Veterans Radio

Chris Cauley, the director of the John Dingell VA Medical Center in Detroit, talks to host Jim Fausone about the staffing and patient care improvements at the VAMC.

This week we discuss mental and physical health issues and important research being conducted to help. Dr. Alyson Zalta & Dr. Helen Burgess discuss light therapyDr. 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.Read more about the study here. Dr. Brandy Hill discusses PFAS and how it affects VeteransAir Force veteran Dr. Brandy Hill talks about her research on PFAS exposure of military service members and recent study to be undertaken by the VA on PFAS and kidney cancer. Dr. Hill introduces PFAS, where they are found in the military environment, and potential health effects with host Jim Fausone.

Story of a medic in Afghanistan. On June 25, 2011, Sgt. Julia Bringloe, with C Company, 3-10 General Support Aviation Battalion, was the medic for the four-person crew aboard a Black Hawk helicopter. The crew was one of two Army medevac teams tasked with supporting Operation Hammer Down in Afghanistan’s Watahpor Valley. Bringloe’s job was to exit the helicopter — suspended from a cable when necessary — and recover the casualties, then provide them lifesaving treatment while the helicopter flew to a medical facility.

GET ANSWERS FROM OUR EXPERT PANEL!Dale Throneberry – Founder and Host of Veterans RadioBrig. Gen. Carol Ann Fausone (ret) – Legal Help for VeteransBrian Hayes – Director of Communications, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare SystemGinny Creasman – Executive Director, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare SystemChris W. Cauley – Executive Director, VA Detroit Healthcare SystemJoin Dale and the rest of the panel for our live broadcast on the first Sunday of every month at 5:00pm ET or stream later on your preferred podcast platform.Topics included: Vet Connect, Homeless Vets, Virtual Appointments, Outpatient Facilities, Medical records.

Gregory "Pappy" Boyington (December 4, 1912 – January 11, 1988) was an American combat pilot who was a United States Marine Corps fighter ace during World War II. He received the Medal of Honor and the Navy Cross. A Marine aviator with the Pacific fleet in 1941, Boyington joined the "Flying Tigers" (1st American Volunteer Group) of the Republic of China Air Force and saw combat in Burma in late 1941 and 1942 during the Second Sino-Japanese War.In September 1942, Boyington rejoined the Marine Corps. In early 1943, he deployed to the South Pacific and began flying combat missions in the F4U Corsair fighter. On August 14, 1943, he took command of Marine fighter squadron VMF-214 ("Black Sheep").In January 1944, Boyington, outnumbered by Japanese "Zero" planes, was shot down into the Pacific Ocean after downing one of the enemy planes. He was captured by a Japanese submarine crew and was held as a prisoner of war for more than a year and a half. He was released shortly after the surrender of Japan.The television series Baa Baa Black Sheep was inspired by Boyington and his men in the "Black Sheep" squadron. It ran for two seasons in the late 1970s.

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. HymelKevin 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’ConnorRobert 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.

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’s first guest is photographer and US Navy Veteran Richard ShermanRichard 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 ProjectDale 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.

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.

This week’s first guest is Major General James W. Lukeman from the MCHFMajor General James W. Lukeman, USMC (Ret.), is the President and CEO of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation (MCHF). His distinguished 40-year career included assignments as Rifle and Weapons Platoon Commander in Alpha Company and 81mm Mortar Platoon Commander, 1st Battalion, 2nd Marines; Assistant Operations Officer and Company Commander of Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 6th Marines; Executive Officer of 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines; and Operations Officer, 1st Marine Division. He commanded 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines and served as the Assistant Chief of Staff, G-7 and G-3 for the 1st Marine Division in Iraq during Operation IRAQI FREEDOM. Possible discussion topics include: In his role at the MCHF, he leads efforts to preserve and promote the history, traditions, and culture of the Marine Corps through educational initiatives and the National Museum of the Marine Corps. The National Museum of the Marine Corps has introduced two new galleries showcasing hundreds of artifacts from all primary U.S. Marine Corps operations from post-Cold War through Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. The Marine Corps is also gearing up to celebrate its 250th anniversary next year. To commemorate this momentous occasion, MCHF is celebrating nationwide through cake-cutting ceremonies and many other events.Major General Lukeman can also shed light on the transition from active duty to civilian life. Drawing from his extensive combat experience and command roles, he can offer powerful insight into making decisions under pressure and leading in different environments. Dale also talks with Marc Leepson, author and returning guestWe are also joined by Marc Leepson, arts editor and senior writer and columnist for The VVA Veteran, the national magazine published by the VVA.Leepson returns to Veterans Radio once more to discuss his new book, “The Unlikely War Hero: A Vietnam War POW’s Story of Courage and Resilience in the Hanoi Hilton.” Learn more about Leepson here, and see some of his other books on his website.

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.

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

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.

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.

GET ANSWERS FROM OUR EXPERT PANEL!Dale Throneberry – Founder and Host of Veterans RadioBrig. Gen. Carol Ann Fausone (ret) – Legal Help for VeteransDr. 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 ACTCamp LejeuneHomeless Veterans Emergency Help Number: (877) 424-3838What to do about VA Claim DenialsSpousal BenefitsAnd much more.

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.

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:The Vietnam War: A Military History by Geoffrey WawroDrafted by Rick ParkerThe Heart That Fed by Carl SciacchitanoIf I Don't Laugh, I'll Cry by Molly StillmanDiplomats at War by Charles TrueheartThe Women by Kristin HannahHome Before Morning by Lynda Van DevanterHealing Wounds by Diane Carlson EvansFound by Jack McLeanLoon by Jack McLeanThe Face of the Enemy by David ChungIn the Shadow of Vietnam: The Gallant Life of Fr.Phillip Salois. by Julian Ayotte, Paul Caranci, and Fr. Phillip SaloisSend Me: The True Story of a Mother at War. By Shannon KentTeam America: Patton, MacArthur, Marshall, Eisenhower, and the World They Forged. By Robert L. O’ConnellJeep Show by Robert B. O’ConnorVeterans Benefits for You: Get What You Deserve. By Dr. Paul LawrenceIf I Don’t Laugh, I’ll Cry by Molly StillmanThe Heart That Fed by Carl SciacchitanoDiary of A Young Man: 1968-1969: Coming of Age at a Cultural Crossroads. By Dan DanaAlways 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 ZakiI Will Tell No War Stories: What Our Fathers Left Unsaid About World War II. By Howard MansfieldThe Unlikely War Hero: A Vietnam War POW's Story of Courage and Resilience in the Hanoi Hilton. by Marc LeepsonAll of these books can be found online or at your favorite bookstore. Enjoy!

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 .

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

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.

Our first guest this week is Dr. Christine LaMarreDr. 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 VeteranRev. 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.

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.

GET ANSWERS FROM OUR EXPERT PANEL!Jim Fausone – Host of Veterans RadioBrig. Gen. Carol Ann Fausone (ret) – Legal Help for VeteransDavid Saims – Director, Washtenaw County Veterans AffairsBrian Hayes – Director of Communications, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare SystemJoin Jim and the rest of the panel for our live broadcast

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.

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 KellermanThe 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.

Our first guest this week is Dr. Paul R. Lawrence, discussing VA Benefits access.Dr. Paul R. Lawrence is the former Under Secretary for Benefits at the US Department of Veterans Affairs, and the author of a recent book titled “Veterans Benefits for You: Get What You Deserve.” Dr. Lawrence talks with Dale about helping Veterans access their benefits. More about his book:We also talk with Dr. Rebecca Grant, national security analystDale also speaks with Dr. Rebecca Grant, a returning guest and longtime supporter of Veterans Radio. Dale and Dr. Grant discuss the state of affairs in the Middle East, the conflict in Gaza, and much more. Learn more about Dr. Grant and IRIS Independent Research here. Israel’s multi-front fight against IranGaza situation after killing of Sinwar and ceasefire talks status – not goodHezbollah goals and statusProspects for Israel retaliatory strike on Iran Nearly 40,000 US forces across the Middle East: al USAF fighter types including F-22s; US Navy destroyers plus aircraft carrier USS Abraham LincolnDestroyers and Marine amphibious ready group in the Mediterranean near LebanonB-2 strike on Houthis

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

This week’s show features the Michigan Military and Veterans Hall of HonorOur 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 InducteesEdgar Culbertson, U.S. Coast GuardOliver Dillard, U.S. ArmyMichael Hanks, U.S. Marine CorpsAndy Kubik, U.S. Air ForceKarl Richter, U.S. Air ForceHarry Stewart, U.S. Army Air Corps2024 Veteran InducteesBruce MacDonald, U.S. ArmyMichael Peck, U.S. ArmyRobert Secrist, Army National GuardStephanie Shannon, U.S. ArmyRobert Smith, U.S. ArmyGuy Stern, U.S. Army Learn more about the Hall of Honor and the Inductee ceremony here.

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.

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.

This episode highlights the individuals who will be honored at the upcoming 2024 Hall of Honor Ceremony on Friday, October 25th in Lansing, Michigan. These inductees represent the very best of our state's commitment to service. Learn more about:Lt. Col. Harry Stewart, a trailblazing Tuskegee Airman who broke barriers and fought with distinction in World War II.Lt. Col. Carl Richter, the youngest pilot to down a MiG during the Vietnam War.SSgt. Andrew Kubik, whose courageous actions turned the tide in battle against Taliban forces in Afghanistan.Edgar Culbertson, a Coast Guardsman that sacrificed his life in a heroic rescue attempt on the treacherous waters of Lake Superior.Maj. Gen. Oliver Dillard, a pioneering intelligence officer whose storied career paved the way for future generations.Sgt. Stephanie Shannon, a women's empowerment advocate.Maj. Gen. Bruce McDonald, whose leadership continues to benefit military endeavors in Michigan.MSgt. Guy Stern, a Richie Boy who has dedicated his life to preserving Holocaust history and supporting veterans.Don't miss out on the Michigan Military & Veterans 2024 Hall of Honor Induction Ceremony on Saturday, October 25th in Lansing, Michigan! For more inspiring narratives and to support our veterans, visit www.veteransradio.org.

This week’s program honors the late Michael J. Martin and his commitment to fellow Vietnam VeteransIn 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 [email protected] or you can text her at 615-692-4103.

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.

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 VeteransWe’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.

(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.

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.

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 5/25/2017) 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.

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.

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 McCrackenTodd 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.

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.

Jim Fausone talks to Phillip Fry of the All About Pigeons podcast about the use of pigeons to communicate in World War I and in particular about Cher Ami and her mission to help the Lost Battalion.

(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.

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.

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 RadioBrig. Gen. Carol Ann Fausone (ret) – Legal Help for VeteransDavid Saims – Director, Washtenaw County Veterans Affairs

(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.

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.

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.

(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.

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.