Veterans Radio

NATIONAL VIETNAM WAR MUSEUM Edward T. Luttenberger, Communications Director – The National Vietnam War Museum Located in Weatherford, Texas In 2020 there were 3 additions to the wall and in 2021 there were two additions, bringing the total number of names on The Wall to 58,281. There were also two service members who were repatriated in 2020 and those service members had their status symbols changed on The Wall. The number of Americans still listed as missing and unaccounted for from the Vietnam War stands at 1,584. Name additions and status changes are usually done annually in May. However, the engraving was postponed to the fall this year due to the Covid-19 pandemic. These service members will be officially welcomed home at the next in-person ceremony at The Wall. For more information: www.nationalvnwarmuseum.org CPT THOMAS P. STEMPKY Army pilot who served in Vietnam as a Gunship Platoon Leader with the 189th Assault Helicopter Company Thomas Stempky was raised in Cheboygan, MI, and was drafted while attending North Central Michigan University. He was one of 26 men drafted from Cheboygan County in January 1966. Captain Stempky became a Gunship Platoon Leader in the 189th Assault Helicopter Company. While serving in that role, he was awarded a Silver Star, Distinguished Flying Cross with 3 oak leaf clusters, Purple Heart, Bronze Star, and 26 Air Medals with “V” device. Tom was honorably discharged in 1974.

This week’s one hour radio broadcast includes host Jim Fausone and his guests: Captain Paul Ryan (ret) US Naval Reserves Brig. Gen. Ricardo Aponte, USAF (ret) Rear Admiral Will Rodriguez (ret) 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. For more information: www.hvla.org A HALL OF HONOR US Navy Capt Paul J Ryan (ret) is vice chair of the Michigan Military and Veterans Hall of Honor. He discusses the 2022 class of inductees with host Jim Fausone. The inductees include a “Hello Girl” from WWI; an Army vet with 600 days of continuous combat and a Nisei in the most decorated unit in US military history. 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.

Col. Cesar "Rico" Rodrigues, Jr. (ret.) USAF served for 26 years. He splashed 3 MIGs and always gave 110%. He explains his background, service, and how his Hispanic heritage gives the unique 10% to his efforts. He has been described as a Hispanic overachiever and lives up to his reputation in service and post-service. He spends time with host Jim Fausone talking about the value of training at The Citadel.

U.S. Navy Capt. Paul J. Ryan (ret.) is Vice Chair of the Michigan Military and Veterans Hall of Honor. He discusses the 2022 class of inductees with host Jim Fausone. The inductees include a "Hello Girl" from WWI, an Army Veteran with 600 days of continuous combat, and a Nisei soldier in the most decorated unit in U.S. Military history.

This week’s program theme is Veterans Helping Veterans. Organizations founded by veterans for veterans. Guests include: William Crewe from Central Coast Veterans Helping Veterans Central Coast Veterans Helping Veterans – Home (ccvhv.org) Josh Flath Founder of 4the 22. 4the22 – Bringing Balance to Life Jon Lovald, COO of Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans MACV’s Mission is to End Veteran Homelessness in Minnesota (mac-v.org) Justin Corry, Corry Construction and Help for the Homefront

US Army LTC (ret.) Jim Reed, DNP discusses his military career in the field of medicine, the opportunities available, and being on an elite medical team supporting Special Mission Units in Counter-Terrorist Operations with host Jim Fausone. Reed was trained as a CRNA and deployed 9 times overseas and had over 1500 days in combat zones. Through his service, Reed earned the Legion of Merit, five Bronze Star Medals, two Air Medals, and many other awards and decorations.

Radio on the River was a gathering of Veteran Storytellers to raise funds for Veterans Radio America, Inc, a non-profit 401(c)3. Our guests included: Captain Thomas Stempky who became a Gunship Platoon Leader in the 189th Assault Helicopter Company in Vietnam 1968-69. While serving in that role, he was awarded a Silver Star, Distinguished Flying Cross with 3 oak leaf clusters, Purple Heart, Bronze Star, and 26 Air Medals with "V" device. Brian Gawne, CAPT, USN (retired) A combat veteran of six fleet tours in fighter aircraft, Brian served as Commanding Officer of the Navy’s first F-18F Super Hornet squadron. His staff experience includes consecutive tours in the Pentagon as a budget analyst and executive assistant in the Navy’s Programming Directorate (OPNAV N80), and division chief for the Director Navy Staff. He also served two years in Stavanger, Norway as a strategic plans officer assigned to NATO’s HQ North. He is a graduate of the US Naval Academy, holds a masters degree from the Naval War College, and has logged over 3500 flight hours in F-14 fighter aircraft as a Naval Flight Officer. Maj. Gen. William A. Henderson was born in Ann Arbor, Michigan. As a Marine pilot he flew 125 combat missions over South Vietnam, Laos and North Vietnam. From 1970-1974, he served as an F-4 check pilot and instructor. He left active duty and then joined the Michigan Air National Guard, flying F-100s and A-7s. He was named commander of the Michigan Air National Guard in 1992 and was promoted to major general in 1996. William Kerkstra, USMC deployed four times during the War on Terror, three to Iraq and one in Afghanistan.

The Leadership of Hispanic Veterans Leadership Alliance (HVLA) discusses with host Jim Fausone their progress in the last year, problems encountered and future plans. President of the HVLA, Brig. Gen. Ricardo Aponte, USAF (ret.), leads the discussion and Rear Admiral Will Rodriguez (ret.) talks about the progress, challenges, and Hispanic history on this episode.

DR. REBECCA GRANT COMMENTARY: GLOBAL MILITARY OPERATIONS SHE’S BACK! This week Veterans Radio’s host Dale Throneberry welcomes frequent program guest Dr. Rebecca Grant. Topics discussed include: Queen Elizabeth II's death and what's next for the UK, Ukraine and Russia, China and Taiwan, North Korea and more. Military Historian/Author/Commentator and President of IRIS Independent Research. She is also a regular guest on Fox Business with Charles Payne and Fox ‘n Friends to inform citizens of the facts related to global military status. It is Suicide Awareness Month. There are many excellent programs to recognize and address the issue. Wendy Hibbitts from https://www.22aday.org/ will join Dale to talk about their efforts to bring awareness to the community. Veterans Radio Fundraiser. Radio on the River Sunday 25 September 2022 Radio on the River (givebutter.com)

In June 1917, General John Pershing arrived in France to establish American forces in Europe. He immediately found himself unable to communicate with troops in the field. Pershing needed operators who could swiftly and accurately connect multiple calls, speak fluent French and English, remain steady under fire, and be utterly discreet, since the calls often conveyed classified information. At the time, nearly all well-trained American telephone operators were women—but women were not permitted to enlist, or even to vote in most states. Nevertheless, the U.S. Army Signal Corps promptly began recruiting them. More than 7,600 women responded, to aid the war effort by being Over There and near the front lines. This historical fiction is written by Jennifer Chiaverini, a New York Times best-selling author. She talks to host Jim Fausone about these heroic women of the WWI U.S. Army Signal Corps, their trials, successes, and discrimination.

This week’s radio broadcast includes host Jim Fausone and his guests: Captain Paul Ryan (ret) US Naval Reserves, Vice Chair of MI Military and Veterans Hall of HonorMajor Tom Schueman, Marine Corps, author of “Always Faithful” A HALL OF HONOR US Navy Capt Paul J Ryan (ret) is vice chair of the Michigan Military and Veterans Hall of Honor. He discusses the 2022 class of inductees with host Jim Fausone. The inductees include a “Hello Girl” from WWI; an Army vet with 600 days of continuous combat and a Nisei in the most decorated unit in US military history. 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. ALWAYS FAITHFUL In August of 2021, just days shy of the 20th anniversary of 9/11, America ended its longest war. The speed of the Afghanistan’s fall was so stunning that thousands of Afghan citizens who had helped American forces over the course of two decades—and had been promised visas in return—were suddenly stranded, in extreme, imminent danger. As the world watched the shocking scenes of desperation at the Kabul airport in the final two weeks of August, Maj. Tom Schueman fought—both behind the scenes and through a social media campaign—to get his friend and former Afghan interpreter, Zak, out of Afghanistan before he and his family were discovered by the Taliban. This book is available on Amazon.

"Always Faithful", tells the story of Marine Major Tom Schueman and his friend, Afghan interpreter Zainullah “Zak” Zaki, discussing their parallel lives, converging paths, and unbreakable bond in the face of overwhelming danger, culminating in Zak and his family’s harrowing escape from Kabul. Tom talks about joining the Marines and the bond that developed with Zak. He then discusses the failure to get interpreters and families - who supported the USA effort - out of Afghanistan, despite promises to do so. Tom talks with host Jim Fausone about the efforts to get Zak and his family to Texas where they had relatives.

Extraordinary Valor is the story of Special Forces Major John Duffy’s Medal of Honor gallantry at Firebase Charlie, and the heroism of South Vietnamese paratrooper, Major Lê Văn Mễ, who fought by his side. It is the true story of their battle to defend Charlie Hill, a key to holding Vietnam’s Central Highlands during North Vietnam’s 1972 Easter Offensive. John Joseph Duffy was born in New York City; Le Van Mễ in a small village outside the old imperial capital of Hue in South Vietnam. Living on opposite sides of the globe, they come together in the heat of war in Southeast Asia when Major Duffy is assigned as the American advisor to the elite South Vietnamese 11th Airborne Battalion where Mễ is second in command. The battalion receives the order to “Fight to the Death” on Charlie Hill. After two weeks of intense combat, hundreds lay dead and those still standing are out of food, water, and medical supplies. Their ammunition is nearly gone. Duffy and Mễ draw on their bond of friendship and trust to make a selfless two-man last stand against the final North Vietnamese human wave assault. Both are badly wounded, Duffy multiple times. Their heroic action allows 36 members of the 471-man battalion to escape and be rescued. The rest are killed, captured, or missing in action. William Reeder enlisted in the Army in 1965. He had two tours of duty in Vietnam flying OV-1 Mohawk reconnaissance airplanes and AH-1 Cobra attack helicopters. On his second combat tour, he was shot down and captured by the North Vietnamese, spending nearly a year as a prisoner of war. Through the Valley is his memoir of that experience. Deanne Bonner Simpson, counselor at Legal Help for Veterans, reviews the PACT ACT.

Michigan Army National Guard Veteran Brett Fennelly talks about life insurance, Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI), Veterans' Group Life Insurance (VGLI), and the new VetLife programs offers to disabled veterans. Brett has a Farm Bureau agency in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and talks about stacking insurance products with host Jim Fausone.

WHAT’S THE PACT ACT AND HOW WILL IT AFFECT MY VA BENEFITS AND CARE? The PACT Act is perhaps the largest health care and benefit expansion in VA history. The full name of the law is The Sergeant First Class (SFC) Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act. The PACT Act will bring these changes: Expands and extends eligibility for VA health care for Veterans with toxic exposures and Veterans of the Vietnam, Gulf War, and post-9/11 erasAdds more than 20 new presumptive conditions for burn pits and other toxic exposuresAdds more presumptive-exposure locations for Agent Orange and radiationRequires VA to provide a toxic exposure screening to every Veteran enrolled in VA health careHelps us improve research, staff education, and treatment related to toxic exposures If you’re a Veteran or survivor, you can file claims now to apply for PACT Act-related benefits. More details from the VA Freedom River. Meet the founders of Freedom River. Janna and Jeff Yeakey. From camping, activities and training facilities for veterans, their families and active service members of the U.S. military – Freedom River takes a complete community and outdoor recreation approach. To support Freedom River: www.freedomriverflows.org Veterans Connected These factors coupled with the demand to do hands-on serving projects, as a core group, we decided to “fix the problem in a Christian way,” and leave no Veteran behind.

U.S. Army Veteran Chris Videau talks about his service as an MP and Black Hawk helicopter pilot. Chris explains his exposure to burn pit contamination in Iraq and its impact on him. He explains to host Jim Fausone the idea for Sheets Laundry Club came from the desire to eliminate single-use plastics in the home, laundry, kitchen, and personal care aisles.

NEW BOOK TELLS THE UNTOLD TRUE STORY OF THE WORLD WAR II FROGMEN WHO GAVE RISE TO THE NAVY SEALS With echoes of Unbroken, the derring-do and bravado of The Right Stuff; and the battle-forged camaraderie of Band of Brothers, Into Enemy Waters by award-winning journalist Andrew Dubbins (Aug. 23, 2022, Diversion Books) details the origins and heroic missions of World War II’s elite unit of Navy frogmen, told through the eyes of one of its last living members, 95-year-old George Morgan. Morgan was just a wiry, 17-year-old lifeguard from New Jersey when he joined the Navy’s new combat demolition unit, tasked to blow up enemy coastal defenses ahead of landings by Allied forces. His first assignment: Omaha Beach on D-Day When he returned stateside, Morgan learned that his service was only beginning. Outfitted with swim trunks, a dive mask, and fins, he was sent to Hawaii and then deployed to the Pacific as a member of the pioneering Underwater Demolition Teams. GIs called them “half fish, half nuts.” Today, we call them Navy SEALs. Led by maverick Naval Reserve Officer Draper Kauffman, Morgan would spend the fierce final year of the war swimming up to enemy controlled beaches to gather intel and detonate underwater barriers. He’d have to master the sea, muster superhuman grit, and overcome the demons of Omaha Beach. Moving closer to Japan, the enemy’s island defenses were growing more elaborate and its soldiers more fanatical. From the black sand beaches of Iwo Jima, to the shark infested reefs of Okinawa, to the cold seas of Tokyo Bay, teenaged George Morgan was there before most, fighting for his life. And for all of us. For more information: AndrewDubbins.com.

US ARMY Major John Spencer (ret.) is the chair of Urban Warfare Studies at the Modern War Institute at West Point and a leading expert on Urban Warfare. In his new book, Connected Soldiers: Life, Leadership, and Social Connections in Modern War (July 1, 2022, Potomac Books), John delivers effective methods for building teams that overcome the distractions of home and the outside world, without reducing the benefits gained from connections to family and friends. His active-duty career spans more than 25 years and includes two combat deployments to Iraq as an Infantry Platoon Leader and Company Commander. He discusses being a military spouse and what he's learned from watching and traveling to Ukraine. John talks to host Jim Fausone about how social media has dissolved the barrier between home and the front line.

FROM BLACK HAWK HELICOPTER PILOT TO ENTREPRENEUR US Army veteran Chris Videau talks about his service as an MP and Black Hawk helicopter pilot. Chris explains his exposure to burn pit contamination in Iraq and its impact on him. Listen in as Chris explains where the idea for Sheets Laundry Club came from to eliminate single use plastics in the home laundry, kitchen and personal care. Order Sheets from Chris here: www.sheetslaundryclub.com ARMY NATIONAL GUARD AND COMBAT TO INSURANCE AGENCY OWNERSHIP Michigan Army National Guard veteran Brett Fennelly talks about life insurance, SGLI, VGLI and the new VetLife programs offered to disabled veterans. Brett has a Farm Bureau agency in Ann Arbor, Michigan and talks about stacking insurance products with host Jim Fausone. Looking for a fair deal? Comparative quote? Contact Brett at 734-944-0660

Rich Castagna joined the Marines and served in Afghanistan in 2009-10. He talks about an IED incident that killed his friend Lance Corporal Griffin, of Conneticut, and severly injured him. The heroics to save him and the 32 surgeries are precursors to his life now in federal law enforcement with a wonderful wife and three children. Rich, a MARSOC instructor, gives host Jim Fausone a look into MARSOC and the specialized training. Rich is known as the "luckiest unlucky guy" around.

FLAMETHROWER Bryan Mark Rigg’s latest non-fiction military history book Flamethrower documents Hershel “Woody” Williams’ Medal of Honor process. Dr. Rigg’s research brings into question the facts surrounding “Woody” Williams’ actions that earned him the Medal of Honor. Accomplished military historian, Bryan Mark Rigg, reconstructs Woody Williams’s remarkable story, from his youth on a dairy farm in West Virginia to his experiences as a Marine on Guadalcanal, on Guam and on Iwo Jima. Rigg tells Williams’ story vividly, and objectively, and places it in the context of the broader Pacific theater of World War II. Using never-before-seen documents and interviews, Rigg brings out new information about the Pacific War unknown until now. As he explores Woody’s life, Rigg enables the reader to better appreciate the brave Marines and their heroics. Moreover, Rigg explores the numerous problems with Woody and his narrative. As a result, this book also documents Woody’s controversial Medal of Honor process, one of the most controversial Medal of Honor stories to come out of World War II. For more information: Flamethrower | Bryan Mark Rigg

Jim Fausone, hosts this month’s VA Benefits program hour with the following guests: Brig Gen Carol Ann Fausone (ret) – Legal Help for VeteransRandy Walker, New Wayne County Michigan, Director of Veterans Services

VETERAN LENDING COUNCIL – NATIONWIDE SPECIAL FORCES TEAM Veterans Lending Council representative and Army Veteran, Eric Ensley, busts some myths about the VA Home Loan Program. He responds to a Congressional inquiry and Military.com article about the process saying the hold-up is not on VA but on the lenders, realtors, and public that just do not understand the program. Army Veteran turned real estate agent/realtor, Andrew Cummings, jumps in and shares his experience helping veterans use this benefit. Both Eric and Andrew talk with host Jim Fausone about how this benefit saves veterans money. WOMEN IN DEFENSE – THE ORGANIZATION Carrie Mead is the Immediate Past President of Women In Defense – Michigan Chapter. WID strengthens and influences the defense and national security industry by inspiring women, cultivating leadership, and growing professional relationships. Today, Carrie is the Acting Chief of Staff at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall in Arlington, VA. She talks about her career path, civilian employment supporting the military, and opportunities for women. Carrie talks with host Jim Fausone about WID’s programming and events.

The National Veterans Business Development Council (NVBDC.org) is the nation's leading Veteran-Owned Business Certification firm for veterans. In that capacity, it has forged a Strategic Alliance Memorandum with the U.S. Small Business Administration. Keith King, Founder and CEO, talks about this important agreement with host Jim Fausone.

Veterans Lending Council representative and Army Veteran, Eric Ensley, busts some myths about the VA Home Loan Program. He responds to a Congressional inquiry and Military.com article about the process saying the hold-up is not on VA but on the lenders, realtors, and public that just do not understand the program. Army Veteran turned real estate agent/realtor, Andrew Cummings, jumps in and shares his experience helping veterans use this benefit. Both Eric and Andrew talk with host Jim Fausone about how this benefit saves veterans money.

Michael Harris is a Marine veteran who suffered a post-discharge spinal cord injury after a car accident. He found help with the Michigan Paralyzed Veterans of America (MPVA). MPVA is the state chapter of PVA and has served Michigan since 1961, "making a difference" in the lives of veterans, their families, and the public. MPVA is a leadership organization reaching out on behalf of 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. Harris talks with host Jim Fausone about MPVA programs, loan closet, and legislative focus.

MICHIGAN VET FEST THEN AND NOW Dr. Eric Fretz, program host, and Josh Parish J.D. talk about VCAT9 and the early days when VCAT9 coordinated the first two Vet Fests, how the event evolved, and how these events support veterans. Learn about the specifics of what will be available at the 2022 Vet Fest (all 3) and where to go for more information. Josh Parish is an Iraq War Army veteran and founder of Vet Life Today. Eric and Josh discuss Vet Life’s four initiatives to assist veterans in the State of Michigan. VET FEST EVENT INFORMATION Here are the links to the Eventbrite Registration Pages where you will find more details. Each event runs for four hours and is free to veterans and their families. Veteran Service Providers and Agencies provide information. There will be fun activities, raffles, giveaways and food for everyone! Registration is required for FREE entry to the events. Ann Arbor – Fowlerville – St. Helen

Caroline Haskins, a reporter for Business Insider, talks about the challenges ID.me is having for some veterans seeking benefits from VA. ID.me is a verification software that requires numerous steps and questions to confirm identification. It was started by an Army Ranger, but as it continues to scale up, problems are popping up. Caroline talks about complaints filed from older or infirm veterans who can't use the technology or face technology challenges. Reports of people not receiving their benefits is discussed by Haskins with host Jim Fausone.

SOCIAL MEDIA IMPACT ON TROOPS AND WARFARE RULES Major John Spencer (ret) US Army talks with us on social media impact on troops and urban warfare rules being rewritten by Russia in Ukraine. For more information: johnspenceronline.com JOIN 200K MEMBERS OF TEAM RWB Lt. Col. John Faunce (ret) US Army talks about Team Red White & Blue and its drive to be the premiere health and wellness organization for veterans and its modern event model of participation. For more information: about.teamrwb.org

Second LT. Grace VanArendonk recently graduated as a nurse from Western Michigan University, spending four years in the ROTC program. In 2022, she was the state's top-ROTC cadet. She talks about her decision to seek an ROTC scholarship, her experiences in the program, her background as a Korean adoptee, and her advice to girls and their moms about going the ROTC route. Grace talks about her expectations of Army experiences with host Jim Fausone.

Please share this music with your friends and family at the BBQ! Celebrating the music of the USA, Her Independence and Declaration of Our Unalienable Rights The music includes: Star Spangled Banner, God Bless The USA, This Land Is Your Land, God Bless America, America The Beautiful and more. Artists include: Charlie DanielsKate SmithWoody GuthrieSimon and GarfunkelRay CharlesToby KeithLee GreenwoodJohnny CashAretha FranklinThe Mommas and The PoppasNeil DiamondJimi HendrixNeil YoungKaren NewmanLady Gaga Send us the songs you would like to hear. Contact Us - Veterans Radio

Carrie Mead is the Immediate Past President of Women In Defense - Michigan Chapter. WID strengthens and influences the defense and national security industry by inspiring women, cultivating leadership, and growing professional relationships. Today, Carrie is the Acting Chief of Staff at Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall in Arlington, VA. She talks about her career path, civilian employment supporting the military, and opportunities for women. Carrie talks with host Jim Fausone about WID's programming and events.

David Corlew, Co-Founder of The Charlie Daniels Journey Home Project RETURN REHABILITATE REINTEGRATE The mission of The Charlie Daniels Journey Home Project is to help identify, support and implement the various needs of the men and women of America’s armed forces returning from service. We owe them an unpayable debt of gratitude. After many years of service, and for some, multiple deployments, the journey home can be a complex process based on the issues of being away from family, friends, and home. Health, both physical and mental, education, and employment are just a few of the many issues both returning vets and families are faced with. It is our passion to be a beacon of light to direct the veteran (and or family) in the best possible direction to facilitate these needs. HOME - NVBDC The NVBDC is the nation’s original third party authority for certification of veteran owned businesses of all sizes and the corporations wanting to engage them. Our guest today is KEITH KING – FOUNDER AND CEO, with some very important news about their affiliation with the Small Business Administration. BG, USAF(ret) Carol Ann Fausone, from Legal Help for Veterans, answers questions about your VA benefits.

John Faunce recently retired from the US Army after 20 years. He is now a staffer with Team Red White and Blue which focuses on events bringing together veterans and friends. Wellness and health are at the core of Team RWB and John is special events coordinator. It is free and easy to drop into Team RWB events by use of an app or online. John talks with host Jim Fausone on Team RWB mission to enrich the lives of veterans by connecting to their community through physical and social activity.

This week’s one hour radio broadcast with host Dale Throneberry is a collection of personal stories about our fathers who have served in the military. My Dad, William Clifton Throneberry, enlisted in the Coast Guard in 1943 at the age of 38. He didn’t want to be drafted because they had raised the draft age to 40. He was a Chief Petty Officer E-7. He was assigned to LST (Landing Ship Tank) 884 and sailed it from New Orleans through the Panama Canal to Hawaii and then on to Iwo Jima, in February 1945, where his LST unloaded troops and supplies shortly after the invasion. From Iwo Jima they went to Okinawa to participate in that landing when their ship was hit by a Kamakazi on April 8, 1945 and had to abandon ship when it caught fire. He and a number of other crew return to the ship to fight the fire and try to save the lives of the Marines trapped in the hull. They were unsuccessful and it haunted him the rest of his life. That was the end of the war for him. LST884 was towed back to Pearl Harbor and by the time it was repaired WW II was over. This was just one of many stories shared this week on Veterans Radio

Ayelet Sheffey, a Business Insider reporter graduated from American University in 2020 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Journalism. She covers student-debt reform and related policies, along with federal spending surrounding legislation in Congress, like climate change and unemployment. She is based in Washington, D.C., and can be reached at [email protected]. She wrote about Veterans being misled into taking out student loans they don't need or want. She explains to host Jim Fausone the recent Federal Student Aid warnings to Veterans and the recent Biden Administration announcements delaying the student loan repayment date to August 31, 2022, and the "fresh start" of defaulted student loans for 8 million people.

LT. COL. JOHN FAUNCE Lt. Col. John Faunce (ret) US Army talks about West Point, his military career and last assignment at NATO where he assisted in exercising and training special operation forces in Ukraine. SR. MASTER SGT. KAT ANDERSON Today Sr. Master Sgt Kat Anderson USAF (ret) is an opinion writer for Political Insider and wrote about how the green military is nonsense, but in her career she was in Afghanistan accounting for boat loads of dollars being distributed to buy “good will”. Kathleen Anderson served over 20 years in the U.S. Air Force. At the end of 2021, she retired as a Sr. Master Sergeant and is now enjoying her second career as a political commentator/writer for ThePoliticalInsider.com. Kathleen graduated from George Washington University with a Graduate Degree in Political Management and attended the Veterans Program for Politics and Civic Engagement through Syracuse University. She talks to host Jim Fausone about President Biden’s declaration to make every vehicle and piece of equipment in the military green. She also recently wrote on topics such as the 2021 NDAA’s tackling of military sexual harassment, and the recent court-martialing of a major general, asking if it signals a change at the highest levels of leadership.

Lt. Col. John Faunce (ret) US Army talks about West Point, his military career and last assignment at NATO where he assisted in exercising and training special operation forces. John talks with host Jim Fausone about his family history of service, and how psychology influences leadership.

RAY TARABUSI – A COMBAT SOLDIER FROM THE GREATEST GENERATION Raymond attended Southeastern High School and graduated in 1943. Shortly thereafter, he was called for service with the army and was trained as a combat infantry soldier. He served with both the Second Indianhead Division and the famous Ninth Infantry Regiment. On June 6, 1944, the allies landed in Normandy, France on Omaha Beach. The second division landed on June 7, 1944, and Raymond went in on June 12, 1944. The month of June was very active, and he and his platoon were in constant contact with the Germans. In mid-July near Hill 192, the highest elevation in Normandy, the Ninth, the Thirty-Eight and the Twenty-Third Regiments attacked the position on the hill and after the second assault we took control of the hill and gained the advantage in that area. During this battle, Raymond was shot on July 31st and again wounded on August 3rd. Raymond remained one of the last men standing in his division. He was evacuated by a C-47 to Birmingham, England to recover. After his recovery, Raymond was sent back to the United States and discharged in December 1945. DR. REBECCA GRANT UPDATE ON RUSSIA/UKRAINE CONFLICT SHE’S BACK! This week Veterans Radio’s Host Dale Throneberry welcomes frequent program guest Dr. Rebecca Grant. Military Historian/Author/Commentator and President of IRIS Independent Research. 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.

Richard Estep continues The Handy Answer Book series by answering the most interesting and asked questions about the Armed Forces. He covers history, equipment, personalities, and stories on each branch of service, including Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, Coast Guard, Space Force, and general information on special operations, ranks, etc. With over 500 questions answered, Estep discusses some of the book's most interesting questions and answers with host Jim Fausone. You won't read all 150,000 words in one sitting, but you will constantly go back to The Handy Armed Forces Answer Book for quick references and short answers.

Join Dale and his guests: Don Milne, Stories Behind the StarsJoe Reagan, Wreaths Across America Brian Hayes – Communications Director, Ann Arbor VA Healthcare SystemMichael G. Smith, Jr. – Director of Washtenaw County (MI) Department of Veteran AffairsBrig Gen Carol Ann Fausone (ret) – Legal Help for Veterans Music from Michael J. Martin, (Who Are The Names On The Wall) and Operation Song, (My Hero,My Soldier, My Son)

Kathleen Anderson served over 20 years in the U.S. Air Force. At the end of 2021, she retired as a Sr. Master Sergeant and is now enjoying her second career as a political commentator/writer for ThePoliticalInsider.com. Kathleen graduated from George Washington University with a Graduate Degree in Political Management and attended the Veterans Program for Politics and Civic Engagement through Syracuse University. She talks to host Jim Fausone about President Biden's declaration to make every vehicle and piece of equipment in the military green. She also recently wrote on topics such as the 2021 NDAA's tackling of military sexual harassment, and the recent court-martialing of a major general, asking if it signals a change at the highest levels of leadership.

Dr. Eric Fretz, a Faculty Lecturer at the University of Michigan, leads this panel in a conversation related to barriers for veterans in the pursuit of post secondary education. Ryan Pavel – CEO of Warrior Scholar ProgramR.J. Jenkins – Curriculum Designer at Columbia University Center for Veteran Transition and Integration Dr. Linda Euto – Associate Director | Research and Evaluation | Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) at Syracuse University DR. ERIC FRETZ – GUEST HOST ON VETERANS RADIO From www.umich.edu … Eric Fretz is a graduate of the University of Michigan and a faculty lecturer who creates and delivers classes across campus (Psychology, Innovate Blue Entrepreneurship, School of Education, College of Engineering Center for Entrepreneurship). In addition to classes from the 100 to 600 level, he also delivers academic readiness classes for Student Veterans at U-M and other institutions locally and nationwide. The Institute for Veterans and Military Families at Syracuse University published an article in 2020 stating “post-secondary education is the top resource needed by most veterans.” They also published interesting statistics in 2019 as follows: Students using GI Bill benefits are more likely to be enrolled full time, with 10% of students enrolling in certificate programs,27% enrolling in associate’s programs,43% enrolling in bachelor’s programs, and20% enrolling in graduate programs.

Robin Kelleher, President and CEO of Hope For The Warriors, believes those touched by military service can succeed at home by restoring their sense of self, family, and hope. Nationally, Hope For The Warriors provides comprehensive support programs for service members, veterans, and military families that are focused on transition, health and wellness, peer engagement, and connections to community resources. Robin talks with host Jim Fausone about the programs offered and ways you can help by going to www.hopeforthewarriors.org.

TERRY GOULD WRITES ABOUT FELLOW SOLDIERS AND PURPLE HEARTS Like the Afghan war today and the ten-year-war in Iraq, the Vietnam War tore at the bodies and souls of those who served, particularly the nearly 1,100 Americans who lost multiple limbs and returned home from Vietnam to face a different kind of battle: acceptance. 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. Home | Mend This Purple Heart (howcanyoumendthispurpleheart.com) “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. His latest publication is a newsletter called “Between the Lines” and can be found here.

James Barber is the Off Duty editor for Military.com. James writes on topics like entertainment and the military. Barber talks with host Jim Fausone about the military movies set to premiere in 2022; the good and the bad. James is candid and interesting to speak with as always.

ROB O’NEILL, NAVY SEAL TEAM TWO, FOUR AND SIX Rob O’Neill and Dakota Meyer are two of the most decorated and recognized US service members: O’Neill killed the world’s most wanted man, Osama bin Laden, and Meyer is the first living Marine to receive the Medal of Honor since the Vietnam War. Combining the best of military memoirs and straight-talking self-help, “The Way Forward” alternates between O’Neill and Meyer’s perspectives, looking back with humor at even the darkest war stories, and sharing lessons they learned along the way. “The Way Forward” presents O’Neill and Meyer’s philosophy in combat and life. This isn’t a book about the glory of war and combat, but one about facing your enemies: Your thoughts, doubts, boredom and regrets. Gritty and down-to-earth, O’Neill tells their stories with candor and vulnerability to help readers handle stress, tackle their biggest obstacles, and exceed their expectations of themselves while keeping life’s battles in perspective with a sense of humor. Rob O’Neill discusses with host Jim Fausone the life lessons learned as a Navy Seal.For more information: www.robertjoneill.com Tom Clavin co-wrote “To The Uttermost Ends of the Earth” the epic hunt for the South’s most feared ship and greatest sea battle of the Civil War. Tom explains how the South built the Alabama and its 3-year reign of terror on merchant ships headed to the North. The Alabama sailed 75,000 miles and captured 66 ships. The naval history of both the North and the South is revealed. The two captains, Semmes and Winslow, are central figures and are discussed by Clavin.For more information: www.tomclavin.com

Rob O’Neill and Dakota Meyer are two of the most decorated and recognized US service members: O’Neill killed the world’s most wanted man, Osama bin Laden, and Meyer was the first living Marine to receive the Medal of Honor since the Vietnam War. But beyond their actions and courage in combat, O’Neill and Meyer also have much in common in civilian life: they are both sought-after public speakers, advocates for veterans, and share a non-PC sense of humor. Combining the best of military memoirs and straight-talking self-help, The Way Forward alternates between O’Neill and Meyer’s perspectives, looking back with humor at even the darkest war stories, and sharing lessons they learned along the way. The Way Forward presents O’Neill and Meyer’s philosophy in combat and life. This isn’t a book about the glory of war and combat, but one about facing your enemies, some who are flesh and blood and some that are not: Your thoughts. Your doubts. Your boredom and your regrets. From Rob’s dogged repetition at the free-throw line of his childhood basketball court to Dakota’s pursuit of EMT and firefighter credentials to aid accident victims, these two American heroes turn their experiences into valuable lessons for every reader. Gritty and down-to-earth, O’Neill and Meyer tell their stories with candor and vulnerability to help readers handle stress, tackle their biggest obstacles, and exceed their expectations of themselves while keeping life’s battles in perspective with a sense of humor. Rob O'Neill discusses with host Jim Fausone the life lessons learned as a Navy Seal.

Major General Gregg Martin, retired Army two star general, struggled during his 36 years of service with his own mental illness – bipolar disorder. He and his family suffered but persevered. Today he is proud of his Army Strong family. For more information: Stop the Stigma (generalgreggmartin.com)

Tom Clavin co-wrote "To The Uttermost Ends of the Earth", the epic hunt for the South's most feared ship and greatest sea battle of the Civil War. Tom talks about his co-author, Philip Keith, who passed away one month after the manuscript was turned in. Tom explains how the South built the Alabama and its 3-year reign of terror on merchant ships headed to the North. The Alabama sailed 75,000 miles and captured 66 ships. The naval history of both the North and the South is revealed. The two captains, Semmes and Winslow, are central figures and are discussed by Clavin with host Jim Fausone.