studies with founders and JVS editorial team members: Mariana Grohowski, PhD – Editor-in-Chief, Journal of Veterans StudiesTravis L. Martin, PhD – Author, Professor EKU, and Director, Kentucky Center for Veterans StudiesBruce Pencek, PhD – Professor, Virginia Tech, and Co-Founder VT Veterans in Society (ViS) initiativeEric Hodges, PhD – Professor, Longwood University, TedX “The Moral Injury of War”

University of Maryland Global Campus offers award-winning academic programs and services for active-duty military service members, veterans, and military spouses and families. Dr. Harriet Smith, a USAF veteran, discusses UMGC and its Master's program just for service members and veterans. She discusses with host Jim Fausone the interesting coursework and how the soft skills learned in the military are recognized.

The Hispanic Veterans Leadership Alliance (HVLA) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization of senior leaders, military and civilian, committed to overcoming the profound lack of Hispanic diversity and inclusion throughout the senior ranks of the DoD. Its mission is to advance the inclusion of Latinos across all leadership levels in the US Armed Forces, military and civilian. Board members and retired Generals Medina and Martinez talk about the mission of HVLA, base renaming to recognize Hispanic veterans and the recently released US Air Force disparity report with host Jim Fausone.

BEYOND BELIEF: TRUE STORIES OF MILITARY CHAPLAINS “Beyond Belief” is a unique compilation of short stories by a team of authors and researchers. Herein you will find some of the most amazing stories ever told, each of them presented in an historically factual manner without hyperbole or literary license. Even more amazing is the fact that each of these stories is TRUE! The scene illustrated on the cover was chosen as a fitting example of what kind of stories we wanted to write for this book, and is a vivid and historically accurate depiction of a World War II event that in which four Army chaplains, each from different faiths, bonded based on what they had in common, to become close friends. The four gave their lives in the North Atlantic when their troop ship was sunk, going so far as to give their lifejackets to other men who had none. They became enshrined as “The Four Immortal Chaplains,” whose story is inspiring for decades. Within these pages you will find other stories of heroic Men of God who did unbelievable acts of courage and compassion. These are the stories that will leave you shaking your head in disbelief, proving as one author once wrote, “Truth is not only stranger than fiction, but far more interesting.” SHERRY DICCION, SR MGR OF GLOBAL SUPPLIER DIVERSITY, ADIENT Adient is a global manufacturer providing world class seat systems and components that offer safety, functionality, and comfort with proven quality. They have facilities located in Asia Pacific, Africa, Latin America, North America and Europe. Sherry Diccion is the Senior Manager of Global Supplier Diversity at Adient.

The Legion of Valor was federally chartered in 1890 then as the Medal of Honor Legion. It evolved to include recipients of the Distinguished Service Cross, Navy Cross, and Air Force Cross, as well as the Medal of Honor. Marine Colonel James J. Coolican (ret.) discusses the Legion’s mission and future as its members pass away. He points out the birth of Service Cross recipients in the Global War on Terror. Jim Coolican earned the Navy Cross in 1968 while in action at Hue, Vietnam. Coolican says he was just doing his job for his men. This son of the Pennsylvania coal mines has seen the world and served his country and Marines well. He gives a rare interview to host Jim Fausone.

OVER 900 HOURS OF PROGRAMS AND 1,800 STORIES "THE BEST OF VETERANS RADIO" - CELEBRATING 18 YEARS OF BROADCASTING Join Dale and Jim for their 18th Anniversary Program. Hear the opening from the very first Veterans Radio Program 15 November 2003. Guests include Kate Melcher, Executive Director of Fisher House Michigan, Bill Bruns, Progam Director of KMET, Dwight Zimmerman, author and contributor to Veterans Radio and much more.

Before college, Tom Norton started as a farm boy. After 9/11, he felt guilty that his family had a history of military service and he did not. Tom joined the Red Arrow Infantry Division, Michigan Army National Guard like his father, grandfather, and great grandfather before him. He served in Afghanistan and talks about values and service. He was elected to the local village office and is now running against Congressman Peter Meijer, also a veteran. Tom describes himself on his website www.tom.gop as "an America first, Conservative Veteran running for Congress as a Republican in Michigan's Third District." He talks to host Jim Fausone about his motivation and views on America.

Navy Reserve Captain Paul J. Ryan (ret) talks about the mission of the Michigan Military and Veteran Hall of Honor and its inductee class of 2021. Captain Ryan gives us a summary of a few of the 2021 Inductees: Catherine Farrell, Command Sergeants Major (ret), Army National GuardJeffrey Stitzel, Command Sergeants Major, US ArmyThomas Hass, Captain (ret), US Coast Guard The ceremony will be on November 19, 2021, at the Michigan History Museum in Lansing. Every branch of service is recognized, from enlisted members to retiring Generals. For more information: www.mimilitaryvethallofhonor.org WWII BATTALION – SISTERS IN ARMS Kaia Alderson’s historical fiction novel reveals the untold true story of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion (Six Triple Eight), the only all-Black battalion of the Women’s Army Corps who made the dangerous voyage to Europe to ensure American servicemen received word from their loved ones during World War II. Based on a true story of the 6888th Postal Battalion (the Six Triple Eight), Sisters in Arms explores the untold story of what life was like for the only all-Black, female U.S. battalion to be deployed overseas during World War II. Alderson discusses her research, the 6888th, and the potential for Congressional Gold Medal for the 6888th. For more information: www.kaiaalderson.com

United Methodist Reverend Dale White tells how he was recruited into the Navy and explains his 29 years of service. He spent 14 months in Iraq during 2005-2006. White explains to host Jim Fausone the duties of chaplains. He talks about the battle lessons and IEDs. With a little cajoling, he recounts the actions that led to him receiving the Combat Action Ribbon (CAR) and the Bronze Star.

Join our guests Mary Durst, Veterans Service Director from Livingston County (MI), Deanne Bonner Simpson from Legal Help For Veterans, Brian Hayes, Public Affairs Officer, VA Ann Arbor (MI) and Michael Smith, Washtenaw County (MI) Dept. of Veteran Affairs.

Navy Reserve Captain Paul J. Ryan (ret) talks about the mission of the Hall of Honor and its inductee class of 2021. The ceremony will be on November 19, 2021, at the Michigan History Museum in Lansing. Paul discusses with host Jim Fausone some of the inductees including Catherine Farrell, Jeffrey Stitzel, and Thomas Hass. Every branch of service is recognized, from enlisted tour members to retiring Generals may earn a spot in the Hall.

AMERICAN VETERAN AMERICAN VETERAN is a new, four-part PBS series exploring the veteran experience. Created to help bridge the gap between those who have served and those who have not, the series features personal stories from an incredibly diverse group from all branches of the service covering multiple issues of life in the military. It premieres on Tuesdays, October 26-November 16. CHARIOTS IN THE SKY A Novel – US Assault Helicopter Pilots in Vietnam Captain Taylor St. James, along with his friends and comrades, as they fly harrowing combat missions, cover for each other, deal with bad weather, mechanical problems and human error during the later part of the Vietnam War. When not flying, they are harassed by rocket attacks and sappers in the wire. The Author Larry Freeland served in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne Division as an Infantry Officer and CH-47 helicopter pilot. He has been a banker, financial consultant, and College Instructor in Management and Leadership Development. He is now retired and living in North Georgia. He enjoys fundraising for Cystic Fibrosis, volunteering for Veterans events, driving his Corvette, and writing books. For more information: www.larryfreeland.com

Paul Ryan talks about the Michigan Military and Veterans Hall of Honor with host Jim Fausone. Their vision is to create a Hall of Honor for Michigan citizens who have distinguished themselves through military service and/or public service as a veteran of the Armed Forces of the United States. It seeks to recognize our most distinguished service members and veterans through a Hall of Honor induction while creating a means and location to educate future generations of Michigan’s military legacy. The November 19, 2021, ceremony in Lansing, Michigan will recognize people like President Gerald Ford, Maj. General Lucius Theus and Lt. Aleda Lutz.

This week’s host is Dale Throneberry. His guest is James Kitfield, author of “In the Company of Heroes”. IN THE COMPANY OF HEROES An award-winning military journalist tells the amazing stories of twenty-five soldiers who’ve earned the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military award. In the Company of Heroes features in-depth narrative profiles of the twenty-five post-9/11 Medal of Honor awardees who served in Afghanistan and Iraq. This book focuses 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.

Dr. Samuel Kalush graduated from medical school in 1966. He was interning at Milwaukee County General in 1966-67 when Uncle Sam came calling. After a month of learning to be a medical officer, he was sent to Vietnam as a battalion surgeon overseeing a squad of 7 medics. He recounts his experiences in multiple firefights and what he learned from those experiences. Dr. Kalush went on to have a distinguished career as a heart surgeon and cardiologist in Wisconsin, Michigan, and Florida. For his actions in those firefights he received the Bronze Star and Silver Star, quite unusual for a surgeon.

A HALL OF HONOR HONOR AND EDUCATE The Michigan Military and Veterans Hall of Honor seeks to not only honor Michigan military veterans, but to also educate our citizens about military service as a basic and honorable duty of citizenship–to stir patriotic spirit, a sense of civic duty, and a sense of honor that calls people to arms. WHY A HALL OF HONOR? Honor is a core military virtue that, unlike fame, implies true worth, genuine virtue, and real achievement – valorous and meritorious. As a Hall of Honor, we seek to recognize and honor military veterans, with due attention to their true military and civic virtue and achievement. HISPANIC VETERANS LEADERSHIP ALLIANCE MISSION: OUR MILITARY LEADERS SHOULD MIRROR THE FACE OF AMERICA, REFLECTING THE ENLISTED TROOPS THEY LEAD AND THE PUBLIC THEY PROTECT. The Hispanic Veterans Leadership Alliance (HVLA) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization of senior leaders, military and civilian, committed to overcoming the profound lack of Hispanic diversity and inclusion throughout the senior ranks of the DoD. Our mission is to advance the inclusion of Latinos across all leadership levels in the US Armed Forces, military and civilian.

Jeff King is the Operations and Certification Manager for NVBDC. The National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC) was established in 2013 to address the growing need to identify and certify both service disabled and veteran owned businesses (SD/VOBs) in the government and commercial (corporate) marketplace. The NVBDC administers a rigorous certification process designed to withstand the scrutiny of governmental and corporate entities seeking to utilize certified SD/VOBs. Jeff talks about the new programs at NVBDC, its working with other certifying organizations for Women, Hispanics, Minorities, etc. He talks with host Jim Fausone about growing up with a father active in the VVA and his own US Army service as a Bradley Gunner.

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 [email protected] or you can text her at 615-692-4103.

Join our regular guests Brig. General (ret) Carol Ann Fausone from Legal Help For Veterans, Brian Hayes, Public Affairs Officer, VA Ann Arbor (MI) and Michael Smith, Washtenaw County (MI) Dept. of Veteran Affairs. They along with host Dale Throneberry will bring you up to date on what’s going on at the VA and answer your questions regarding any and all benefits you may be entitled to. An important note for all veterans => Keep your VA contact information (phone number, address, email address) and marital status updated in a timely fashion. This assures that you will receive notifications from the VA and enables the VA to administer to your needs.

The NOAA Corps is one of 8 US uniformed services. Its history goes back to 1807 as the civilian Coast Survey, and 1917 as the U.S. Coast and Geodetic Survey Corps. In 1965 its ancestor Environmental Science Services Administration Corps came about and finally in 1970 it was named the NOAA Corps. Lt Dustin Picard talks about the history/mission of the Corps, as well as its interesting and important work. The Corps has coordinated with the USCG, U.S. Navy, and other services at times. It supports the mission of NOAA and is today part of Homeland Security. Its missions involve ocean and coast survey work, fisheries compliance, ocean research, and weather aviation. Picard talks with former NOAA Corps officer Lt (j.g.) Jim Fausone.

Kaia Alderson’s historical fiction novel reveals the untold true story of the Six Triple Eight, the only all-Black battalion of the Women’s Army Corps who made the dangerous voyage to Europe to ensure American servicemen received word from their loved ones during World War II. Based on a true story of the 6888th Postal Battalion (the Six Triple Eight), Sisters in Arms explores the untold story of what life was like for the only all-Black, female U.S. battalion to be deployed overseas during World War II. Kaia discusses her research, the 6888th, and the Congressional Gold Medal with host Jim Fausone.

REBECCA GRANT, MILITARY ANALYST, IRIS RESEARCH 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. Since founding IRIS Independent Research, she has specialized in research for government and aerospace industry clients ranging from analysis of military campaigns to projects on major technology acqusition such as the B-21 bomber. Dr. Grant has written over 100 articles for Air Force Magazine and appears regularly on the Smithsonian Channel, Fox News, CNN, Veterans Radio and other media outlets talking about airpower and national security. She has flown with the United States Air Force in the T-38, E-3 AWACS, B-52, F-16 Aggressors, F-15 in Exercise Cope North and in the B-2 Spirit bomber. Listen to our past programs with Dr. Rebecca Grant

Many service members do not receive the Purple Heart while in service. As they or family members look back years later, they often attempt to receive the Purple Heart. Nurse and veteran Carol Ann Fausone, a veterans advocate, discusses the regulations and requirements to qualify for the Purple Heart. The retired Brigadier General discusses some of her experience helping veterans look into qualifications, as well as working with the Awards and Decorations Branch at Fort Knox.

VOLLANO APPEALS A DSC TO BE UPGRADED TO MEDAL OF HONOR Someone has to promote a Medal of Honor review. William Vollano is that person for US Army Lt. Col. Charles Kettles (ret.) who received the Distinguished Service Cross (DSC) for his heroic action flying four choppers in to save 44 men in Vietnam in May 1967. Almost 50 years later, Bill Vollano recorded Charlie tell his story as part of the Veterans History Project for the Library of Congress. As a volunteer, Bill has recorded about 75 veteran stories. After hearing Charlie’s story, Bill decided that the DSC was insufficient recognition and began a 5 year journey to have Kettles package reviewed for ultimate upgrade to the MOH. “LEAVE NO MAN BEHIND” Author Tony Brooks gives a first-hand account of the daring recovery of Turbine 33and the subsequent search for the remaining compromised Navy SEAL recon team—one of whom was Marcus Luttrell, the lone survivor. The Rangers were up against lack of intel, treacherous terrain, violent weather, and an enemy that was raised to fight. Tony Brooks lived—and many of his fellow Rangers died—by the axiom, “Leave No Man Behind.” He is the first to tell the story other books and films have omitted, one of overcoming overwhelming odds to accomplish a mission: to bring every American soldier home.

Navy veteran Roger Yoder talks about his navy career and post-retirement passions. He has compiled the Ultimate Major League Baseball book on the Detroit Tigers. He discusses this with host Jim Fausone.

This week’s guests during our one hour radio broadcast with host Dale Throneberry: Michael Gier, Producer of “Healing the Heroes of 9-11” HEALING THE HEROES OF 9-11 Michael Gier, producer, shares the 5 personal reflections of heroes from September 11, 2001. “Healing the Heroes of 9-11” is directed/produced by Michael Gier and brought to you by 22Zero, a nonprofit organization that has helped thousands of military veterans and first responders struggling with PTS. The film features five 9-11 first responders as they discuss what they experienced and how it’s impacted their lives the last 20 years. Melissa Engle, Therapeia CounselingIt is Suicide Awareness Month. How appropriate given the approaching 20th anniversary of 9-11 and the current uneasy feelings of veterans, active duty, and the general public following the withdrawal of Allied support for the Afghanistan people, Americans, correspondents, and others at risk of Taliban terror.Jeff King, Operations and Compliance at NVBDC

In Breaking Ice and Breaking Glass, Vice Admiral Sandy Stosz USCG (ret) draws upon her forty years of extensive experience and wisdom to provide tools that will help leaders reach their goals and succeed at every level. Character-centered, proven leadership principles emerge from these engaging, personal stories that teach leaders how to find, and then become, an inspiring mentor; implement successful diversity, inclusion, and equity programs; successfully lead in a complex environment; and much more. Sandy talks about core values instilled by her grandparents; being quietly competent, prepared, persevering and Semper Paratus. The Admiral then talks with host Jim Fausone about the expanding and evolving missions of the USCG in the Persian Gulf, Arctic, and South China Sea.

Join host, Jim Fausone, and our regular guests Brig. General (ret) Carol Ann Fausone from Legal Help For Veterans, Brian Hayes, Public Affairs Officer, VA Ann Arbor (MI) and Michael Smith, Washtenaw County (MI) Dept. of Veteran Affairs. They along with host Jim Fausone will bring you up to date on what’s going on at the VA and answer your questions regarding any and all benefits you may be entitled to. Our guests on this program: Brig. Gen. Carol Ann Fausone (ret), Legal Help for VeteransMichael G. Smith, Jr., Director of Washtenaw County (MI) Dept. of Veteran AffairsBrian Hayes, Public Affairs Officer, VA Ann Arbor Michigan

Army Ranger Tony Brooks talks about why he joined, Ranger training and the reality of a recovery operation and secondary rescue efforts for Navy Seal Marcus Luttrell. On June 28, 2005, a four-man Navy SEAL reconnaissance team under Operation Red Wings was ambushed in northeastern Afghanistan.. A quick reaction force was dispatched. Turbine 33, carrying eight Navy SEALs and eight members of the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, was struck by a rocket-propelled grenade―careening the dual rotor Chinook toward the rugged peak of Sawtalo Sar. The result was the single deadliest incident in Special Operations history at the time. Commanders called on the largest element of US Special Forces, the 75th Ranger Regiment. The rescue mission: Operation Red Wings II. Author Dr.Tony Brooks gives a first-hand account of the daring recovery of Turbine 33 and the subsequent search for the remaining compromised Navy SEAL recon team―one of whom was Marcus Luttrell, the lone survivor. The Rangers were up against lack of intel, treacherous terrain, violent weather, and an enemy that was raised to fight. Tony Brooks lived by the axiom, “Leave No Man Behind.” He is the first to tell the story other books and films have omitted, one of overcoming overwhelming odds to accomplish a mission: to bring every American soldier home. Tony talks with host Jim Fausone and paints a vivid picture of Army Ranger training and the strain of the mission.

Dale, UH1-H pilot in Vietnam, talks with author Colin P. Cahoon about his most recent book - Mended Wings. Follow the lives of ten Purple Heart reciepients as they relate the Vietnam War experience from their perspective as helicopter pilots. Huey slicks, Charlie model gunships, Loaches and Cobras are all here. Get to know the generation of men who fought with pride, determination, skill, and courage only to be shunned when they brought their battered bodies and haunting memories home. Their fathers and uncles were heralded as the “greatest generation.” Meet the forgotten generation.