Veterans Radio

DON BENTLEY, ARMY APACHE HELICOPTER PILOT AND AUTHOR FORGOTTEN WAR A brotherhood born in battle is endangered by a deadly secret in the latest astonishing thriller from the New York Times bestselling author of Tom Clancy Zero Hour and Hostile Intent. As a team, Matt Drake and his partner, Frodo, have watched each other’s backs through some very dark days. But one thing they’ve never doubted was their commitment to each other…until now. Frodo has been accused of a war crime ten years after leaving Afghanistan. Matt is determined to prove his friend innocent, but what will he do when he finds that his closest friend has secrets he won’t share? The Full Story from Don Bentley KATHLEEN J. ANDERSON, USAF (RET) AND LEAD POLITICAL COMMENTATOR AT POLITICAL INSIDER Kathleen, aka Kat, provides her personal life summary: USAF Retired, Bronze Star recipient, outspoken veteran advocate. Hot mess mom to two monsters and wife to equal parts Saint and Artist husband. Writer, lifelong conservative, lover of all things American History. Ealier this month she wrote an opinion piece about the education of our youth in America. It was titled “Only 13% of 8th Graders Are Proficient in American History – We’re Seeing the Results.” If you want to connect with Kat she can be found on the website of Political Insider as well as her personal Twitter feed.

There is a lot of paperwork that goes into getting someone awarded the Medal of Honor. In Paris Davis's case, it involved lost MOH packages, racism and over a 50-year wait. Neil Thorne, a national historical and military researcher and Jim Moriarty, a lawyer and Marine, were part of the team that helped advance the case for Paris Davis. Thorne and Moriarty were the MOH sherpas carrying the load uphill to get to the mountain top. They explain to host Jim Fausone the behind-the-scene challenges, obstacles and lucky breaks that led to this much deserved award.

MILITARY MOMS – HOW DO THEY DO IT? Join host, Jim Fausone with this week's Veterans Radio. Jim talks with Staff Sgt Katrina Farley, US Army, 18 years of service and a mother of 3, and Lt Col Michelle Ruehl, USAF Reserves, 20 years of service and a mother of 2, will each talk about their military career and the advantages and challenges of being a mom in the military.

Bill Currence graduated from West Point in 1993. After his Army career, he has had a dynamic business career and is now consulting helping other businesses succeed. He talks about the value of membership in the National Business Development Council (NVBDC) with host Jim Fausone.

CHILDREN OF FALLEN PATRIOTS FOUNDATION Children of Fallen Patriots just celebrated its 20th anniversary and over that time has supported over 3000 children who have lost a parent in the line of duty. We honor the fallen by supporting their children and give them a bright future. We help them get all the VA funding they are entitled to, other private funding, and then fund the rest. We have provided almost $70 million in scholarships. Jeanette McMahon | Development Officer Colonel, U.S. Army, Retired Widow of LTC Mike McMahon Mom of 3 Scholarship Recipients For more information on Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation BILL CURRENCE, CORNERSTONE CONSULTING, A CERTIFIED VETERAN OWNED BUSINESS Currence is an Army Veteran who is passionate about OpEx, FIT and CCO’s impact on our customer’s sustainability in business and their communities. Bill is also a champion for National Veterans Business Development Council. NVBDC certifies veteran owned businesses (VOB). NVBDC certification enables VOBs to bid on government and corporate projects that require this certification. This is an $80 billion dollar market. For more information on Cornerstone Consulting Operation Song® empowers veterans, active-duty military members, and their families to tell their stories through the process of songwriting. With the help of professional songwriters, the veteran’s personal story is transformed into song.This month we are featuring songwriter Tom McElvain and retired police officer Kristian Lorusso collboration on "Lifeline".

Dr. Ike McKinnon talks about his start in life and how service in the USAF molded him and gave him a world view. Ike explains to host Jim Fausone how that world view and the values instilled by his family guided him in police work, in being Chief of Police in Detroit and its Deputy Mayor.

VA BENEFITS EXPERT PANEL Our LIVE monthly VA Benefits hour is scheduled for the last Sunday of every month. In April we have the following on our panel (left to right, top to bottom): Mike Cox from the Mike Cox Law Firm talking about the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune and what your options are if you were stationed there from 1953-1983. Carol Ann Fausone, Legal Help for Veterans Dale Throneberry, Founder and Host of Veterans Radio Brian Hayes, Ann Arbor VA Healthcare System We ended tody's program with an updated version of Lee Greenwood's "God Bless The USA" in collaboration with the United States Air Force Band, Singing Sargeants and Home Free. See it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Japc8M8RQw

Jim Dempsey served for over 28 years. Upon retirement, he got involved in helping veterans with disability claims at the DAV; became chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Michigan Veteran Trust Fund; served as Commander of the DAV for the Department of Michigan and has supported adaptive skiing and golf for veterans. He talks about all this and more with host Jim Fausone.

This week on Veterans Radio join host, Dale Throneberry, and his guests authors Bob Woolsey and Mark Benvenuto as we take a humorous look at their outrageous antics while attempting to serve our country. We all knew guys like these when we served. Many provided the comic relief we needed. We loved them then and we still do. BOB WOOLSEY – “THE GENERAL’S BRIEFER” A hilarious story based on the two year military experience of Bob Woolsey at the Pentagon. After ROTC, a Fulbright Grant to Germany, and law school, Bob finally enters the Army at the height of the Vietnam War. He is a klutz who, with a little brains, makes it through Basic Infantry Training, and is lucky enough to be assigned as an Oral Briefing Officer to the General Staff. His only duty is to announce the ultra–Top Secret world news every morning, from the hush–hush “Black Book.” He takes us through his personal hell at Fort Benning to his eventual triumph as the favorite newscaster to the Chief of Army Intelligence. MARK BENVENUTO – “TWISTED TALES FROM VMI” Mark Benvenuto takes a humorous irreverent look back at his four years at The Virginia Military Institute. “The West Point of the South” From the preface:” A word or two of caution, dear reader: This is a compilation of stories of times at VMI, a little college in Lexington, Virginia with a big foot print. Plenty of folks have written some memoir of their college years, but this is probably very different precisely because VMI is very different from most other schools. That can be a source of great pride or eternal puzzlement, depending on you point of view, and how sober you are when discussing it”

Educator and successful businesswoman, Erica Robertson, discusses life on Detroit's mean streets and opportunities created by the Navy for her with host Jim Fausone.

Dr. Rebecca Grant, Frequent guest on national news programs as well as Veterans Radio, provides fact-based global military analysis . These are some of the topics covered this week with Dr. Rebecca Grant: 1. Leaked Documents 2. War in Ukraine 3. Russia and China Alliance? 4.North Korea 5. India 6. The Phillipines 7. Military Hardware

Randall Liberty served for 24 years in the Army, Army National Guard, and Reserves, ultimately retiring as a Command Sgt. Major. His overseas assignments include Korea, Iraq, and Italy. Randall experienced some of the all-too-common transitional issues. However, he has a civilian career that spans the different sectors of law enforcement, 16 years as a Sheriff, four years as a prison warden, and now serves as Commissioner of the State of Maine Department of Corrections. Randall talks to host Jim Fausone about veterans and the legal system, as well as the need to give those incarcerated a second chance at redemption.

CAPTAIN JOHN L. KAUL (RET) – NAVY MAN FOR 26 YEARS Captain John L. Kaul (ret) served as a full time Catholic chaplain in the Navy for 26 years. He spent time with the Marines, Admirals and other chaplains of all faiths. Fr. Kaul was born in Wyandotte and attended Sacred Heart Seminary, Detroit, and St. John’s Provincial Seminary, Plymouth Township. He also attended Mercy College in Detroit. NAVY CAPTAIN DALE WHITE (RET) – COMBAT ACTION RIBBON AND BRONZE STAR RECIPIENT Reverend White’s approach to being a chaplain was a missionary who brings the church’s perspective and assurances of God’s grace to military personnel. “We have a unique way of presenting God to an audience of 18-to-22-year-olds,” he said. “We bring them God, many of them for the first time.” He did not expect the troops to come to him but for him to bring God to them. Thank you Rev. White for your service in the military and your continued service with your church! You can find more information on Home of Heroes website BEYOND BELIEF: TRUE STORIES OF MILITARY CHAPLAINS 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.

Attorney Mike Cox, a Marine, talks about Congressional action creating new limited rights to be compensated for drinking contaminated water at Camp LeJeune. Host Jim Fausone discusses the changes and deadlines with former Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox.

WARBIRDS OF GLORY MUSEUM Saving history by restoring WWII B-25 Sandbar Mitchell. Also mentoring youth while restoring the B-25 to flying condition. I will fly cross county to honor our veterans and those who fought for our freedom. For more Warbirds of Glory Museum infomation FEATURING THE SONG AND THE STORY OF DOMINIC SANSONE Listen to More Productions of Operation Song Doug Bradley: WHAT HAVE WE LEARNED? A COMPILATION OF OPINIONS A chorus of voices in Who’ll Stop the Rain—famous and anonymous, female and male, veteran and non-veteran, American and Vietnamese—suggests new possibilities for understanding the legacy of Vietnam and, ultimately, for bringing the men and women who served their country in that controversial war home for good. More Information from Doug Bradley

Army Veteran Mark Aldrich is 100% VA disability rated but has continuing problems with pain in his neck and back. His VA internist suggested he try the acupuncture clinic to see if it would help. Aldrich is now an advocate for Veteran acupuncture therapy. Dr. Kishor Patel is an internist with the VA at the Ann Arbor Medical Center. He has trained in acupuncture since 2016 and now teaches other medical professionals about Battle Field Acupuncture (BFA). Dr. Patel is a certified medical acupuncturist and discusses its benefits for pain relief and healing. Its value for mental health, stress relief, anxiety, and substance abuse are discussed. Aldrich and Patel discuss with host Jim Fausone the VA's acupuncture and Whole Health models.

In March we have the following on our panel: Host: Jim Fausone Carol Ann Fausone, Legal Help for Veterans Dale Throneberry, Founder and Host of Veterans Radio Brian Hayes, Ann Arbor VA Healthcare System Cheryl Allen, Ann Arbor VA Women’s Clinic Use this site to find the available health services and resources you have earned as a woman Veteran. Women Veterans Health Care Home (va.gov) 855-829-6636

Navy Captain Royce Williams is a retired US Naval Aviator. He is known for his solo dogfight with seven Soviet pilots during the Korean War, which, according to The San Diego Union-Tribune, has been called "one of the greatest feats in aviation history" by military experts. Royce recalls the mission and the dogfight with Soviet MIGs and the need to keep things confidential so as to not draw the Soviets into the Korean War. After 70 years, he received the Navy Cross from the Secretary of the Navy for his efforts. The 97 year old veteran talks about lessons learned and life with host Jim Fausone.

COL. CHRISTINE COOK, US ARMY WAR COLLEGE – “REMARKABLE” WOMEN’S ARMY CORPS HISTORY DURING THE COLD WAR. Over 150,000 American women served in the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) during World War 11. Members of the WAC were the first women other than nurses to serve within the ranks of the United States Army. Both the Army and the American public initially had difficulty accepting the concept of women in uniform. However, political and military leaders, faced with fighting a two-front war and supplying men and materiel for that war while continuing to send lend-lease material to the Allies, realized that women could supply the additional resources so desperately needed in the military and industrial sectors. Given the opportunity to make a major contribution to the national war effort, women seized it. By the end of the war their contributions would be widely heralded. Professor Cook holds a Ph.D. in History from Wayne State University, MA in Women and Gender Studies from Eastern Michigan University, and BA in English Literature from Princeton University. Her research and U.S. Army War College News Archives scholarship works to fill the gap in historical knowledge of women in the military. OTHERS OVER SELF – THE 2023 LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE From Shelly Rood “What’s great about this event is that we are lifting up military women by putting them on the stage as leadership experts, while also fulfilling the need for ongoing peer support within the military women community. Our event is geared towards all businesses professionals- military and civilian – seeking professional development.” Click here for all the details on the 2023 Leadership Conference for Women

In 2016, the USS Detroit commander was on Veterans Radio talking about the new LCS ships and what great promise the design held. Now in 2023, the Navy is scrapping most of the LCS fleet because of lack of effectiveness and maintenance costs. Bryan Clark, Senior Fellow at the Hudson Institute, talks to host Jim Fausone about the problems the LCS have and the costly boondoogle this platform became. Clark gives his insight to the Chinese naval forces and what the US Navy is doing to counter the Chinese buildup.

TIM KOTULAK AND WHY HE SERVES WITH TEAM RUBICON Navy veteran talks about his mental health challenges, life after service, and finding a better life that includes voluntering with Team Rubicon. Tim Kotulak deployed with Team Rubicon to Florida after Hurricane Ian and talks about the work and experience with host Jim Fausone. If Tim’s story has inspired you to inquire about serving with Team Rubicon, you can find more information in the link below. Team Rubicon | Built to Serve BRYAN CLARK – CENTER FOR DEFENSE CONCEPTS AND TECHNOLOGY Bryan Clark of the Hudson Institute reveals US Navy ship planning and procurement issues including the failed LCS platform and building to address the rise of China’s navy. THE LCS FLEET’S SHORT LIFE In 2016 the USS Detroit commander was on Veterans Radio talking about the new LCS ships and what great promise the design held. Now in 2023, the Navy is scrapping most of the LCS fleet because of lack of effectiveness and maintenance costs. Bryan Clark , Senior Fellow at the Hudson Institute talks to host Jim Fausone about the problems the LCS have and the costly boondoogle this platform became. Clark also provides insight to the Chinese naval forces and what the US Navy is doing to counter the Chinese buildup. More Information from the Hudson Institute

Nick Wilson, Chief Revenue Officer for Legion Logistics, talks with host Jim Fausone about the company, its veteran owner and why NVBDC certification as a veteran owned business was so important to Legion and the power of NVBDC networking.

David Kent – Nashville SongwriterDave Bray USA – Rock ‘n Roll Patriot, Songwriter and PerformerNick Wilson, Chief Revenue Officer, Legion Logistics The Operation Song Alumni Group has been meeting for their spring ’23 songwriting sessions and the fruit of their most recent session (February 3, 2023) is a song titled “Welcome Home From Vietnam”. This song was a group write, along with the very accomplished Nashville songwriter, David Kent. David has been writing in Nashville for more than 25 years and for Operation Song for more than eight years. www.OperationSong.org The theme for “Welcome Home from Vietnam” was a suggestion from one of the alumni members (an Iraqi War Vet) to honor our Vietnam Veterans for the upcoming March 29th commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the official ending of that war. LEGION LOGISTICS – A CERTIFIED VETERAN-OWNED BUSINESS Nick Wilson, Chief Revenue Officer , for Legion Logistics talks with host Jim Fausone about the company, its veteran owner and why NVBDC certification as a veteran owned business was so important to Legion and the power of NVBDC networking. From Legion Logistics website: For more information about CERTIFICATION with NVBDC Dave Bray USA at the National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame (nationalleohalloffame.com)

Matt Amidon, Director of Veterans and Military Families at the George W Bush Institute in Texas, talks about policy recommendations for electeds in State Houses and Federal Government. These 8 policy recommendations are straight forward and important. These would help veterans and their families. He talks with host Jim Fausone about how the average person can help get these ideas to their elected officials.

VETERANS BENEFITS HOUR Our expert panel can help you with your VA Benefits: Brian Hayes, Ann Arbor VA Healthcare SystemBrig. Gen. Carol Ann Fausone (ret) – Legal Help for VeteransDavid Saims, Acting Director of the Washtenaw County, Michigan Veterans Service Office

Navy veteran talks about his mental health challenges, life after service, and finding a better life that includes voluntering with Team Rubicon. Tim Kotulak deployed with Team Rubicon to Florida after Hurricane Ian and talks about the work and experience with host Jim Fausone.

MIKE SARRAILLE REFLECTS ON MILITARY YEARS AND MOVING ON TO CIVILIAN LIFE During his 20-year career, he served as a Recon Marine, Scout-Sniper, and retired a U.S. Navy SEAL Officer. Much of his career was in the Special Operations community, including the elite Joint Special Operations Command. Along with careers in the military and business, Mike co-authored the best-selling book, The Talent War: How Special Operations and Great Organizations Win on Talent, and enjoys a partnership with Men’s Journal as columnist and host of The Everyday Warrior series and podcast. MIKE’S LATEST BOOK “EVERYDAY WARRIOR”As an Everyday Warrior, you’ll learn to transform setbacks into valuable lessons, turn small victories into remarkable achievements, and embrace the freedom of knowing that success isn’t the destination—it’s simply part of the journey.Link to Review and Purchase on Amazon Senator Gary Peters:THE PACT ACT FOR VETERANS AND THEIR SURVIVORSThe PACT Act will deliver VA health care and benefits to all generations of toxic-exposed veterans — and their survivors — for the first time in our nation’s history.Here is a great article on the PACT Act that includes Kevin Hensley, Air Force veteran and PACT Act advocate. For more information about Senator Peters

Marty Strong spent 21 yrs in the Navy and then focused on being a business leader and author. He has written "Be Nimble" and now "Be Visionary: Strategic Leadership in the Age of Optimization." It is a business leadership book that demonstrates to existing and aspiring leaders the positive impact of applying flexibility, creativity and decisiveness to achieve results - even in uncertain times. Marty talks with Jim Fausone about leaving Nebraska, joining the Seals, his role in a Navy strategy and tactics group and how he became a published fiction and non fiction author.

STAFF SGT. DAVID BELLAVIA, A RELUCTANT MEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENT Bellavia was awarded the Medal of Honor for actions while serving as a squad leader with the 1st Infantry Division in support of Operation Phantom Fury in Fallujah, Iraq when a squad from his platoon became trapped by intense enemy fire. President Donald J. Trump presented the Medal of Honor during a ceremony at the White House in Washington, D.C., June 25, 2019. “FOR THE HEROES” HONORS VETERANS AND FIRST RESPONDERS Musician Jason M. Jones who wrote “For The Heroes” talks with host Jim Fausone about National Veterans Business Development Council (NVBDC) and his song honoring veterans and first responders. NVBDC aired the song at one of its national programs and it was so well received NVBDC insisted that we share it with the Veterans Radio audience. You can find Jason’s music with a web search on his name and “For The Heroes”. Here are a few direct links. LinkedIn Twitter Apple Music MPVA ADVOCACY AND THE AUTO ACT Michigan Paralyzed Veterans of America (MPVA) has served Michigan since 1961, “making a difference” in the lives of veterans, their families, and the public. We are a leadership organization reaching out on behalf of our members (veterans with spinal cord injury or disorders), associate members, and all people with disabilities to provide the highest possible quality of life in Michigan. For more information about the MPVA organization

In January 2023 President Biden signed the AUTO for Veterans Act which changes the rules for 100% service disabled veterans and how much and how often they can obtain a VA grant to assist with adaptive vehicles. Michael Harris, President of Michigan Paralyzed Veterans of America discusses the new law with host Jim Fausone.

STORIES OF SERVICE IN MUSIC AND PROSE – ARMY AND COAST GUARD Dale Throneberry hosts our guests: George Meldrum – Vietnam Infantryman, 1968-1972Chuck Jones – Nashville Songwriter and PerformerCapt. Steven J. Craig (ret) – Coast Guard Reserves, author I was playing drums and doing vocals in a blues band when I was drafted in May of 1968. That was before the lottery and I was surprised one day at the mailbox with the letter ordering me to report to the induction center. I have no pictures of me or James O’Banion, the “buddy” for which this song was inspired. There was a very low point in my life where I didn’t want to think about the war and I got rid of everything; including every picture I had. After serving a little less than 4 years I briefly returned to performing music. However, that ended when I had to sell my drums to support a move to Salem, Oregon. 50 years later I started playing and performing again and currently perform locally doing a wide variety of music. “ALL PRESENT AND ACCOUNTED FOR” It was late November—one of the coldest periods to be on a ship near Alaska. The Coast Guard Cutter Jarvis had run aground during a severe storm and was taking on water. The engine room flooded, disabling the engines. Mountainous seas and gale force winds pounded the Jarvis, and to make matters worse, the ship was floating toward a rocky coastline that would surely destroy it and probably kill most, if not all, of the men. The ship’s captain ordered an emergency message be sent to the Seventeenth Coast Guard District Office in Juneau requesting Coast Guard assistance. But there were no Coast Guard assets near enough to provide immediate help. At 7:04 p.m., for one of the few times in Coast Guard history, a MAYDAY call for help would come from a Coast Guard vessel.

Dr. James Peake served in the Army for 38 years. He retired as a Lt. General in 2004. He was the Army Sugeon General. President GW Bush appointed him as Secretary of VA and he served as such in 2008 & 09. He is now Senior Vice President with CGI Group an international IT and business process consulting group. Dr. Peake is involved in CGI efforts to encourage veterans to consider IT careers with CGI. He talks about challenges at VA and recruiting efforts with host Jim Fausone.

VETERANS BENEFITS HOUR Our guests: Brian Hayes, Ann Arbor VA Healthcare SystemBrig. Gen. Carol Ann Fausone (ret) – Legal Help for Veterans Update on the PACT ACT and how it affects your benefits. Who is covered, Caregiver Benefits, New Presumptive Disabilities

NVBDC.org brings a LA artist to our attention that wrote a tribute for veterans and first responders. Jason M Jones talks about the military service of his brothers and sister and the inspiration for his song For the Heroes with host Jim Fausone.

REAL STORIES FROM MASH UNIT IN SOUTH VIETNAM Reuel Long’s experiences as an MD in the emergency rooms of Flint, Michigan, prepared him for only some of what he would see in a mobile army surgical hospital – MASH. Antiwar sentiment among the doctors in basic training at Fort Sam Houston set the tone for his tour as a general medical officer. In March 1971, the 27th MASH played a critical role treating survivors of the deadliest attack on any firebase during the Vietnam War. Long’s vivid memoir recalls the casualties he cared for during the war, including one he crossed paths with 44 years later – who in his own words describes his rehabilitation from the loss of his legs and his protesting the war from a wheelchair. An addendum gives an insider’s account of the U.S. military’s failure to remedy a fatal design flaw in the M16 rifle, which caused an unknown number of American casualties. MASH Doctor in Vietnam: A Memoir of the War and After: Long M.D., Reuel S.: 9781476690483: Amazon.com: Books

The Iraq War’s only living Medal of Honor recipient tells the story behind one of the Iraq War’s legendary acts of valor; the men he fought with and the healing of reunion. In 2004, David Bellavia’s U.S. Army unit, an infantry bat­talion known as the Ramrods—2nd Battalion, 2nd Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division—fought and helped win the Battle of Fallujah, the bloodiest episode of the Iraq War. On November 10, 2004, Bellavia single-handedly cleared a forti­fied enemy position that had pinned down a squad from his platoon. Fourteen years later, Bellavia got a call from the pres­ident of the United States: he had been awarded a Medal of Honor for his actions in Fallujah and would receive America’s highest award for bravery in combat during a ceremony at the White House. Bellavia was a reluctant recipient and talks with host Jim Fausone about reuniting with the guys, behind the scenes of the Medal of Honor ceremony and his interactions with President Donald J. Trump.

Dr. Rebecca Grant, Frequent guest on national news programs as well as Veterans Radio, provides fact-based global military analysis. Dr. Grant is a Military Historian/Author/Commentator and President of IRIS Independent Research. She is a regular guest on Fox Business with Charles Payne and several other news channels to inform citizens of the facts related to global military status. Dr. Grant covers the Russia Ukraine conflict and many other areas of interest around the world – including China. Ted Barker, co-founder of the Korean War Project, regarding the military personnel and actions in the Korean War. Hal and Ted Barker have been administrators of the www.koreanwar.org website since 1995. They began their quest for information in the late 70s when looking for more information about the Silver Star awarded to their father, Major Edward Lee Barker. Their personal quest quickly grew into a deeper interest, perhaps obsession, for all the military knowledge they could gather that related to the Korean War.

On September 29, 2006, Michael Monsoor and three SEAL snipers watched vigilantly for enemy activity from their rooftop post in Ar Ramadi, Iraq. When a grenade thrown from insurgents bounced off Michael's chest, he could have escaped. Instead, he threw himself onto the live grenade, shielding his fellow soldiers from the immediate explosion. Michael died thirty minutes later, having made the ultimate sacrifice. George Monsoor (Michael's father) and Rose Rea show us in "Defend Us in Battle", Michael had prepared for this selfless act all his life--a life that inspires us to have a similar generosity of heart. Rose talks with host Jim Fausone about Michael, his family, his faith, and his sacrifice.

Our guests this week include; Dr. Ken Hartman, Former Army Officer, Founder of Our Community Salutes Ben Kesling, Marine Iraq, Author, Wall Street Journalist Jason M Jones, Music Artist Our Community Salutes was started in 2009 by Dr. Ken Hartman to acknowledge high school kids that were enlisting in the military and support that family decision. This grassroots effort coordinated by OCS holds events around the country to give the enlistees their own “signing day.” It can be as simple as a presentation and pizza or an elaborate affair with speakers. Visit www.ourcommunitysalutes.org to learn more about this organization. FIELD BUTCHERY SKILLS AND ETHICAL FORAGING FOR SURVIVAL OF TROOPS Wall Street Journal reporter Ben Kesling talks about a program started in 2014 to teach cooks field butchery skills and ethical foraging. What happens when the supply lines do not exist for hot meals, MREs don’t cut it and the troops need to live off the land? Kesling looked into the reasons for the courses taught and the ethics of field butchery and ethical living off the land with host Jim Fausone. You can follow Ben on the WSJ website, LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram. Musician Jason M. Jones who wrote “For Everyday Heroes” talks with host Jim Fausone about National Veterans Business Deveopment Council (NVBDC) and his song honoring veterans and first responders. NVBDC used the song at one of its national programs and it was so well received NVBDC is sharing it with the Veterans Radio audience.

Wall Street Journal reporter Ben Kesling talks about a program started in 2014 to teach cooks field butchery skills and ethical foraging. What happens when the supply lines do not exist for hot meals, MREs don't cut it and the troops need to live off the land? Kesling looked into the reasons for, the courses taught and the ethics being talked about field butchery and ethical living off the land with host Jim Fausone.

Happy New Year from all of us at Veterans Radio! One of our favorite programs from 2022. How Can You Mend This Purple Heart. In this riveting first novel, winner of the Military Writers Society of America 2010 Silver Medal Award, author T.L. Gould draws upon his experience recovering in a military hospital to create a plain truth, no-holds-barred narrative, stark in its simplicity, detail and humor. From dressing changes and morphine drips to off-site forays under a fence and into neighborhood bars and brothels, Gould chronicles the precipitous journey to recovery of the men of Ward 2B; how they learned to walk again,to love again, and to triumph over the most impossible odds. Click here for more information “BETWEEN THE LINES” Dwight Jon Zimmerman is a frequent contributor and guest on Veterans Radio. He is an award-winning writer on a variety of subject, but mostly man of the unknown facts about America’s military history. Dwight’s latest publication is a newsletter called “Between the Lines” and can be found here.

Caroline Walsh enlisted in the USCG and experienced good duty and bad. She became an intel analyst for the USCG and then for the CIA. Having now moved on to a PhD progam in leadership she has written a book "Fairly Smooth Operator" reflecting on that service. She candidly discusses the sexual harassment and poor leadership in the USCG and offers some changes that could be implemented. Caroline talks to Jim Fausone about the good, the bad and the ugly aspects of service for a young college educated, athletic, woman.

OPERATION SONG PRODUCES ALBUM FOR GOLD STAR FAMILIES Bob Regan, Mike Byer and Terry Gould of Operation Song, a non-profit, fully volunteer music production organization tells the stories of military veterans through song. Archived broadcast from April 2022. https://www.operationsong.org/

Former Marine and State of Michigan Attorney General, Mike Cox talks about the Camp LeJeune Justice Act; that claims against the government must be filed by August 2024; how it won't reduce your VA Disability Claim, how it allows family members to make a claim, and much more. Attorney Cox discusses his family's service in the Army, Marines and Navy with host Jim Fausone.

RICK DUNGEY, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CHRISTMAS SPIRIT FOUNDATION Christmas Spirit Foundation is a 501c3 charitable organization that has supported TREES FOR TROOPS for 18 years. Trees for Troops is a partnership with FedEx Freight.They have provided almost 300,000 free Christmas trees to the men and women of our armed forces since the program began in 2005. To support the foundation click here MARC LEEPSON – ARMY VETERAN AND AUTHOR OF 9 BOOKS Marc graduated from George Washington University in 1967. After serving in the U.S. Army from 1967-69, including a year in the Vietnam War. Marc’s Facebook profile states “Senior Writer, Arts Editor and Columnist, The VVA Veteran at Vietnam Veterans of America”.Marc has been on Veterans Radio several times in the past and will surely inspire you to read a book or two that will reveal astonishing insights into our American History. Marc Leepson’s Website 12/22/12 USO Show. What do Bob Hope, Marilyn Monroe and Toby Keith have in common? They have all performed on a USO tour. Since World War II the USO has been sending entertainers around the world to entertain our troops. Our guest is guest USO Senior Vice President and Air Force Veteran John Hanson. We’ll be taking a look at the history of the USO and how it has changed over the years. uso.org

The George W. Bush Institute's Veteran Leadership Program discussed by Matt Amidon with host Jim Fausone. This free executive leadership program brings together 50 scholars each year creating a network of civilian and military leaders. The 2023 application window is open until January 18, 2023. See www.bushcenter.org/standto

CAROLINE WALSH – US COAST GUARD Caroline Walsh enlisted in the USCG and experienced good duty and bad. She became an intel analysit for the USCG and then for the CIA. Having now moved on to a PhD progam in leadership she has written a book “Fairly Smooth Operator” reflecting on that service. She candidly discusses the sexual harassment and poor leadership in the USCG and offers some changes that could be implemented. Caroline talks to Jim Fausone about the good , the bad and the ugly aspects of service for a young college-educated, athletic woman. Caroline’s book “Fairly Smooth Operator” can be purchased on Amazon. 2023 GEORGE W. BUSH VETERAN LEADERSHIP PROGRAM The George W. Bush Institute’s Veteran Leadership Program is discussed by Matt Amidon with host Jim Fausone.This free executive leadership program brings together 50 scholars each year creating a network of civilian and military leaders. ATTORNEY MIKE COX ON CAMP LEJEUNE JUSTICE ACT AND MILITARY SERVICE Former Marine and State of Michigan Attorney General, Mike Cox talks about the Camp LeJeune Justice Act; that claims against the government must be filed by August 2024; how it wont reduce your VA disability claim, how it allows family members to make a claim and much more. The 2023 application window is open until January 18, 2023. See www.bushcenter.org/standto

John Slemp is a professional commercial photographer who specializes in aviation. He started taking pictures of WWII bomber jackets. These A2 Summer Leather Jackets took on the life of canvas for artists in WWII. Each jacket and its art tell a unique story. John started this project in 2014; now, a fantastic book is being published in 2022 about the jackets, art, and some of the boys that wore them. Slemp's website for the project is www.WWIIBomberBoys.com. He talks about the project with host Jim Fausone.

VETERAN STUDENTS PITCH BUSINESS PLANS AT WASHTENAW COMMUNITY COLLEGE Come out to see who wins at the Veteran Business Pitch & Showcase night! Participants who have completed the 3-month MVE-Lab program will be pitching their business concepts for cash prizes and holding a showcase. Support participants by voting for your favorite display in the Student Center before the event! This event is free and open to the public. BOB WOODRUFF FOUNDATION- Guest David Woodruff HOW IT ALL BEGAN Bob was reporting on the transfer of power between U.S. and Iraqi security forces for ABC’s “World News Tonight,” Jan. 29, 2006, when he sustained his life-threatening traumatic brain injury. Thanks to the quick actions of brave soldiers, medics, and military medical professionals, Bob’s life was saved. Within a few days, he was brought to the Naval Hospital at Bethesda, Md. As Bob recovered, the experience inspired their family to do one thing: Ensure that our nation’s impacted veterans, service members, and their families have access to the highest level of support and resources they deserve, for as long as they need it. NAVY PILOT STROUD THANKS HIS “GOOD CO-PILOT” Son – I’d already kissed you goodbye! The Admiral of the Task Force Veterans Radio heard about Navy man Richard Stroud while interviewing Operation Song earlier this year. While perusing their awesome collection of works we ran across Richard Stroud’s song titled “Good Co-Pilot”. You can listen to his song here on the Operation Song website. The song was written by Steve Williams and Richard Stroud and directed by Amanda Byer.

Our Community Salutes was started in 2009 by Dr. Ken Hartman to acknowledge high school kids that were enlisting in the military and support that family decision. This grassroots effort coordinated by OCS holds events around the country to give the enlistees their own "signing day." It can be as simple as a presentation and pizza or an elaborate affair with speakers. OCS has grown over the years to offer a variety of support materials for these local programs. Visit www.ourcommunitysalutes.org to learn more. Ken talks to host Jim Fausone about OCS and its future and the need to support recruitment efforts by the military.