Tango Alpha Lima Podcast: Recent Episodes
The American Legion
What happens when two veterans walk into a podcast studio? Vibrant camaraderie, playful joking and hot takes ensue. Join Ashley Gorbulja-Maldonado and Jeff Daly as they explore current events, interesting trends and quirky stories of interest to the military community. The weekly podcast is produced by The American Legion. The podcast is a veterans-eye-view on current events - particularly in the military and veteran community. For more stories and videos please visit www.legion.org/tangoalphalima
Retired Gen. Matt Smith spent more than 30 years in the Army and National Guard, commanding at every level from company to brigade and serving in strategic roles at the Pentagon. Now, as executive director of Veteran Initiatives at Emory University's Goizueta Business School, he's on a mission to help transitioning servicemembers translate their military leadership into civilian career success.
On episode 313 of Tango Alpha Lima, Smith talks about his "Leave It to Beaver" childhood, his path into the Army, and how he now leads Emory's Master of Business for Veterans program. The one-year accredited degree is designed for servicemembers with 20-plus years of service. He breaks down why NCOs are "the ultimate salespeople," how he's educating civilian employers on the value veterans bring to the workforce, and what makes veteran students different from the rest of higher ed.
Also in this episode, podcast hosts Stacy Pearsall, Adam Marr and Joe Worley discuss:
- How the USS Skate made the impossible possible at the North Pole in 1958
- America’s oldest military decoration that dates back to the Revolutionary War.
- Why yelling “Geronimo!" became a military tradition thanks to a U.S. Army paratrooper in 1940 at Fort Benning, Ga.
, Recruit Miliary and Hiring our Heroes
Enter our sweepstakes to win a Humvee
Emory University Goizueta Business School
Gen. Matt Smith on LinkedIn
Tell us Why You Love Your Service Animal
What if the best therapy for a veteran wasn’t in a clinic but in the ground?
Stephen Humphreys is a former Air Force officer, PhD archaeologist, and co-founder of American Veterans Archaeological Recovery (AVAR) — the only organization in the United States using professional battlefield archaeology to build long-term careers for veterans. AVAR crews have worked Saratoga, Fort Ticonderoga, the Battle of Camden, and are headed to Bunker Hill. Through a partnership with the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, they have helped bring home the remains of three WWII service members lost for eight decades.
Humphreys talks about why veterans belong on these sites, what archaeology gives them that most programs can’t, and why purpose — not sympathy — is what actually changes lives.
Also in this episode: a myth-or-fact battlefield archaeology edition that covers what’s still left to find at Revolutionary War sites and whether WWII remains can still come home after 80 years. Plus, a Navy sailor opens a Monster Energy drink and finds something that was definitely not on the label.
Your stories. Your service. Your community. This is Tango Alpha Lima.
SHOW NOTES
- Learn more about the birth of NASA
- Ad Break: S.O.A.R.
- Learn more about Veterans Curation Program
- Dig deeper into Stephen's work with AVAR
- Enter the Drive for Freedom Sweepstakesfor a chance to win a Humvee!
- Join The American Legion
Jon Macaskill spent 24 years as a Navy SEAL Commander, leading special operations from 16-man teams to formations of 2,500. He was in the Joint Operations Center the night Operation Red Wings claimed 19 American lives in Afghanistan — men he called his own. What followed was a decade of self-medication and darkness. Then a Navy psychologist suggested mindfulness and meditation. Macaskill laughed at first but then tried it. And it changed everything.
Now a leadership coach, speaker, and co-host of the Men Talking Mindfulness podcast, Macaskill joins Tango Alpha Lima hosts Adam Marr and Joe Worley to talk about survivor's guilt, why he started blocking off mental health days in red on his calendar where his sailors could see them, and why hypervigilance and mindfulness are more alike than most veterans think.
Also in this episode: the DOJ takes action against a towing company targeting service members, the 80-year history of American Legion Boys Nation, and a myth-or-fact breakdown on meditation and the military.
SHOW NOTES
Learn more about American Legion Boys Nation
Enter The American Legion Drive for Freedom Sweepstakes
Learn more about Jon Macaskill
Check out the Men Talking Mindfulness podcast
The American Legion National Oratorical Contest
Read full article: Feds sue towing company for allegedly illegally auctioning off troops’ cars
Military Myth or Fact? — Mindfulness Edition
The Take Care of America's Veterans Act (TCAVA) may be the most consequential piece of veterans legislation in years. But what does it actually do, and how will it affect you?
In this special episode of Tango Alpha Lima, host Stacy Pearsall — a combat-wounded, medically retired Air Force veteran whose own benefits could be affected by this bill — sits down with American Legion Legislative Director Cole Lyle to break it all down.
They cover what TCAVA does and why The American Legion has invested so heavily in getting it passed, how ratings for tinnitus and sleep apnea may change, what the bill means for mental health services and suicide prevention, improvements to access to care, and major changes for caregivers.
"Whether you support the bill, oppose parts of it, or simply haven't made up your mind — our goal today is to give you the information you need to make an informed decision."
This is essential listening for any veteran, military family member, or caregiver following this legislation.
For more information, visit legion.org/tcava.
Army veteran Cory Brown watched 17 people from his cavalry troop die by suicide after returning from Iraq. The loss of his closest battle buddy became a turning point.
His response was "Eat Your Feelings," a YouTube cooking and storytelling show that uses food to lower the walls around grief, identity, and veteran mental health — without ever calling it therapy. Cory joins co-host Sam Nathews, a civilian and friend who brings his own experience with loss to every episode.
Together they join Tango Alpha Lima hosts Adam Marr and Joe Worley to talk about why connection beats intervention, what it really takes to get veterans to open up, and how a shared meal can do what a counselor's office sometimes can't.
Also in this episode: the landmark executive order accelerating psychedelic therapy research for veterans, and new science on blast injuries and cumulative TBI that is changing how the military thinks about invisible wounds.
National Commander praises executive order that expedites psychedelic treatments for mental health
Learn more about Executive Order 14401
To celebrate Father’s Day, retired Army Colonel Mike “Sully” Sullivan and his daughter, Olympic bronze medalist and Army Captain Sammy Sullivan, talk about five generations of military service, accidental trailblazing, a Green Beret’s surprisingly tender parenting philosophy, developing grit and more.
Sully, the executive director of Team Red, White & Blue, also discusses the organization’s mission to keep veterans “left of clinical.”
Plus: New research on team sports as therapy, and how The American Legion supports adaptive sports programs.
SHOW LINKS
Learn more about Solace Health and check your eligibility here
Learn more about Team RWB
Learn more about the Army World Class Athlete Program
Learn more about Capt. Sammy Sullivan and Team USA Rugby Women's Eagle Sevens
There is still time to be part of The American Legion Family USA 250 Challenge
Read more of the Journal of Veterans Studies report on how team sports help veterans with PTSD
Find out more about how The American Legion can help you get back in the game with Operation Comfort Warrior grants.
Follow the progress of the Veterans SPORT Acton and the National Veterans Strategy Act of 2026 Capitol Hill
Your stories. Your service. Your community. This is Tango Alpha Lima.
What does it take to reach tens of millions of people a month while still on active duty? For Army Sgt. First Class Johnny Vargas — better known as Viva La Vargas — it started with a car fire, a recruiting station and a promise to himself to show up every single day.
In this episode, Johnny chats about his journey from aspiring recording artist in Los Angeles to one of the military community's most trusted and entertaining voices online. He breaks down the three pillars that guide every piece of content he creates, explains why staying nonpartisan isn't just a strategy but a responsibility, and shares two powerful stories of how a single social media post changed real lives — including a family fighting a $800,000 insurance billing error while their toddler battled a terminal brain tumor.
Johnny also shares a closing message about mental health that every veteran and servicemember needs to hear, which is in line with The American Legion's Be the One mission to create mental health awareness.
Also in this episode, the hosts discuss a veteran-founded nonprofit turning vets into entrepreneurs, the growing world of remembrance tattoos, and Women Veterans Day on June 12.
Show Links
- Celebrate Women Veterans Day
- Learn more aboutVivaLaVargas
- Check out the Warrior Rising Activate Accelerator
- Check out the Task & Purpose article about TAPS gallery of military memorial tattoos
On Aug. 26, 2021, Marine Lance Corporal Jared Schmitz, age 20, was among 13 servicemembers killed at the Abbey Gate in Kabul during the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. He had wanted to be a Marine since he was 8.
In the weeks after Jared's death, condolence checks from strangers filled more than a foot of mail. His father, Mark, couldn't bring himself to spend a single dollar of it.
So he launched a nonprofit instead aimed at honoring the fallen and helping servicemembers with their mental health.
On this Memorial Day episode of Tango Alpha Lima, Gold Star father Mark Schmitz joins hosts Adam Marr and Joe Worley to share the story of The Freedom 13, a mission to build therapeutic retreat camps for veterans and law enforcement on 100-plus acres in all 50 states, free of charge, with the first camp already under construction in Missouri. He also discusses the coalition of Abbey Gate families fighting for GI Bill reform and increased death benefits for fallen servicemembers.
Also on this episode: Memorial Day events around the nation, the origin story of the Battle Buddy system, and Memorial Day fitness challenges honoring the fallen — including The Murph.
SHOW LINKS
Learn more about Armed Forces Vacation Club
Visit The Freedom 13 website
Learn more about the 2026 Angels of Abbey Gate Memorial Ride
We Are The Mighty: Battle Buddies originated in the trenches of WWI
Memorial Day Challenges: The Murph
In 2003, Marine infantryman Ryan Roberts helped recover the remains of 18 comrades killed in the battle of Nasiriyah, many by friendly fire. The next day, his fire team stopped a vehicle at a checkpoint. When he opened the back door, he found two children aged four and six.
He had joined the military to protect the innocent. In doing the right thing, he violated that core value. And no one — not in 17 years of VA care and private treatment — ever gave him the language for what that did to him.
On this episode of Tango Alpha Lima, Roberts and Dr. Lynette Averill, trauma scientist at Baylor College of Medicine, explain why moral injury is not a variant of PTSD. It's a categorically different wound, rooted not in fear but in the violation of values. And the healthcare system has largely been missing it.
Together they discuss what healing actually requires, the promise of emerging psychedelic-assisted therapies, and why peer support and community may be the most critical ingredients the clinical world keeps leaving out.
Also on this episode: the new DoD zero visible mold policy, a tribute to military caregivers for Military Caregiver Month, and resources for those supporting veterans at home.
Your stories. Your service. Your community. This is Tango Alpha Lima.
Learn more about
VA Caregiver support resources
Find an American Legion Service Officer
Task & Purpose: Pentagon issues standards for barracks
Shannon Book grew up in the Kentucky hills, joined the Navy in the mid-1990s and spent 17 years as a Fleet Marine Force corpsman, including two tours in Iraq. He survived Fallujah running on coffee grounds and sheer grit. What nearly broke him came after.
When he was medically retired in 2010, the brothers he counted on had moved on, his marriage dissolved, and a years-long battle with alcohol and drugs nearly cost him everything. What kept him going — then and now — is music.
On this episode of Tango Alpha Lima, Book opens up about founding the veteran band Vetted, the dark night he pressed a handgun to his own forehead, the DUI that became his turning point, and the Veterans Court system that helped him walk out of that dark alley one step at a time. He's now sober, back in the studio, and sharing the message he once gave others from a stage — this time from a place of hard-earned experience.
Also on this episode: why traditional field screenings miss TBIs in combat zones — and the surprising food that became a secret weapon for fighter pilots.
Your stories. Your service. Your community. This is Tango Alpha Lima.
Show links
- Learn more about American Legion Family Dayand share how your post is celebrating.
- Learn more about our guest, Shannon Book.
- Task & Purpose: TBI field screenings can miss key symptoms
- Learn more about the Millenium Protocol at TBI Help Now
- Watch Quiet Explosions documentary
- Read "Tales from the Blast Factory"
- Smithsonian: How a WWII propaganda campaign started the myth about carrots and night vision.
Before she was War Hamster — the Air Force veteran and military influencer known for irreverent humor, insider satire and candid commentary on service life — she was picking up loose change to buy gas for her car. Two years of military rejections. Craigslist living. Multiple jobs. Finally the Air Force finally said yes.
War Hamster shares her honest, funny and deeply relatable life story and what it really means to serve, create and build something meaningful after the uniform comes off.
She talks about joining as a medic at the start of COVID, building a medical program, losing four loved ones in a year, surviving a mini stroke — and using all of it as fuel for a content career.
"Suffering is a currency in the military," she says. "It builds a kind of resilience that's missing in people who haven't served." Now, she’s building a military community on Twitch, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok and Instagram.
Also in this episode: a veteran whose therapy chickens are in a legal battle, new legislation authorizing psychedelic-assisted therapy research for veterans, and why soldiers are being warned about "honeypots."
Episode Links
Where to find War Hamster on social media
From the War Horse: Finding solace in chickens
Utah could soon study psychedelic-assisted therapy for PTSD
Strange, but Service-Connected: Beware the Honeypot
Watch War Hamster's take on the danger of Honeypots
Retired Army Maj. Gen. Tammy Smith shares the compelling story of her 35-year military career, including 25 years serving under Don't Ask Don't Tell (DADT) while hiding her identity. As one of the first openly gay generals in U.S. military history, Smith discusses the psychological toll of living authentically in secret, the 2011 repeal of DADT, military-to-civilian transition, and moral injury.
Learn about LGBTQ+ veterans' unique challenges, discharge upgrade opportunities for those separated under discriminatory policies, and resources available through American Legion service officers. Smith provides insight intoLGBTQ+ military families, finding acceptance in veteran communities, and healing from service-related trauma.
Critical listening for LGBTQ+ veterans, military families, those interested in military history and policy, discharge upgrade information, and veteran advocacy.
SHOW NOTES
Learn more about PFLAG
Learn more about Modern Military Association of America
Three-time national wrestling champion and Army Special Operations veteran Sally Roberts shares her powerful journey from delinquent youth to elite athlete and military leader.
Roberts, founder of Wrestle Like a Girl, discusses how wrestling saved her life, built her winning mindset, and prepared her for success in Special Operations and deployment to Afghanistan.
Learn about overcoming adversity, developing mental toughness, the power of suffering and endurance, and breaking barriers for women in combat sports.
Roberts addresses military transition challenges, building resilience, leadership development through athletics, and empowering girls and women through wrestling. Essential listening for veterans navigating transition, athletes seeking motivation, parents of daughters in sports, anyone overcoming difficult backgrounds, and those interested in women's wrestling, mental resilience training, and veteran success stories.
SHOW LINKS
Learn more about Wrestle Like a Girl
Navy veteran Lonnie Bedwell lost his sight in a hunting accident in 1997. He was 30 years old, blind, and raising three daughters alone. What he did next is the kind of story that makes you rethink every excuse you've ever made.
In episode 303 of Tango Alpha Lima, Bedwell shares his extraordinary journey — from talking his way onto a construction crew as a blind man, to kayaking 226 miles through the Grand Canyon (earning National Geographic's Adventurer of the Year), to summiting Mount Everest with a failed oxygen mask 750 feet from the top.
Now Bedwell is one expedition away from making history. He has summited six of the Seven Summits and skied to the South Pole. When he reaches the North Pole, he will become the first blind American to complete the Explorer's Grand Slam — an achievement fewer than 75 people in history have accomplished.
His journey is the subject of a feature documentary called Beyond Vision. "I lost my eyesight," he says. "I gained vision."
Also in this episode: the VA's new Artificial Intelligence tool and what it means for your appointments, plus three new laws signed into law that expand housing access, improve VA accountability, and strengthen job training for veterans.
SHOW NOTES
- Download the VA Health and Benefits mobile app
- Join The American Legion
- Learn more about Lonnie Bedwell
- Learn more about the film "Beyond Vision"
- Join The American Legion Family USA 250 Challenge
- New VA Database causes concern among lawmakers
- AI tool helps VA doctors minimize administrative tasks and focus on patients
- View American Legion Legislative Agenda
- Check out The American Legion Grassroots Action Center
- Learn more about American Legion Advocacy
Retired Air Force physician Dr. Mary Ann Kiel reveals how lifestyle medicine transformed her health and revolutionized her approach to treating servicemembers and military families.
As a board-certified pediatrician and lifestyle medicine physician, Dr. Kiel explains the six pillars of wellness: whole food plant-based nutrition, regular exercise, quality sleep, stress management, social connection and avoiding harmful substances.
Learn evidence-based strategies for disease prevention, increasing healthspan (not just lifespan), and addressing the root causes of chronic illness without relying on medications. Dr. Kiel shares practical behavior change techniques she teaches as a Food for Life Instructor and discusses why military members face unique health challenges.
Perfect for veterans, military families, health-care professionals, and anyone interested in preventive medicine, holistic health and sustainable wellness practices.
Sleep isn't a luxury — it's a mission-critical function. And for veterans, the stakes are even higher. Dr. Sara Alger, Sleep Research Scientist with the Psychological Health Branch at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, unpacks what chronic sleep deprivation is actually doing to your brain and body — and what you can do about it.
Alger explains why the military culture of "I'll sleep when I'm dead" carries real long-term consequences, how combat-trained sleep patterns can follow you home long after deployment, and why those 3 a.m. wake-ups may be more biology than disorder. She also makes the case for tactical napping as a legitimate performance tool — not a sign of weakness.
Whether you're dealing with PTSD-related sleep disruption, years of short nights, or just waking up exhausted, this conversation offers science-backed answers and practical strategies.
Also in this episode: a bipartisan effort to expand overdose protection for veterans, the wartime origins of Daylight Saving Time, and how the Star-Spangled Banner became official.
SHOW LINKS
Learn more about Buddy Checks
Join The American Legion Family USA 250 Challenge
Learn more about the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research
Facts about tactical napping
Defense Health Agency Continuing Education Program Office
Be a part of The American Legion Oratorical Contest
Learn more about the End Veterans Overdose Act of 2026
Wartime history of Daylight Savings Time
Health tips for help you Spring Forward
Star-spangled history or The National Anthem
Learn more about the U.S. Flag - Indivisible: The Story of Our Flag
Navy veteran Kelley Gilberry shares his inspiring transformation story from obesity and heart disease to optimal health.
Before age 40, Gilberry battled cardiovascular disease, high blood sugar and a 70-pound weight problem fueled by fast food. Discover how he reversed heart disease naturally through plant-based eating and lifestyle changes, and became a certified health coach and nutritionist. Learn about his "Medicine Free Method" and "Ant Philosophy" for sustainable weight loss, diabetes prevention, and getting off medications.
Gilberry, founder of One Determined Vegan and author of "Plants Saved My Life," provides practical guidance on eliminating processed foods, reducing carcinogens, and adopting whole food nutrition.
Essential listening for veterans struggling with obesity, heart disease, diabetes, or anyone seeking health transformation without pharmaceuticals.
SHOW LINKS
Plants Saved My Life on Amazon
Learn more at KelleyGilberry.com
Mark Schatzker "The Dorito Effect"
From childhood trauma to military service, from a career-ending brain injury as a paramedic to Paralympic glory — Shawn Cheshire's story is one of extraordinary resilience.
In this powerful episode, the former US Army helicopter mechanic and 13-time US para-cycling national champion shares how she rebuilt her life after losing her sight at age 36. The Army veteran opens up about her journey from contemplating suicide to becoming a Paralympian, crossing the Grand Canyon solo as the first blind woman to complete Rim to Rim to Rim, and cycling across America on a single bike.
Her new documentary "Blind AF" captures her incredible endurance challenges and the trauma she's overcome. This is a conversation about refusing to be defined by your circumstances and choosing to see possibility even in darkness.
Also in this episode: the BEACON Act, the magic of audio books and more.
SHOW LINKS
Military memoir audiobook recommendations
AURA Special Offer
Learn more about Shawn Cheshire
Choosing to See
Join the USA250 Challenge
American Legion Advocacy Toolkit
American Legion Grassroots Action Center
Visit Legiontown
Reddit Rabbit Hole: Tall tales and fish stories in the military community
Discover proven strategies for improving heart health and living longer with interventional cardiologist Dr. Columbus Batiste.
In this encore episode of The American Legion Tango Alpha Lima podcast, Dr. Batiste shares expert guidance on cardiovascular diseaseprevention, plant-based nutrition, and cardiac rehabilitation specifically for veterans and military families.
Learn about Healthy Heart Nation, his nonprofitorganization helping thousands reverse heart disease through whole food nutrition, exercise, sleep and lifestyle medicine. Perfect for veterans facing increased heart disease risk, anyone interested in preventive cardiology, or those seeking natural approaches to cardiovascular wellness.
Topics include cardiac rehab programs, heart-healthy eating, the physiology of heart disease and practical steps to reduce your risk of the leading cause of death in America.
SHOW LINKS
Dr. Columbus BatisteHeart Healthy Nation
Army veteran Kayla Williams served in combat, deploying to Iraq in 2003 as an Arabic linguist with the 101st Airborne Division.
Since retiring from the military, she has become a bestselling author, and leading advocate for women veterans and military families.
From serving without body armor plates during the 2003 Iraq invasion to navigating her husband's traumatic brain injury (TBI) recovery, Williams shares her journey of resilience and her ongoing fight to preserve the hard-won gains women have made in the military.
Discover why hope matters more than hardship, and why evidence-based policy changes are critical for the future of veteran health care.
Also in this episode: a VA health care change that will help women veterans, tips on how veterans can protect themselves against scammers, the legend of Cafe Ground Zero and more.
SHOW LINKS
Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) eligibility
American Legion Junior Shooting Sports
VA makes it easier for women to access gynecology care
Avoid veteran scams
The legend of Cafe Ground Zero
What does it take to make 200 armed, exhausted Marines laugh? Michael D'Angelo knows. The Las Vegas street punk turned Marine Corps veteran turned comedian created Rapid Fire Comedy Tour, a nonprofit delivering free standup shows to military bases nationwide.
From surviving Vegas streets — including a razor attack that required 32 stitches to his face — to living in his car while pursuing comedy in LA, D'Angelo's journey to serving those who serve is both heartbreaking and inspiring.
In Episode 299 of Tango Alpha Lima, discover how comedy became his way of continuing to serve, how he's exposing young troops to diverse perspectives through art, and why performing for skeptical Marines is the ultimate comedy bootcamp.
Also in this episode: the truth about the notch in dog tags, can this platform save veterans money and more.
SHOW LINKS
Join The American Legion Family USA250 Challenge
Learn more about Rapid Fire Comedy Tour
Join The American Legion
Go down the Reddit Rabbit Hole
Is it Military Fact or Fiction
ExpertVoice
For Navy veteran Shawn VanDiver, a 2021 call from Afghanistan sparked the creation of AfghanEvac, now one of the most successful refugee advocacy organizations.
In this season premiere, VanDiver discusses his path from getting his GED to military service, his work with the Truman National Security Project, and how a single emergency became a mission supporting more than 195,000 Afghan refugees. He explains his community-first approach, why this work extends beyond Afghanistan, and concrete ways veterans can advocate for allies worldwide.
Plus: Tango Alpha Lima hosts warn about predatory VA claim services, explore the Together We Served veteran network, and honor WWII veteran and Beetle Bailey cartoonist Mort Walker.
LINKS
The War Horse: VA Warned These Companies They May Be Breaking the Law. Most Are Still in Business
NPR: Congress calls for a crackdown on companies charging disabled vets
Join The American Legion Family USA250 Challenge
AfghanEvac Website
Afghan Allies Vetting process
How you can help AfghanEvac
AfghanEvac Store
The American Legion Junior Shooting Sports Program
Learn more about Together We Served
Remembering Beetle Bailey creator Mort Walker
Legion calls for Congress to include Fulfilling Promises to Afghan Allies Amendment in 2025 NDAA
One of our first episodes of Season 6 resonated the most for us. Retired U.S. Air Force fighter pilot Col. Lee Ellis, who was shot down and captured during the Vietnam War, talks about leadership and team building lessons he learned during his five years as a prisoner of war, as well as throughout his military service and his 25 years as a leadership coach.
After making history as the Navy’s first Black female helicopter pilot, Dr. Kamin Samuel went from thriving to surviving when she transitioned out of the military.
Plagued by financial troubles after her business went bankrupt, Samuel put her faith and military discipline into action to overcome the suicidal thoughts that crept in.
Now she helps others identify their character strengths, is a best-selling author and documentary filmmaker.
Our listeners didn't sleep on this episode! It was one of the top downloaded episodes of 2025.
Sleep expert Dr. Tina Burke shares her experience working with veterans, first responders and others who have trouble sleeping and provides tips on how to improve sleep including meditation, breathing techniques and establishing a routine.
Army 1st Lt. Austin von Letkemann, better known to his Instagram followers as MandatoryFunDay, has become a frequent flyer on our show in 2025. But his first appearance was what made him one of our most impactful guests of 2025, when he talked about his unusual rise to fame.
His Instagram channel, with 20 million monthly views, features comedy videos that poke fun at various parts of military life.
Our list of Top 6 most impactful guests of Season 6 would not be complete without American Folk singer-songwriter and author Mary Gauthier, who talks about her addiction recovery, mental health journey and how she uses songwriting to help veterans with PTSD. She works with veterans on their healing through songwriting with SongwritingWith:Soldiers.
“What I try to emphasize is that this can be of service to other people — a lifeline actually, which it often is.”
First up in our Top 6 most impactful guests from 2025, renowned documentary filmmaker Ken Burns talks about his new documentary film on the American Revolution, his Vietnam War documentary series, his path to a career in movies and more. He has created a legendary catalog of documentary movies including “The Vietnam War,” “The Civil War,” “Baseball,” “The War,” “The National Parks: America’s Best Idea;” and more.
His films have been honored with dozens of major awards, including 17 Emmy Awards, two Grammy Awards and two Oscar nominations. Other topics include the impact of funding cuts on PBS and NPR, what Reddit is saying about watching documentaries by Burns and more.
Get a sneak peek at “Sheepdog,” an uplifting, award-winning movie, inspired by countless first-hand accounts from veterans about recovery, redemption and the journey of healing.
Writer, director and actor Steven Grayhm and Emmy-winning actor Vondie Curtis Hall, who also stars in the film, are the guests in this episode of The American Legion Tango Alpha Lima podcast.
Grayhm talks about interviews with veterans from the Vietnam War, Global War on Terrorism, OIF and OEF, and others that serve as the basis for this uplifting movie that highlights Post Traumatic Growth.
Also in this episode, a record $23.3 billion in VA claims benefits, Buddy Checks for the Army during the holiday season, and more.
SHOW LINKS
EP287 - Doug Evans The Sprouts Guy
Fuel the Fight - Fund the Mission
Bart Womack - Tango 271
Sheepdog the Movie Website
Vet Tix
Join the USA250 Challenge
American Legion Be the One
Buddy Checks
Army leaders ordered to check in daily with soldiers over the holidays
Record year for American Legion Service Officers
Find a Service Officer
Support Service Officers and Military Families
Marine Lt. Gen. Michael Borgschulte joined American Legion Tango Alpha Lima podcast hosts Joe Worley and Adam Marr live at Media Row in Baltimore before the 2025 Army Navy Game presented by USAA. Borgschulte, who played football for Navy, talks about about coming full circle in Annapolis - from attending as a midshipman to leading as the the United States Naval Academy Superintendent.
2026 Miss America Cassie Donegan joined American Legion Tango Alpha Lima podcast hosts Joe Worley and Adam Marr live at Media Row in Baltimore before the 2025 Army Navy Game presented by USAA. Donegan talks about how her life has been shaped by her father's experience as a 100% disabled Navy veteran and how she found resilience through participation in youth arts and theater programs.
Retired U.S. Special Forces Col. Michael "Sully" Sullivan served 30 years in the US Army, including 23 as a Green Beret. He is now Executive Director of Team RWB. Zachary Polega is a West Point graduate and former Infantry Officer who has overcome injuries from a grenade explosion during a special ops mission and joined 11 other RWB members for the 2026 Old Glory Relay. Zach and Sully joined American Legion Tango Alpha Lima podcast hosts Joe Worley and Adam Marr live at Media Row in Baltimore before the 2025 Army Navy Game presented by USAA to share their experiences in military service and how they have translated that into a mission of health and wellness for veterans.
The Army-Navy Game is more than just a football game; it’s a celebration of camaraderie, tradition and the indomitable spirit of service. USAA SVP and West Point graduate Rob Bragg and USAA SVP and Naval Academy graduate Bill White joined American Legion Tango Alpha Lima podcast hosts Joe Worley and Adam Marr live at Media Row in Baltimore before the 2025 Army Navy Game presented by USAA. They talked about the passionate rivalry and shared values of these two esteemed military academies.
Actor Nate Boyer, a former Green Beret and and former long snapper for the Seattle Seahawks, joins American Legion Tango Alpha Lima podcast hosts Joe Worley and Adam Marr live at Media Row in Baltimore before the 2025 Army Navy Game presented by USAA. The founder of MVP, Boyer shares his unique insights on leadership, discipline and the importance of service. With experiences that span both the military and professional sports, Boyer illustrates how foundational values shared in these worlds can inspire individuals to excel, and explains why organizations that help veterans find their tribe - like Merging Vets and Players and The American Legion are critical for mental wellbeing.
Baltimore Ravens Senior Vice President of Communications Chad Steele joins American Legion Tango Alpha Lima podcast hosts Joe Worley and Adam Marr live at Media Row in Baltimore before the 2025 Army Navy Game presented by USAA to talk about how growing up as a military brat gave him the skills that help him thrive in his NFL career.
Social media influencers @MandatoryFunday (Austin von Letkemann) and @VivaLaVargas (Johnny Vargas) join American Legion Tango Alpha Lima Podcast hosts Joe Worley and Adam Marr to kick off a day of live interviews from USAA Media Row in advance of the Army/Navy Game presented by USAA.
The battle for equality in the U.S. military didn't happen overnight. It took decades of courage, persistence and women who refused to back down.
Documentary filmmakers Joy Bronson and Ellen Haring reveal the untold stories behind "The Fight to Fight," their upcoming feature film chronicling women's integration into combat roles from the 1970s through 2016. Hear firsthand accounts from a Gulf War Navy pilot and a retired Army colonel about the restrictions they faced, the lawsuit that changed everything, and why today's military women still face resistance. This episode of Tango Alpha Lima captures history in the making and honors the pioneers who proved they could "crush them with competence.”
Also in this episode, a preview of the Army-Navy Game, what’s ahead for Wreaths Across America and futuristic changes to an Army chow hall.
SHOW LINKS
Army vs Navy: Fuel the Fight. Fund the Mission
Wings of Gold: The Story of the First Women Naval Aviators
Learn more about "The Fight to Fight"
Join the USA250 Challenge
The most dangerous gravesite in the US resides in Arlington Cemetery
Army tests out first robotically-operated dining facility
Air Force veteran Cami Gage shares her journey from competing in track and cross country at the Air Force Academy to becoming a professional triathlete and coach.
After her military career, Gage found deeper purpose in coaching adaptive and wounded veteran athletes, helping them overcome physical and psychological barriers through organizations like the Air Force Winter Warrior program and Semper Fi & America's Fund.
In this episode, she discusses the power of breathwork, mental regulation, and the fulfillment that comes from guiding others to achieve what they never thought possible. She reflects on the importance of continuing service, mental health and gratitude — and why showing up for people matters more than ever.
Also in this episode, a chat about Pearl Harbor's legacy, discussing the future of the USS Arizona, the continuing impact of service from those lost in the attack and more.
Marine veteran Tony Crescenzo's life changed in six days after reading an article on quantum physics where he sampled a technology on brainwave entrainment. That discovery led him to create Peak Neuro LLC to help other veterans and first responders transform mental health challenges into resilience.
The neuroscience and AI-driven platform harnesses proprietary neuroacoustic technology through a mobile app to enhance sleep, emotional resilience, and trauma recovery. It helps alleviate hypervigilance, PTSD and other effects of TBIs, brain fog, and other issues.
Other topics include the infamous Woody Woodpecker, a heartfelt story that inspired the Peanuts comic and the USA 250 Challenge.
Iraq War veteran Dr. Timothy Vermillion discusses his harm reduction approach to veteran mental health, trauma therapy, PTSD treatment and suicide prevention.
As founder of the Paradise Institute, he explains how EMDR memory therapy helps veterans process combat trauma and move from surviving to thriving. Vermillion shares how quitting smoking is also effective in mental health treatment and veteran suicide prevention.
Other topics in this episode include Project Athena, a visual map connecting the memories of those who served in Afghanistan to their coordinates; and “Angel’s Glow,” and why it took almost 140 years to understand it.
- Associate Sponsor of Army-Navy Game presented by USAA
- Veteran & Military Positive Event Timeline
"I felt like a waste of life, getting on a boat with my best friends." That realization on a deep sea fishing trip led Eric Tansey from a surfer lifestyle straight into the Army where he became a paratrooper. But his story doesn't end there.
After serving his country, Tansey became a police officer in one of Raleigh’s toughest districts, turned his craziest police stories into a published book, Pig Latin; appeared in “Office Joe,” a comedy series about veteran office life; and now does the “Failure to Stop” podcast and stand-up comedy.
This episode is equal parts inspiring, hilarious and proof that the most unexpected paths can lead to the most interesting lives.
Other topics in this Tango Alpha Lima episode include Veterans Day themes like sharing your military story and supporting veteran-owned businesses.
Veterans Day Deals & Discounts
Office Joe
Learn more about the Army/Navy Game
Eric Tansey author page
Failure to Stop podcast
Pig Latin: A Seriously Funny True Story of a Former Police Officer
Join the USA250 Challenge
Reddit Rabbit Hole: Veterans Stories
Veteran Owned Businesses
VA VETBIZ
PBS After Action
Military veterans and military family members are guiding the concept and design for the memorial that will honor and remember all involved in the Global War on Terrorism.
The Global War on Terrorism (GWOT) Memorial Foundation is welcoming input into the design of the memorial from service members, GWOT veterans, their families, Gold Star Families, and others.
This is the final episode in “Welcome Home,” the initial six-part special podcast series produced by The American Legion. It focuses on the GWOT memorial in Washington, D.C., that will serve as a special place of honor and remembrance. Check back in the spring of 2026 for the next installment.
Marine veteran Mark Sewell joined the FBI after his military service, working on cases involving organized crime, human trafficking and more.
In the Atlanta FBI office, he was joined by agents who worked on high-profile mob crime such as the John Gotti case. Sewell wrote “Investigating America’s Most Notorious Strip Club: The FBI, The Gold Club, and the Mafia.” His next book is about stolen valor.
Other topics in this Tango Alpha Lima episode include a Reddit post about a survivor of human trafficking; whether bowling is the secret to living to 100; and arrests made in the murder of a Marine veteran.
LINKS
Investigating America's Most Notorious Strip Club
Reddit Rabbit Hole: Survivors of Human Trafficking
American Legion Resolution on Slavery and Human Trafficking Prevention and Awareness
New disabled veteran parking rules take effect in Washington
Darius Holland won a Super Bowl championship playing for the Green Bay Packers during his 10-year NFL career. Afterward, he found his calling asa chaplain in the Army National Guard and as a pastor of 20 years.
He currently specializes in religious practices and coaching that bridges cultural gaps and fosters spiritual readiness, especially within the military community.
A member of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation’s Design Advisory Council, Holland is the special guest in this episode, hosted by Army veteran Jennifer Ballou.
He talks about his NFL career, service as a chaplain, moral injury, and how he helps veterans and servicemembers heal.
This is the fifth episode in the initial six-part special series produced by The American Legion. It focuses on the GWOT memorial in Washington, D.C., that will serve as a special place of honor and remembrance.
Retired Air Force veteran Brandon Fertig has transformed from a conservative, mild mannered civilian to a passionate outdoor adventurer.
An employee of Philips, he has climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, skydived and whitewater rafted in Colorado, and gone scuba diving, rode horses, skied, fished, snorkled, kayaked, biked, and hiked all over the world.
Fertig’s eight-day climb of Mount Kilimanjaro was in support of MedTechVets, a nonprofit that helps veterans transition to rewarding careers.
Other topics in Episode 290 include the return of a Medal of Honor recipient’s remains, an update on Gulf War Illness treatment and a rare Stars Wars trading card.
Army Navy Game
USA250 Challenge
CDC recognizes Gulf War Illness
Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army Capt. Willibald Bianchi have been identified
One-of-a-kind Star Wars collector’s card surfaces at US Army post exchange
All Americans have been affected by the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, and theGlobal War on Terrorism as a whole. The Global War on Terrorism Memorial is being designed to share the stories, voices and experiences of GWOTveterans, their military families and all Americans. Retired Army Col. Kirsten Brunson and Gen. Xavier Brunson are the special guests in this episode, hosted by Army veteran Jennifer Ballou. It is the fourth in the initial six-part special series produced by The American Legion. It focuses on the GWOT memorial in Washington, D.C., that will serve as a special place of honor and remembrance.
Army veteran Dan Kunze, who joined the National Guard after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, talks about his new role as co-host of the Warrior Money podcast on Yahoo Finance, mental health, time management and other topics.
Kunze, who appeared in an earlier episode about his role as vice chairman of Task Force Movement, also discussed impostor syndrome for military veterans, national security, technology, and civic leadership.
Other topics in this Tango Alpha Lima episode include Halloween tricks and treats, the VA's new MOS (Military Skills) Translator tool and National Pumpkin Cheesecake Day.
Links
Halloween Safety Tips
2025 Army/Navy game
Task Force Movement
Council of College and Military Educators
Join the USA 250 challenge!
Bridge My Return
TheGlobal War on Terrorism Memorial will reflect the voices, unique experiences and war stories of those who served in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere.
Marine Corps combat veteran Elliot Ackerman, the co-chairman of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation’s Design Advisory Council, is helping to collect the voices that will be used to represent all those who served, sacrificed and contributed to the GWOT.
He is the author of a half-dozen books, including “The Fifth Act: America’s End in Afghanistan.” This episode, hosted by Army veteran Jennifer Ballou, is the third in the initial six-part special series produced by The American Legion. It focuses on the GWOT memorial in Washington, D.C., that will serve as a special place of honor and remembrance.
Traditional prosthetic care can be labor and time-intensive, difficult to scale to all VA facilities, and challenging for some veterans to access. However, the Veterans Health Administration’s Office of Healthcare Innovation and Learning is making progress in digital prosthetics.
Digital innovation, AI and other technologies are allowing VA to deliver prosthetic devices to disabled veterans sooner so they can play video games, feed themselves, play sports like golf and pickleball, and more. Learn more inthis week’s Tango Alpha Lima podcast.
Other topics in this episode include changes the Pentagon is making to MREs, Chuck Yeager’s historic supersonic flight and a Vietnam veteran’s journey back to school.
The American Legion is proud to be an Associate Sponsor of Army-Navy Game presented by USAA
Dr. Ripley discusses development of 3D-printed medical devices
Join the USA 250 Challenge
81-year old Vietnam War veteran graduations from Bristol College
Ron Cabral graduation video
New MRE options coming soon
Celebrating Chuck Yeager's supersonic flight
The design for the Global War on Terrorism Memorial will incorporate the stories of those most closely affected including veterans, their families, Gold Star Families and other military members. Kengo Kuma, who was named one of Time's 100 Most Influential People, and Balázs Bognár from Kengo Kuma and Associates are the lead designers in the memorial to honor and memorialize GWOT veterans. They explain the design process, their vision and more for the project that will result in the memorial dedication in Washington, D.C. This episode, hosted by Army veteran Jennifer Ballou, is the second in the initial six-part special series produced by The American Legion.
Former Army 82nd Airborne Division paratrooper Doug Evans has landed on a niche for affordable health and wellness.
After losing both parents and witnessing his aunt's double amputation due to preventable disease, Evans had his "come to cucumber moment" and transformed his life through nutrition.
Now the founder and CEO of The Sprouting Company and bestselling author of The Sprout Book, Evans reveals how anyone can grow the most nutrient-dense food on the planet right in their kitchen — for under a dollar per serving.
Learn how sprouting works, why sprouts are up to 100 times more nutrient-dense than regular vegetables, and how this ancient practice is helping modern families eat fresh, healthy food without soil, sunshine, or fertilizer.
Other topics in this episode include the Army-Navy Game, PBS “After Action,” the Department of Defense or Department of War, and more.
The American Legion and the Army Navy Game
The Sprouting Company
The Sprout Book
After Action on PBS
After Action Website
History of the Department of War
Legion Rider writes song about ALR
Ride with the Wind by Dick Cole
The Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation is on a journey to dedicate a place of honor and remembrance for all service members and military families who served and sacrificed during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. Former Army Green Beret and foundation CEO Michael Rodriguez shares his vision for the GWOT memorial in Washington, D.C.; how it is a “sacred duty” and more. This episode, hosted by Army veteran Jennifer Ballou, is the first in the initial six-part special series produced by The American Legion.
Alicia Freeman talks about how equine therapy helps veterans with mental health issues, her Stay in the Fight Veterans Foundation philanthropy organization and more as the special guest on this week’s Tango Alpha Lima podcast.
Other topics in this episode include International Podcast Day, Wiley X’s protective eyewear for military members, the decline of civic engagement, music as a lifeline for deployed troops and more.
Episode links
- The history of podcasts
- USA250 Challenge
- WileyX
- V.A.L.O.R. equine therapy
- Veterans volunteer longer, vote more often than civilian peers: report
- We The Veterans
- WTV: The 2025 Veterans Civic Health Index
- Deployment playlists, then and now: from Walkmans to wireless despair
Number One New York Times bestselling author Robert Edsel is the author of “The Greatest Treasure Hunt in History: The Story of the Monuments Men.” The book served as the basis for Academy Award winner George Clooney’s 2014 film, which stars an ensemble cast including himself, Matt Damon, and Bill Murray.
Edsel, whose father served as a Marine during World War II, is one of the world’s foremost advocates for art preservation and the recovery of cultural treasures missing since World War II.
The Monuments Men and Women were the soldier-scholars who helped save many of the world’s great art and cultural treasures from the destruction of war and theft by the Nazis.
Other topics in this episode include a wounded Navy veteran’s “Alive Day,” how Sesame Street characters are giving back to the military community and more.
- Learn more about Robert Edsel
- Buy "Remember Us" on Amazon
- Join the USA 250 Challenge
- Watch Robert Edsel at the 2025 American Legion National Convention
- Poem: The Young Dead Soldiers Do Not Speak
- Netherlands American Cemetery in Margraten
- The Forever Promise Project
- Army Monuments Officer Training
- American Legion Oratorical Contest
- Sesame Street helps military kids build healthy habits
- Sesame Street: Fun Recipes with Cookie Monster!
Finding your Revolutionary War Roots
THE INTERVIEW
Renowned documentary filmmaker Ken Burns talks about his new documentary film on the American Revolution, his Vietnam War documentary series, his path to a career in movies and more. He has created a legendary catalog of documentary movies including “The Vietnam War,” “The Civil War,” “Baseball,” “The War,” “The National Parks: America’s Best Idea;” and more. His films have been honored with dozens of major awards, including 17 Emmy Awards, two Grammy Awards and two Oscar nominations. Other topics include the impact of funding cuts on PBS and NPR, what Reddit is saying about watching documentaries by Burns and more.
SCUTTLEBUTT
Ken Burns support for PBS, CPB and the National Endowment for the Humanities
Reddit Rabbit Hole: Bingeing Burns documentaries
Special Guest: Ken Burns.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Join The American Legion
- Finding Your Roots | PBS
- Daughters of the American Revolution
- American Legion Family USA250 | The American Legion
- Ken Burns UNUM
- Ken Burns | National Endowment for the Humanities
- The American Revolution - Ken Burns
- Oratorical Contest | The American Legion
- Ken Burns is ready to fight for public broadcasting : NPR
- Sullivan Ballou - Wikipedia
- Once or twice a year I get drunk and watch Ken Burns’ Civil War. Anyone else? : r/redscarepod
- Ken Burns on new documentary: ‘We hope to put the ‘us’ back into the United States’ : r/history
The American Legion is proud to introduce “Welcome Home,” a new podcast series from the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation.
GWOT Memorial Foundation CEO and former Army Green Beret Michael “Rod” Rodriguez chats with Chief of Staff and Army veteran Jennifer Ballou, who will host the upcoming series. The memorial will honor and remember military members who served since 9/11.
Rodriguez and Ballou talk about their personal connections to the Global War on Terrorism, the memorial foundation and more in advance of the first episode of Season 1 of "Welcome Home," which will be released on Oct. 2.
Special Guest: Michael "Rod" Rodriguez.
Links:
- Follow the Welcome Home Podcast on Spotify
- Global War On Terrorism Memorial Foundation - Advocating for a memorial on the mall for GWOT service members.
Military spouses often face challenges when seeking jobs. They raise their military families while one parent is frequently deployed for months or years at a time. Military members regularly PCS to a different duty station, making it difficult for a spouse to remain employed. Entrepreneurship is a good way for a military spouse to earn some extra money.
Monica Fullerton created Spouse-ly, an online business that spotlights and supports businesses owned by military spouses, transitioning service members and veterans.
Meet this successful entrepreneur and learn more about her business, path to a rewarding career and more in the fourth and final episode of Veteran Entrepreneurs, a special four-part podcast series from The American Legion Tango Alpha Lima podcast.
Special Guest: Monica Bassett.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Spouse-ly, Shop Military & First Responder-Owned Small Businesses
- Monica Fullerton | E-Commerce Expert and Business Mentor
- Podcast - Spouse-ly
- Boots to Business | U.S. Small Business Administration
- Spouse-ly University
Veterans and transitioning servicemembers often face challenges when seeking civilian careers.
Brian Marchegiani, co-founder of Mack Brothers Elevator, found his calling in the skilled labor field. But he does more than elevator repair. He gives back to the veteran community, providing jobs for former military members and military families. In fact, for this business owner, mentorship isn’t optional, it’s a force multiplier.
Learn more about this entrepreneur success story, how to apply his expertise to landing a job in the skilled trades and more in the third episode of Veteran Entrepreneurs, a special four-part series from The American Legion Tango Alpha Lima podcast.
Special Guest: Brian Marchegiani.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Home - Mack Brothers Elevator
- Helmets to Hardhats
- International Union of Elevator Constructors (IUEC) - NABTU
Veterans and transitioning servicemembers often face challenges when seeking civilian careers.
Former Army officer Kirby Atwell faced burnout in his first attempt at entrepreneurship post service. He stayed true to his calling, seeking a mission that would bring him freedom after his military service.
Learn how he knew when to move on and how to make a pivot to unlock a more rewarding business that supports veterans in need in the real estate field. Tune in to the second episode of Veteran Entrepreneurs, a special four-part podcast series from The American Legion Tango Alpha Lima podcast.
Special Guest: Kirby Atwell.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Living Off Rentals
- Dune Dwellings: Premium Vacation Rentals Near Lake Michigan
- Sell My House Fast IN – We buy houses in Michigan City – Green Vet Homes
- Rich Dad Poor Dad: The #1 Best-Selling Personal Finance Book Ever
- Home - D'Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families
- Bunker Labs – Perkins&Will
Veterans and transitioning servicemembers often face challenges when seeking civilian careers. Air Force veteran Charlynda Scales found her business niche while honoring the legacy of her grandfather, a Korean War veteran. With no formal training in the food industry, she relied on her military experience to adapt, execute, and lead, bringing her vision to life. Her business, Mutt’s Sauce, is rooted in service, resilience and a sense of purpose. Learn more about how she developed her mission, her path to success and more in the first episode of Veteran Entrepreneurs, a special four-part podcast series from The American Legion Tango Alpha Lima podcast.
Special Guest: Charlynda Scales.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Mutt's Sauce LLC®
- Free Small Business Mentorship and Resources | SCORE
- Union Kitchen – Food Business Accelerator & Shared Kitchen in DC
- 6888 Kitchen Incubator | Dayton Ohio
- Rock Bottom Has a Trampoline: How to Turn Every Loss into a Win with the Like-Hearted Mentor (TM): Scales, Charlynda: 9781956906691: Amazon.com: Books
- Amazon.com : Powershift
Austin von Letkemann, better known by his MandatoryFunDay Instagram handle, leads off this episode by talking about his new podcast, the Army-Navy Game and more.
Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation CEO Rod Rodriguez shares an update on plans for the memorial and a new podcast that launches with a pilot episode September 11.
Representatives of The American Legion’s community service project, Heroes United to Heal and Protecting Vets Foundation also chatted with the hosts of Tango Alpha Lima about the role of service, overcoming PTSD and military sexual trauma. All this and more in Part 2 of our episode recorded during the Legion’s National Convention in Tampa, Fla.
Special Guests: Alyse Duffy, Austin Von Letkemann, Bridget Lake, Donna A. Michaels, Jennifer Ballou, and Michael "Rod" Rodriguez.
Representatives of USAA, Mutual of Omaha, Sony and MilTrac share how they are supporting veterans through The American Legion. Veterans and servicemembers in transition can receive financial guidance, mental health support, hearing aids and more resources from these partners. They all stopped by the Tango Alpha Lima podcast booth during The American Legion National Convention in Tampa, Fla., for this special episode.
Special Guests: Kylie Reynolds, L.J. Pocsi, Matt Scherer, Melissa Bennett, and Thaddeus "Chris" Figueroa.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Insurance, Banking, Retirement & Investment Services | USAA | USAA
- Life Insurance, Finance, Medicare from Mutual of Omaha
- Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom
- Visit Amazing Animals Inc. in St. Cloud, Florida
- MilTRAC – Military Transition Resources and Calendar
With a rifle in one hand, and a sketch pad in the other, retired Marine veteran Joe Winslow’s combat service in the Battle of Fallujah inspired a return to his love of art. He drew sketches and collected artifacts before returning home to begin working on art reflecting the dedication of Marines, sailors, soldiers and others in action. Winslow discusses his time in the military, drawing inspiration from combat zones, transition issues for servicemembers and more. Other topics include alternative therapies for mental health, the origins of battle cries and the upcoming anniversary of Star Trek.
Special Guest: Joe Winslow.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Separating Fact from Fiction: Exploring Alternative Therapies for Veterans’ Men...
- USA 250 Challenge | The American Legion
- Home - Archives Branch, Marine Corps History Division - Research Guides at Library of the Marine Corps
- Joe Winslow Artist
- USMC Combat Artist Program - National Museum of the Marine Corps
- Fallujah Bronzes
- Where ‘hooah,’ ‘oorah,’ and ‘hooyah’ came from and why they still echo
- Ships named Enterprise: For more than 240 years, They've boldly served America's Navy | Top Stories | militarynews.com
- What’s In a Name? American Vessels Called Enterprise – The Unwritten Record
- If you hypothetically had a large(8ft+) shark on a fishing line would your command let you bring it on deck? : r/navy
"Wayspring Wanderer" launches on Amazon.
THE INTERVIEW
Scotty Hasting is an Army combat veteran turned singer/songwriter who has performed at the Grand Ole Opry. Hasting, who received the Purple Heart, was shot 10 times at once in Afghanistan. Hasting has opened for artists including Dave Grohl, Jelly Roll, Parmalee and Tanya Tucker - and will be appearing at the American Legion National Convention in Tampa.
On this week’s Tango Alpha Lima podcast, Hasting discusses his time in the military, music career and more.
SCUTTLEBUTT
Down the Reddit Rabbit Hole: What’s the worst MRE you’ve ever ate?
Future destroyer to be named after Medal of Honor recipient, Marine Corps Cpl. Kyle Carpenter
Bravo Zulu to American Legion Riders from Ernest A. Love Post 6 in Prescott, Ariz.
Special Guest: Scotty Hasting.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Amazon.com: Wayspring Wanderer (The Desert Druid Book 1) eBook : Worley, Joedan : Books
- Scars - YouTube
- USA 250 Challenge | The American Legion
- Scars by Scotty Hasting
- Scotty Hasting | Opry
- Concert on the Corner | Alws
- Oratorical Contest | The American Legion
- What’s The WORST MRE you’ve ever ate? : r/USMC
- Tabasco bottles make a glorious return to the MRE
- Walter Stauffer McIlhenny - Wikipedia
- Future destroyer to be named after Marine Medal of Honor recipient
- List of U.S. military vessels named after living Americans - Wikipedia
- What really matters | Legiontown U.S.A.
- The American Legion Legacy Run | The American Legion
2025 American Legion World Series begins
THE INTERVIEW
Retired Army Maj. Gen. Mark Graham, the executive director of Vets4Warriors, lost both of his sons, including one to suicide. In response, Graham has dedicated his life to mental health awareness and suicide prevention, aligned with the Rutgers UBHC National Call Center. Vets4Warriors hires and trains veterans to be peer support specialists who answer calls within 30 seconds, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Graham discusses his time in the military, his work to reduce mental health stigma and the suicide rate, and more.
SCUTTLEBUTT
American Legion Family rallies to help Texas communities in the aftermath of devastating floods in Kerr County
The amazing escape of a WWII pilot who crash-landed into a field hosting a Nazi soccer match.
OTDIH 1981: IBM enters the personal computer market with the introduction of the IBM 5150.
Special Guest: Mark A. Graham.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- 2025 American Legion World Series
- Baseball Centennial Bookazine - American Legion Flag & Emblem
- BASEBALL | Legiontown U.S.A.
- Share | Legiontown U.S.A.
- USA 250 Challenge | The American Legion
- Ways to Collaborate - Vets4Warriors
- Partnership Opportunities - Vets4Warriors
- Become an Ambassador - Vets4Warriors
- Home - Vets4Warriors
- Post provides hope, support amidst tragedy of Texas flooding | The American Legion
- Texas counties eligible for NEF grants | The American Legion
- National Commander LaCoursiere gets firsthand look at Texas flooding impact | The American Legion
- This WWII pilot crash-landed into a field hosting a Nazi soccer match
- How the IBM PC Won, Then Lost, the Personal Computer Market - IEEE Spectrum
- (17) IBM PS/2 Commerical | Cast of MASH - YouTube
250 ways to participate in The American Legion USA 250 Challenge
THE INTERVIEW
Col. Bree Fram, a transgender Space Force member, is being forced out of the military and end her 23-year service that began with the Air Force. Fram is currently headed toward retirement due to President Trump’s prohibition on transgender service that was implemented in 2025. The White House implemented the transgender ban through an Executive Order and Department of Defense (DoD) policies. Fram speaks as a civilian as she discusses her time in the military, issues related to her transition and more.
SCUTTLEBUTT
Army moves to dismantle most ceremonial horse units
How WWII helped normalize tattoos
MOH recipient Clint Romesha is getting a new comic book highlighting his actions in Afghanistan
Special Guest: Col. Bree Fram.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- USA 250 Challenge | The American Legion
- Legionnaire shares 250 activities to support USA 250 Challenge | The American Legion
- FORGED IN FIRE - Home
- Amazon.com: With Valor And Visibility: The Next Chapter of Transgender Military Service eBook : Fram, Bree, Sheridan, Máel: Kindle Store
- Bree Fram
- Oratorical Contest | The American Legion
- Army Disbanding Most Ceremonial Horse Units | Military.com
- How WWII brought about the normalization of tattoos
- New Medal of Honor comic tells the story of heroism in Afghanistan
- "Rise of Our Flag" Graphic Novel - American Legion Flag & Emblem
250 years of the U.S. Army Chaplain Corps
THE INTERVIEW
Retired Marine Lt. Col. Kevin Schmiegel is helping fellow veterans to thrive instead of falling to the broken veteran narrative. Schmiegel, who previously founded Hiring Our Heroes, is now leading ZeroMils. Schmiegel shares how ZeroMills is breaking the broken veteran narrative by creating a military thriving movement.
SCUTTLEBUTT
Coast Guardsman on his first mission helped save 165 Texas flash flood victims
Not-so-hot pursuit! Charleston, S.C. police chase a burglary suspect going 3 mph on a tractor excavator
Special Guest: Kevin Schmiegel.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- After Action | For God and Country | Season 2 | Episode 2 | PBS
- USA 250 Challenge | The American Legion
- Be The One | The American Legion
- Homepage / ZeroMils
- Hiring Our Heroes: Bridging the Job Gap for Veterans
- U.S. Chamber of Commerce | U.S. Chamber of Commerce
- Join The American Legion
- Coast Guard 'American hero' Scott Ruskan helps save Texas flood victims
- Not-So-Hot Pursuit of Burglary Suspect Sees Police Cars Chase Tractor Excavator at Walking Pace
Native Americans in the Revolutionary War.
THE INTERVIEW
Former Navy Lt. Cmdr. Natalie Schibell found success in the military but struggled to find work in the civilian sector. She rallied and rebounded to become vice president of Market Strategy at Aetion and create Mission to Commission, a nonprofit dedicated to helping military veterans navigate career transitions. The former American Ninja Warrior contestant shares tips for veterans and servicemembers looking for civilian jobs
SCUTTLEBUTT
Air Force installing Lumena MindGyms to facilitate relaxation for stressed-out troops
Task & Purpose asked for the dumbest moments in uniform - and the responses did not disappoint
Army Aviators who helped kick off the air campaign of Operation Desert Storm in January 1991 awarded Distinguished Flying Crosses
Special Guest: Natalie Schibell.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- American Legion Family USA250 | The American Legion
- Battle of Minisink | American Revolutionary War
- Be The One | The American Legion
- About Natalieschibell.com - Empowering Military and Veterans
- Philosophy Natalieschibell.com - Empowering Military and Veterans
- Join | The American Legion
- Air Force spends millions on relaxation cubes that may prove worth it
- Home - Lumena
- Alcohol and swords don't mix — 9 amazingly dumb stories of military life
- Desert Storm Apache crews awarded Distinguished Flying Crosses
Remembering Gen. "Mad" Anthony Wayne and the Battle of Stony Point
THE INTERVIEW
Former Cro-Mags and Bad Brains singer John Joseph emerged from an abusive childhood in a foster home to serve in the Navy and then forge his punk rock career. Joseph rose through the ranks, along with others in the early 1980s scene including Henry Rollins, the Beastie Boys and others to become a successful singer. Now he inspires others as a vegan triathlete.
SCUTTLEBUTT
Reddit Rabbit Hole: Best posters seen during a triathalon
Army bringing in big tech executives as lieutenant colonels
American airmen in Japan test AI tool to streamline flight scheduling
Special Guest: John Joseph.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Stony Point Battle Facts and Summary | American Battlefield Trust
- Anthony Wayne | American Battlefield Trust
- Be The One | The American Legion
- John Joseph Discipline
- Meat Is for Pussies: A How-To Guide for Dudes Who Want to Get Fit, Kick Ass, and Take Names by John Joseph | Goodreads
- What’s the best poster you’ve seen on race day? : r/triathlon
- TangoAlphaLima on Reddit
- Army recruits Big Tech executives as senior officers — Army bringing in big tech executives as lieutenant colonels
- American airmen in Japan test AI tool to streamline flight scheduling | Stars and Stripes
OTDIH: The first public reading of the Declaration of Independence
THE INTERVIEW
Retired Army Command Sgt. Maj. Bart Womack discusses creating an equine therapy facility for veterans with PTSD; mentoring ROTC cadets; his book, “Embedded Enemy,” which is about an insider terrorist attack; and more
SCUTTLEBUTT
Mapping US troops and military bases in the Middle East
Navy destroyer, air defense systems help intercept Iranian missiles
Special Guest: Bart Womack.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- American Legion Family USA250 | The American Legion
- John Nixon
- Equine therapy – RideAFEC
- Veterans Media Corporation – Uniting Veterans Globally
- Home | VET Tv
- Welcome to The Veterans Channel - The Veterans Channel
- Bart Womack – Embedded Enemy – The true story of the unprecedented, deadly attack against the men and women of Headquarters and Headquarters Company First Brigade, 101st Airborne Division
- Embedded Enemy: The Insider Threat: Womack, Bart E.: 9781948903394: Amazon.com: Books
- Be The One | The American Legion
- Mapping US troops and military bases in the Middle East | Military News | Al Jazeera — Mapping US troops and military bases in the Middle East
- Navy destroyer, air defense systems help intercept Iranian missiles
National Creative Ice Cream Flavors Day
THE INTERVIEW
Nutrition can be complicated. Army veteran and health and wellness expert Jennifer Campbell helps bring clarity and provides answers on how adults can fix the most disruptive things affecting their health. Among the topics she tackles are the best exercise for your health and longevity, lessons from the Blue Zones and understanding the role of the microbiome and gut health.
SCUTTLEBUTT
Reddit Rabbit Hole: Unfortunate Fourth of July fireworks fizzles
Legacies of historic units face uncertain future as Army plans to close more than 20 base museums in major reduction
Special Guest: Jennifer Campbell.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Aging and Longevity: How to Live Longer While Aging Gracefully: An Essential Guide to Functional Health and Wellness eBook : Campbell, Jennifer: Kindle Store
- Tango Alpha Lima on Reddit
- US Army plans to close more than 20 of its museums
- Be The One | The American Legion
- Join The American Legion
- American Legion Family USA250 | The American Legion
Summer is in full swing and our hosts have big plans.
THE INTERVIEW
Navy veteran David Vardeman talks about guiding nonprofits to their goals, what’s led to his success, achieving financial literacy and more. A senior vice president for Capital Bank in Washington, D.C., Vardeman shares what led to his success, how he helps nonprofits and others meet their financial dreams and more.
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An Oregon man who quit his job to set sail with his cat arrives to cheering fans in Hawaii
‘Cake Bandit’ opossum hospitalized after indulging in an entire Costco cake
Woman who faked being a man to get into Magic Circle finally allowed in
Special Guest: David Vardeman.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Be The One | The American Legion
- Tragedy Assistance Program For Survivors (TAPS) Is Here For You!
- Small Business Administration
- Join The American Legion
- An Oregon man who quit his job to set sail with his cat arrives to cheering fans in Hawaii | AP News — An Oregon man who quit his job to set sail with his cat arrives to cheering fans in Hawaii
- Sailing with Phoenix on Instagram
- ‘Cake Bandit’ opossum hospitalized after indulging in an entire Costco cake — ‘Cake Bandit’ opossum hospitalized after indulging in an entire Costco cake
- Kirkland Signature Tuxedo Chocolate Mousse Cake Same-Day Delivery | Costco
- Woman who faked being a man to get into Magic Circle finally allowed in | Ents & Arts News | Sky News — Woman who faked being a man to get into Magic Circle finally allowed in
Navigating Visual Sequela Progression due to TBI
THE INTERVIEW
Mike Corrado discovered the power of music while serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. Music offers the power to heal, honor the fallen and inspire. He has seen firsthand how teaching songwriting to amputees helps them heal and move forward. Corrado talks about his lifelong love of music, its power to heal, his singer/songwriter retreats for veterans and more.
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The moment 250 years ago today, June 17, when General William Prescott uttered the famous line, “Don’t one of you fire until you see the whites of their eyes!”
An update to the Veterans Legacy Memorial’s online project
A “not friendly” macaque that is terrorizing military bases
Special Guest: Mike Corrado.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Learn more about Visual Sequela Progression
- Be The One | The American Legion
- The Citadel Fine Arts Program
- Rusty Tabor - My Legacy - YouTube
- Songwriting With: Soldiers | Transforming Lives by Collaborative Songwriting
- Coda - The Ballad of JoeDan - YouTube
- Mike Corrado Band
- Harmony Hill
- Join The American Legion
- USA 250 | Legiontown U.S.A.
- The American Legion Family USA 250
- VA’s online legacy project adds names of 210,000 vets lost overseas
- US Army Sounds Alarm as Aggressive Monkey Nears Base Families | GreaterGood
- Operation Spear Gunning Monkeys - YouTube
Navy combat veteran, cancer survivor and mental wellness expert Aletha Williams shares how meditation and mind-body wellness has helped her learn how to let go of things that no longer serve her. As the founder of Inner Starr Compass Healing, she now helps individuals heal through inner wisdom, creativity and intuition. Learn more about how she helps others overcome PTSD and other mental health issues through a mind-body connection.
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90 years of Alcoholics Anonymous - founded by World War I veteran Bill Wilson
Woman charged after pet raccoon found with meth pipe
Special Guest: Dr. Aletha Williams.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Be The One | The American Legion
- VETERAN SUPPORT – Inner Starr Compass Healing
- VetDogs Graduate Story: Aletha Williams: Making a Better Life - Women Veterans Alliance
- Waking the Tiger: Healing Trauma: Peter A. Levine, Ann Frederick: 9781556432330: Amazon.com: Books
- Inner Starr Compass Healing – This is the time to heal. Are you ready?
- Military mural unveiled in Oxford | Archives | hendersondispatch.com
- Join | The American Legion
- The risk of too much (or any) alcohol | The American Legion
- Substance Use Treatment For Veterans | Veterans Affairs
- Bill W. - Wikipedia
- Akron woman charged after pet raccoon found with meth pipe in mouth
OTD - In 1965 astronaut Edward Higgins White II became the first American to walk in space
THE INTERVIEW
Providing guidance to veterans navigating their VA services and benefits has turned Army National Guard veteran Joshua Parish into an entrepreneur. He has created Battle Buddy, a mobile app built to streamline access to services, support mental health through its AI-powered Talk to Sam feature, and strengthen the overall transition experience for veterans and their families.
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Trump signs executive order for more homeless veteran housing at West LA VA campus
"Mysterious poop chucker" might be targeting Colorado woman for not picking up dog's waste
Special Guest: Joshua Parish.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Junior Shooting Sports | The American Legion
- Ed White (astronaut) - Wikipedia
- VETLIFE ® | veteran nonprofit organization | USA
- From Glory Days: Veterans Edition | VETLIFE
- Battle Buddy | VETLIFE
- President Trump signs executive order for more homeless veteran housing at West LA VA campus - CBS Los Angeles
- Keeping Promises to Veterans and Establishing a National Center for Warrior Independence – The White House
- After Action | www.afteractionshow.org
- Homeless Veterans | The American Legion
- VA redeems itself in West LA | The American Legion
- "Mysterious poop chucker" might be targeting Colorado woman for not picking up dog's waste | outtherecolorado.com
Retired Navy SEAL Matt Stevens helps The Honor Foundation guide members of the Special Forces community toward rewarding civilian careers. Stevens talks about how to discover your “why,” developing contacts and other tips for developing executives.
THE SCUTTLEBUTT
Down the Reddit Rabbit Hole: The Meaning of Memorial Day
The fallout of banned books at the U.S. Naval Academy
Busch Gardens, Sea World offering free tickets for service members and veterans
Special Guest: Matt Stevens.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- The Honor Foundation: Career Transition for Special Operations Forces
- Vector Accelerator
- How do you feel about how your fellow Americans see Memorial Day? : r/AskAnAmerican
- TangoAlphaLima
- Report: President Trump order causes some to resign at US Naval Academy | WBAL Baltimore News
- Maya Angelou memoir, Holocaust book are among those pulled from Naval Academy library in DEI purge - WTOP News
- Act fast: Busch Gardens Williamsburg honoring military veterans with free tickets | WAVY.com
- Join The American Legion
- Be The One | The American Legion
THE INTERVIEW
Native Americans serve at a higher percentage than the general population. Still, there are misunderstandings about their culture and spiritual beliefs even among their brothers and sisters in the armed forces. In this week's episode, Army veteran Mitchelene BigMan talks about her military service as a Native American, importance of culture, creation of a Native American women veterans nonprofit and more.
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Down the Reddit Rabbit Hole: Native Americans and the U.S. Military
Tribal flags removed from Phoenix VA hospital under new federal policy
Memorial Honoring Native American U.S. Veterans proposed for Minnesota Capitol grounds
Special Guest: Mitchelene BigMan.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- After Action | www.afteractionshow.org
- Be The One | The American Legion
- nawwassociation
- Join The American Legion
- Native Americans and the US military : r/IndianCountry
- TangoAlphaLima
- Tribal flags removed from Phoenix VA hospital under new federal policy - ICT News
- VA removes tribal flags from Phoenix center, citing new Trump policy
- Memorial Honoring Native American U.S. Veterans proposed for Minnesota Capitol grounds | Local News | mankatofreepress.com
Constitutional fun facts in honor of The American Legion National Oratorical Competition Finals
THE INTERVIEW
Army combat veteran Blake Hall created his company to protect veterans from identity theft. Veterans are more than 80% likely to have their identity stolen than other Americans. Learn how ID.me prevents fraud in this week’s episode.
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A salute Ronin – the hero rat who set a Guinness World Record for detecting landmines
Legionnaires supporting manners, etiquette and Americanism in South Carolina
Special Guest: Blake Hall.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Oratorical Contest | The American Legion
- Official U.S. Constitution Website - Learn About the United States (U.S.) Constitution & More | Constitution Facts
- Simple, secure login | ID.me — ID.me simplifies how individuals prove and share their identity online.
- Crossing the Chasm: Marketing and Selling High-Tech Products to Mainstream Customers: Geoffrey A. Moore, Regis McKenna: 9780060517120: Amazon.com: Books
- VA.gov Home | Veterans Affairs
- (40) Post | LinkedIn
- Be The One | The American Legion
- Hero rat sets Guinness World Record for detecting landmines
- Supporting manners, etiquette and Americanism in South Carolina | Legiontown U.S.A.
- Join The American Legion
Veterans, fourth-graders get special access to National Parks
THE INTERVIEW
Army combat veteran Chris Marvin has found his passion and purpose in America’s national parks. In 2020, Marvin established the Park-to-Park Tour project to help share national parks with his children as a way to demonstrate the purpose and legacy of his own military service. He believes strongly that patriotism is exhibited through the enjoyment and protection of national parks and public lands.
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Air Force warns airmen, veterans of foreign intelligence recruitment ploy
Celebrating 140 years of Coca-Cola
Special Guest: Chris Marvin.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Join The American Legion
- Free Entrance to National Parks for Current Military, Veterans, and Gold Star Families (U.S. National Park Service)
- Every Kid Outdoors
- Park-to-Park Tour
- Home - Paving The Way: The National Park-to-Park Highway
- Channel Islands National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
- Pinnacles National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
- Guadalupe Mountains National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
- North Cascades National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
- Olympic National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
- Great Basin National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
- Haleakalā National Park (U.S. National Park Service)
- Peace Vans: Camper Van Rentals, Repairs, and Sales
- Become A Junior Ranger (U.S. National Park Service)
- Air Force warns airmen, veterans of foreign intelligence recruitment ploy - Breaking Defense — Air Force warns airmen, veterans of foreign intelligence recruitment ploy
- An American GI’s best friend: Coca-Cola - Museum of the American G.I.
- Rum and Coca-Cola - The American Scholar
Operation Frequent Wind: Remembering the end of the Vietnam War
THE INTERVIEW
Air Force veteran Josh White hosts the award-winning podcast Hero Front, which focuses on mental health awareness and resiliency. Josh shares inspiring stories of veterans, authors, entrepreneurs, business leaders and other heroes. The storytelling podcast emerged from White’s 20-year military career in the U.S. Air Force in maintenance, medical and military funeral honors.
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If Hooters goes out of business, dining off base will never be the same
Not just for Veterans: Medical breakthroughs that began at VA
Special Guest: Josh White.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Join The American Legion
- Honor & Remembrance | The American Legion
- The Fall of Saigon: ‘I will never forget April 1975’ | The American Legion
- The Fall of Saigon: ‘I always relive it in my dreams’ | The American Legion
- The Fall of Saigon: ‘It can only be understood by those of us who were there’ | The American Legion
- Vietnam remembered | The American Legion
- Legiontown U.S.A. |
- Be The One | The American Legion
- HeroFront
- America's Most Wanted - Watch on FOX
- If Hooters goes out of business, military towns won't be the same
- Tango Alpha Lima Podcast Episode 39: Tango Alpha Lima: How to Catch a Russian Spy with guest Naveed Jamali
- Not Just for US Veterans: 7 Medical Breakthroughs the VA Gave to the World | Military.com
American Legion Family Day
THE INTERVIEW
Navy veteran Vic Martin struggled after suffering a brain injury, receiving mental health diagnoses and being medically retired. After hitting bottom and attempting suicide, Martin now dedicates his life to helping others find their purpose and the mental health care they need.
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World Autism Awareness month: Neurodivergent Veterans
Florida American Legion Riders gearing up for massive Boots on the Ground Poker Run
Military nicknames - usually born of our less-than-heroic moments
Special Guest: Vic Martin.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Resolution No. 7: American Legion Family Day | Digital Archive
- Be The One | The American Legion
- VETERANS STRENGTHENING AMERICA | Legiontown U.S.A.
- Onward Ops - Your next deployment isn't a military operation
- Courage to Call - Helpline for Veterans, Military & Families
- S.2372 - 115th Congress (2017-2018): VA MISSION Act of 2018 | Congress.gov | Library of Congress
- Amazon.com: Phoenix Revival: The Aftermath of Naval Aviation's Fastest Ejection: 9781964934518: Gill, Lt Kegan Smurf: Books
- Veterans Mental Health Treatment Center in San Diego | Solara
- Army Veteran shares her experiences with autism - VA News
- (20+) Autistic Veterans | Facebook
- Autism Speaks applauds Department of Veterans Affairs for including vital autism care in insurance coverage for families of disabled veterans | Autism Speaks
- An Autistic Soldier Wants You to Read This - Modern War Institute
- Riders chapter prepping for massive annual poker run to benefit veteran causes, honor fallen military | The American Legion
- Veterans Are Sharing Their Hilarious Military Nicknames, And It Proves That Nobody Would Be Called "Maverick"
- 9 Military Badasses With Awesome Nicknames | Military.com
Marine Corps veteran Hank Donigan has survived brain cancer and coped with severe PTSD. He has transformed personal adversity into extraordinary achievement. On Monday, April 21, Donigan will complete his 500th marathon at the 2025 Boston Marathon, a testament to his resilience and dedication.
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How Comic Legend Mel Brooks Defused Land Mines During World War II
The worst military smells for Sony to add to its video games
Special Guest: Hank Donigan.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Be The One | The American Legion
- Hank Donigan - Semper Fi & America's Fund Community Athlete Team
- Home - Semper Fi & America's Fund
- Boston Marathon | Boston Athletic Association
- How Comic Legend Mel Brooks Defused Land Mines During World War II | Military.com
- The Worst Military Smells for Sony to Add to its Video Games | Military.com — The Worst Military Smells for Sony to Add to its Video Games
Remembering the anniversary of the fall of Baghdad
THE INTERVIEW
Kyle Hausmann-Stokes won the 2024 South by Southwest Audience Award for his directorial debut of the feature film "My Dead Friend Zoe," which he also co-wrote and produced. The film is a creative take on the post-war experience and a tribute to veterans of all generations. Hausmann-Stokes, who served as a paratrooper with the Army in Iraq, talks about the film, his military experience and how he helped co-found an organization for military veterans in the entertainment industry, Veterans in Media & Television, in the basement of American Legion Post 43 in Hollywood.
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Veterans in Agritherapy - Celebrating Community Gardens week
DOD commits $9.8 million to study psychedelics for active-duty troops
Special Guest: Kyle Hausmann-Stokes.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Join The American Legion
- Be The One | The American Legion
- Kyle Hausmann-Stokes
- My Dead Friend Zoe | Official Website | February 28 2025
- Make the Connection | Videos & Info for Military Veterans
- Merit x Zoe - a Short film by Kyle Hausmann-Stokes
- Agritherapy: Healing Through Farming and Gardening - Warrior Allegiance : Are you VA Rated 90% or less? Let’s talk.
- Veterans and Entrepreneurship | Home
- Free farming and beekeeping opportunities for Veterans - VA News
- The Therapeutic Grounds of Farming: Helping Veterans Manage PTSD
- DOD commits $9.8 million to study psychedelics for active-duty troops
April is American Legion Children & Youth Month
THE INTERVIEW
Retired Marine Corps veteran Robert Yarnall talks about leadership, preventing veteran suicide and more. Throughout his career, he has mentored veterans, athletes and others through leadership lessons he was taught in the military. As vice president of Development and Impact for the Robert Irvine Foundation, he focuses on preventing veteran suicide and encouraging safe storage of weapons.
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Army veteran returns WWII ‘good luck’ flag to Japanese soldier’s family
American Legion Baseball gearing up for Centennial celebration
Special Guest: Robert Yarnall.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Join The American Legion
- After Action | www.afteractionshow.org
- Youth Programs | The American Legion
- Be The One | The American Legion
- Wellness Program - Robert Irvine Foundation
- Face the Fight Against Veteran Suicide
- Building Brave Spaces - Brené Brown
- Robert Irvine Foundation | Giving Back to the Military and First Responders
- Army veteran returns WWII ‘good luck’ flag to Japanese soldier’s family | Stars and Stripes
- Tango Alpha Lima Podcast Episode 220: Tango Alpha Lima: Haunted War Tales with Army veteran R.C. Bramhall
- Legion Baseball gearing up for centennial celebration | The American Legion
National Medal of Honor Day
THE INTERVIEW
Access to food, childcare, transportation, mental health resources, social connection and more are key issues facing veterans in their first year transitioning out of the military. Air Force veteran Abby Kinch shares how Student Veterans of America is addressing these needs with its Basic Needs and Wellness Survey.
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The first Americans to earn the Distinguished Service Cross were two Army nurses
Remembering Marine Corps veteran and Academy Award-winning actor Gene Hackman
Special Guest: Abby Kinch.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Take the SVA Basic Needs and Wellness Survey
- Join The American Legion
- National Medal of Honor Museum hosts Grand Opening
- Tango Alpha Lima Podcast Episode 151: Tango Alpha Lima: National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation CEO Chris Cassidy
- National Medal of Honor Museum
- Home - Heroes With Hearing Loss
- Homepage - Student Veterans of America®
- Student Veterans Center
- The Consequences of Being Called A Hero | Duke's Fuqua School of Business
- Veteran Non-profit | America’s Warrior Partnership
- Peering Through the Fog: A Proposal for Veteran Critical Theory
- SXSW EDU 2025 Schedule | The Catalytic Power of Veterans on Campus
- Find A Chapter - Student Veterans of America®
- Find a Post
- Research - Student Veterans of America®
- Two women were the first to earn this Army combat award
- Famous Veteran: Gene Hackman | Military.com
When veterans return to the civilian world, they often encounter challenges related to employment and mental health. That’s where having a tribe can be a game changer. Retired Army Col. Adam Rocke and retired Army Gen. Paul Funk II share how finding a tribe can help with improving mental health, finding a job and more on this week’s episode of Tango Alpha Lima.
ALSO IN THIS EPISODE
We Can Do It! Roll up your sleeves and show us your best Rosie Pose for Rosie the Riveter Day
Special Guests: Adam Rocke and Gen. Paul Funk.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Rosie The Riveter | You can do it!
- Be The One | The American Legion
- Active Duty & Military Mental Healthcare & Health Services Providers Clinics Alaska - Katie's Way Plus
- Warrior Call
- Buddy Check | The American Legion
- Tribe — Sebastian Junger
- Tango Alpha Lima Podcast Episode 107: Tango Alpha Lima: Author, journalist and filmmaker Sebastian Junger
- DOD SkillBridge Program
- Home Page - Hiring Our Heroes
- Home | Team Funk
- Home | Soldier for Life
Sleep expert Dr. Tina Burke shares her experience working with veterans, first responders and others who have trouble sleeping and provides tips on how to improve sleep including meditation, breathing techniques and establishing a routine.
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Anna Coleman Ladd: the American woman who sculpted new faces for battle-scarred WWI vets
The Healing Benefits of Humor and Laughter
National Debunking Day
Special Guest: Dr. Tina Burke.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- CMPN Training Products
- WRAIR: Biomedical Research
- Anna Coleman Ladd: Les Gueules Cassées (“The Shattered Mugs”) - The Manchester Cricket
- The American woman who sculpted new faces for battle-scarred WWI vets — The American woman who sculpted new faces for battle-scarred WWI vets
- Anna Coleman Ladd | Smithsonian Institution
- Anna Coleman Ladd: An Artist Who Created Hope for Wounded Soldiers – Pieces of History
- The Healing Benefits of Humor and Laughter - Whole Health Library
- DEBUNKING DAY - March 11, 2025 - National Today
- Wild Thing: Longform Podcasts about Science and Society | Foxtopus Ink
Retired Col. Sam Whitehurst found his purpose during his nearly 30 years in the Army. Whitehurst developed a passion for uplifting and developing the soldiers around him. That experience smoothed his civilian transition to his role at the Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services where he helps veterans and their families. Whitehurst discusses all this and more as the special guest on this week’s Tango Alpha Lima podcast.
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FDA Finally Bans Red Dye No.3 from Food, Drinks and Medicines in US–Following Cancer Link
A trailblazing woman veteran: Linda A McDonald DuMoulin Horan
Use Your Leadership Skills: Become a Mentor for a Veteran
Special Guest: Sam Whitehurst.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Be The One | The American Legion
- Home page - dixoncenter
- American Legion testifies on citizenship for service | The American Legion
- After Action | Pledge of Allegiance | Season 1 | Episode 3 | PBS
- Home - Soldier On
- National Coalition for Homeless Veterans – Until No Veteran Is Homeless
- Join | The American Legion
- FDA Finally Bans Red Dye No.3 from Food, Drinks and Medicines in US–Following Cancer Link — FDA Finally Bans Red Dye No.3 from Food, Drinks and Medicines in US–Following Cancer Link
- A first, and proud of it | Legiontown U.S.A.
- Use Your Leadership Skills: Become a Mentor for a Veteran | Military.com — Use Your Leadership Skills: Become a Mentor for a Veteran
What's on the menu for “Let’s All Eat Right” day
THE INTERVIEW
Dr. Columbus Batiste honed his skills as a cardiologist while working for the VA. He is working to reduce the number of deaths from heart disease, which surpassed 702,000 in 2022. In celebration of Heart Health Month, he joins the Tango Alpha Lima podcast to share how veterans can protect their hearts to live longer, healthier lives.
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Army officers had to write haikus about Pacific theater of World War II during a leadership course
Remebering Hal Sperlich, Navy Seabee and Engineering Pioneer of the Mustang and Minivan
We were soldiers once...and dipped.
Special Guest: Dr. Columbus D. Batiste.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- LET'S ALL EAT RIGHT DAY - February 25, 2025 - National Today
- Home - Heroes With Hearing Loss
- Home - Dr. Columbus Batiste
- Healthy Heart Nation - Healthy Heart Nation
- (4) Slave Food Conversations - How to keep your kidneys from failing - YouTube
- (4) FLAMIN' HOT | Official Trailer | Searchlight Pictures - YouTube
- Be The One | The American Legion
- Army has officers write haikus about WWII in leadership course — Army officers had to write haikus about Pacific theater of World War II during a leadership course
- Hal Sperlich, Navy Seabee and Engineering Pioneer of the Mustang and Minivan, Dies at Age 95 | Military.com — Hal Sperlich, Navy Seabee and Engineering Pioneer of the Mustang and Minivan,
- An ode to the GWOT spitter
- How To Quit Smoking & Other Tobacco: Veteran Resources - Mental Health
- Why I Abandoned Traditional Cardiology to Become the “Healthy Heart Doc”
- Join The American Legion
Celebrating National Vet Girls Rise Day
THE INTERVIEW
Army veteran John Davis lives in the Dominican Republic, scuba dives, plays golf and works as a veteran advocate. In this episode, he shares what veterans need to know about the process to move abroad, what to do in advance, how to take care of their health care, mental wellness and much more.
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New bill would make it easier for veterans who signed secrecy oaths for covert ops to obtain back benefits
A caucus of military veterans seeks to bridge the political divide in a polarized Congress
Marine recruit uniforms were photoshopped on at boot camp
Special Guest: John Davis.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Join The American Legion
- Home - Military Women's Memorial
- Be The One | The American Legion
- Home - John H. Davis
- Veterans Guide to Moving Abroad - John H. Davis
- Combat to College - John H. Davis
- Writing Archive - John H. Davis
- Bill would make it easier for veterans who signed secrecy oaths for covert ops to obtain back benefits | Stars and Stripes
- Military veterans in Congress bridge the political divide | AP News
- The Marines tried photoshopping uniforms on recruits at boot camp
Army 1st Lt. Austin von Letkemann, better known to his Instagram followers as MandatoryFunDay, shares his unusual rise to fame on the podcast. His Instagram channel, with 20 million monthly views, features comedy videos that poke fun at various parts of military life.
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Medals of Honor, delayed nearly 120 years due to administrative issues, to be posthumously delivered to desendants.
VA National Salute to Veteran Patients
Reddit Rabbit Hole: Military Romance Scams
Special Guest: Austin Von Letkemann.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Be The One | The American Legion
- MandatoryFunDay
- Office Joe
- 2 soldiers who fought in the Philippine Insurrection to be awarded Medals of Honor approved more than a century ago | Stars and Stripes
- Valentines and visitors say Thank You Veterans - VA News
- Questions about a potential "Military Romance" scam. : r/Scams
- I think my Mom is in a military romance scam... UPDATE : r/Scams
- TangoAlphaLima
Stacy, Joe and Adam look forward to the holidays and observances in February, including African American History Month, International Women’s Day, Valentines Day, Change Your Password Day, and GI Joe Day.
THE INTERVIEW
After making history, Kamin Samuel struggled upon leaving the military. Now she is an entrepreneur, best-selling author and documentary filmmaker of “Courage to Thrive.”
SCUTTLEBUTT
Arizona Legion members take part in the Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl presented by Gin & Juice by Dre and Snoop.
National WWII Museum in New Orleans, the special exhibition - Fighting for the Right to Fight: African American Experiences in World War II
A trip down the Reddit rabbit hole in search of wild post office stories in honor of National Thank a Mail Carrier Day
Special Guest: Kamin Samuel.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- The Action-Packed History of G.I. Joe — Google Arts & Culture
- Be The One | The American Legion
- Kamin Samuel
- Home - Kamin Samuel
- VIA Character Strengths Survey & Character Reports
- Flourish: A Visionary New Understanding of Happiness and Well-being: Seligman, Martin E. P.: 9781439190760: Amazon.com: Books
- Post 109 Invades the Arizona Bowl | Legiontown U.S.A.
- Fighting for the Right to Fight | The National WWII Museum | New Orleans
- Story of the Buffalo Soldiers 'positive history' for Iron Riders Gathering co-chair | The American Legion
- Tango Alpha Lima Podcast Episode 103: Tango Alpha Lima: Buffalo Soldier Iron Riders with Bobby McDonald
- What’s your most wild post office story? : r/USPS
- I’m a former USPS mail carrier that worked for 10 months. Ask me anything and I'll answer them as honestly as possible! : r/IAmA
- TangoAlphaLima
- Join The American Legion
California Legion members standing strong and supporting communities devastated by wildfires.
THE INTERVIEW
Patrick Murphy, who joined the Army at 19, worked his way up to become the 32nd Army Under Secretary and America’s first Iraq War veteran to serve in Congress. Today, he continues to serve his brothers and sisters.
SCUTTLEBUTT
Happy Birthday Coast Guard
How Navy veteran Charles Sanna changed hot chocolate forever
Remembering President Jimmy Carter
Special Guest: Hon. Patrick J. Murphy.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Join The American Legion
- ‘It’s a warzone’: Army veteran shaken by aftermath of Palisades Fire - YouTube
- In Pacific Palisades, ‘memories are gutted’ but Legion will help community rebuild | The American Legion
- American Legion Post 519 Raises Funds for LA Fire Victims at Village Fest
- California District 21 the American Legion Family Fire Relief Donation | Supervisor Karen Spiegel - Riverside County District 2
- (20+) Mendocino Action News - Fire, Traffic and Other Emergencies | DONATION CENTER FOR #LOSANGELES FIRES: VOLUNTEERS NEEDED | Facebook
- ‘We will be back. We will rebuild.’ | The American Legion
- Be The One | The American Legion
- Taking the Hill Productions — Veteran Owned & Operated Television & Film Production Company
- Business and Finance News Videos - Yahoo Finance
- Patrick J. Murphy
- National Emergency Fund | The American Legion
- How a Korean War Food Surplus Brought Instant Hot Cocoa to the World | Military.com
- How Jimmy Carter Saved Canadian Nuclear Reactor After Meltdown | Military.com
American Folk singer-songwriter and author Mary Gauthier talks about her addiction recovery, mental health journey and how she uses songwriting to help veterans with PTSD.
She works with veterans on their healing through songwriting with SongwritingWith:Soldiers.
“What I try to emphasize is that this can be of service to other people — a lifeline actually, which it often is.”
SCUTTLEBUTT
VA awards $1.5 million to study using psychedelics for PTSD treatment
The Army built a giant concrete pyramid in North Dakota and only used it for six months
Vets can opt for ‘green’ burials at VA cemeteries through new pilot
Special Guest: Mary Gauthier.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Home - Heroes With Hearing Loss
- Mary Gauthier
- Songwriting With: Soldiers | Transforming Lives by Collaborative Songwriting
- Rifles & Rosary Beads — Mary Gauthier
- Hurt - YouTube
- Saved by a Song: The Art and Healing Power of Songwriting - Kindle edition by Gauthier, Mary. Arts & Photography Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.
- Be The One | The American Legion
- VA awards $1.5 million to study using psychedelics for PTSD treatment — VA awards $1.5 million to study using psychedelics for PTSD treatment
- This massive pyramid in North Dakota helped end the Cold War
- (18) "Weird" Al Yankovic - Amish Paradise (Parody of "Gangsta's Paradise" - Official Video) - YouTube
- Vets can opt for ‘green’ burials at VA cemeteries through new pilot — Vets can opt for ‘green’ burials at VA cemeteries through new pilot
Retired U.S. Air Force fighter pilot Col. Lee Ellis, who was shot down and captured during the Vietnam War, talks about leadership and team building lessons he learned during his five years as a prisoner of war, as well as throughout his military service and his 25 years as a leadership coach.
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Now is the time to plan for the 100th Anniversary of American Legion Baseball
NASA Scientists Accidentally Find Nuclear Fever Dream in Arctic Snow
Marine lights candles for romantic hotel surprise, sets room on fire
Special Guest: Col. Lee Ellis.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Join The American Legion
- Home - Heroes With Hearing Loss
- Home - Leading With Honor®
- Captured by Love POW Romance Introduction
- Be The One | The American Legion
- Share your Legion Baseball memories for centennial celebration | The American Legion
- Home | American Legion Baseball Registration
- NASA Scientists Accidentally Find Nuclear Fever Dream in Arctic Snow | Military.com
- Marine lights candles for romantic hotel surprise, sets room on fire — Marine lights candles for romantic hotel surprise, sets room on fire
- The Great Soul Crossing
We kick off the new year with a few resolutions and a memory of Sammi, the Iraqi interpreter who worked with Joe and his Marines.
THE INTERVIEW
Mazin Mozan, who served as an interpreter with Stacy in Iraq shares his story of serving with Coalition forces, gaining a Special Immigrant Visa and moving to the United States, and his enlistment in the U.S. Army.
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Norwegian fishermen accidentally catch U.S. sub in net
Thousands of U.S. affiliated Iraqis in harms way due to refugee program delays
'Disturbing' Number of VA Mental Health Appointment Cancellations Prompt Lawmakers to Call for Reforms
Special Guest: Mazin Mozan.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Join The American Legion
- DVIDS - News - Former Iraqi interpreter reacts to plight of Afghans
- Norwegian fishermen accidentally catch U.S. sub in net | The Seattle Times — Norwegian fishermen accidentally catch U.S. sub in net
- Unfulfilled Promises: Thousands of U.S.-Affiliated Iraqis in Harm’s Way Due to Refugee Program Delays | International Refugee Assistance Project — Thousands of U.S.-Affiliated Iraqis in Harm’s Way Due to Refugee Program Delays
- 'Disturbing' Number of VA Mental Health Appointment Cancellations Prompt Lawmakers to Call for Reforms | Military.com — 'Disturbing' Number of VA Mental Health Appointment Cancellations Prompt Lawmakers to Call for Reforms
- Clear Path for Veterans | You Found Your Place
- TangoAlphaLima
Navy veteran and Legionnaire Kelley Gilberry shares his knowledge about overcoming heart disease and obesity. After his own health journey, Gilberry is now on a mission to show others how to revolutionize their health without relying on pharmaceuticals.
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Post Falls, Idaho American Legion offering free Christmas trees for veterans
Keokuk, Iowa Post 41 hosts 52nd annual Christmas Dinner on Christmas Day
Kerry Washington and Tyler Perry Unlock an Untold True Story in 'The Six Triple Eight'
Special Guest: Kelley Gilberry .
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Join The American Legion
- The American Legion and Wellcare Medicare Advantage plans for Legionnaires | Wellcare
- Home Page - Kelley Gilberry
- The Dorito Effect — Mark Schatzker
- Plants Saved My Life: How Going Vegan Transformed My Health: Gilberry, Kelley: 9781948382540: Amazon.com: Books
- Be The One | The American Legion
- Post Falls American Legion offering free Christmas trees for veterans | Coeur d'Alene Press — Post Falls American Legion offering free Christmas trees for veterans
- American Legion once again holding Christmas dinner | Daily Gate City - Keokuk, Iowa | mississippivalleypublishing.com — Keokuk
- Kerry Washington and Tyler Perry Unlock an Untold True Story in 'The Six Triple Eight' - Here's What You Need To Know — Kerry Washington and Tyler Perry Unlock an Untold True Story in 'The Six Triple Eight'
- (5) The Six Triple Eight | Official Trailer | Netflix - YouTube
THE INTERVIEW
National Military Family Association CEO Besa Pinchotti talks about her family roots in Kosovo, and how her time as a journalist led to her advocacy for American military families. She also explains how NMFA helps meet the immediate needs for military spouses and children as well as advocate for legislation to make permanent changes to support military families.
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Next year’s Congress will feature the most women vet members ever
Bronze Statue of Tuskegee Airman Found After Theft from Detroit City Park
Special Guest: Besa Pinchotti.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- The American Legion and Wellcare Medicare Advantage plans for Legionnaires | Wellcare
- Serving Military Families Since 1969
- Operation Purple Programs
- Military Spouse Scholarships
- Bloom | Empowering the Military Teen
- Military Family Policy Issues and Information
- Military Family News and Information for Military Families
- Be The One | The American Legion
- Next year’s Congress will feature the most women vet members ever
- TangoAlphaLima
- Bronze Statue of Tuskegee Airman Found After Theft from Detroit City Park | Military.com — Bronze Statue of Tuskegee Airman Found After Theft from Detroit City Park
- Politicians should be required to serve in the military : r/unpopularopinion
Wives of the Armed forces co-founders and content creators, Jen Ferrell and Kirst Navaroli, talk about their unique corner of the internet where thousands of military spouses share experiences as they live the chaotic military lifestyle, support their spouses, one another, and the mission.
Jen and Kirst share how they became military spouses, how they met and found themselves leaning on one another for support, and began to grow their online community of "virtual military besties."
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VA plans to drop co-pays for all telehealth services
Meet CHAPPIE - the Space Force nuclear material sniffing robot.
Support military spouse and veteran-owned businesses while checking off your holiday shopping list.
Special Guest: Wives of the Armed Forces.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Vision care for federal employees - BCBS FEP Vision
- The American Legion and Wellcare Medicare Advantage plans for Legionnaires | Wellcare
- Wives of the Armed Forces
- Style + Gift Guides - Wives of the Armed Forces
- Army-Navy Game | The American Legion
- VA plans to drop co-pays for all telehealth services — VA plans to drop co-pays for all telehealth services
- The Space Force has a nuclear-detecting robot named CHAPPIE
- Chappie (film - Wikipedia
- Home - Innovative Pet Lab
- Mental Joe | Veteran-Owned Mental Health Apparel
- Apparel | Black Rifle Coffee
- Terra Arma
- 5.11 Tactical®: Premium Tactical Gear, Clothing & Accessories
- 2024 Military Veteran- and Milso-Owned Holiday Shopping Guide
- Veteran and Milspouse Holiday Gift Guide - Mission: Milspouse
- Holiday Shopping With IVMF - D'Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families
- Buy Military-Owned Guide - D'Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families
- Support military family small businesses
- Veteran Owned - Etsy
- Holiday Buying Guide 2024 by THE ROSIE NETWORK - Issuu
Department of Veterans Affairs Chief of Innovation, Dr. Indra Sandal, tells the story of how she became a U.S. citizen, why she was drawn to work with veterans and what led to her work to bring new innovations to VA health care.
Dr. Sandal talks about how her work led to VA rideshare programs with Uber and Lyft. She also talks about VA's collaboration with MIT – the Veterans Health Hackathon – which strives to design solutions to the top challenges facing veteran health care, including mental health and veteran suicide.
Special Guest: Dr. Indra Sandal.
Links:
- James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital | VA Tampa Health Care | Veterans Affairs
- VA | VHA Innovation Ecosystem
- Diffusion Marketplace
- Reimagining the Way People Access Healthcare | Uber Health
- Lyft Healthcare
- Veterans Health MIT Hacking Medicine 2024
Abraham Lincoln and the first Thanksgiving
THE INTERVIEW
Dr. Uma Naidoo, nutritional psychiatrist, professional chef, nutritional biologist and author, shares her knowledge of how our diets affect our brains and mental wellness.
Dr. Naidoo also talks about the connection between food, culture and community, how to make small modifications that make family favories into healthier choices, and how she helps people understand food as medicine.
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Follow Stacy down the Reddit Rabbit Hole for tales of Thanksgiving on deployment
The bear who was a private in the Polish Army
Special Guest: Dr. Uma Naidoo.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Giving Tuesday | The American Legion
- Blue Cross Blue Shield FEP Dental - Home
- The American Legion and Wellcare Medicare Advantage plans for Legionnaires | Wellcare
- Uma Naidoo, MD – Mood Food Labs + Uma Naidoo, MD
- Calm Your Mind with Food – Mood Food Labs + Uma Naidoo, MD
- Army-Navy Game | The American Legion
- Be The One | The American Legion
- Army Thanksgiving Stories : r/army
- TangoAlphaLima
- Wojtek: The bear who was a private in the Polish army
- Join The American Legion
Happy Birthday to the Kindle.
THE INTERVIEW
Air Force veteran and author Ethan Brown is a Senior Fellow for Defense Studies at the Center for the Study of the Presidency & Congress (CSPS), a bipartisan think-tank in Washington D.C. He is also the author of the “Visual Friendlies, Tally Target” trilogy (Casemate Publishers), chronicling the role of forward air controllers and Close Air Support in the Global War on Terror.
Ethan shares how his background as a TACP with multiple combat deployments led him to his writing career, and discusses the work he does with CSPS work to address the military recruiting crisis and toxic exposure issues among military veterans.
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Follow Stacy down the Reddit Rabbit-hole as she explores "Random ways people got out of deployment"
Bravo Zulu to South Carolina post who did Buddy Checks in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene
Special Guest: Ethan Brown.
Links:
- Wayspring Wanderer - A Desert Druid LitRPG | Royal Road
- FEP Vision - Blue Cross and Blue Shield's Federal Employee Program
- The American Legion and Wellcare Medicare Advantage plans for Legionnaires | Wellcare
- Visual Friendlies, Tally Target: How Close Air Support in the War on Terror Changed the Way America Made War - Casemate Publishers US
- Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress
- The Ghost of GWOT Haunting the Military Recruiting Crisis - Modern War Institute
- Army-Navy Game | The American Legion
- Be The One | The American Legion
- TangoAlphaLima
- You can count on (pun intended) a South Carolina Post 30 Hurricane Helene Buddy Check | Legiontown U.S.A.
- National Emergency Fund | The American Legion
- Temporary Financial Assistance | The American Legion
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Join The American Legion
Retired Air Force physician, Dr. Mary Anne Kiel, is a Pediatrician and a Food for Life Instructor with the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. Her work with Lifestyle and Performance medicine has helped servicemembers and their families learn how to make sustainable behavioral changes that improve health and wellness over the course of their lifetime.
Dr. Kiel discusses how being actively social, embracing a healthy, whole food plant-based diet, exercising regularly and getting enough sleep can increase a patients' healthspan - or the amount of time that an individual can be healthy and active during their lifespan.
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Go Army! Go Navy! American Legion gearing up to be first veterans service organization to sponsor the Army Navy Game.
More than 800 US veterans given honourable discharges after 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' review
The Best World War II Movies, According to Service Members and Veterans
Special Guest: Mary Anne Kiel.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Lab Cultivated Meat Making News in Florida and Other States | Drovers
- Blue Cross Blue Shield FEP Dental - Home
- The American Legion and Wellcare Medicare Advantage plans for Legionnaires | Wellcare
- Large health organizations leverage training packages to accelerate lifestyle medicine into care delivery - American College of Lifestyle Medicine
- Be The One | The American Legion
- Army-Navy Game | The American Legion — The American Legion is the first veterans service organization to sponsor "America's Game" in its history.
- Army, Navy ranked both ranked in AP poll for first time since 1960 as rival programs enjoy historic starts - CBSSports.com
- Hundreds of LGBT veterans given honourable discharges from US military — More than 800 US veterans given honourable discharges after 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' review
- The Best World War II Movies, According to Service Members and Veterans | Military.com — The Best World War II Movies, According to Service Members and Veterans
- Join The American Legion
- Dive down the Reddit Rabbit Hole!
We're dropping this episode a few days early in honor of election day.
While The American Legion is a non-partisan organization, we have, since our earliest days, believed in the right to vote. Our "Get Out the Vote" program encourages all Americans to register and vote in all elections. In addition, Legionnaires, posts, districts and departments are encouraged to fully involve themselves in the electoral process by serving as poll volunteers, poll workers and by encouraging and assisting others to register and vote.
This week, our guest is Anil Nathan, is co-founder and co-chairman of the board at We the Veterans, and Vet the Vote - which is a national campaign to recruit veterans and military family members to become poll workers.
Anil, who is a first-generation American and second-generation Air Force veteran, shares his own military story, and how he began his mission to foster civic engagement for veterans and their families.
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Marine Corps veteran allegedly kicked off flight for wearing a t-shirt calling for an end to veteran suicide.
New television comedy features The American Legion
Send us your burning questions about the Space Force for our upcoming interview with Gen. Chance Saltzman
Special Guest: Anil Nathan.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Get Out The Vote | The American Legion
- Home - Heroes With Hearing Loss
- FEP Vision - Blue Cross and Blue Shield's Federal Employee Program
- We the Veterans
- Vet The Vote
- The American Legion and Wellcare Medicare Advantage plans for Legionnaires | Wellcare
- Marine Corps veteran allegedly kicked off flight for her T-shirt — calling for an end to veteran suicide
- New television comedy features American Legion | The American Legion
- General in Charge of the US Space Force Inducted into Kentucky Aviation Hall of Fame | Military.com
- Spirit of Service Award recipients honored at 2024 American Legion National Convention - YouTube
- TangoAlphaLima
Filmmaker Jake Rademacher honors his brothers’ service by creating award-winning movies about their deployments and life after the war. Between 2005-2007, Jake risked everything, including his life, to tell the story of his brothers serving in Iraq in the award-winning feature film, Brothers at War – which has led to resiliency workshops and much more.
20 years later, Jake traveled to four continents to reconnect with his brothers as well as the other elite soldiers and Marines he embedded with during the Iraq War. Intercutting footage past and present, movie watchers are led on an insightful, humorous and moving journey as warfighters explore loss, meaning, and hope on their path from warfighter to veteran.
Jake shares the story of his journey between the two films, his passion for helping servicemembers and now veterans, tell their own stories through resiliency workshops.
Special Guest: Jake Rademacher .
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Be The One | The American Legion
- Save Our Air Medical Resources
- Home - Brothers After War
- Boys State & Boys Nation | The American Legion
- Our Programs | Gary Sinise Foundation
Scary Bad Halloween Dad Jokes
THE INTERVIEW
Former Navy SEAL Alden Mills finds joy in helping people do more than they originally thought possible. So he’s on a mission to help 100 million people be unstoppable and go after their goals.
He talks about staying connected to your military identity, embracing discomfort as a stepping stone toward growth and overcoming self-doubt to accomplish goals.
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Vietnam's lifesaving 'Dustoff' Medevac Crews to get Congressional Gold Medal
Duke linemen go extra mile to restore power to Asheville VA Hospital after Helene
Reddit Rabbit-hole: Base hotel horror stories.
Special Guest: Alden Mills.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Blue Cross Blue Shield FEP Dental - Home
- The American Legion and Wellcare Medicare Advantage plans for Legionnaires | Wellcare
- Alden Mills - On A Mission To Get 100 Million People To Be UNSTOPPABLE
- Be The One | The American Legion
- 'No Hesitation': Vietnam's Lifesaving 'Dustoff' Medevac Crews to Get Congressional Gold Medal | Military.com — Vietnam's Lifesaving 'Dustoff' Medevac Crews to Get Congressional Gold Medal
- Duke Energy Linemen Hike Nearly 2 Miles To Restore Power To Asheville Veterans Hospital
- TangoAlphaLima
- Join The American Legion
- Gold Medal Approved for Army Dustoff Crews | AUSA
Duct Tape debuts at Paris Fashion Week
THE INTERVIEW
Danielle Robinson — the surviving spouse of the late Sgt. First Class Heath Robinson, namesake of the PACT Act – joins the podcast to share her family's story and how she and her husband became champions for passage of this historic legislation.
Danielle also shares how she honors Heath's legacy as an activist and advocate for Burn Pits 360, fighting for servicemembers and veterans exposed to hazardous environments while serving.
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‘Area 52’ Veterans Call Out US Government for Refusing to Acknowledge Health Issues Caused By Radiation Exposure
U.S. Army helicopter repurposed into an Airbnb in Florida
Remembering country music legend and U.S. Army veteran, Kris Kristofferson
Special Guest: Danielle Robinson.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Gigi Hadid walks the runway in a DHL packing tape mini dress | CNN
- Vision care for federal employees - BCBS FEP Vision
- BurnPits360
- The American Legion and Wellcare Medicare Advantage plans for Legionnaires | Wellcare
- 'Area 52' Veterans Call Out US Government for Refusing to Acknowledge Health Issues Caused By Radiation Exposure | War History Online
- Army helicopter Airbnb open in Brooksville, Florida | wtsp.com
- Kris Kristofferson, country music legend, Army veteran, dead at 88 - Task & Purpose — Kris Kristofferson, country music legend, US Army veteran
Blue Star Families founder and CEO, Kathy Roth-Douquet, is dedicated to her organization's mission to reshape the way America supports its military. Kathy shares how her own family's military journey led her to help military families by connecting them with their neighbors to create communities of mutual support.
She discusses how Blue Star Families works to tackle issues faced by military families, such as military spouse unemployment, financial insecurity, and the challenges more than 600,000 families face each year when they relocate to new communities.
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Military costumes for Halloween
Amid setbacks in Ukraine, Russia is stepping up its recruiting efforts.
Dive down the Reddit Rabbit-hole with Tango Alpha Lima
Special Guest: Kathy Roth-Douquet.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Blue Cross Blue Shield FEP Dental - Home
- Welcome to Blue Star Families
- Do Your Part
- More on Do Your Part
- Blue Star Welcome Week 2024: Fostering Community and Belonging for Military Families — 600,000 military families who recently moved to a new community.
- The American Legion and Wellcare Medicare Advantage plans for Legionnaires | Wellcare
- Coast Guard meets Russian naval vessels in US waters off Alaska coast | Stars and Stripes
Monica Bassett, founder and CEO of Stronghold Food Pantry, is a Military Food Insecurity Expert and a dedicated advocate for military families facing this issue.
A military spouse and the daughter of a Vietnam War veteran, Monica knows first-hand the struggle some families face when it comes to food insecurity. She shares how her own experiences influenced her commitment to helping others, and why she continues to build trust and serve others with dignity.
SCUTTLEBUTT
Bravo Zulu to an Arizona post who helped distribute 250,000 lbs of food
The U.S. Navy has run out of pants
Special Guest: Monica Bassett.
Links:
- Watch video of this episode on YouTube
- Home - Heroes With Hearing Loss
- Stronghold Food Pantry | Military Families
- The American Legion and Wellcare Medicare Advantage plans for Legionnaires | Wellcare
- John J. Morris Post 62 partners to provide free food to veterans | Legiontown U.S.A.
- Navy suffers shortage of working uniform trousers
- Join The American Legion
In the penultimate episode in our special series on Military Sexual Trauma, our guests from the Department of Defense Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office (SAPRO) – Acting Director Dr. Nathan W. Galbreath and Senior Prevention Adviser Dr. Andra Tharp – discuss how DoD is addressing the issue of MST and highlight specific actions being taken to prevent and respond to sexual assaults. In this series, be aware we will be discussing topics that are sensitive and potentially triggering, so pause and take a break as needed, and remember you can always reach out to the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing 1. Special Guests: Dr. Andra Tharp and Dr. Nate Galbreath.
Navy veteran Lindsay Church, is founder and executive director of Minority Veterans of America and Army veteran Rebekka Eshler is president of Transgender American Veterans Association. The pair continues our special series with a discussion of the prevalence of Military Sexual Trauma in the LGBTQ+ community and how their organizations are addressing the issue. In this series, be aware we will be discussing topics that are sensitive and potentially triggering, so pause and take a break as needed, and remember you can always reach out to the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing 1. Special Guests: Lindsay Church and Rebekka Eshler.
IN THE NEWS A Veteran Combat Photographer Is on a Mission to Capture Portraits of Every Living Medal of Honor Recipient THIS WEEK'S GUEST Mark R. Clifford served in the Marine Corps infantry for ten years and as a police officer for over a quarter-century. On the podcast this week, Mark talks about his military and law enforcement career, his debut novel, Typhoon Coast, and his work mentoring veterans at Zac Brown's Camp Southern Ground. RAPID FIRE Maryland's Howard County Veterans Foundation celebrates ‘Valiant Women’ If properly flown, an Attack Helicopter would defeat most fighter airplanes in 1 on 1 air combat. Attack Helicopter Crews explain why. Air Force Pilots Have One Month to Extend Contracts for Up to $50,000 Per Year in Bonuses Special Guest: Mark R. Clifford.
IN THE NEWS Debating the Bonkers Billionaire Battle Royale between Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg THIS WEEK'S GUEST Lauren Hope is a serial entrepreneur, an active-duty Army spouse and the Executive Director of Second Service Foundation. Where she and her team help make the American dream a reality for military businesses. RAPID FIRE Musk and Mark Zuckerberg Meet Sage the Working Dog Assigned to the USS Gerald R. Ford “My life has been on pause”: surviving spouses of service members fight to retain benefits after they remarry Leland N.C. Post 68 starts September campaign for Suicide Prevention Awareness Month Special Guest: Lauren Hope.
IN THE NEWS Biden signs historic order moving prosecution of military sexual assault outside chain of command THIS WEEK'S GUEST U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col Chris Reardon and Col. Patricia S. Klop of Freedom Fitness America join the podcast to talk about how their organization tackles the issue of "total fitness" for military professionals. RAPID FIRE VA hospitals outperform others in patient care, analysis finds A US Army soldier went viral on TikTok for making videos mocking 'Gen Zs on the battlefield' — and now he wants to be an influencer. Craig Morgan Enlists in Army Reserve Live Onstage at Grand Ole Opry: 'Excited to Once Again Serve My Country' Special Guests: Chris Reardon and Patty Klop.
IN THE NEWS Hiring event in conjunction with Legion’s 104th National Convention More savings, full shelves are the focus of new commissary chief THIS WEEK'S GUEST Matt Cable, an Air Force veteran who has overcome two bouts with acute myeloid leukemia and adversity to excel as an elite DoD athlete who has participated in the Warrior Games, NBC's Titan Games, and the Invictus Games. RAPID FIRE Ship military care packages to help Be the One Ex-official who revealed UFO project accuses Pentagon of 'disinformation' campaign Stolen Valor Among Small Businesses Lying About Being Veteran-Owned Targeted by Iowa Senator Special Guest: Matt Cable.
IN THE NEWS It's BE THE ONE Day. Wear BE THE ONE apparel and start the conversation about veteran suicide. Which Military Habits Veterans Should Keep or Toss in Their Post-Military Careers THIS WEEK'S GUEST National League of POW/MIA Families Chairman of the Board and CEO Ann Mills-Griffith talks about the non-profit organization's mission to provide the fullest possible accounting for those listed as MIA, and the recovery and identification of remains of those who died serving our nation. RAPID FIRE Serving those who served our country: Meet the North Carolina woman who found her purpose in helping homeless vets The VA is facing a growing number of claims as a key PACT Act deadline approaches 8 Simple Habits Could Add Decades Onto to Your Life: New Research Special Guest: Ann Mills-Griffiths.
IN THE NEWS Why Hipsters Are Invading American Legion Posts THIS WEEK'S GUEST Lydiah Owiti is a foreign-trained and certified attorney with master’s degrees in international development management and project management, and a foreign-born military spouse. Lydiah shares the unique challenges she has faced and how she now advocates for other foreign-born military spouses and helps raise awareness of issues facing military families of color. RAPID FIRE America Celebrates 50 Years of Volunteer Force, But Faces Tough Recruiting Environment The New Yorker makes a joke of the Army's tactical bra. It's not S.A.V.E training at Post 904 impresses department commander Special Guest: Lydiah Owiti .
IN THE NEWS Legion now sponsoring veteran gaming community THIS WEEK'S GUEST Col. Nicholas Gist, Head of the Department of Physical Education at the United States Military Academy talks about his role as Master of the Sword at West Point and how his team helps develop mentally tough leaders through a robust program of formal physical education, fitness testing, and competitive sport. RAPID FIRE Fort Bliss orders its soldiers to take leave. Yes, really. Marines left without a confirmed commandant for 1st time since 1910 Anchorage American Legion post celebrates 100 years of service Special Guest: Col. Nicholas Gist.
IN THE NEWS Deadline looms for vets to get retroactive toxic exposure benefits THIS WEEK'S GUEST At the end of a 24-year military career, Retired U.S. Army Sgt. Maj. Michael Quinn quickly realized the overwhelming challenges veterans face when entering the private sector workforce and resolved to make a difference. Quinn joins the podcast to talk about his own experience and passion to positively impact job-seekers in the military and veteran community led to the creation of HireMilitary. RAPID FIRE THRIVE: Helping Veterans and employees find happiness Legion post educates how to ‘Be the One’ with VA S.A.V.E. training Connecticut World War II veteran gets high school diploma 80 years later Special Guest: Mike Quinn.
IN THE NEWS Former CEO of Tech School Receives 5-Year Sentence in Largest Post-9/11 GI Bill Fraud Case THIS WEEK'S GUEST Retired Marine Col. Eric “Ferris” Buer flew attack helicopters during multiple deployments, including a 2003 mission with Amphibious Task Force – East during Operation Iraqi Freedom that gave him the inspiration for his first book, “Ghosts of Baghdad.” RAPID FIRE 100% tuition reimbursement coming for South Dakota National Guard members Arkansas Veterans bring home medals from Golden Age Games Marine Corps Veteran Robert McCall Fights the Entire Sicilian Mafia in 'The Equalizer 3' Special Guest: Eric Buer.
IN THE NEWS America Faces Sharp Increase in Aging Military Veterans THIS WEEK'S GUEST Air Force veteran Bruce Roberson served in Southeast Asia during the Vietnam War. He joins the podcast to talk about his experience working with Air Force Security Services as a military working dog handler on deployments that included the clandestine operations in Laos and Cambodia that later became known as “Nixon’s Secret War.” RAPID FIRE The US Army wants to build a drone fleet, inspired by Ukraine's example, but will not be able to use DJI quadcopters Amid an epidemic of loneliness, nonprofits are helping keep veterans connected All In One: GLA’s Document Day Offers Veterans Easy Access To Critical Documents Special Guest: Bruce Roberson.
IN THE NEWS Air Force official says he's worried about military families being forced to move over anti-LGBTQ bullying THIS WEEK'S GUEST Task Force Movement Vice Chairman Dan Kunze joins the show to talk about how the program is not only helping people find jobs, but also addressing infrastructure and national security concerns. Task Force Movement is a White House program that connects industry, academia, government and veterans' groups to fast-track the military community into jobs in cyber-security and trucking. RAPID FIRE Marine Corps' brand: 'I'm not sure you're good enough to be a Marine' Army Pre-Boot Camp Course Expanded as Recruiting Challenge Looms Facing Shortages, US Military Recruiters Trade Citizenship for Service Special Guest: Dan Kunze.
IN THE NEWS VASEC McDonough says VA hiring push has helped mitigate spike in VA disability claims and GUESTS Co-authors Alec Bierbauer and Ret. Col. Mark Cooter tell the origin story of the Predator drone program and the dawn of unmanned warfare in their book, "Never Mind, We'll Do lt Ourselves. The inside Story of How a Team of Renegades Broke Rules, Shattered Barriers, and Launched a Drone Warfare Revolution." The pair talk about how their own military experiences led them to share this story, how unmanned warfare changed how wars are fought, and where the technology is heading. RAPID FIRE Staten Island students help homeless veterans with “Backpacks for Life” How stand-up comedy can heal the military-connected community. American Legion launches Be The One Day Special Guests: Alec Bierbauer and Mark Cooter.
IN THE NEWS A lawmaker frustrated by a the unsolved case of a soldier decapitated in 2020 is pushing the Pentagon to overhaul how it handles cold cases. THIS WEEK'S GUEST The second guest in our fitness and wellness series, Dr. Dan Bornstein talks about the America's Physical Inactivity Epidemic and the impact on military recruiting and readiness. Dr. Bornstein shares simple changes veterans make and resources avialable help them get moving and encourage others to increase physical activity. RAPID FIRE Veterans, Gold Star Families get free lifetime pass to national parks, wildlife refuges, other public lands We salute this Army tank crew that named their tank ‘Come On Bro’ ‘Top Gun’ reimagined with a cat is purrrrfection Special Guest: Dr. Dan Bornstein.
IN THE NEWS Jeff and Ashley get ready to reconnect with Ralphie, and discuss the midterm election, which yielded the largest increase of veterans heading for Capitol Hill since the Vietnam War. THIS WEEK'S GUEST The Honorable Rob Wilkins joins the podcast to kick off our health and wellness series and help motivate everyone to finish out the year strong. Wilkins talks about his role on the President's Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition, and stresses the importance of veterans leading the way in advocating for health and wellness in their communities. RAPID FIRE Chief select gives birth and Chiefs mess pins her at hospital High school artists create cards to thank veterans Online Exchange expands access for veterans Special Guest: Rob Wilkins.
IN THE NEWS Jeff and Ashley howl over a 1930s MGM parody of 'All Quiet on the Western Front' where the entire cast were canines. THIS WEEK'S GUEST VET Tv CEO Waco Hoover shares his journey from the U.S. Marine Corps, to entrepreneurship, to leading an entertainment company focused on positive storytelling within the military and veteran community. RAPID FIRE Pentagon attributes UFO sightings to spies and airborne trash The Miliary is 'Extremely Sex-Negative,' says Army Reserve Major who made a porn video Special Guest: Waco Hoover.
IN THE NEWS Caring for your chompers can benefit your overall health. Jeff and Ashley extoll the virtues of good dental hygiene and explore dental insurance options offered by VA THIS WEEK’S GUEST We visit with the inspiring Ray Ruschel, who served 20 years in the U.S. Army, is still serving in the North Dakota National Guard, and a is a 49-year-old freshman at North Dakota State College of Science where he is taking business classes and is a defensive lineman on the NDSCS Wildcats Division III football team. Tom Brady, eat your heart out. RAPID FIRE Amityville American Legion Pipe Band will take lead role in 2023 D-Day commemoration ceremonies in Normandy New Army social media policy pushes stricter rules Texting paying off for national vice commander Special Guest: Ray Ruschel.
IN THE NEWS In response to a Military times article, "Congress Wants America to Thank Veterans in the Most Awkward Way Possible" Jeff and Ashley discuss how to properly respond to "Thank you for our Freedom." THIS WEEK'S GUEST Chelsea Porterfield recently retired from the U.S. Army, where she served as a platoon sergeant in the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard). During her four years there, she became the first woman to lead a marching element onto Arlington, she became the 38th Sergeant of the Guard, and in 2021 she became the fifth woman to earn her Tomb Guard Identification Badge. Chelsea talks about her military experience, including her struggle with suicide and how she worked through it and has now become an advocate to help others to seek help. RAPID FIRE Marine Corps Reserve celebrates 75 years of Toys for Tots NATO Begins Nuclear Exercises Amid Russian War Tensions Letters from Legiontown: Finding a purpose again Special Guest: Chelsea Porterfield .
IN THE NEWS Jeff and Ashley get into the 'spirit' of Halloween with a run-down of some American Legion post hauntings. THIS WEEK'S GUEST Former MLB Pitcher Steve Woodard, an American Legion Baseball Alumni who played for Post 52 in Hartselle, Ala., talks about his own baseball career, how American Legion Baseball influenced his path to the majors, and his experience as a color commentator during the broadcasts of The American Legion World Series on ESPN3 and ESPNU. RAPID FIRE Coast Guard seizes $29M of narcotics in Gulf of Oman Burn pit registry is failing to help track vet illnesses, experts say Share your ‘Be the One’ story SHOUT-OUT To Veterans in Media & Entertainment for the upcoming Amazon Prime documentary "Wildcat." Special Guest: Steve Woodard.
IN THE NEWS Jeff and Ashley discuss that time Johnny Cash might have intercepted secret Russian code. THIS WEEK'S GUEST Two Vietnam veterans, Mike Spotswood and Doug Bradley from Cup of Joe Radio join the show to talk about their veteran-focused radio show created to help veterans with PTSD through the healing power of music. RAPID FIRE Vets benefits poised for biggest cost of living boost in 40 years House candidate J.R. Majewski on disputed military record: It's 'classified' Special Guests: Doug Bradley and Mike Spotswood.
IN THE NEWS Ranger Daly shares the history of the Marine Corps Camp Pendleton Bison herd. THIS WEEK'S GUEST Today we’ll be joined by U.S. Coast Guard veteran Ashlee Leppert. Ashlee flew hundreds of rescue missions during her active-duty service, saving many lives. She was recognized by President Trump during the 2018 State of the Union address for the rescue work she and her crew performed during Hurricane Harvey. She shares that experience, her memoir “The Hurricane Within” and how her faith has helped her overcome challenges to thrive. RAPID FIRE Coast Guard spots Chinese and Russian ships off Alaska coast. U.S. warns Putin of 'catastrophic' consequences over nuclear weapons Special Guest: Ashlee Leppert.
IN THE NEWS VA is doing a major overhaul of disability rating criteria and how they evaluate mental health and other conditions. THIS WEEK'S GUEST Mission Roll Call Executive Director Cole Lyle joins the podcast to talk about how his advocacy organization uses polling to give veterans a more direct voice in policy-making. Cole talks about how Mission Roll Call engages with veterans and their focus on veteran suicide, access to care and amplification of underserved veterans such as women or those in rural and tribal communities. RAPID FIRE Auxiliary member's company helps deliver mobility to veterans New York state commander promotes drive-by membership A new home for Va. Post 139, and new homes for at-risk veterans Special Guest: Cole Lyle.
IN THE NEWS Jeff and Ashley discuss the threats China and Russia pose to U.S. dominance in space and Jeff tries to figure out the Space Force "battle zone". THIS WEEK'S GUEST Our guest Jonathan talks about his work as a personal trainer and nutritionist, competing as an elite athlete, and his advocacy for mental wellness and therapeutic use of psychedelics to recover from trauma. RAPID FIRE WWII veteran joins Legion post before 100th birthday Big Navy investigating SEAL basic training Special Guest: Jonathan Wechter.
IN THE NEWS Share Sons of The American Legion Anniversary activities on Legiontown THIS WEEK'S GUEST This week we are joined by Concussion Legacy Foundation co-founder and CEO, Chris Nowinski, PhD. CLF is a non-profit organization that is leading the fight against concussions and Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, or CTE, a degenerative brain disease found in athletes, military veterans, and others with a history of repetitive brain trauma. We’ll also talk with retired U.S. Navy Commander Daryl Adamson about his experience as a suicide loss survivor and the legacy of his son, Cameron, a Marine, who died by suicide in 2021 at age 22. The Adamson family donated Cameron's brain for study of CTE, and are advocates for the Concussion Legacy Foundation Project Enlist. RAPID FIRE National Guard tapped to help in understaffed Florida prisons Former Managers at Military Housing Contractor Sentenced in Fraud Scheme Special Guests: Chris Nowinski PhD and Daryl Adamson.
IN THE NEWS Jeff and Ashley kick things off discussing the Task & Purpose article that breaks down why Florida's plan to recruit uncertified veterans to become teachers is a stupid idea. THIS WEEK'S GUEST Our guests this week are New Bern, N.C. Post 539 commander and Marine Corps veteran Liz Hartman, and fellow Post 539 member, retired U.S. Army Sergeant and Bronze Star recipient Adin Colón. Liz and Adin are co-founders of March for the 22, an event that helps raise awareness and help end veteran suicide. The pair talk about how they started the event, as well as how their small post does big things within their community. RAPID FIRE Legion member inspired by 100 Miles for Hope walks more than 2,200 miles Navy promises ‘life-altering $115,000’ in bonuses to lure veterans back to active duty Special Guests: Adin Colón and Liz Hartman.
IN THE NEWS We have an update on the case of a Navy nuclear engineer and his wife who attempted to smuggle secrets about nuclear-powered warships in half-eaten PBJ sandwiches. THIS WEEK'S GUEST Jeff and Ashley are joined by Distinguished University Professor of Psychology, President Emeritus, and Director of the Rudd Institute for Veteran and Military Suicide Prevention at the University of Memphis, Dr. M. David Rudd. Dr. Rudd is also a spokesman for The American Legion "Be the One" initiative, and he talks about his own career helping veterans struggling with mental health issues and why veterans groups like The American Legion are an important part of helping them overcome psycological and emotional challenges. RAPID FIRE A story of Heroism and other Post Awards Jeff and Ashley remember their favorite episodes from last year's award-winning 9/11 series Special Guest: Dr. M. David Rudd .
Still coming to you from The American Legion 103rd National Convention in Milwaukee, Wis., host Jeff Daly and Ashley Gorbulja sit down with Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Denis McDonough Special Guest: VA Secretary Denis McDonough.
Coming to you from The American Legion National Convention in Milwaukee, hosts Jeff and Ashley get an update on American Legion legislative successes and upcoming activity with repeat guest, American Legion National Legislative Director Lawrence Montreuil. Lawrence talks about the success of the Honor our PACT act, the role Legion members played in helping the bill become law, and the impact the new law will have on millions of veterans exposed to toxins during their military service. Lawrence also talks about the work that still needs to be done on other legislation, such as the Afghan Adjustment Act, and how to get involved through the Voter Voice portal. Special Guest: Lawrence Montreuil.
IN THE NEWS Our hosts remember 1-year anniversary of the attack near Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul by honoring the 13 servicemembers killed in the bombing. THIS WEEK'S GUEST Our guest is U.S. Army retired Lt. Col. Aaron Leonard, a combat veteran who now serves as Campaign Manager at Sierra Club Military Outdoors and as co-chair of the Outdoor Rx Coalition with the New York State Division of Veterans Services. RAPID FIRE Marine Corps promotes first Black officer to 4-star general in 246-year history Anniversary of Afghanistan withdrawal could serve as a trigger for those suffering moral injury Hiring Our Heroes and Wisconsin Career Event at American Legion National ConventionIN THE NEWS Special Guest: Aaron Leonard.
IN THE NEWS Get ready for The American Legion National Convention in Milwaukee 9/11 Day of Service THIS WEEK'S GUEST Retired Lt. Col. Joseph Barnard, who served in the Army with the 82nd Airborne, then moved to the Air Force where he served 28 years, first as a PJ and then Combat Rescue Officer, joins the podcast to talk about military transition, and his work with The Independence Fund, an organization committed to serving the warfighter community by providing innovative programs and services to support the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual independence of service members, combat veterans, their caregivers, families, and those Allies who served in combat alongside our troops. RAPID FIRE The RX9 "Ninja Bomb" Application opens for Spring 2023 Hope For The Warriors Military Spouse and Caregiver Scholarships GWOT Service Medal becoming more selective Special Guest: Joe Barnard.
IN THE NEWS Jeff shares highlights of his week as a staff member at American Legion Boys Nation. THIS WEEK'S GUEST Dr. Travis Martin, more commonly known as T-Dogg, joins the podcast to talk about his role in establishing the Kentucky Center for Veterans Studies at Eastern Kentucky University. RAPID FIRE PACT Act clears final hurdle to President's desk. Kentucky National Guard rescues hundreds during catastrophic flooding. Pelosi pledges solidarity with Taiwan as China holds military drills, vents anger Special Guest: Travis Martin.
IN THE NEWS Registration is open for the Hiring our Heroes career event taking place on Aug. 25 in conjunction with The American Legion National Convention in Milwaukee. THIS WEEK'S GUEST Our guest is Kevin W. Hertell, an Air Force veteran who served with the 309th Fighter Squadron and a member of Glenwood Landing Post 336 in Glen Head, N.Y. Kevin is the Founder and President of “The Veterans Suicide Awareness & Remembrance Flag Corporation,” as well as the creator of the S-A-R Flag. Jeff and Ashley learn about what inspired Kevin to create the S-A-R flag and launch his mission to remove the stigma of mental health and veteran suicide. RAPID FIRE Join the 9/11 National Day of Service SCOTUS Gives Veterans Big Win, Says States Can Be Sued for Discriminating Against Vets Special Guest: Kevin Hertell.
IN THE NEWS Lt. Amanda Lee of Moundsview, Minn., becomes the first woman to pilot the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet for the Blue Angels. THIS WEEK'S GUEST Commander B.J. Farrell is the first female commanding officer of the USS Constitution. She talks about life aboard the three-masted wooden-hulled heavy frigate known as “Old Ironsides” and the events surrounding a milestone year. RAPID FIRE There's a new, shorter suicide prevention hotline number to help veterans The Air Force received its first laser weapons for fighter planes Vote for Tango Alpha Lima at PODCASTAWARDS.COM Special Guest: Commander B.J. Farrell .
IN THE NEWS Celebrating Disability Pride Month THIS WEEK'S GUEST Kristen "Chief" Beck is a retired U.S. Navy SEAL who gained public attention in 2013 when she came out as a trans woman. Her story has been told in her 2013 memoir, “Warrior Princess: A U.S. Navy SEAL's Journey to Coming out Transgender,” and in the 2014 CNN Documentary, “Lady Valor: The Kristin Beck Story.” Beck covers a lot of ground, including snippets on wearing dresses while growing up, being part of a team, fitting in and what it means to be an American at this time in our nation’s history. RAPID FIRE Ohio Guard soldier charged with terroristic threats, making and selling ‘ghost guns’ National convention app enhanced for 2022 SHOW NOTES Special Guest: Kristin “Chief” Beck.
IN THE NEWS In honor of the start of a new Legion membership year, Jeff and Ashely share membership stories and invite the Alphas to share their own membership stories. THIS WEEK'S GUEST We're doubling down on our Ashlies this week with our guest, New Jersey-based actress, voice-over artist and stand-up comedian Ashley Gutermuth. Ashley is married to a career Air Force reservist, and she's rapidly building an online following with her unique take on spouse and military humor, and she's quickly carving out a name for herself with her inside-military jokes. RAPID FIRE June American Legion Impact Report highlights career events and legislative wins on Capitol Hill. Army backpedals on policy dropping High School diploma requirement WWII Medal of Honor recipient Herschel "Woody" Williams lies in honor at U.S. Capitol Special Guest: Ashley Gutermuth.
IN THE NEWS Jeff and Ashley analyze an angry critic's 1/2-star review of "Top Gun: Maverick" THIS WEEK'S GUEST Syracuse University Vice Chancellor for Strategic Initiatives and Innovation, Dr. Mike Haynie, joins the podcast. Dr. Haynie discusses the University’s veteran-connected programs and resources for service members transitioning out of the military, and the evolution of the Syracuse University Institute for Veterans & Military Families, or IVMF, the nation’s first interdisciplinary institute created to inform and advance the policy, economic, and wellness concerns of the America’s veterans and families. RAPID FIRE U.S. House proposes 2.4% "inflation bonus" for DoD employees and U.S. Service Members Kremlin spokesman says U.S. military veterans fighting in Ukraine won't get wartime protections set by Geneva Convention Special Guest: Dr. Mike Haynie.
IN THE NEWS Security cam video reveals VA employee body-slamming and beating 73-year-old veteran at Georgia VA Clinic. _NOTE: The incident took place on April 28, and while Lawrence F. Galliard Jr. was arrested and charged, at the time of our recording, he still had his job. WSB-TV reporters posted the video on June 20, and on June 23, VA Secretary Denis McDonough issued an apology to the patient, Phillip Web, and Galliard was indefinitely suspended without pay. _ THIS WEEK'S GUEST We're joined by Brett Allen is a U.S. Army veteran who shares how his military experience influenced his novel, “Kilroy Was Here.” He talks about his purposeful effort to steer away from the action-hero or broken soldier stories and focus on shenanigans and dark humor. RAPID FIRE Air Force makes the world’s saddest PB&J sandwich Michigan teen raises more than $140,000 to send Vietnam Veterans on Honor Flight The Buffalo Soldiers Iron Riders Gathering begins in Montana Special Guest: Brett Allen.
In this final installment of our Transition series, we’ll be joined by Marine Corps veteran Hill Pluviose, who talks with us about the initiatives to support the military community and career resources NBC Universal Comcast offers for veterans and their families through their Veterans Network and the NBC BOLD Vets Residency program. He also talks about his podcast, Vet Talk with Hill and the NBC Peacock show he worked on, George to the Rescue. Special Guest: Hill Pluviose.
Part Three of our transition series features guest Graciela Tiscareño-Sato, an Air Force veteran, award-winning author, marketer, bilingual public speaker, and business owner Graciela talks about her book, "B.R.A.N.D. Before Your Resume," and sheds light on how she helps servicemembers, veterans and spouses create powerful, targeted AUTHENTIC Personal Brands that help them become better job candidates or aspiring entrepreneurs. Special Guest: Graciela Tiscareño-Sato.
The second episode in our special military transition series features retired Col. Jeffrey Powell. After an amazing military career, Powell retired in September of 2019. Like so many others, 2020 and the COVID pandemic shattered his plans and he struggled to find his place as a civilian. Powell shares the story of his struggles, lessons learned, and how he emerged determined to strike out on a path to help other veterans and change perceptions of what “Transition Assistance Programs” should be. Special Guest: Jeffrey Powell.
To coincide with the June 22, 1944, anniversary of the signing of the original GI Bill, this week The American Legion Tango Alpha Lima podcast is publishing a special, four-part series on military transition, career tips and more. The first episode in the series will feature two military veterans: Disney Parks Experiences and Products Manager of Executive Communications, Cappy Surette and Walt Disney Company Director of Veterans Initiatives, Kevin Preston. Kevin and Cappy share stories of support, career advice and the valuable resources the Walt Disney Company makes available for the military and veteran community. Special Guests: Cappy Surette and Kevin Preston.
IN THE NEWS Air Force gamers comes out on top during the Pentagon's first official video game tournament. THIS WEEK'S GUEST Documentary filmmaker Ian Adelson, and his grandfather, U.S. Air Force veteran and former Misty squadron flight surgeon Dean Echenberg, join us to talk about their work on the documentary "The Misty Experiement" The film tells the story of the special U.S. Air Force squadron whose pilots volunteered for one of the Vietnam War’s most dangerous air missions: to search for enemy supply transports and anti-aircraft installations concealed along the Ho Chi Minh Trail and direct rescue operations for U.S. and allied aircrews shot down within the web of trail paths and waterways. RAPID FIRE Second all-women Honor Flight takes off from Florida Marine Corps Pride Month message misses the mark Special Guests: Dean Echenberg and Ian Adelson.
IN THE NEWS Jeff and Ashley discuss the news of the first Russian soldier sentenced to life in prison in Ukraine's first war crimes trial. OUR GUEST Retired U.S. Air Force Col. Merryl Tengesdal talks about launching her military career in an effort to fulfill her childhood dreams, her accomplishments along the way, including becoming the first African American woman to fly the U2 Dragon-Lady. She talks about her appearance on CBS "Tough as Nails," working with Steven Spielberg, motivating youth, and her book, "Shatter the Sky" RAPID FIRE Space Force National Guard Marines love of Ranger panties Special Guest: Merryl Tengesdal.
IN THE NEWS Jeff and Ashley are urging the Alphas to "Be The One" Rather than focus on the number of veteran suicides, our hosts are joining in The American Legion's new initiative to focus on the number one: Be the ONE person that does the ONE thing that can save ONE veteran's life. INDYCAR driver Tony Kanaan raced in the Indianapolis 500 over Memorial Day weekend in the No. 1 "Be The One" American Legion Honda, bringing awareness to the new initiative. Find out more at www.legion.org/betheone THIS WEEK'S GUEST Author, journlist and filmmaker Sebastian Junger, talks about his award-winning film, "Restrepo," his bestselling books, THE PERFECT STORM, FIRE, WAR, TRIBE and FREEDOM, and his career as a combat correspondent. Junger’s also talks about his newest initiative, Vets Town Hall, where he is founder and director. RAPID FIRE Space Force Will Allow Neck Tattoos, Longer Mustaches and More Makeup Options for Guardians Soldier's first Army mentor is 2-star general sitting next to him on plane Special Guest: Sebastian Junger.
IN THE NEWS A greedy Michigan Guardsman filed a pay inquiry for a missing part-time drill paycheck, prompting an investigation that uncovered he had been quietly collecting full pay and allowances for more than two years after resigning from full-time Guard status with the Hawaii National Guard Active Reserve in 2017. The NCO is awaiting trial for theft of more than $200,000 of public funds. Ashley and Jeff discuss the rationale of the criminal mind. THE GUEST Br. Logan M. Isaac, HoSM, is an Army veteran who is bringing Christian beliefs about military service into the 21st century. He’s breaking down the bias and bad theology that isn’t veteran-friendly. He has a new book that challenges that bad theology, titled “God is a Grunt.” Logan talks about how his military experience led him to his complex relationship with Christianity, guilt and moral injury, and the inspiration for his book and and his advocacy to promote human dignity for soldiers and veterans. RAPID FIRE Navy brings new software online in time for sailors’ fitness testing season California American Legion Post 731 makes all World War II, Korean and Vietnam War post members honorary life members Special Guest: Br. Logan M. Isaac, HoSM .
IN THE NEWS A discussion of the military's history of toxic exposure and The American Legion's push for a Senate vote for the Honoring our PACT Act to address these issues for generations of military veterans. THIS WEEK'S GUEST Award-winning multimedia journalist, former U.S. Marine Corps Combat Correspondent and current U.S. Navy Reserve PAO Amy Forsythe stops by to talk about her new book, "Heroes Live Here: A Tribute to Camp Pendleton Marines Since 9/11" Amy shares stories about her career as a military and civilian journalist, her inspiration for her new book, and a case of stolen valor she helped uncover. RAPID FIRE Parris Island Marine Corps Band nominated for an Emmy VA Confirms Vital EHR Computer System Has Gone Down More Than 50 Times Since Launching in Spokane Airman slays ‘tedious repetitive tasks’ for comrades stuck in paperwork hell SHOUTOUTS Post 176 in Springfield, Va. Post 539 in New Bern, N.C. Special Guest: Amy Forsythe.
IN THE NEWS 100 Miles for Hope is in full swing, and Jeff and Ashley are pumped up! The hosts ponder the various benefits of physical activity. THIS WEEK'S GUESTS We're doubling the fun with two professional bodybuilders and 100 Miles for Hope Ambassadors, Julia Waring and Rachelle Cannon. Both of these International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB) Figure Professional Athletes share stories of their military academy experiences, their military service and how their current status as elite athletes. RAPID FIRE Bootcamp breakdown Make-a-Wish allows young teen to attend a special Boot Camp and become a Marine for a day. Special Guests: Julia Waring and Rachelle Cannon.
IN THE NEWS Our hosts discuss the dilemma caused by the Navy deputizing doctors to enforce drug rules - even for those seeking mental health assistance. THIS WEEK'S GUEST American Legion member Bobby McDonald visits to talk about his passion for military history, his work with the Buffalo Soldiers re-enactors and the upcoming Quasquicentennial of the Buffalo Soldiers Iron Riders. RAPID FIRE Bean bags, pod chairs and iPads for Air Force new recruit training Back Packs for Hope Special Guest: Bobby McDonald.
National Judge Advocate couldn't stay away, so makes a special appearance in honor of this week's guest. IN THE NEWS Emma Noble of Birmingham, Ala., has been crowned as the 2022 National Oratorical Contest Champion, and in celebration, Ashley throws down some Oratorical Contest facts and history. THE INTERVIEW 120 episodes into the Tango Alpha Lima experience, and we’ve finally scored an interview with a member of Space Force! Lt. Col. Erika Teichert started her military career as a U.S. Marine, but transferred to Space Force in January 2022. She shares the story about how she launched her new career as well as explains what Space Force does. RAPID FIRE Tennessee Legionnaires name first female Eagle Scout of the Year. U.S. Army is experimenting with drone swarms that behave like a wolf pack. Military considers three states for permanent Space Force training HQ Special Guest: Erika Teichert.
Jeff and Ashley are reunited in Boston with former podcast co-host, National Judge Advocate Mark Seavey, and three other Legion members for Tough Ruck 26.2 Boston. Seavey, along with Media & Communications Chairman David F. Wallace of Virginia, South Dakota Department Service Officer Courtney VanZanten and Ashley’s husband, National Guard Sgt. Robert Maldonado, a member from Post 180 in Vienna, Va. traveled the 26.2 mile course. The podcast team followed the progress of the ruck crew, as well as catching up with other members of the Legion Family who participated and volunteered in the event. Check the show notes for a link to YouTube for the best experience for this episode. (Hint, you don't want to miss the glow of Seavey's VERY pale gams in his Old Glory silkies)
IN THE NEWS Jeff Daly makes a triumphant return to the show and shares his heartfelt thanks for the care and support he recieved from his Legion family. Ashley shares a story of 4 airmen awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for evacuating more than 150 civilians from Kabul. THE INTERVIEW Our guest this week is Chad Robichaux, a former Force Recon Marine and DoD contractor with eight deployments to Afghanistan as part of a Joint Special Operations Command task force. Chad very nearly became a veteran suicide statistic, but he overcame personal battles with PTSD and went on to start the Mighty Oaks Foundation, a nonprofit that serves active duty and veteran communities with faith-based combat trauma and resiliency programs. RAPID FIRE Chad Robichaux Update Marine Corps body composition standards may be leading to eating disorders Powdered hot sauce coming soon to MREs Special Guest: Chad Robichaux.
IN THE NEWS CV and Ashley kick off Children & Youth Month with a discussion of the programs and services that support The American Legion's advocacy for young people. THE INTERVIEW Ashley and Jeff visit with actress Jamie Gray Hyder, best know in the military community as Lt. Nora Salter in the video game "Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare." RAPID FIRE Posting POW footage on social media SD VA Medical Center renamed after fallen US Army nurse Rabid animal found at Marine Corps base in North Carolina Special Guest: Jamie Gray Hyder.
IN THE NEWS CV makes a guest appearance, and he and Ashley get excited for 100 Miles for Hope and the Boston Tough Ruck. THIS WEEK'S GUEST Jeff and Ashley spend time with retired U.S. Marine Corps Col. John "Ace" Astle, talking about his new book, "Jungle Combat: A Combat Pilot’s Tape Recorded Transcripts from Vietnam 1968-1969," as well as a lifetime of expereiences that included his service in the military - including a tour in Vietnam and a tour as a Marine One Presidential helicopter pilot, law enforcement, and the Maryland General Assembly. RAPID FIRE Russia's alleged use of hypersonic missile in combat Ukrainian girl who sang 'Let it Go' in a bomb shelter sings Ukranian national anthem at a charity concert in Poland Taliban cancels higher education for girls - to the surprise of nobody. Special Guest: John Astle.
IN THE NEWS Jeff takes a nostalgic trip back to Camp Pendleton. Jeff and Ashley get excited for their upcoming trip to support an American Legion rucking crew at the Boston Tough Ruck in April. THIS WEEK'S GUEST We're joined by Carol Lindamood Harlow, Chief Development and Communications Officer for the Honor Flight Network and Terry Campbell, who participated in an all-women Honor Flight from Chicago in October of 2021. Terry shares about her experience on the flight, and Carol talks about the history of Honor Flight, how the process works to participate or volunteer for an Honor Flight and what is on the horizon for the organization, and how The American Legion Family can help support their mission. RAPID FIRE Paranormal believers efforts lead Congress to pass legislation ordering Pentagon to investigate UFOs. Crayons Ready To Eat Special Guests: Carol Lindamood Harlow and "Terry" Joyce Campbell.
IN THE NEWS Jeff and Ashley get ready for a battle royale as they plan a 100 Miles for Hope host vs. host challenge. THIS WEEK'S GUEST The American Legion is the guest of honor for the 103rd birthday celebration as we spotlight how we help veterans, servicemembers and their families through programs such as Buddy Checks, the National Emergency Fund, Operation Comfort Warriors, 100 Miles for Hope and more. MAIL BAG We got mail! We've got a new fan, and we're excited.
IN THE NEWS In this week's Women's History Month spotlight, Ashley celebrates the service Anna Mae Hays, who, in 1970, became the first woman promoted to Brigadier General in the U.S. Armed Forces. THIS WEEK'S GUEST U.S. Army Reserve Chief Warrant Officer 3 Lia Mort, the winner of season 3 the CBS television competition series "Tough as Nails," joins Jeff and Ashley to talk about her military background, her reality show experience, her Pennsylvania farm and her plans for the future. RAPID FIRE Army veteran combines military skills and conspiracy to prep civilians for a 'pending' Civil War Navy commander dresses up like pro wrestlers to present awards to sailors FDA lifts ban, allows more veterans to donate blood Special Guest: Lia Mort.
IN THE NEWS While they're geared up to reflect on the more celebratory side of Military Women's History Month, Jeff and Ashley begin by addressing a challenge to women in the military. Ashley shares a report about a concerning increase in reports of sexual assault at U.S. service academies during the 2020-21 academic year, to the highest number ever since DoD began closely tracking in the problem 2006. THIS WEEK'S GUEST Author and activist Erin Miller shares the story of her grandmother, Elaine Danforth Harmon, who served with the Women Airforce Service Pilots - or WASPs - during WWII. When her grandmother's final wish to be laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery was denied by the U.S. Army in 2015, Erin began a grassroots, social media and lobbying campaign to fight the decision and have a law passed to recognize the service of the WASP for inurnment eligibility at Arlington National Cemetery. RAPID FIRE Marine and nurse charged with fake vaccine card scam VA propses changing disability ratings for mental health 'Call of Duty' can make you a better sailor or Marine Special Guest: Erin Miller.
IN THE NEWS Jeff and Ashley highlight Rally Around the Flag and other Americanism programs in celebration of American Legion Americanism Month. THIS WEEK'S GUESTS Cullen Wright and Christina Lonigro from Advocate Health Advisors join the podcast to talk about how their veteran-owned company helps veterans make informed decisions as they navigate the Medicare system and combine those benefits with VA benefits. RAPID FIRE Girl Scout Cookies for troops, an icy Coast Guard Rescue and a Florida teen helps homeless veteran with a DIY camper renovation. Special Guests: Christina Lonigro and Cullen Wright.
IN THE NEWS Jeff and Ashley discuss the unacceptable living conditions for the junior enlisted barracks at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. THIS WEEK'S GUEST Jeff and Ashley sit down with former Green Beret and Seattle Seahawk Nate Boyer to talk about Merging Vets and Players, a nonprofit organization that brings together combat veterans and professional athletes for workouts and therapy RAPID FIRE DARPA tests Autonomous Black Hawk Helicopter Honoring the military service of Harry Belafonte Air Force ordered to pay restitution for Sutherland Spring shooting Special Guest: Nate Boyer.
IN THE NEWS Ashley and Jeff discuss the new White House executive order to make sexual harassment an offense under the Uniform Code of Military Justice. THIS WEEK'S GUEST Retired Navy SEAL Steve Giblin joins the podcast to talk about his new memoir, "Walking in Mud: A Navy SEAL’s 10 Rules for Surviving the New Normal." He draws on his military experiences to offer wisdom and counsel others on how to cope in the post-pandemic world. RAPID FIRE Abandoned Air Force radar station for sale VA tasks Advisory Committee on Tribal and Indian Affairs to innovate approach to serving Native American Veterans Special Guest: Steve Giblin.
IN THE NEWS Jeff kicks off the episode by sharing the 2021 National American Legion College Resolution urging the United States to award the Congressional Gold Medal to all members of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion. FEATURED GUESTS We feature two of the stories from the February issue of The American Legion Magazine: NASCAR rising star Jessie Iwuji, a Navy Rerservist and Legion member who is poised to bring change and diversity to racing. A group of California Legion members who are commemorating the unique experience of the Iron Riders - a group of Buffalo Soldiers in an experimental Bicycle Corps who made a 1,900-mile trek from Fort Missoula to St. Louis in 1897. RAPID FIRE Newly introduced GI Bill Restoration Act would provide benefits to descendants of Black World War II veterans Colin Powell remembered as a model for future generations
American Legion National Legislative Director Lawrence Montruiel returns to celebrate the organization's legislative wins from 2021 and give a briefing on the Legislative priorities for 2022. Special Guest: Lawrence Montreuil.
IN THE NEWS Jeff and Ashley discuss humanitarian aid for Afghans as crisis grows after Taliban takeover. THIS WEEK'S GUEST Our hosts sat down for a live interview with Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation CEO and President, Michael “Rod” Rodriguez while in Orlando for SVA NatCon2022, for an update on the progress of the GWOT Memorial. RAPID FIRE 2022 American Legion Legacy Scholarship Application open Norwegian Armed Forces recycling used undies VA wants to drop co-pays for mental health care Special Guest: Michael "Rod" Rodriguez.
Jeff and Ashley share some of their conversations with speakers, exhibitors and attendees during the 2022 Student Veterans of America National Conference at the Disney Coronado Resort in Orlando, Fla. SVA President and CEO Jared Lyon talks about some of the highlights of NatCon 2022 Michael Hoherchak talks about the Travis Manion Foundation Solomon Jennings talks about the Congressional Wounded Warrior Fellowship Program Tamika Brown talks about the Library of Congress Veterans History Project SVA Student of the Year finalist Fatima Jaghoori from Kansas State University talks about her SVA Chapter's connection to American Legion Post 17 in Manhattan, Kan. SVA Attendees shout out their local American Legion posts Special Guests: Jared Lyon, Michael Hoherchak, Solomon "Sol" Jennings IV, and Tamika Brown.
Jeff and Ashley are joined by Virginia Cruse, a licensed professional and nationally certified counselor specializing in military issues and combat-related trauma. Virginia shares her personal path to becoming a therapist and her quest to explain PTSD to service members in a way that makes sense. Virginia also talks about how American Legion members and posts can help veterans struggling with PTSD. Special Guest: Virginia Cruse.
Sean Powers is a former NYPD Officer, a member of American Legion 9-11 Memorial Post 2001 in New York City, and Tango Alpha Lima's first return guest. He's come back to talk about the New York Police Department’s POPPA (Police Organization Providing Peer Assistance) program, a volunteer police support network committed to providing a confidential, safe and supportive environment for police officers and retirees. While POPPA is geared toward officers, the approach can be scaled to assist veterans who are struggling, and Powers says he has used his POPPA training to help fellow veterans. Special Guest: Sean Powers.
A decade ago, Air Force Veteran Jeffrey Freeman, frustrated by pain and limitations caused by service-related injuries and other health issues, attempted suicide. In the aftermath of that moment, Jeffrey found The American Legion and credits for saving his life nearly a decade ago, and he wants to share his story in hopes of helping other veterans who may need support. Special Guest: Jeffrey Freeman.
In our first of four episodes addressing veteran suicide, Idaho American Legion Adjutant Abe Abrahamson joins Jeff and Ashley to talk about One More Day, a peer-to-peer program where trained task force members help mitigate the situation when a veteran is in crisis, gets them assistance, and maintains contact and support for them in the aftermath. Abrahamson, who is also director of One More Day, believes this formula can be adapted elsewhere. Special Guest: Abe Abrahamson.
Our big farewell to CV has a little bit of everything. Ashley fosters a lively discussion about using the National Guard as a pivot point during the Jan. 6 Probe. Jeff sings the praises of a daring Coast Guard rescue on the brink of Niagara Falls. CV finally gets his wish as President Biden awards the Medal of Honor to Sgt. First Class Alwyn C. Cashe. RAPID FIRE Three APP-tastic stories of how the military uses mobile technology...for better or for worse. Some surprise guests help bid CV adieu.
Andrew Carroll, playwright, author and founding director of the Center for American War Letters at Chapman University, talks with Tango Alpha Lima about his work to preserve war letters, how he got started, and how of collecting correspondence has led to the creation of the virtual Museum of American War Letters and his new podcast, "Behind the Lines: The Worlds Greatest War Letters and the Stories Behind Them." Andrew shares some of the most unique and compelling letters from his collection as well as some of the stories behind them. Special Guest: Andrew Carroll.
You have to do some math to figure it out, but Episode 80 is really our 100th episode. The hosts spend a little time reminiscing about favorite moments before we dive into the rest of the episode. (Check the show notes if you want to go back to any of the full episodes we loved) Ashley gets excited about a newly signed bill that will allocate $15 million to improve maternity care for female veterans - although CV is not impressed by the name "Momnibus Bill" It wouldn't be a 100th Episode without a good Space Force Story, and CV obliges with a story of the newest branch formulating a plan to train Guardians ... if they could just figure out what they're training them to do. RAPID FIRE Jeff hits the Red Zone with a Rapid Fire matched set of tales about is beloved Eagle, Globe and Anchor: Good Corps, Bad Corps, Bye Corps Special Guests: Autrey James, Hugh Crooks Jr., Jeff Stoffer, Jessica Lynch, Naveed Jamali, Robert Douglas, Sean Powers, and Vince Patton.
Stephen “Shanghai Six” Machuga deftly avoids falling down the World of Warcraft well with CV as he shares the story of how he started his non-profit, Stack Up, as a way to bring veterans and civilian supporters together through a shared love of video gaming. Stephen talks about the programs Stack Up offers, gaming as recreation therapy, and opportunities for American Legion members to connect. Special Guest: Stephen Machuga.
Jeff and Ashley recap their whirlwind visit to New York City for the Veterans Day Parade. Ashley shares a story about unions seeking collective bargaining rights for Connecticut National Guard members. Jeff gets wound up by experts who claim troop pay and benefits could hurt military readiness. RAPID FIRE AGAIN with Fort Hood, return of the Tiger King, American Legion Mental Health Survey and moments of gratitude.
Air Force Gaming Community Esports Operations Manager Erin Rich joins the podcast to talk about the gaming community initiative that brings Airmen and Guardians of all ages, ranks and backgrounds together for camaraderie and competition. Erin shares a little bit about the background of the community, how it works, and how the Air Force intends to grow the scope of the program. She also schools Jeff just a little bit about the nerd factor. Special Guest: Erin Rich.
This Veterans Day, Team Tango honors the Centennial of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. CV kicks things off with some of history of the WWI Unknown Soldier and the Tomb, and highlights some of centennial commemorations happening across Europe. Ashley shares her excitement about a ceremony during Veterans Day week that will allow rare public access to lay flowers at the Tomb in Arlington National Cemetery. Jeff reminds everyone about the importance of doing Buddy Checks, supporting the Buddy Check Legislation currently working its way through Congress. RAPID FIRE White House observes Veterans and Military Families Month in November Legion GI Bill exhibit at Syracuse University Veterans Day Deals Tango Alpha Lima hosts hit NYC for Veterans Day Parade
Ashley educates the guys about the “Pink Tax” on uniforms for military women, and the FATIGUES Act that proposes and end to the disparity. Jeff shares the latest chapter in the continuing saga of vaccines for members of the military: Marines facing consequences for vaccine refusals. CV still can't figure out why the military can't keep track of their weapons, and neither can Congress, who is imposing new rules to force America’s armed services to keep better track of their guns and explosives. RAPID FIRE VA hiring spree to tackle an expected surge in backlogged benefits claims Special Honor Flight trips honor service of women and Black veterans American Legion Baseball Alums featured in MLB World Series DOL encouraging partners to expand services for transitioning veterans and spouses
Team Tango visits with U.S. Army veteran and author Darin Pepple. Pepple's debut novel, "Dodgebomb: Outside the Wire in the Second Iraq War" is a satirical work that follows a lieutenant and his platoon as they go out on patrol each day and try to stay alive. Pepple talks about some of his real life experiences as an Army Captain, how he uses these moments into the novel, and the inspiration behind bringing his work to life. Special Guest: Darin Pepple.
Jeff reveals CV's fashionable new look for fall. Ashley tells the tale of a Maryland couple who were caught attempting to sell nuclear secrets a foreign operatives who turned out to be the FBI. CV shares his surprise that a Special Operation unit and small group of Marines have been secretly operating in Taiwan for the past year to train military forces in an effort to shore up the island’s defenses as concern regarding potential Chinese aggression mounts. RAPID FIRE Mystery Boom in New Hampshire 11 submariners injured when the USS Connecticut strikes unknown object underwater Rep. Jim Cooper, D-Tenn., wants fewer uniform fashion shows, more tech notes from Space Force The U.S. Marine who brought a cougar back to his barracks
Mission Roll Call is a nonpartisan movement to help provide veterans with a powerful, unified voice that is heard by our nation's leaders and communities. On this episode, we're joined by MRC Director Patrick Griffith, who talks about how their team uses digital messaging and polling to collect the views, experiences, and insights of veterans and delivers them directly to national and community leaders in an effort to enact positive change. Patrick discusses how his organization uses storytelling to educate and activate their audience, and how Mission Role Call can work with traditional VSOs like The American Legion. Special Guest: Patrick Griffith .
Jeff gets pumped about U.S. Space Force Guardians newly unveiled dress uniforms. CV reluctantly brings us yet another story about Afghanistan as two of the military’s highest-ranking generals telling lawmakers that they did not support the full withdrawal this year. Ashley shares a story from The American Legion Magazine about the benefits of Wind Therapy. RAPID FIRE Marine Lieutenant Colonel who demanded Afghanistan accountability thrown in brig. Remains of Medal of Honor recipient Rev. Emil Kapaun returned to Kansas 70 years after his death in North Korean POW Camp. Navy veteran with broken-down scooter becomes TikTok star is flooded with generosity. Lawmaker on a mission to compel Pentagon to take UFOs seriously.
Transgender American Veterans Association Communications Director Avalisa Ellicott shares the story of her military service in the U.S. Air Force and the subsequent transition to reflect her true self, which led her to become an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, specifically an advocate for Trans Rights. Special Guest: Avalisa Ellicott.
The hiatus is over and Team Tango is back to tackle the news of the week. CV kicks things off with a reminiscence of the podcast team's experience at National Convention in Phoenix. Jeff revisits the subject of COVID-19 vaccines for the military, now that the Army has issued mandates. Ashley discusses how purpose plays a role in the in reducing the rate of veterans suicide. RAPID FIRE U.S. Flag sewn by POW during Vietnam War heading for Smithsonian WWII veteran meets grade-school pen pal, now National Guard member. Food inflation hits commissaries.
In honor of National Suicide Awareness Prevention Month, Team Tango hosts Chase Rauchle PTSD NOW! Foundation founder Craig Rauchle and board member Steve Lenzi. The pair discusses the origins of their organization, and it's mission to address and reduce suicide among military servicemembers and veterans who suffer from the effects of trauma, stress and depression from combat and reintegration into civilian life. They share the ways organization conducts research, supports new and existing treatments and strives to bring those resources to the military servicemembers, and to help to save lives. Special Guest: Chase Rauchle PTSD NOW! Foundation.
You thought we were done with Bonus Episodes, but we have one more in the tank! During The American Legion 102nd National Convention in Phoenix, the Tango Team had the unique opportunity to get together for a face to face interview with VA Secretary Denis McDonough. During the interview we touch on development of new technology for patient access, VA COVID protocols and resources for veterans struggling with the situation in Afghanistan or other mental health needs. Special Guest: VA Secretary Denis McDonough.
Working a corporate job in Indianapolis on Sept. 11, 2001, Purdue graduate Josh Bleill was so moved by the events of that day that he soon found himself, at the age of 27, following in his father's yellow bootsteps at Marine Corps bootcamp. During a deployment to Fallujah, Iraq in 2006, a bomb exploded under the vehicle Josh was riding in. He woke up five days later to the realization that he had lost two friends and both of his legs in the blast. Josh's journey through recovery led him to a new role as a motivational speaker, trying to help veterans and civilians alike move forward with positivity by taking just one step at a time. Special Guest: Josh Bleill.
On September 11, 2001, John was an 18-year-old freshman at Fordham University. That day and in the days that followed, John volunteered at Ground Zero, aiding in the rescue and recovery operation. He subsequently joined the Army, becoming a Green Beret with combat deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq. John shares his story of how that day changed the trajectory of his life, and let him eventually towards the founding of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum Visionary Network. Special Guest: John Paluska.
Jennifer Vollbrecht was 15 years old on 9/11. Like thousands of others, watching the towers fall that day inspired her to serve her country. She knew nothing about the military, but recognized her calling. Jennifer joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 2004, and was deployed as a CH-46 Crew Chief in 2005. Jennifer shares about how that moment has propelled her through her path in life, leading to a career as a veteran entrpreneur, and an advocate for veterans in need. Special Guest: Jennifer Vollbrecht.
In 2010, while deployed to Sangin, Afghanistan as a U.S. Marine Corps Reserve combat engineer, Rob Jones stepped on an IED and became a double above-knee amputee. Rob shares his inspirational journey of recovery and resilience that he hopes will help others heal and thrive. Special Guest: Rob Jones.
On Sept. 11, 2001, Kim Campbell was a young Air Force Academy graduate in A-10 training. Suddenly, everything about her role as a fighter pilot changed, and shortly after completing training she was deployed to Afghanistan in 2002 and then Iraq in 2003, providing close air support for troops on the ground. Col. Kim Campbell joins the Tango Alpha Lima hosts to share experiences during these deployments, including the mission where she earned the Distinguished Flying Cross. Special Guest: Kim Campbell.
Dr. Tony Brooks was inspired to serve by what he refers to as the "holy shit act of terrorism." On 9/11 he was an 18-year-old student at the University of Arizona who had never considered military service. After watching the towers fall, he suddenly decided that nothing was more important than serving. Dr. Brooks talks about how "out of the blue" decision surprised everyone he knew, how he joined the Army Rangers, and his first mission once deployed to Iraq - Operation Red Wings. Special Guest: Dr. Tony Brooks.
Former POW Jessica Lynch reported to basic training a week after 9/11. Eventually she deployed to Iraq, where her unit was ambushed, she was captured and held prisoner by Iraqi forces for nine days. Jessica shares the emotional story of her captivity and rescue, as well as how she perservered through the aftermath of the experience, and became a motivational speaker to help others. Special Guest: Jessica Lynch.
USAA Vice President of Brand Management, Eric Engquist, deployed to Kosovo on 9/11 and was among the first troops deployed to Iraq in the aftermath of the attacks. He shares how his mission in Kosovo changed overnight, and what it was like to help build the beginnings of the Iraqi National Guard. Special Guest: Eric Enquist.
Eighth Master Chief Petty Officer of the U.S. Coast Guard, Vincent Patton, joins the show to talk about a unique experience of resilience he witnessed in the wake of 9/11, as well as how the terrorist attacks refocused the Coast Guard's mission. Special Guest: Vince Patton.
As he sailed the Ferry John F. Kennedy from St. George, Staten Island towards the Whitehall Ferry Terminal in Manhattan on Sept. 11, 2001, Staten Island Ferry Captain Frank Peters watched the fireball explode over the Battery as the first plane hit the World Trade Center. Peters shares how he became part of one of the largest boatlift rescue operations in history that day, as well as how he helps ensure that America never forgets that day. Special Guest: Frank Peters.
A U.S. Marine Corps veteran who served in Panama, Desert Shield and Desert Storm, Mark Otto was working on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange with his newlywed wife, just blocks away from the World Trade Center, on Sept 11, 2001. Otto shares his story of that day, as well as how those experiences have led him to provide outreach and assistance to fellow veterans. Special Guest: Mark Otto.
New Yorker Wilem Wong joined the Army Reserve during last days of the Cold War era. His 32 years of service as a combat medic, nurse and civil affairs officer, deployments to both Iraq and Afghanistan, overlapped with his 21 years as a NYPD officer, has given him a unique perspective on 9/11, and the Global War on Terrorism that followed. Wong shares his stories, insights, as well as some of the initiatives he has championed on behalf of fellow veterans both within the NYPD, and through more than 20 years as a member of the Lt. B.R. Kimlau American Legion Post 1291 in New York. Special Guest: Wilem Wong.
On Sept. 11, 2001, Joe Lea was a retired U.S. Air Force fighter pilot, and Captain of a United Airlines Airbus on a flight from Sacramento to LAX. Lt. Col. Lea shares the story of how his routine flight became anything but normal when he, like all pilots in the air that morning, got orders to land immediately. Special Guest: Joe Lea.
American Legion member David Whelan shares memories of his wife's cousin, Richard Guadagno. Richard was a vibrant young man, who loved the outdoors, and on Sept. 11, 2001, was on his way home to California, after a weekend spent celebrating the 100th birthday of his grandmother in New Jersey. While the family will never know exactly what happened on United Airlines Flight 93 that day, they have no doubt Richard was working with other passengers to take action. As the 20th Anniversary approaches, in honor of Richard Guadagno, Whelan and his entire family continue to work with the Friends of Flight 93 National Memorial to ensure that America never forgets the nearly 3000 people who died that day. Special Guest: David Whelan.
On September 11, 2001, Robert Douglas was an air traffic controller at Cleveland Center, the enroute air traffic control center responsible for airspace over Ohio and western Pennsylvania - which included the route flown by United Airlines Flight 93. Douglas shares his story of the 'controlled chaos' that day. Special Guest: Robert Douglas.
In this episode, we share the 9/11 story of Linda Beecher, American Legion Auxiliary Babylon Unit 94 member, who, on Sept. 11, 2001, was an EMT for FDNY. On the morning of the attack, Linda and two of her children, a son who was a fellow EMT and a daughter, who was a paramedic, rushed to the WTC site to see how they could help. That morning, Linda served as a liaison between chiefs in the field and dispatchers. On Sept. 14 she began working in the morgue and continued doing so until May of 2002. Special Guest: Linda Beecher.
Retired U.S. Marine Lt. Col. Robert J. Darling shares a chilling retelling of the crisis leadership and decision making he witnessed on Sept. 11, 2001, from inside the PEOC - the President's Emergency Operations Center, a.k.a the White House bunker. Special Guest: Robert J. Darling.
Today we share the story of Sgt. Maj. Clifford Lovejoy, who, on Sept. 11, 2001, was serving in the Pentagon as Command Sergeant Major, and narrowly survived after American Airlines Flight 77 hit the building in the vicinity of the G3 Conference room where he was in a meeting. Special Guest: Sgt. Maj. Clifford Lovejoy.
Our hosts visit with U.S. Marine Corps veteran Jimmy Brown. Brown served as an NYPD Officer, before joining NYFD and being assigned to the famed Ten House fire station at the foot of the World Trade Center. Jimmy shares the story of how he survived that day, and how it has shaped the last 20 years of his life. Special Guest: Jimmy Brown.
On the morning of Sept. 11, 2001, newly-elected American Legion National Commander Richard Santos was on Capitol Hill, poised to brief Congress on The American Legion’s priorities for the coming legislative year. Then the first plane hit World Trade Center in New York, and the whole world changed. Richard Santos was the national commander of The American Legion on September 11th, 2001. Shortly after the attacks, he penned a message that still resonates two decades later. “America continues to heal and it is our responsibility as veterans to tend to the wounds,” he wrote. “Some will panic about the future; we must reassure them. Some will weep over a lost family member or friend; we must hold their hands. Some will be angry; we must temper their rage.” In this first episode of a special series of Tango Alpha Lima bonus episodes, our hosts visit with American Legion Past National Commander Richard Santos, who shares his memories of that moment and the months that followed as he represented the nation’s largest veterans service organization during a time of national crisis. Special Guest: Richard Santos.
Team Tango chats with Stu Richel, a U.S. Army combat journalist with the 1st Infantry Division in Vietnam, who came home to work as an actor and playwright in California and New York. A refreshingly unabashed Stu shares stories of his experiences, as well as treats the hosts to an excerpt performance from his one-man play, “Vietnam...Through My Lens.”
CV gets a surprise, then shares a story of positive first steps for Afghan Interpreters as Fort Lee prepares temporary housing for evacuees. Ashley talks about the National Guard facing shutdown as Congress debates payment of the $520 million tab to reimburse the force for protecting lawmakers during its months-long Capitol Hill mission. Jeff learns about GOMORs (General Officer Memorandum of Reprimand) and debates Fort Knox official issuing them as punishments for unvaccinated troops caught unmasked. Rapid Fire: Battle Taxis, Ft. Hood looks for lost NVGs, Immigrant turned U.S. Army soldier competes in Olympics, and drones fired fro grenade launchers.
Team Tango visits with Anthony Price, Executive Director of the Gold Star Ride Foundation. They learn about the non-profit organization and the cross-country motorcycle rides where they bring comfort and assistance to Gold Star families. Special Guest: Anthony Price.
Ashley shares the story of a deported Marine who was able to return to the U.S. to become an American citizen. CV wonders why U.S, Military ended nearly two decades at Bagram Airfield by slipping away in the night without telling the base's new commander. An Associated Press story where U.S. veterans who served in Afghanistan ponder what exactly the U.S. has gained in the past 20 years inspires Jeff to make the same query of Team Tango. RAPID FIRE Air Force video explains the penis, how baby Space Marines are made, new Air Force PT, no Space Force PT and a shout-out to military athletes heading to Tokyo for the Olympic games.
Team Tango visits with Michael Hinkle and Serena Moyer of SkillMil Precision Hiring. CV, Jeff and Ashley learn about how SkillMil uses decades of military experience and an automated approach to precisely match unique veteran and spouse skills set with employer. Their company actively supports military families and transitioning veterans. Michael is a Navy veteran and President of SkillMil and Serena is a Navy spouse who oversees veteran spouse outreach. The pair co-host SkillMil’s podcast, Diapers & Deployments Special Guests: Michael HInkle and Serena Moyer.
Tony Wells joins Team Tango to talk about what led him to become a basketball player at the US Naval Academy and a then a Marine Corps officer. The group discusses marketing during a pandemic, promoting diversity and inclusion at a corporate level and the technological innovations USAA has introduced over the years to better serve their members. Special Guest: Tony Wells.
CV revisits the continuing issue of evacuating Afghan interpreters after Sen. Angus King urged the Biden administration to take action. Ashley wonders how over 1,900 military weapons have gone missing in the past decade. Jeff gets geared up to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of American Legion Boys Nation. Rapid Fire Navy channels Tony Stark with reasearch on transmedium flying submersible, Airforce Combat Controller a hero on deployment and at home, and Army returns to job-specific scoring for Army Combat Fitness Test Shoutout to American Legion Post 4 in Mount Clemens, Mich. and our friends at Backpacks For Life and their Thank Your for your Service, Ma'am Lipstick Challenge
Matt Disher, who's post-military career has focused on building and leading corporate military recruitment programs in small and large businesses, offers advice and strategies for transitioning servicemembers planning their own career path. Team Tango talks with Matt about available resources, challenges and best practices for those who are building a career after leaving the military. Special Guest: Matt Disher.
When the_ Akron Beacon-Journal_ first reported on the mic cut during a keynote address by retired Army Lt. Col. Barnard Kemter during Memorial Day ceremonies at American Legion Lee-Bishop Post 464 in Hudson, Ohio, all eyes in the veteran community focused on the small town just south-east of Cleveland. Media outlets large and small picked up on the story of post officials who turned off the mic as Kempter made reference to the role a group of freed Black slaves in Charleston, S.C., played in the origins of Memorial Day observances. Team Tango takes breaks down exactly what happened, what went wrong and what was done right, and shares an excerpt of the muted portion of Kemter's address. RAPID FIRE Army active-duty specialists must serve as corporal before being promoted to sergeant. SCOTUS rejects challenge to existing Selective Service men-only registration policy. Senate calls for better coordination of Capitol Police and Guard, but won't establish QRF for Congress Navy denies Midshipman cornerback and NFL hopeful's waiver request to postpone his five-year service
Team Tango chats with Air Force Veteran and Modern Military Association of America Executive Director Jennifer Dane. Jennifer shares how MMAA works to make a real difference in the lives of modern military families through education, advocacy and support. Jennifer shares her personal story of serving in the Air Force during "Don't Ask, Don't Tell” and how she became what she calls "an accidental advocate." Jennifer talks about different ways to be an ally to LGBTQ veterans and their families, and some of the services and events offered by MMAA. Special Guest: Jennifer Dane.
CV and the team weigh in on the urgency for special visas for Afghan interpreters. Ashley ponders how "quick" a proposed National Guard Quick Reaction Force to support Capitol Security might actually be. Jeff shares news that DoD has relaxed mask policies for vaccinated individuals in accordance with CDC guidelines BUT notes that supervisors cannot ask about vaccination status. RAPID FIRE Rear Adm. Jack Meehoff fools Flag Officers 4 America Special Forces bracing for Arctic missions Soldiers at Joint Base Lewis-McChord tested new Enhanced Night Vision Goggles Homeless man in mouse-ear cap wanders into Joint Base Andrews, boards C-40 transport jet
American Legion member Marlon Smith talks with Team Tango about how 9/11 led to his U.S. citizenship, military service and commitment to volunteering. “I want to give back to a country that has given me so much,” he says. Special Guest: Marlon Smith.
Jeff Daly laments the loss of parking privledges at the Pentagon for the Annual Memorial Day 'Rolling to Remember' motorcycle event in Washington D.C. Ashley shares news that Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Mark Milley has indicated he is open to considering proposed changes to military rules that dictate who oversees the prosecution of military sexual assaults. CV sounds the alert as China and the United States face a growing likelihood of conflict over the status of Taiwan, which current and former officials fear could lead to upheaval unseen since World War II. Rapid Fire Marine Corp charging troops leave for COVID-19 quarantine U.S Marine Corps Staff Sgt. John Stefanowicz is ready to be an Olympian Retired Ranger Col. Ralph Puckett, 94, to receive Medal of Honor for Korean War battle Air Force flight in Mideast uses call sign ‘Pickle Rick’ in apparent nod to ‘Rick and Morty’
Veterans in Military & Entertainment Director of Career Placement Barbara Autin talks about the many resources VME provides to help veterans transition from the military into jobs in media and entertainment fields. Special Guest: Barbara Autin.
Jeff shares a story of 101st Airborne officers gone wild at a strip club in Poland, sending CV into fits of glee. Ashley gets excited about some reader feedback and love for Team Tango. CV talks about a movement to gaining steam to honor Petty Officer 1st Class Charles Jackson French of Foreman, Ark., with the Medal of Honor. French became a national hero after he towed wounded shipmates through shark-infested waters after the destroyer Gregory was sunk Sept. 5, 1942, by Japanese warships near Guadalcanal. Rapid Fire: The American Legion World Series is on, Afghan translator scammers indicted, rethinking medals from Wounded Knee and 53 women complete the Crucible for the first time at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego.
Mike Erwin, founder and executive director of Team Red, White and Blue, joins Team Tango to share the origin story for Team RWB, and the many ways in which the organization helps enrich the lives of America’s veterans by connecting them to their community through physical and social activity. Erwin touches on the importance of being part of a team, partnerships with IVMF and the George W. Bush Center, the link between physical activity, social interactions and mental wellness. Special Guest: Mike Erwin.
Ashley shares some stats that show 40% of U.S. Marines have declined the COVID-19 vaccine. Jeff drops some history knowledge with a story the life of Legion founder Maj. G. Edward “Ned” Buxton Jr. of Rhode Island. Hilarity ensues when CV shares a story of a Navy officer who penned a strongly worded message to complain about his noisy enlisted neighbors, who he called 'perverts' and 'deviants.' Rapid Fire Withdrawal from Afghanistan, VA staffer stalks female vet, and Space Force Command lands in LA
Team Tango visits with U.S. Army veteran and 2015 Ms. Veteran America Kerri Jeter, about Freedom Sisters Media and her passion for storytelling and celebrating women veterans. Special Guest: Kerri Jeter.
Jeff pops a few buttons with pride over two new American Legion initiatives: the newly unveiled MyLegion.org membership platform and 100 Miles of Hope fundraising and fitness challenge. Ashley shares updates on the progress of a Global War on Terror Memorial on the National Mall in Washington D.C. after a bipartisan panel of 25 veterans in Congress penned a letter asking President Biden to publicly support the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Location Act. CV bring troubling news of tension rising after a Chinese fighter pilot cruised into Taiwanese air space. Rapid Fire Marines selling stolen ammo caught up in sting operation, former Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel calls May 1st Afghan pullout strategy "unachievable," Biden lagging on nominees for many VA top leadership posts, and Coasties leading the way on COVID vaccines
Team Tango visits with Melissa Washington, Navy veteran and founder of the Women Veterans Alliance. She talks about her military and civilian career, how she started her organization and grew it to a national resource for women veterans and their families. She highlights the importance of increasing awareness about women veterans as well as bringing awareness about to the benefits to all veterans and how traditional veterans service organizations can help be a resource. Special Guest: Melissa Washington.
Ashley takes the helm and leads Team Tango through a series of stories of women who made history serving in the U.S. military. CV celebrates a trio of young female sailors who serve as master helmsmen, qualified to take the wheel of the $4.5 billion aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt. Jeff makes plan to virually visit The Color of Freedom: Honoring the Diversity of America's Service Women, an exibit at the Military Women's Memorial. Rapid Fire Women registering for the draft, ALA Girls State program endures amid pandemic and two women generals nominated for 4-star command.
Team Tango learns some American Legion lore during a visit with American Legion Media & Communications Division Director and 100th Anniversary Observance Committee staff co-chairman Jeff Stoffer. In celebration of the Legion's 102nd Birthday, the team takes a look back at key historic moments, monumental social impact and a few tales of rowdy conventions. They discuss the ways in which these historic moments formed the foundation of how Legion members continue to serve their communites, states and the nation today. Special Guest: Jeff Stoffer.
Ashley shares a report of “highly inadequate" food given to National Guardsmen still protecting the Capitol. Jeff gets pumped up for the 2021 American Legion 100 Miles for Hope Challenge. CV shares news of a 60 Minutes report that revealed new details about how Iran tried to use commercially available satellite imagery to monitor Ain al-Asad Air Base in Iraq as it prepared to launch more than a dozen ballistic missiles at U.S. and coalition forces in January, 2020 - and celebrates the Space Force’s missile warning satellite operators who foiled Iran's attack with critical intelligence that showed an attack was imminent. Rapid Fire A Navy WAVE celebrates her 100th birthday in style, more nefarious activities at Ft. Hood as Army CID special agent is accused of seeking out puffer fish toxin before poisoning his wife, Trailblazing Ranger grad reignites the debate over the ACFT and LEGO Top Gun Maverick trailer looks better than the actual movie
CV, Ashley and Jeff get moving with Dr. Theresa Larson, a Marine Corp. veteran and and former professional athlete who now helps adaptive athletes and others with physical therapy. Together they talk about adaptive sports for veterans, movement as therapy and setting new and realistic goals when tackling the "COVID 25." Special Guest: Dr. Theresa Larson.
In honor of Black History Month, Team Tango has collected a group of stories about Black members of the military. Ashley shares the story of Retired Adm. Cecil Haney, who was one of the first Black four-star admirals in Navy history, serving as the commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet and the U.S. Strategic Command, where he oversaw nuclear weapons before retiring in 2017. Jeff shares a historical story of German POWs at a camp in Texas who were shocked by the shoddy treatment of the Black Americans who were their guards and who they worked alongside at local farms. CV shares the Medal of Honor story of Army Sgt. William H. Carney, who posthumously recieved the honor in 1900 for his actions during the charge of Fort Wagner in Charleston, S.C. during the Civil War. Rapid Fire Team Tango is inspired by three stories of Black History being made today by Black servicemembers * 2017 U.S. Naval Academy graduate Lt. JG Madeline Swegle who recently became the Navy's first Black female strike pilot * Former U.S. Central Command leader Lloyd Austin, who was confirmed as the nation's first Black Defense Secretary * 81-year-old retired Army Col. Paris Davis, who may finally recieve a long-delayed Medal of Honor for his actions to save wounded teammates during a gunfight in Vietnam in 1965.
Marine and Navy veteran and psychologist David Fisher joins the Team Tango to discuss Moral Injury. Fisher, who founded and runs the Moral Injury Institute, defines moral injury as “witnessing whether in person, through reporting, or some other means something that causes a crisis of conscience due to a violation of one’s deeply held moral, religious, or ethical beliefs such that one psychically suffers in a materially adverse way.” Special Guest: David Fisher, PhD.
Ashley questions the wisdom of a group of soldiers on a field exercise at Fort Bliss, Texas, who thought they'd sneak a round of drinks, but instead ended up hospitalized after ingesting antifreeze. Jeff gets passionate about writing resolutions. CV shares the saga of the U.S. Navy band's cover of a Taylor Swift song remade a sea shanty, the Twitter backlash, and the band member's redemption when they followed up with a mean Tweets video in response. Rapid Fire: Cheaters at the Air Force Academy, Space Force rank structures, COVID vaccines at GITMO, and troops opting out of vaccine
Former FBI double agent and Navy Intelligence Officer Naveed Jamali joins Team Tango to share stories of his time spent as a Russian double-agent, his transition into the military, mentorship and Hooters. Special Guest: Naveed Jamali.
Jeff celebrates the end to the long-decried law known as the Widow's Tax and Ashley gives props to American Legion Department Service Officers who secured nearly $3.7 billion in benefits for the nation’s veterans during fiscal year 2020. CV opens discussion on the furor over National Guard troops sleeping on the floor of the U.S. Capitol. Rapid Fire: Soldier plots to blow up NYC 9/11 memorial, Navy SEAL pleads guilty in hazing death of Green Beret, Alaska Joint Army-Air Force base installs curfew on base liquor sales and a "National Garden for American Heroes.”
American Legion Legislative Director Lawrence Montreuil joins Team Tango to discuss American Legion legislative priorities for 2021, as well as how veteran-related legislation will be impacted by a new Congress and new administration. Special Guest: Lawrence Montreuil.
Jeff recounts the 9-week ordeal of a suicidal sailor who was punished by the Navy after seeking mental health treatment. Ashley highlights an American Legion Boys Nation Alumni who has earned a spot on NASA's Artemis lunar mission team. CV poses the question: Is the military paying troops too much? Rapid Fire: Army grooming regulation changes, DoD tackling obesity and fewer veterans in Congress.
President and CEO of Student Veterans of America Jared Lyon joins Team Tango and paints a portrait of the contemporary student veteran, the challenges they face, the changes they are experiencing due to the Coronavirus pandemic, how they use GI Bill, and ways in which organizations like The American Legion and Student Veterans of America can support them. Special Guest: Jared Lyon.
In our final episode for 2020, Team Tango is joined by Neal Schrodetzki and Ethan Morse, the duo behind Time to Kill Productions. The pair talks about how they met while serving together in the U.S. Army 3rd Infantry Regiment – what it was like serving in the Old Guard, how they started their production company, and the two documentary projects they've produced together. Special Guests: Ethan Morse and Neal Schrodetzki .
Team Tango is joined by Backpacks For Life founders Brett Dalessandro and Alexa Modero. An encounter with a homeless veteran in 2014 inspired Army veteran and Weehawken American Legion Post 18 member Brett Dalessandro and his wife, Alexa Modero, to start Backpacks for Life. Their oganization designed and distributes The Bowery Pack, a backpack engineered specifically to meet the needs of homeless Veterans. That initial mission has led them to additional homeless outreach initiatives. Special Guest: Backpacks For Life.
CV celebrates a Coastie who buys dinner for a stranger in a random act of kindness and ends up fostering international relations with Greenland. Ashley shares Military Times' brilliant review of Ralph Lauren's newest outerwear offerings - many of which look suspiciously familiar to standard military issue items. Jeff gets revved up over The American Legion's new initiative with Chip Ganassi Racing. Rapid Fire Marines and LSD, Oversight panel questions Pentagon's $700M loan to a company worth $70M, Brian Tally's Bill and COVID vaccines
Team Tango welcomes Joanne Steen, Gold Star widow and founder of Grief Solutions, a company that provides practical training and resources on grief to professional assistance providers who work with the bereaved. Special Guest: Joanne Steen.
Ashley shares the news that 2020 Wreaths Across America is back on the calendar. CV talks about troop reductions in Iraq and Afghanistan. Jeff gets fired up over Texas thieves who targeted trucks with disabled veteran license at a Marine Corps ball in Houston. Rapid Fire Nerf grenades, a chaplain in cuffs, outsourcing Comp and Pen exams and Space Marines
Navy veteran Kermit Jones joins Team Tango to talk about beating the coronavirus and an inspiring Medal of Honor recipient from his hometown. Special Guest: Dr. Kermit Jones.
Jeff gets started with a lesson on how the Armistice that ended WWI evolved to what we now recognize as Veterans Day. CV shares how events following the Armistice led to the founding of The American Legion. Ashley talks about what Veterans Day looks like in 2020 and what American Legion posts around the country are doing to mark the day.
Team Tango chats with 2016 American Legion 4th Estate Award recipient and Military.com Managing Editor, Hope Seck about journalism and reporting on the military community. Special Guest: Hope Seck.
CV is befuddled by VA losing rights to the GIBill.com website. Ashley celebrates the unveiling of "The Pledge,” a new statue dedicated to women in the military and service dogs at The Women In Military Service For America Memorial. Jeff shares the news of progress addressing Veteran Suicide: * The 988 National Crisis Hotline will go live in Fall 2021 * The Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act of 2019 includes mental health elements * More measures could be coming with agreements to fast track a package of 9 House bills related to veteran suicide (COMPACT Act) which includes VA mental health care services to ALL veterans, regardless of their discharge status Rapid Fire Vanessa Guillen death ruled "in the line of duty" 46 books on the 2020 Marine Commandant’s Reading List World War II all-volunteer jungle fighters known as Merrill's Marauders will recieve Congressional Gold Medal Army says viral video showing a soldier drinking Ocean Spray and lip-syncing Fleetwood Mac during parachute jump may be a safety violation.
Jeff shares Space Force immersive space sim training tool, and the gang waxes poetic about Col. Max Lantz, Commandant of the U.S. Air Force’s National Security Space Institute. CV leads a discussion about the wisdom of eliminating of Basic Training Shark Attacks. Ashley celebrates an inspirational story of a Legion member who has completed his 100 Miles for Hope challenge. Rapid Fire: Veterans guarding the polls in Minnesota, protection for Parris Island, stolen VA benefits for faked combat injuries and nutritional transparency in MREs.
Team Tango sits down to share a sweet tea and catch up with 2016 Boys Nation President Anighya Crocker, who is gearing up for law school as well as pursuing his musical passions. Special Guest: Anighya Crocker.
CV celebrates as the U.S. Coast Guard unicorn float made famous by the USCGC Kimball shark-infested swim call makes it's debut at the U.S. Coast Guard Museum in New London, Connecticut. Jeff shares stories of criminal indictments for leaders at two veterans homes over COVID-19 deaths of residents. Ashley brings the scoop on how the National Archives Navy deck log digitization project will help speed the disability claims process for Blue Water Vietnam veterans. Rapid Fire Space Force: Why use a human when you have a robot? Ninja Hellfire Missile Marines rob Catholic church at gunpoint Shulkin urges VA to do more for veterans exposed to Burn Pits.
Boys State Documentary Director Jesse Moss and 2019 Texas Boys State Gubernatorial Candidate Steven Garza join Team Tango to discuss the documentary airing on Apple TV and the Boys State experience. The Boys State documentary won the Grand Jury prize at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival and was selected to be the opening night film of New Directors/New Films, presented by the Film Society of Lincoln Center and the Museum of Modern Art. Special Guests: Jesse Moss and Steven Garza.
The Medal of Honor is bestowed upon Sgt. Maj. Thomas Payne, and Team Tango discusses the man CV claims is "tougher than woodpecker lips." Jeff breaks out his knife-hand again as he gets riled up about new studies linking adverse health effects to burn pit exposure and the team talks about new legislation introduced to address obstacles many veterans face when seeking health care from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for illnesses related to toxic exposure. Ashley shares a story about time running out to pass pending legislation on veteran suicide prevention during the current Congressional session, and the team stresses the importance of actively using existing resources during mental health crisis, including the Veterans Crisis Line: Call: 1-800-273-8255 – Press 1 Text: 838255 Online: veteranscrisisline.net Rapid Fire Russian Bounty story still unconfirmed, Chimp study influences squad sizes, Air Force Academy mascot gets a name, and Space Force deploys to the Middle East.
Host of VA's "Borne the Battle" podcast, Tanner Iskra, talks with Team Tango about storytelling, how VA uses new media, suicide prevention and some of his favorite interviews. Special Guest: Tanner Iskra.
Bowe Bergdahl's sentence is upheld, and CV poses questions about the influence of public debate and podcast episodes on the evolution of the case. Ashley shares the news that Secretary Esper has backed the effort to posthumously bestow the Medal of Honor on Sgt. Alwyn Cashe. Jeff unsheaths the knife hand as he expresses his continuing frustration over the mounting death toll at Ft. Hood, and all of Team Tango agrees on the need for Army leadership to clear the deck and start over. Rapid Fire Army OKs Push-ups as Punishment Coast Guards close call with a shark and a unicorn Army investigating soldier who posts Holocaust joke on TikTok. 59-year-old Army Basic Training graduate is Team Tango's new hero.
New York Legionnaire Keith Koster, who's quest to top all 46 peaks in the Adirondacks in honor of The American Legion Centennial was featured in the March 2019 issue of The American Legion magazine, joins Team Tango to talk about his latest challenge, 100 Miles for Hope in support of The American Legion Veterans & Children Foundation. Special Guest: Keith Koster.
CV bypasses the political trappings, and goes straight to the heart of the perennial battle over military healthcare spending. Ashley celebrates the continuing series of female firsts in the military by sharing the story of Capt. Candice Bowen, who has taken command of Bravo Company, 3rd Battalion, 116th Infantry Regiment, 116th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, making her one of the first black women to take command of a rifle company in the National Guard and the first female infantry commander in Virginia. After watching "Immigration Nation" on Netflix, Jeff shares his take on the plight of deported Marine veteran Cesar Lopez and launches a wider discussion on military service and citizenship. Rapid Fire: Special Forces gear spending and the joys of CIF, trouble stirring in Syria Space Force units are popping up around the world - including Thule, Greenland - which get's CV a little nostalgic, and now Iran is paying bounties. Jeff also shares his excitement for the 100 Miles for Hope campaign swag.
Pin-Ups for Vets founder Gina Elise joins the Tango team to talk about her organization and how they have continued to evolve over 15 years to serve the veterans and military community. Special Guest: Gina Elise.
CV shares the story of a Navy air traffic controller who assisted a fellow sailor who was found wandering San Diego after enjoying a few too many libations, only to be relentlessly harrassed when the Navy news printed a story about her recieving a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal for her good deed with fake, place-holder quotes about the incident. DVIDs corrected the article, but the damage was done and the trolls were out in full force. Ashley shares news of the Congressional Gold Medal presented to the crew USS Indianapolis and The American Legion resolution that helped make this recognition possible. Jeff laments the use of refurbished Vietnam-era equipment in Marine Corps training, the likes of which may have caused a AAV training accident off the coast of Southern California. Rapid Fire Edible crayons for Marines and the reveal of Jeff's Bumble name: CrayonEater#5, Green Beret Nate Boyer blasts Navy SEAL museum for hosting a demonstration that featured dogs biting a human target wearing a Colin Kaepernick jersey during a 2019 fundraiser, and troops arriving for duty in Japan rile commanders by arranging hookups on dating apps while in quarantine for coronavirus.
Women of the Military podcast host Amanda Huffman joins the Tango crew to talk about her transition from an active-duty Airman to stay-at-home mom and military spouse, her work sharing the stories of other women veterans and how she hopes to inspire young people to consider military service. Special Guest: Amanda Huffman.
Ashley kicks things off with a discussion of the Army esports team and their IRL battles with Twitch over accusations of false giveaways and with the ACLU on denying first amendment rights to internet trolls. Jeff goes historical with a story about the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, the only all-Black Women's Army Corps unit to serve in Europe during World War II. CV questions the alleged abduction of a building at Area 51. Rapid Fire Cancellation of the Marine Corps Marathon, Retired Master Sgt. David Royer gets the Soldier's Medal for heroism after his fast and furious reaction to a gunman on a bridge near Fort Leavenworth, Kan., and the continuing saga of the USS Bonhomme Richard.
Jeff and Ashley visit with retired SEAL Team Six member Justin Sheffield, who talks about being a part of the storied Special Forces group, his new book, and the foundation he established to help fellow veterans. Special Guest: Justin Sheffield.
CV kicks things off with a discussion of Russian Bounty allegations. Jeff weighs in on the battle between PETA and the U.S. Air Force Academy over their new gyrfalcon mascot. Ashley talks about the discovery of PFC Guillen's remains, the culture at Ft. Hood and the #IAmVanessaGuillen movement Rapid Fire U.S. Troops in South Korea lose control of 4th of July monster beach party, the gang ponders whether military retirees should be court martialed and whether the governor of Georgia had the authority to activate Georgia National Guard during civil unrest over the holiday weekend, and Jeff wonders if fellow Marine Kelly "Murph" Murphy may be in over his head with his appearance on the CBS series "Tough as Nails."
Jeff and Ashley talk with John Ring and others fresh off the trail of the Buddy Watch Walk, a Pier-to-Pier trek across the southern U.S. to raise awareness of veteran issues such as mental health, PTSD, homelessness, unemployment, MST, TBI, addiction, and suicide. They walkers are joined by representatives from The Alabama American Legion, who supported John during his stop in Montgomery, as well as drummed up additional assistance from Legion members across the South who helped support John for the remainder of his journey. John began his journey solo at the pier in Tybee Island, Ga. As he walked he was joined by Jimmy Mathews in Pearl, Miss. Jimmy intended to accompany John across his home state of Mississippi, but ended up staying by his side for the remainder of the journey. Jason Hanner joined the duo in Texas, and Eli Hawkins stepped up to complete the crew in Tucson, Ariz. The team finished the final leg of their walk from Hollywood Post 43 to the Santa Monica Pier on June 14, 2020, accompanied by a parade of American Legion Riders and other American Legion Family members by their side. Special Guests: Greg Akers, James Gillespie, Jason Hanner, Jimmy Mathews, and John Ring.
Legionnaires with connections in both police and black communities, Autrey James, Hugh Crooks and Sean Powers, continue their frank, honest and intriguing discussion with our podcast co-hosts about racial disparity and law enforcement. Special Guests: Autrey James, Hugh Crooks Jr., and Sean Powers.
Legionnaires with connections in both police and black communities, Autrey James, Hugh Crooks and Sean Powers, join our podcast co-hosts for a frank, honest and intriguing discussion about racial disparity, law enforcement, the war on drugs and more. Special Guests: Autrey James, Hugh Crooks Jr., and Sean Powers.
Jeff starts the conversation about The American Legion statement addressing racial tensions. CV talks about the potential renaming of military bases after Medal of Honor recipients and relates the story of Medal of Honor recipient Master Sgt. Raul Perez “Roy” Benavidez and Silver Star recipient Army Sgt. Alwyn Cashe, who are potential namesakes. Ashley talks about Green Berets playing video games. Rapid Fire Topics A bad week for Fort Hood - deplorable housing conditions and sex trafficking rings and a soldier gone missing, and the Army delays penalties for ACFT scores until 2022.
Jeff strikes out on his own this week with guest Scott DeLuzio from Drive On Podcast. They discuss the epic battle of Space Force vs Space Force and ways in which Black Lives Matter protests may be changing the military. Rapid Fire: Great deals for veterans on the military exchange, online career workshops and a fake aircraft carrier. Mark your calendars: Subscribe to Drive On Podcast today and catch Jeff as a guest on the July 14 episode. Special Guest: Scott DeLuzio.
Ashley starts the ball rolling with a conversation about National Guard troops deploying to assist in policing protests across the country. CV talks about the Harlem Hellfighters, a Legion resolution supporting a review of minority awards of Medal of Honor in WWI and other historical Legion positions on segregation and voting rights. Jeff and the gang are over the moon about Netflix's highly anticipated new series, "Space Force." Rapid Fire DARPA lasers in on jet lag and diarrhea Heroes at NAB Corpus Christi up for awards Airmen supporting Space X
Ashley talks about concerns with the hard stop on National Guard deployment during the pandemic - most notably the frustration that they are stopping one day short of allowing Guardsmen to qualify for GI Bill benefits. Jeff and the gang share their favorite military TV shows. CV unwraps an old chestnut: the 1971 Wall Street Journal article in which their reports of The American Legion's death were greatly exaggerated. Rapid Fire discussion: Untapped beer-rating app check-ins are causing trouble in covert circles, the virtues of Naval Academy virtual graduation and the continuing saga of ex-Special Forces SNAFUs.
The gang talks about great tank names and CV declares BOHICA his favorite. Jeff reminds everyone there is no excuse to sit idle during a quarantine when he shares the accomplishments of Legionnaires in a real lockdown – the members of American Legion Post 201 at the Idaho State Correctional Center. Ashley shares history of the Hello Girls from World War I and applauds their impending and long-overdue recognition. Rapid Fire rounds start with discussion of the Netflix "Space Force" trailer, declassified UFO video, a botched invasion of Venezuela and suspension of the Marine Corps tape test - but hilariously derails into memories of nerdy TV, the Jelly Roll Patrol, Fig Newtons and fear of drill sergeants.
CV wonders at the wisdom of Iranian Naval Forces and Russian pilots playing some dangerous games to get a rise from U.S. troops. Jeff celebrates the ICE HERO Child-Rescue Corps offering a new mission for service-disabled veterans. Ashley delivers some good news for student veterans impacted by COVID-19. The gang also contemplates joining Space Force, the use of Tiger King Joe Exotic as an Air Force recruiting tool, and the meaning of the Army Artic Tab.
CV talks about the Navy social media storm involving the skipper of the USS Theodore Roosevelt and the Acting Secretary of the Navy Jeff gets excited about Buddy Checks and Blood Drives Ashley gives veterans good advice about getting access to COVID-19 relief funds. The gang also discusses a crazy conductor, a vigorous veteran and a the reported relocation of Sasquatch, America's Social Distancing Champion.
Someone is getting their hands dirty Mark Seavey (CV) takes aim at a Purell pandemic profiteer Today is National Medal of Honor Day. Jeff Daly asks the crew about their favorite Medal of Honor story. Most of the country is now in lockdown, how are veterans dealing with the tactical pause of life. Ashley Gorbulja-Maldonado gives the low-down on surviving a lock-down. Rapid Fire From the Navy Times: Navy medicine personnel embark 7th Fleet ships to test for COVID-19 at sea From Bloomberg News: The Navy is having toilet troubles. From the Marine Corps Times: Better have a fresh haircut Marines, the barbershops across the Corps are still running From the Air Force Times: Air Force delays fitness assessment testing, thanks to COVID-19 pandemic From Air Force Magazine: So, Space Force has their own meteorologists From the Washington Post: U.S. combats martial law conspiracy theories as the National Guard assists in coronavirus response