The Swearing In Podcast: Recent Episodes

Marty Smith

Marty Smith, a 20 year military retiree, interviews service men and women about their origin stories and how they came upon taking the oath. Marty also tries to bring out the truly fascinating and hilarious stories of their time in service.

AI is ready to run spacecraft. Is the space industry ready for it? (13:16)
VA to test whether GLP-1s can treat alcohol use disorder (31:12)
The Coast Guard’s 236th Birthday on August 4th (37:22)
William Harvey Carney (1840–1908) the first African American to be awarded the Medal of Honor for his gallantry (44:17)

https://lateforchangeover.com/

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SpaceX's Starship megarocket makes the 'softest splashdown' ever (05:09)
Pentagon launches testosterone screening program for troops (15:46)
Sailors could live in RVs or houseboats as Navy overhauls barracks (27:06)
Unheralded History: Bow and Arrow use in the Vietnam War (36:26)

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Space Force Announces Enlisted Promotions as It Prepares to Switch to ‘Fully Qualified’ System (05:03)
Space Force offers $25,000 to new recruits who commit to 8 years (21:05)
Trump Says He’ll Seek to Replace Immigrant Truck Drivers With Veterans (31:28)
On this day in space! July 20, 1969: Apollo 11 astronauts take the first moonwalk (42:19)

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Space Force officially has its own weapon for taking out satellites (10:14)
‘Like a God-gun’: Armor unit adopts Switchblade kamikaze drones (17:25)
Trump’s ‘Hunger Games’-Style Teen Competition: What to Know About Patriot Games (28:47)
Classic Military Movie game (34:26)

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Even astronauts in space saw America 250 fireworks on the Fourth of July (07:35)
National Guard soldiers shoot and kill man in Memphis (14:20)
Ex-Army Soldier Convicted in $1.1M Ready-to-Eat Meal Theft (25:25)
Trailer review of “Heart of the Beast” starring Brad Pitt (33:38)

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NASA to launch rescue mission July 1 to save Swift space telescope from burning up in Earth's atmosphere.
Sailor’s fatal fall exposed drug ring aboard aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan.
German city (Weiden) to celebrate America’s 250th.
Unheralded history: Navy BM2 Owen Hammerberg, MoH 17 Feb 1945

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Menstruation in space will be studied for 1st time with 'Operation Period’ (07:17)
First Women's Parachute Team Jumps Into Normandy for D-Day's 82nd Anniversary (18:50)
Timeline of War: World War II 1944 (26:44)
Unheralded History: June 19, 1865, Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger (37:47)

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NASA chief defends all-male Artemis 3 astronaut crew amid backlash: 'I don't think anyone should be reading into this' (17:08)
First look at the Global War on Terrorism Memorial design in Washington (31:48) As tick threat grows, Navy lab investigates ‘gummy bear’ bug repellent (44:16)
Unheralded History: The Harlem Hellfighters 1917 (56:39)

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SpaceX is about to become the 7th-most valuable American company.
Medal of Honor recipient and legendary Vietnam War helicopter pilot ‘Old Snake’ has died.
Timeline of War: World War II. 1943
Unheralded History: Operation Babylift April 1975

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How Blue Origin's rocket explosion affects NASA's moon plans (03:18)
Army develops exoskeleton for lower-limb injuries on the battlefield (17:55)
Timeline of War: World War II. 1941-1942 (26:42)
Unheralded History: Gen Douglas McArthur-the highs and lows (43:22)

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Grab the Estes Blue Origin model rocket ahead of Memorial Day with it's lowest price since January! (09:12)
SpaceX just launched Starship V3 — its most powerful megarocket yet — into space for the 1st time in spectacular Flight 12 test (14:11)
Dozens of Revolutionary War soldiers laid to rest after 250 years (23:42)
Security Forces airman becomes first Air Force graduate of Army’s revived jungle school (29:01)
Unheralded History: Captain Larry L. Taylor, Medal of Honor Recipient, June 18, 1968 (42:40)
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Late For Changeover 20 May 2026

Idaho Air Show crash (06:59)
US Air Force looks to convert offshore oil rigs into rocket recovery platforms (11:22)
The Army is testing medevac drones that lift injured soldiers from battlefields (25:29)
Actors Gary Sinise, Joe Mantegna Prep to Host Massive Memorial Day Concert (42:12)
Unheralded History: The Battle of Fire Support Base Ripcord 1970 (50:28)

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Space Force to Overhaul Key Early Warning, Surveillance Radars Around the World (09:24)
Military will now prescreen recruits for 28 medical conditions (21:46)
A field competition for Army chaplains tests spiritual mettle (32:00)
The Landing at Veracruz on March 9, 1847 (40:56)
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Rest In Peace: Rip-Its (02:12).
Space Force selects first part-time guardians from pool of Air Force reservists (06:16).
Military insiders may be betting on operations more than previously known (15:44).
Air Force security squadron in Alaska creates Arctic combat development course (27:25)
Unheralded History: CORONA: America's First Imaging Satellite Program (35:04)
https://lateforchangeover.com/

The End of Free Skies: How New FAA Fees Reshape Launch Economics (09:26). Navy’s 1st unmanned aircraft for use on carriers makes initial flight (26:12). Robot fails (30:54).
Unheralded History: The Red Ball Express 1944 (45:36)
https://lateforchangeover.com/

In the wake of Artemis 2, America needs to consider the ‘why’ of its government space program (08:42)
Two soldiers wounded in a bear attack in Alaska (20:06)
Army Names New Helicopter the MV-75 Cheyenne II, Honoring the Plains Tribes
(27:16)
Ola Mize Medal of Honor 1953 (39:06) Operation Frequent Wind 1975 (47:55)
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Marines on way to Middle East seen using rifles with anti-drone smart scope
(03:32)
Military report says ‘one in a million’ live fire malfunction rained shrapnel on California highway (11:47)
Air Force names 2 bases that could host nuclear ‘microreactors’ (21:03)
Specialist and sergeant win Best Ranger competition for first time in nearly 40 years (34:11)
Major Leo Keith Thorsness (not Thorinson), a U.S. Air Force pilot who received the Medal of Honor for valor during the Vietnam War on April 19, 1967. (43:39)
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🚀NASA’s Artemis II is gearing up for its historic trip around the Moon—but stealing the spotlight is an unlikely hero: a next-gen space toilet engineered for deep-space survival. (05:42)
Back on Earth, a former airman admits to a staggering $37 million fraud against the Air Force, exposing major cracks in oversight. (15:10)
Meanwhile, the future of warfare rolls forward as AM General unveils an autonomous unmanned ground vehicle, hinting at a battlefield where machines take the wheel. (24:10)
And in our Unheralded History segment, we honor the sheer grit of a Marine on Iwo Jima who crossed a live minefield unarmed to destroy enemy defenses—proving that sometimes the most powerful weapon is raw courage. (42:10)
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Strap in, Late Crew… this episode fires off like a rocket with a sense of humor and a safety waiver 🚀
We start off with a round of “Complete The Headline” (10:40)
NASA is rolling the dice on timing, launching NASA’s Artemis II mission on April 1st… and somehow it’s not a prank. While the world double-checks calendars, astronauts are gearing up for humanity’s bold return toward the Moon, proving space doesn’t care about your skepticism. (23:39)
Back on Earth, the Pentagon is eyeing the plug on a “troubled” GPS ground system, raising big questions about the backbone of modern warfare. Because when GPS sneezes… the entire battlefield catches a cold. (30:55)
Meanwhile, in a plot twist straight out of a spy thriller, a French sailor accidentally broadcasts his warship’s location… using a fitness app. Turns out your morning jog can become international intelligence if you’re not careful. Cardio just became classified. (42:08)
And speaking of modern combat getting weird… your standard rifle might now double as an anti-drone weapon. That’s right, the future battlefield looks like a mix between Call of Duty and a sci-fi garage build, where infantry can swat drones out of the sky like high-tech mosquitoes. (48:24)
But it’s not all circuits and satellites…
We take a moment to honor Chips the War Dog, a four-legged legend of WWII who charged enemy positions, captured soldiers, and reminded everyone that courage doesn’t require opposable thumbs 🐾 (56:06)
Then we dive into the origins of Marine Forces Special Operations Command—better known as MARSOC. From its controversial beginnings to becoming an elite force operating in the shadows, this is the story of how Marines carved out their place in the modern special operations world. (01:02:10)

From moonshots to missteps, drone warfare to war dogs… this episode has everything. History, headlines, and just enough chaos to keep it interesting.
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The Late Crew is joined by Ken Ramos from WTF Nation!
We start the show with a discussion on VA compensation and how civilians are now looking side-eyed at compensation levels (02:07).
We then shift to how a picture of Jesus Christ firing a mortar has raised such controversy (33:28).
Our Man in the Closet closes the show by telling us about Eloise Page, the first female CIA station chief (52:31).
https://lateforchangeover.com/

On this Saint Patrick’s Day, we here at the Late For Changeover Show would like to recognize some of the many Irish American contributions to our Space Program and to our Armed Forces.

We start in the future, where scientists are developing self-healing spacecraft materials that could automatically repair micrometeorite damage in orbit, potentially making long-duration missions safer and more resilient.
Back on Earth, the VA is preparing to scan up to a million veterans’ claims for fraud, even as a shocking case surfaces in Massachusetts where a man allegedly posed as a veteran for 30 years to obtain housing and benefits.
Meanwhile, the 21st Security Forces Squadron is stepping into the future of training, using immersive augmented reality kits that place defenders into realistic combat scenarios without leaving the classroom.
For our Unheralded History segment, we dive into the wild and the legendary:
the dazzling optical trickery of WWI dazzle camouflage,
the CIA’s unbelievable attempt to secretly raise a sunken Soviet submarine during Project Azorian,
and the incredible heroism of Marine Capt. John Ripley, who single-handedly rigged explosives under the Dong Ha bridge in Vietnam, halting an entire North Vietnamese armored advance.
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The show opens with tensions rising in the Middle East as a U.S. Space Force squadron is temporarily barred from alcohol during heightened operations connected to U.S.–Israeli strikes on Iranian targets (13:07).
Back stateside, a West Point cadet is dismissed after allegedly threatening to release AI-generated nude images of a woman, highlighting a growing challenge the military is facing with deepfakes, digital harassment, and how emerging technology is colliding with military discipline and ethics (23:37).
But it’s not all scandal and strategy. We also spotlight an Air Force pilot who’s turning Guinness World Records into a force for good, using record-breaking achievements to raise money and awareness for veterans and charitable causes (30:22).
Then we dive into Unheralded History.
Before the Navy SEALs became legends, there was the Underwater Demolition Team (UDT), the frogmen who swam into heavily defended beaches during World War II to clear obstacles before amphibious invasions. These daring pioneers laid the foundation for the modern SEAL teams (40:22).
From there we revisit Operation Praying Mantis, the largest U.S. naval combat operation since World War II. In 1988, the U.S. Navy unleashed devastating force against Iranian naval units in the Persian Gulf after a U.S. warship struck an Iranian mine, sinking ships and crippling Iran’s ability to threaten shipping lanes (47:27).
Finally, we crack open one of the strangest intelligence operations of the Cold War: Operation Merlin, a CIA plot that attempted to sabotage Iran’s nuclear ambitions by secretly passing flawed nuclear weapon designs through a Russian scientist. As you might expect, the operation didn’t exactly go according to plan (54:30).
From Space Force readiness and AI scandals to frogmen, naval battles, and CIA spycraft, this episode of Late For Changeover delivers another mission-packed ride through military news, history, and the stories you probably didn’t hear anywhere else. 🚀🎖️
https://lateforchangeover.com/

(13:02) First up, 🚀 the spotlight swings to NASA and the long-awaited Artemis II moon rocket. The mighty SLS was supposed to be stretching its legs for a March moonshot, but instead it is rolling away from the launch pad with a technical headache. What went wrong? How serious is it? And what does this mean for America’s return to deep space? We break down the delays, the hardware concerns, and whether this is a speed bump… or a sign the road to the Moon is still under construction.

(23:20) Then we pivot from lunar ambitions to ground-level scandal at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, where an airman has been indicted in an alleged scheme to defraud the military out of millions in medical equipment. It is a story of contracts, cash flow, and the kind of betrayal that hits especially hard when it targets the force itself. We unpack what’s alleged, how these schemes work, and what it says about oversight inside the defense system.

(32:20) Next, a sobering report from an Inspector General investigation into conditions at military working dog kennels. According to the findings, poor conditions contributed to the deaths of four dogs. These are not just assets on a spreadsheet. They are trained partners who patrol flight lines, detect explosives, and deploy alongside troops. We discuss what went wrong, who is accountable, and how the military plans to prevent this from happening again.

(44:05) And because this is Late For Changeover, we balance the heavy with high-octane fun as we roll into the Military Vehicle Auction Game. Can you tell a decommissioned MRAP from a Cold War relic? Would you drop your paycheck on a surplus Humvee with “character”? The bidding paddles go up, the trash talk flies, and somebody inevitably overpays for something that leaks oil.

From launch delays to legal drama to four-legged warriors who deserve better, this episode runs the full spectrum. The Moon may be waiting, but tonight, the Late Crew is already cleared for takeoff. 🌕🔥
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Tonight on Late For Changeover, we move from courtroom crackdowns to covert tradecraft… and tip our cover to legends who lived louder than jet engines.
(06:25) California just dropped the hammer on predatory “claim shark” companies circling veterans like vultures with clipboards, passing a law that severely limits who can charge for helping vets file VA disability claims. The message is clear: if you’re profiting off those who already paid in blood and time, the state is coming with receipts and handcuffs. 🧾⚖️
(27:30) Meanwhile, the Army is warning troops about modern-day honeypots. The “Are you a spy?” alert isn’t paranoia, it’s pattern recognition. Foreign intelligence services are sliding into DMs, building digital romances, and fishing for secrets with the patience of a sniper in tall grass. In 2026, the battlefield sometimes starts with a friend request. 📱🕵️‍♀️
(38:40) We also pause to honor Robert Duvall, the legendary actor, Army veteran, and Navy brat who brought quiet intensity to the screen for decades. From stoic officers to complex antiheroes, Duvall carried himself like a man who understood command presence long before Hollywood handed him a script. At 95, he leaves behind a body of work that feels carved from oak and gunpowder.
(47:16) Then we dive into the real-deal spies of history. Sarah Emma Edmonds disguised herself as a man to fight for the Union during the Civil War, later slipping behind enemy lines in multiple personas. Nurse. Soldier. Spy. She treated identity like a uniform you could swap at will, decades before intelligence agencies formalized the craft.
(58:39) And in the jet age, Jacqueline Cochran didn’t just shatter glass ceilings, she vaporized them at Mach 1. As the first woman to break the sound barrier, Cochran proved that gravity and doubt are both negotiable. Her career stitched together aviation, wartime service, and record-breaking speed in a way that still hums like a turbine.
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First off, the Late Crew plays the “Complete The Headline” game-test your knowledge of recent military news stories! (05:17)
Then, out on California’s coast, Vandenberg Space Force Base is revving its engines for a launch-heavy future. More rockets, more missions, more global eyes on the Western Range. But while Guardians see liftoff, some locals see traffic, noise, and a skyline full of contrails. It is a space race playing out at neighborhood level, where orbital ambition meets earthly pushback. (17:57)
Meanwhile on the ground, the M1E3 Abrams is creeping into view like a steel panther. The U.S. Army is building a lighter, smarter, hybrid-drive version of its iconic tank. Less fuel guzzling, more stealthy glide. Crews may soon be rolling into position with a vehicle that sounds less like thunder and more like a bad decision sneaking up on you. (32:41)
Up in the skies, aviators from the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps are getting next-generation helmets straight out of a sci-fi cockpit. Think enhanced displays, better tracking, and tech that helps pilots process chaos at supersonic speed. The helmet is no longer just protection, it is a flying sensor suite wrapped around a human brain. (42:40)
And just when you think you have seen every military vehicle possible, the U.S. Coast Guard pulls up on a tactical jet ski. Fast, nimble, and built for tight maritime chases, these water rockets are turning surf zones and crowded waterways into high-speed chess boards. (45:57)
We conclude the show talking about the exploits and adventures of Air Force Colonel John Stapp, “The Fastest Man Alive”. (54:51)
Spaceports expanding. Tanks going quiet. Helmets getting smarter. Jet skis going tactical. The future battlefield is not just evolving, it is upgrading its entire loadout.
https://lateforchangeover.com/

This episode rockets from the edge of the atmosphere straight into the headlines you did not see coming. SpaceX is reportedly sketching out plans for a jaw dropping orbital data center network that could one day blanket Earth with up to a million satellites, turning low Earth orbit into the ultimate cloud server farm (06:06). Space may soon have more traffic than a holiday weekend highway.
Back on the ground, major reforms are brewing inside the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, with leadership signaling a shake up aimed at changing how veterans receive care in the months ahead (14:16). What gets streamlined, what gets cut, and what it means for former service members could reshape the system millions rely on.
And in the most “history literally repeats itself” story of the week, a man in France landed in the hospital after an unexploded World War I munition turned up in a place no battlefield historian would recommend (21:52). Authorities had to treat the situation like a bomb disposal call, proving once again that old ordnance and bad decisions are a timeless combination.
From mega constellations in orbit to system wide veteran care changes to a history lesson no one asked for, this lineup delivers whiplash in the best way.
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This episode of “Late For Changeover” is a full-throttle ride through today’s military headlines and some of the most unbelievable experiments in U.S. history.
We kick things off with the Navy and Marine Corps banning kratom (05:14), an herbal supplement some service members have used for pain relief but that leaders now say carries serious risks and abuse concerns. What is it, why was it popular, and what happens next for troops looking for alternatives?
Then we head into criminal territory as three soldiers are convicted in a poaching case tied to land on and around an Army installation (18:40). It is a story that mixes wildlife crime, federal land, and very bad career decisions.
From courtroom drama to the gridiron, we spotlight the three finalists for the NFL’s Salute to Service Award (27:46), honoring individuals making major impacts for the military and veteran community. These stories are the kind that hit harder than a goal line stand.
And for Unheralded History, we blast off into the era when the Cold War made science go full sci-fi:
🚀 Project 1794 tried to build a real flying saucer style aircraft (37:03)
🎈 Project Manhigh sent humans to the edge of space in high-altitude balloons (41:25)
🪂 Project Excelsior featured a daredevil Air Force officer jumping from near space to prove high-altitude bailouts were survivable (47:59)

Strap in. This one goes from herbal supplements to near-space freefall in record time.
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This episode of Late For Changeover launches from the Moon and dives straight into the strange, serious, and sometimes surreal corners of military history and modern defense policy. The crew breaks down NASA’s new Moon rocket rolling to the launch pad as astronauts prepare for a return to deep space as early as February (07:49). Back on Earth, we examine why the VA is still awarding disability benefits using medical criteria written nearly 80 years ago, and what that means for today’s veterans (17:32).
On the tech front, DARPA wraps up its RACER autonomous vehicle tests, pushing AI-driven ground combat one step closer to reality (32:14). For Unheralded History, we revisit 1945’s Operation Teardrop (42:37) - the last desperate U-boat hunt off America’s coast, and Operation Whitecoat (49:54) from 1954–1973 where soldiers volunteered for controversial Cold War medical experiments in the name of national defense.
And because this is Late For Changeover, we close with one of the Pentagon’s most infamous ideas ever uncovered: the 1994 proposal for the so-called “Gay Bomb” (58:02). Real documents. Real funding. Very real questions.
Space exploration, veteran policy, autonomous warfare, and the weirdest corners of military history—this episode has it all.
https://lateforchangeover.com/

This episode swings from the Pentagon’s corridors to the jungle shadows of Vietnam with no speed limits and no safe assumptions.
First, we play the “Complete The Headline” Game (01:39).
Next, we open with the Pentagon ordering a hard look at the real-world “effectiveness” of women serving in combat arms roles, a review guaranteed to spark debate across the force and far beyond it. From doctrine to data, this conversation cuts straight into the future shape of the military (13:20).
Then we hit the high seas, where the United States Coast Guard posts a jaw-dropping stat line: a record-smashing $4 billion in narcotics seized in a single year, revealing how modern drug interdiction has quietly become one of the most kinetic missions outside declared war zones (23:04).
Next, the story turns strange and legally radioactive. An active-duty soldier from Fort Bragg claims his involvement in online sex ads was part of a “secret operation.” Was it cover, misconduct, or something else entirely? The details raise uncomfortable questions about accountability, plausibility, and the limits of “classified” explanations (30:07).
We close with an Unheralded History deep dive back into the Vietnam War, unraveling the mystery of Salt and Pepper. Who were they, what did they do, and why did their story fade into the footnotes of a war overflowing with secrets? (38:20)
From policy and patrols to scandals and shadow operatives, this episode connects the dots the headlines leave scattered.
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In this explosive deep dive we connect the dots from Operation Absolute Resolve—where U.S. airpower cleared the skies for Delta Force to seize Venezuela’s Nicolás Maduro in a breathtaking raid—to the lesser-known heroes and hidden figures you didn’t see in Black Hawk Down 🪖. We’ll also unpack how new waist-to-height ratio body-composition rules are reshaping military readiness in 2026, and why fitness matters as much as firepower in today’s armed forces. Then we rewind to two fascinating bygone experiments: the Peacekeeper Rail Garrison, America’s Cold War plan to launch ICBMs from railroad cars across the U.S. rail network, and the airborne Flying Platform experiments of the 1950s, engineered to levitate soldiers into battle long before drones were in vogue. This is a tour through strategy, strength, and surreal military tech history. 🚁 📏 🚆 ⚙️
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It’s the Late Crew Year in Review! Join us as we re-visit some of our best stories of the year along with some of our quizzes and games. We conclude the episode with some hilarious and never before seen outtakes!
2025 was a great year for us and thanks to all for listening and watching!
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It’s the Late Crew Christmas Episode! This time, history doesn’t take the holiday off. We start in 1776, when Washington made Christmas a night for river ice, surprise attacks, and nation-bending decisions while crossing the Delaware on December 25th (06:29). Then we jump to Korea in 1950, where the SS Meredith evacuation turned into a Christmas Eve miracle, rescuing 14,000 refugees in freezing seas without a single casualty (14:18).
From there, we hit 1944 for one of the strangest Christmas Eves of WWII, when a German teen named Fritz Vincken hosted a ceasefire dinner between U.S. soldiers and a Wehrmacht patrol in a snow-locked cabin on December 24th (26:17).
Finally, we look to the skies for the longest-running holiday operation in military history, Operation Christmas Drop, delivering aid across the Pacific since 1952, and still flying today with C-130s, parachutes, and pure holiday goodwill (37:28).
Four stories. Four Christmas Eves/Days. One episode packed with courage, miracles, odd alliances, and the true spirit of service. Grab some cocoa and strap in, this sleigh is a C-130.
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Today the Late Crew talks about the US Space Force unveiling its new naming system for satellites and space weapons (06:26), how the Space Force issued smartwatch saved an Airman’s life (18:26), the Air Force relieves commander of security squadron at FE Warren Air Force Base (26:07), and for Unheralded History we talk about Blimp aircraft carriers (36:28), Operation Paperclip (41:02), and Project Eldest Son (46:14).
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Here’s a festive-to-classified mashup for your latest Late For Changeover soirée:
Jingle bells meet jet engines as Santa lights up the NORAD radar screen for the 70th year, proving even Saint Nick needs aerospace surveillance (07:25). A Coast Guard chopper in Puerto Rico spirals into a merry “Ho Ho Ho” holding pattern, cheerleading holiday spirits over warm Caribbean waves (14:42).
Then the sleigh suddenly dives into the classified archives. The Alsos Mission of 1943 hunted Nazi nuclear secrets like a Christmas scavenger hunt in occupied Europe (26:56). Project Pluto’s atomic-powered SLAM missile promised a doomsday stocking stuffer capable of circling the globe with apocalyptic endurance (34:33). And over the stormy skies of Vietnam, Operation Popeye tried to weaponize the weather itself, coaxing rain to bog down enemy supply lines (41:08).
From candy canes on radar scopes to Cold War nightmare tech, this episode unwraps the strange stocking where holiday cheer and military history keep bumping elbows like elves undercover in a classified hangar. 🎅🛰️✨
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Strap in—tonight we’re diving into a whirlwind of global tension, battlefield innovation, forgotten heroes, and a mystery straight out of a wartime sci-fi thriller.
We open with a shocker: a Russian cosmonaut abruptly yanked from SpaceX’s Crew-12 roster for violating national security rules, sending ripples through the international space community and raising questions about what really happened behind the scenes (08:22).
Then we shift to a story long overdue for justice—veterans who served in Panama but aren’t recognized by the VA, leaving hundreds without the benefits they earned under fire. Their fight for acknowledgment is heating up (17:27).
On the cutting edge of military innovation, the Army unveils its first fully robotic dining facility in South Korea, serving hot meals in minutes and reshaping how troops are fueled for the fight (26:30).
Next, we rewind the clock to The Battle of Los Angeles, 1942—the night anti-aircraft guns lit up the sky, millions panicked, and America believed a full-scale attack had begun. Was it enemy aircraft… or something else entirely (01:01:33)?
And finally, we honor Floyd Smith, the visionary whose invention of the modern parachute changed aviation, airborne operations, and saved countless lives (01:07:31).
AND WE PLAY THE CHANGEOVER FAMILY FEUD (33:30)!!!!
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In today’s wide-ranging episode, we unpack four jaw-dropping stories you won’t want to miss:
—Shenzhou‑22 — Tiangong rescue mission: After a damaged capsule left three Chinese astronauts stranded, China launched an unmanned lifeboat to bring them home (04:45).
—A disturbing criminal investigation at U.S. Army’s Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center (formerly at Fort Hood) where around 3,000 patients have been notified amid allegations a suspended OB-GYN secretly recorded exams and is now under federal investigation (15:44).
—A twisted coup plot: A young airman and his co-conspirator allegedly planned to take over Île de Gonâve off Haiti — kill all the men and enslave the women and children — recruiting homeless individuals as mercenaries (31:09).
—The forgotten battle: We revisit the little-known Battle of Attu in May 1943 — the only WWII land battle fought on U.S. soil, high in Alaska’s Aleutian Islands. Harsh terrain, brutal combat, huge costs (55:25).
From space-station rescue to military medical breaches, from a surreal invasion plot to buried WWII history, this video ties it all together with the high-energy style you expect from Late For Changeover. Buckle up. 🎬
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In today’s episode of Late For Changeover, we bridge cutting-edge space tech, veteran advocacy, and some of the strangest chapters in military history. We start in orbit, where a revolutionary satellite just used artificial intelligence to reorient itself — a breakthrough that could push space operations toward full autonomy (07:36). Back on the ground, a new bill could force the VA to disclose its secret list of toxic-exposure illnesses, potentially reshaping care for millions of veterans (24:24).
Then we turn back the clock. First: the shocking 1932 standoff in Washington, D.C., when the Bonus Army of WWI veterans marched on the capital demanding promised compensation — and were met with tanks, tear gas, and national outrage (36:17). And finally: one of WWII’s strangest classified projects — Project Pigeon — a real plan to train pigeons to guide bombs with pinpoint accuracy (47:04).
From orbital AI to forgotten veterans, from protest caravans to bomb-guiding birds… this episode delivers history, headlines, and outrage in classic Late For Changeover style.
https://lateforchangeover.com/

From the battlefields that defined “The Few, The Proud, The Marines” to the covert operations that sound more like spy movie plots than real events—this episode dives deep into the fascinating corners of U.S. military history. Discover the origins of the U.S. Marine Corps’ legendary identity (06:26), the shocking Cold War plan known as Operation Northwoods (21:07), the bizarre CIA experiment Project Acoustic Kitty (27:32), and the daring innovation of America’s first submarine, The Turtle (31:44).
A mix of valor, vision, and unbelievable secrecy—this is the story of how American ingenuity and audacity have shaped the nation’s defense through centuries.
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From the ocean’s most remote graveyard to forgotten wartime experiments — this episode explores the strange and fascinating corners of military and scientific history. Discover Point Nemo, the final resting place of the International Space Station when it plunges into Earth’s most isolated waters in 2030 (09:54). See how a modern Guardsman learned to fly an autonomous Black Hawk helicopter in under an hour (19:14). Explore a veteran-built interactive map that preserves two decades of memories from the Afghanistan War (29:05). Then travel back in time to uncover the stories of The Polar Bear Expedition (39:05), the bizarre Operation Paul Bunyan standoff (43:07), and the secret WWII plan known as Project X-Ray, which weaponized bats for battle (48:16).
https://lateforchangeover.com/
Project Athena: https://www.projectathena.ca/

This week the Late Crew talks about where Airmen and Guardians can turn for help during the Government shutdown (07:58), the Navy launches reviews of Marines’ and sailors’ personal social media posts (20:53), gate guards fire on truck at Coast Guard base where federal agents had arrived (32:40), and our Unheralded History featuring the FP-45 Liberator (43:49) and Edgewater Arsenal (51:07).
https://lateforchangeover.com/

This week the Late Crew talks about:
The CDC officially recognizes Gulf War illness, giving long-overdue validation to thousands of veterans still suffering from mysterious symptoms (04:39).
An Airman who returned fire during a gun attack shares how he was thinking of “everybody else” in a moment of pure heroism (14:33).
Actor Adam Driver will take on the role of Air Force Medal of Honor recipient John Chapman in a new movie — a story of sacrifice on a snowy Afghan mountaintop (20:16).
Plus, we uncover the strange Cold War project known as Operation Delirium (1958) — where U.S. soldiers were unknowingly part of secret psychological experiments (27:41).
🪖 A mix of courage, recognition, and forgotten history — all in this week’s military headlines!
https://lateforchangeover.com/

From major changes coming to Air Force Basic Training (11:37), to reviewing SecWar’s speech (27:56), to remembering one of the last original Tuskegee Airmen who lived to be 100 (54:14), this episode covers both today’s headlines and hidden stories from the past.
We also play the “Guess the Score” game with military biography movies (58:47), and take a deep dive into Project Iceworm—the Cold War plan to build nuclear missile sites under the ice of Greenland in 1959 (01:13:21). A mix of history, news, and fun that you don’t want to miss!
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This week the Late Crew is TDY. So this episode contains hilarious clips from our past shows: First, we debate who should be the official patron saint of the U.S. Space Force (01:28). Then, we test our knowledge with a fast-paced Space Movie Quiz—can you beat us on the classics and cult favorites? (13:11) Finally, we dive into the hilarious (and sometimes bizarre) world of military codenames in the Operation Name Game. (34:31)
Tune in for laughs, history, and some out-of-this-world insights!
https://lateforchangeover.com/

From space to the sea, and deep into history—this week’s stories span it all.
An Air Force test pilot has been chosen to command a year-long Mars simulation mission (02:59), while President Trump says U.S. forces have sunk a third suspected drug boat off Venezuela (14:16). The Army tightens grooming standards and hairstyles under new orders, sparking debate among soldiers (19:19). We also rewind to the Battle of Glorieta Pass in 1862, often called the “Gettysburg of the West” (29:09) and dive into Operation Ivy Bells, the top-secret submarine mission that ran from 1970 to 1981 (35:16).
A mix of modern headlines, battlefield history, and Cold War secrets—don’t miss it!
https://lateforchangeover.com/

This week the Late Crew dives into pivotal moments past and present: Americans recall “Where were you on 9-11?” (03:18), scientists reveal how space travel accelerates cellular aging (12:30), U.S. forces unleash a lethal airstrike on a suspected drug boat in the Caribbean (18:14), the legendary Harlem Hellfighters finally receive the Congressional Gold Medal for their courage in WWI (26:09) and a forgotten WWII chapter—when Japan bombed the U.S. mainland on September 9th, 1942 (30:26). History, science, and military power collide in this fast-paced briefing!
https://lateforchangeover.com/

This week’s military and history roundup is packed with major headlines:
President Trump reverses Biden’s call by directing U.S. Space Command’s move to Huntsville, Alabama (06:49).
Military helicopters in Colorado are training for a critical mission — helping NASA’s Artemis astronauts return safely from the Moon (17:56).
The Air Force announces funeral honors for Ashli Babbitt (24:19).
National Geographic gears up for a high-octane “Top Gun” series (34:30).
And on this day in history — September 2, 1945, Japan surrendered aboard the USS Missouri, officially ending World War II (42:23).
From space to history, and everything in between, we’ve got the stories you don’t want to miss.
https://lateforchangeover.com/

Today’s lineup is wild: Feds say a group of veterans swiped over $150K from an Air Force base’s sports program in Florida (06:57). The Pentagon just showed off a warship with ZERO crew — a real ghost ship sailing into the future of warfare (16:58). We also salute the last American fighter ace of WWII, who flew into history at 103 (34:16). And on this day in 1957, the Soviets dropped a bombshell — the first-ever ICBM test that proved no corner of the globe was safe (39:47). Strap in, this episode’s got scandal, innovation, heroes, and Cold War chills all in one shot!
https://lateforchangeover.com/

From Gen. Burt’s farewell reflections on the Space Force’s future to an Airman celebrating his separation with a surf session in dress blues, this week’s military headlines don’t disappoint. We cover an Air Force veteran’s bizarre felony sandwich assault case, the demotion of a 2-star general, and Congress pushing for more service dogs to support disabled veterans. Plus, Air Force Football reveals a sharp new F-16 alternate uniform, Fort Hood soldiers test out a new ID-based dining program, and we revisit the historic HMS Guerriere battle of 1812.
https://lateforchangeover.com/

The LATE FOR CHANGEOVER Show has been nominated for 3 awards: "Best News and Current Events Podcast", "Best Entertainment and Pop Culture Podcast" and "Air Force Podcast of the Year"!
Go to https://paradedeck.com/creator-awards/6191 and vote for us!

On today’s episode, the Late Crew talks about the passing of Apollo 13 astronaut Jim Lovell (06:28), an Airman has been arrested for the death that prompted an Air Force-wide safety review of the Sig M18 (16:28), the Army has released a spirituality fitness guide and battle book (24:50), we play the guess the Movie E-7 game (41:46), and Japan surrenders to the Allies on 15 August 1945 (59:17).
https://lateforchangeover.com/

From futuristic defense to flashbacks of the past — this week’s headlines pack a punch. Lockheed Martin sets its sights on 2028 with plans to demo space-based missile interceptors, a major leap in orbital warfare (04:56). Meanwhile, a former Space Force officer once sidelined for controversial Marxism comments is now the Air Force's second-highest civilian (19:07). As the Air Force calls for service-wide M18 pistol inspections, other branches are standing by Sig Sauer (32:21). And we pause to remember the anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima on August 6, 1945 — a moment that forever changed the world (43:25).
https://lateforchangeover.com/

In this fast-paced roundup, we dive into a changing space frontier as Vast reveals its massive new HQ in Long Beach, racing to build the next space station before the ISS retires (11:20). Meanwhile, a former Air Force Thunderbird pilot breaks her silence about a mysterious illness that followed her historic flight career (19:10). On the ground, a hidden crisis is brewing—advocates say gambling addiction is quietly taking hold in the military ranks (38:51). And finally, we mark 52 years since the launch of Landsat 1, the groundbreaking satellite that began our long journey of watching Earth from above (53:53). From orbit to inner battles, this one’s got layers.
https://lateforchangeover.com/

Today the Late Crew discusses how lawmakers are still talking about moving NASA HQ from DC to the Space Coast (11:46), Air Force rolls out age- and sex-neutral fitness test for EOD techs (19:35), the Army deploys plastic coyotes attached to mini four-wheelers (36:43), Coast Guard aircrew awarded for heroism during flooding at Camp Mystic in Texas (48:16), a Coast Guard aircrew drew remarkably detailed genitals in the sky (52:07), and the Port Chicago Naval Magazine explosion on 17 July 1944 (01:00:48).
https://lateforchangeover.com/

Today the Late Crew talks about how the U.S. Air Force halts plan for rocket landing pads on remote Pacific atoll amid environmental backlash (14:19), Army authorizes combat patches for soldiers in parts of Africa, the Middle East
(27:03), and The Battle of Summit Springs on 11 July 1869 (01:14:14).
https://lateforchangeover.com/

Today the Late Crew talks about:
A rare daytime meteor fireball streaks across Georgia skies—bright enough to be seen from space—and may have crashed through a house, shocking scientists and residents alike (03:36).
A bold proposal suggests the U.S. Air Force must split into four distinct services to meet modern warfare demands—what would that even look like? (10:49).
We explore how electric bikes are quietly revolutionizing military logistics and special operations with stealth, speed, and sustainability (28:51).
In literature, we review The Frozen Hours by Jeff Shaara, a gripping novel recounting the brutal battle of Chosin Reservoir during the Korean War (41:48).
Finally, we honor the Battle of Osan on July 5, 1950—the first U.S. ground engagement of the Korean War—where outgunned American troops faced overwhelming North Korean forces (51:00).

https://lateforchangeover.com/

Today the Late Crew talks about the bunker-buster bombs used on Iran’s Fordo nuclear facility (13:58), how Israel wiped out Iranian F-14 Tomcats on the airstrip (20:37), and the Battle of Okinawa ends on 22 Jun 1945 (28:40).

Today the Late Crew talks about how President Trump reverts 7 Army bases to former names with new honorees (08:36), the Army is bringing in big tech executives as lieutenant colonels (17:29), a new Normandy Memorial honors the Eighth Air Force (29:39), we go through rounds 3 and 4 of the US Military draft (37:54), and we review the history of the first confirmed air-to-air kill by an F-4 Phantom II on 17 June 1965 (59:44).
https://lateforchangeover.com/

Today the Late Crew talks about House GOP appropriators propose 3.8% pay raise for troops (02:53), Air Force spends millions on relaxation cubes that may prove worth it (09:51), Battle of Takur Ghar Controversy Continues (24:25), the U.S. Military Draft (34:11), the Marines land at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba on 10 June 1868 (52:50).
https://lateforchangeover.com/

Today the Late Crew discusses the Astronaut Hall of Fame (07:02), how the Pentagon wants troops to change duty stations less often (20:36), the Navy is ending experiments using cats and dogs as test subjects (31:55), the passing of Loretta Swit and our favorite M.A.S.H. moments (41:00), and Ed White becomes the first American to walk in space on 3 Jun (49:43).

Today the Late Crew talks about Space sponsorships may be the next frontier for revenue generation (04:53), a bipartisan bill would make military bonuses tax-free (21:21), the time when the Army tried out nuclear artillery (29:52), how horses are returning to Arlington Cemetery (41:04), and the maiden flight of the F-4 Phantom on 27 May 1958 (52:35).
https://lateforchangeover.com/

Today the Late Crew talks about SatVu’s thermal imaging satellite (06:01), VA’s growing roll of veterans getting POW benefits (13:01), Army battalion bans use of profanity (27:12), they’re making a ‘Rambo’ origin movie (37:17), and The Battle of Hamburger Hill ends on 20 May 1969 (42:40).

Today the Late Crew talks about a real-life speeder bike (04:55), how Kosmos 482 crashes to Earth after 53 years in orbit (16:05), Americans being held in Venezuelan prisons (22:47), the military’s only search and rescue dog has retired (33:36), and when Congress voted to declare war with Mexico on 13 May 1846 (43:46).

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Today the Late Crew talks about our travels around the globe (02:50), things that we never learned from TAP (24:46), Selfridge ANG Base receives F-15EX Eagle II fighters (38:14), Supreme Court differential pay case (43:57), the Space Force will get its own special operations element (54:15), and the maiden flight of the P-47 Thunderbolt 06 May 1941 (1:06:00).

Today the Late Crew discusses NASA's Dragonfly nuclear-powered rotorcraft (11:07), the New Army fitness test goes ‘sex-neutral’ for combat jobs (23:09), how Air Force pilots have a new way to pee at 30,000 feet (38:54), an Army captain sets a Guinness World Record for a bomb suit run (48:40), and George Washington is sworn in as the 1st US President on 30 April 1789 (54:02).

Join us to play the Military Movie Props Auction game and the Space Movie ratings game. Also, is the month of April cursed or is it just coincidence that so many terrible events have occurred during the 4th month of the year? Mr. History lays out the case.

LateForChangeover #MilitaryPodcast #VeteranVoices #LFC #LateforChangeover #maverick #auction #movierating #april #spacemovies

Today the Late Crew discusses the first Chinese Air Taxi (09:25), the U.S. Space Force awards $13.7 billion to Blue Origin, SpaceX and ULA (13:15), Amazon’s Project Kuiper set to challenge SpaceX’s Starlink (22:19), a Hero rat sets Guinness World Record for detecting landmines (33:45), and Gen Robert E. Lee surrenders at Appomattox on 9 April 1865 (46:25).

My guest today is Air Force Chief Master Sergeant (Retired) Michelle “Taz” Zayatz. Michelle grew up in Pittsfield, MA and graduated from Taconic High School. In 1982 she joined the Air Force with an Air Force Specialty Code of 276 Aerospace Control and Warning System. Her first assignment was to the 667th Air Control and Warning Squadron at Hofn Air Station, Iceland in 1982. After completing that remote tour she was assigned to the 2nd Communications Squadron at Buckley Air National Guard base in Colorado. During this assignment, she met and married her husband, Allen. In 1986, Michelle separated from Active Duty and accompanied her husband as he finished his Active Duty career in the Air Force. Throughout their subsequent PCS moves, she continued her career by joining the Air National Guard in MS, NY and CO. In 1998, she transferred from the COANG to the Air Force Reserves and became a founding member of the 8th Space Warning Squadron at Buckley AFB. In 2006, Michelle moved to the 310th Space Group at Schriever AFB. In 2007, she requested to be reassigned to stand up the new 310th Mission Support Group in Denver. Chief Zayatz retired in 2011.

Today the Late Crew discusses how Boeing's Starliner may fly again (04:47), Booz Allen unveils ‘Brilliant Swarms’ satellite concept for missile defense (12:05), those ‘Hegseth bodyguards’ are actually there for the ‘Doomsday’ plane (22:52), how Ranger School is scrapping traditional pushups and situps for functional fitness test (29:05), a proposal to tie soldiers’ promotions more to job proficiency (38:44), and the creation of the Air Force Academy on 1 April 1954 (50:59).

Today the Late Crew talks about how much the returning astronauts will get paid (03:50), Star Catcher sends electricity across an NFL football field in key space power-beaming test (16:23), Boeing awarded $20B to build the F-47 (26:20), the Army wants to make it easier to call Lyft and Uber on base (38:09), and the end of the Battle of Iwo Jima on 25 Mar 1945 (58:43).

In this week’s slightly-later-than-scheduled formation, the Late Crew breaks down the SpaceX Crew-9 Dragon’s return to Earth—and yes, we’re still calling it one of the coolest ways to clock out (03:54). We dive into the latest drama in Space Force news as Congress dusts off the idea of a Space National Guard, proving that bipartisanship is still possible—at least in orbit (14:39).

Then, we get into the bizarre decision to strip race and gender references from Arlington’s cemetery website—because apparently, whitewashing history is still a thing in 2025 (28:31). Miss USA and Army 1st Lt. Alma Cooper gives us some actual hope, after inspiring 4,000+ California students with a blend of pageantry, purpose, and boots-on-the-ground badassery (47:38). And finally, we rewind to the dark origin of the War Relocation Authority, created on March 18, 1942—because not all history deserves a “like” (54:27).

Whether you're here for space podcasts, news for vets, or just vibing with one of the best space podcasts led by actual Air Force and Space Force veterans, this one checks all the boxes.

This week, the crew is joined by retired Air Force CMSgt Michelle Zayatz, who immediately upgrades the brainpower and sarcasm levels in the room. First up, Butch and Suni return from the ISS like the seasoned astronauts they are—unflinching, underslept, and probably annoyed at Houston’s playlist (27:04). Then we cover the Intuitive Machines moon lander, which decided the best place to nap was sideways on the lunar south pole—SpaceX, take notes? (36:53)

Things get spicy when two active-duty soldiers and an Army vet are indicted for allegedly passing secrets to China (43:21)—not exactly the space force podcast content we wanted, but definitely the News for Vets you need. We also break down why the Army is losing nearly a quarter of its Soldiers in the first two years, and no, it’s not because they forgot where they parked (54:39). Finally, we salute CMSgt Richard Etchberger—who turned a classified mission into a Medal of Honor moment on March 11, 1968 (1:08:38). This guy was the real deal.

If you're here for space podcasts, weird moon landings, and Air Force veterans roasting both Congress and the cosmos, you’ve found the best podcast about space (according to our moms and a few retired colonels).

Strap in, butterbars and space nerds—this week’s Late For Changeover is your rocket-fueled ride through the week’s weirdest, wildest, and most WTF headlines. The crew dissects Elon Musk’s latest philosophical smoke session on the Joe Rogan Experience, then launches into how the Blue Ghost moon lander pulled off a lunar touchdown worthy of a slow clap from Neil Armstrong’s ghost.

But wait—there’s more! The Air Force Academy gets caught red-handed (again) in a cheating scandal that would make your squadron commander cry. Meanwhile, West Point’s favorite repeat offender is back in hot water (for the third time), and the Supreme Court continues its streak of ghosting military malpractice cases. To top it all off, we get into the Blue Origin all-woman space flight—aka, the future of space travel finally arriving in boots and eyeliner—and a look back at the brutal brilliance of the Battle of the Bismarck Sea. It’s a full stack of orbital chaos, legal limbo, and historic dogfights—with just the right amount of snark.

Buckle up, buttercup—this week the Late Crew takes a sarcastic stroll through the Pentagon's most recent "great ideas" and military headlines you won’t hear on your average space podcast or NPR snoozefest. First up: meet Lt Gen Dan "No Relation to Dean" Cain, a top contender for Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, whose name sounds like he was born to kick doors in. Then it’s a quick dip into the soggy heroics of the Kentucky National Guard, who airlifted nearly 300 folks out of a flood with the calm of seasoned pros and the urgency of a Friday liberty call.

The gang also unpacks why troops bringing families to South Korea are getting a longer stay (guess who’s not thrilled?), plus why Trump’s still beefing with Boeing over Air Force One like it’s a particularly petty divorce. Finally, we rewind to the USS Monitor’s Civil War commissioning—because nothing says “military innovation” like an ironclad that looked like a floating hatbox. It's all here: leadership drama, heroic lift-offs (sadly, not SpaceX), and enough insider banter to qualify as unofficial News for Vets.

This week on Late For Changeover, we break down why the current Artemis 3 moon landing plan is starting to look like a NASA-powered gamble with a lunar jackpot—or a cosmic faceplant. From moon boots to frostbite, we then head to Alaska where military rescue teams spent January in full chaos mode, proving once again that “no-fail mission” is code for “hope your snowmobile starts.”

Meanwhile, the Army swipes $151 million in BAS funds from soldiers and doesn’t even use it for food. (That’s right—less chow, same PT standards.) Over in the Navy, SEALs continue training in some of the worst water this side of a Taco Bell bathroom, and we finish strong with a deep dive into the start of the Battle of Iwo Jima—because no episode’s complete without a nod to gritty, boots-on-the-ground history. Whether you’re into space risk, rescue ops, or just military bureaucracy gone wild, this one’s for you. It’s a space podcast, a News for Vets roundup, and your favorite irreverent briefing all rolled into one.

This week on Late For Changeover, the crew asks the hard-hitting question: can an Army First Sergeant throw a Super Bowl party in a war zone and still make formation the next morning? (Spoiler: probably, but you’ll regret asking.) We then pivot to Trump’s take on the Iron Dome—because nothing says “strategic defense” like naming it after a Marvel sequel—and dig into the VA’s ongoing love affair with handing out pills like it's a post-deployment candy buffet.

The episode takes a darker turn as we look at the real cost of overmedication for veterans, with a disturbing deep dive into the VA’s prescription of opioids and benzos—and the higher mortality rates that come with it. On a brighter note (kinda), Fort Bragg is back in the headlines, and we revisit Operation Homecoming, the 1973 POW return that had more feels than a reunion episode of Band of Brothers. If you're into News for Vets, military chaos, and darkly funny takes on defense policy, consider this your weekly dose of unfiltered truth (hold the benzos).

This week, the Late Crew takes off with the Air Force’s latest adventure: deportation flights featuring onboard Ravens—yes, actual Air Marshals with attitude, not Edgar Allan Poe’s spirit animals. Then it’s on to the new dress and grooming standards, where we try to figure out if the Air Force is going for “warfighter chic” or just slowly turning into a JROTC fashion blog.

The Pentagon decides it's done with “Identity Months,” which probably means the morale PowerPoints just got shorter, and we check out the Government Travel Card audit—aka, who’s been buying sushi and spa days on Uncle Sam’s dime. Plus, we go full Price Is Right with the Military Auction Game, and wrap things up with a dive into the Yalta Conference, where world leaders divided the globe like a Risk board. Whether you're here for the hot takes or the historical hot messes, this is your one-stop News for Vets shop—minus the SpaceX updates (this time).

Buckle your harness and cue the ‘80s rock anthems—the Late Crew is firing up the VHS player to relive Iron Eagle (1986), the movie that dared to ask: “What if a teenager stole a fighter jet and the Air Force just… rolled with it?” It’s a full-throttle breakdown of this Cold War fever dream, complete with impossibly clean flight suits, cassette-tape mission planning, and enough plot holes to fit a C-130 through.

We roast the uniforms, salute the F-16 dogfights, and ask the real questions—like how did this Top Gun knockoff become low-key holy scripture for a generation of future Space Force recruits? Whether you’re a diehard fan of ‘80s military flicks or just in it for the unauthorized international incidents, this episode has all the laugh-out-loud breakdowns and salty insights you’d expect from a crew of veteran misfits. Welcome to your new favorite space force podcast that has nothing to do with space—but everything to do with the vibe.

This week on Late For Changeover, the crew dives helmet-first into Trump’s latest military move—tapping a former Space Force officer to be the next Air Force Undersecretary. That’s right: from orbit to office politics. Is this the start of a galactic takeover or just another “space guy” trying to get a better parking spot at the Pentagon? Either way, it’s one giant leap for space force podcast content.

Then we tackle the eternal Marine Corps debate—beards or bust? (Spoiler: it's still bust.) We also break down a new report claiming military pay actually stacks up against civilian gigs (cue laughter from junior enlisted), and finally, we raise the metaphorical “Cuckold Flag” and sail into the weirdest corner of military history. It’s policy, paychecks, and petty symbolism—served up with sarcasm, snark, and a side of News for Vets.

The Late Crew is back and launching straight into orbit—politically speaking—as the Space Force gets a front-row seat at the 60th presidential inauguration. Are they guarding satellites or just vibing in formation? Either way, it's another win for space force podcast material. Then we pivot to the Air Force’s latest idea: more inspections! Because nothing boosts morale like another surprise visit from the checklist mafia.

Meanwhile, the Army somehow hits 30,000 recruits already this year (did someone finally update the recruiting posters?), and we round things out with a nostalgic dive into the music that defined the Global War on Terror. From barracks iPods to convoy playlists, we crank the volume on the tracks that carried a generation through deployments and dumb decisions. It's patriotic chaos, powered by caffeine, dark humor, and just enough insight to get flagged by your old First Sergeant.

New year, same chaos. The Late Crew kicks off 2025 by teeing off on the new TGL golf competition—because what’s more futuristic than glow-in-the-dark golf with pro athletes and giant screens? Then it’s a salute to a true badass: a WWII Army nurse who just turned 105 and could probably still outpace your morning PT.

We also check in with the Space Force, who’ve fallen head-over-moon for their new fitness watch (because nothing says warfighter readiness like counting your orbital steps). Plus, there’s a psychedelic therapy turf war brewing in Colorado, and in a plot twist straight out of a space news podcast, a chunk of space debris crashes down in Kenya—missing a village but definitely hitting our radar. It’s News for Vets with a cosmic twist and just the right amount of side-eye.

This week, the Late Crew launches straight into the galaxy-brained idea from Trump’s NASA pick: boots on the Moon, Mars, or wherever the next Space McDonald’s opens. Yep, according to him, it’s only a matter of time before the military starts posting troops in orbit—because if there's one thing the Space Force needs, it's mandatory mustache regs in zero gravity. Speaking of futures in uniform, the DoD reports most girls don’t think they’d succeed in the military—so naturally, the crew digs into what’s broken, what’s improving, and who’s really still gatekeeping the chow hall.

Then it’s a toast to progress as the Air Force names its first female SERE specialist as Chief Master Sergeant (about damn time), and the Space Force drops the hottest new concept in military onboarding: its very own boot camp. Rounding out the ep is a deep-cut history lesson from 1941, when Admiral Nimitz took command of the Pacific Fleet and basically told the Japanese Navy to hold his beer. It's offbeat, off-script, and unapologetically aimed at space force veterans, Air Force vets, and anyone who prefers their military news with a side of sarcasm.

This week, the Late Crew is all gas, no brake checks, starting with a flying taxi that spins, strafes, and probably violates several laws of physics thanks to a wild new propulsion system. It's basically the lovechild of a drone and a sci-fi fever dream, and we are here for it. Next up: junior enlisted troops are finally getting a serious pay raise in 2025—because nothing says “we see you” like slightly more money for ramen and rent.

Then it’s on to some eyebrow-raising Navy news: physically fit sailors might get a pass on body comp standards soon (sorry, tape test fans). We also tip our caps to the new Jeep Wrangler that throws it back to the 1941 Willys MB—because nothing sells better than nostalgia in camo. And finally, we hop in the time machine for a quick spin through the 1898 Treaty of Paris, which wrapped up the Spanish-American War and handed the U.S. some serious global real estate. It’s military tradition, tech innovation, and tactical sarcasm—aka your go-to space force podcast that occasionally talks about, but always salutes, News for Vets.

This week on Late For Changeover, the crew welcomes former Marine, retired police sergeant, and all-around badass Graham Dunne—just in time to debate the only question that truly divides America: what’s the best Thanksgiving side dish? (Spoiler: someone’s wrong, and it’s probably you.) Graham dishes on his time behind the badge, the true-life chaos that inspired his book The Jagged Blue Line, and how he's now helping folks sharpen their skills over at RagnarTactical.com.

Naturally, we couldn’t let a cop-turned-author walk away without a challenge, so we throw Graham into the gauntlet with the Police Movie Game—because nothing says “thank you for your service” like testing your action flick IQ. It’s one part News for Vets, one part tactical wisdom, and all the irreverent fun you expect from the military-veteran corner of the internet. This might not be your typical space force podcast, but if you’re into real stories, sharp takes, and dark humor served with stuffing, you’re in the right place.

This week on Late For Changeover, the crew tackles the usual: space smells, stolen weapons, and side dishes that could start a war. We kick off with NASA tracking an asteroid roughly the size of your average football field—because apparently Earth wasn’t stressed enough already. Then we pivot to the ISS, where astronauts caught a whiff of something weird coming from a Russian spacecraft. Spoiler: it wasn’t vodka or victory.

Back on Earth, the Army lost 31 pistols and is now offering $15K for help finding them (because nothing says “secure facility” like a Craigslist bounty), and a former Navy officer got caught stealing $850K in military gear. We also settle one of the most heated debates in modern history: What’s the ultimate Thanksgiving side dish? Finally, we serve up a look at three historic battles fought on Turkey Day—because nothing says “gratitude” like musket fire. It’s chaotic, it’s irreverent, and it’s the only space news podcast where tactical analysis meets cranberry sauce. Welcome to the best kind of News for Vets.

This week on Late For Changeover, we’re talking robot arms in space, sniffing out nukes, and the Pentagon’s legendary streak of failing audits like it’s going for gold in financial incompetence. Northrop Grumman is gearing up to launch a satellite repair robot with actual arms in 2026—so basically WALL-E meets Top Secret Clearance. Meanwhile, the Space Force has deployed a robot that can literally smell nuclear material. We’re not saying Skynet is real… but maybe keep an eye on your Roomba.

We also salute a badass Air Force captain who just became the first woman in service history to receive the Silver Star, then roast the Pentagon for failing its seventh audit in a row. (Honestly, at this point, we’re just impressed by the consistency.) And to wrap it all up, we throw it back to 1863 with President Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address—because even after 160 years, you can’t beat brevity, battlefield speeches, and four score-level shade. This is the space force podcast that blends tactical tech, historical hot takes, and News for Vets you actually want to hear.

Today, the Late Crew talks about how Boeing is looking to jettison the space business (10:52), what a 2nd Trump administration could mean for NASA and space exploration (16:50), Space National Guard could become reality under Donald Trump (22:50), how Colorado could lose US Space Command (26:05), Navy Rear Admiral to testify to Congress about underwater UFOs (28:52), we plat the military operation name game (40:35), and the first woman to fly a combat mission for the United States on November 15, 1994 (49:28).

Today, the Late Crew reviews how the VA’s projected $15B budget shortfall doesn’t exist (13:06), a VA employee’s accidental voicemail to veteran prompts investigation (20:11), how Boeing overcharged the Air Force $150K for soap dispensers (27:19), a CENTCOM commander allegedly shoved airman on military flight (34:58), how the Air Force Academy got pranked by West Point (41:22), we take a Presidents and the Military quiz (44:42), and the Articles of Confederation are adopted on 15 Nov 1777 (52:03).

Today, the Late Crew reviews that the Astronauts on the ISS are braced for an urgent evacuation (10:10), a Marine sinks a boat with a Stinger ground-to-air missile while training in the Philippines (24:10), how a parked F-16 suffered $30 million in damage (37:20), spooky Military ghost stories (49:55), and the history of the B-29 “Black Week” in Oct 1943 (59:13).

I’m joined today by Former Marine Corporal and retired Police Sergeant Graham Dunne. Graham was born in Liverpool, England. His family immigrated to the U.S. when he was 10. He graduated from high school in Colorado in 1987. After a few semesters in college, he decided to join the Marines reserve as an MOS 0844 Field Artillery Fire Control. His first assignment was to the 5th Battalion, 14th Marines in Colorado. He was also hired as a Deputy Sheriff. After 18 months, he applied and was accepted into the Police Department in 1994. Graham retired 25 years later in 2019. He has written a book about his Police experiences called “The Jagged Blue Line”, and he currently owns and operates RagnarTactical.com.

For Graham’s book, “The Jagged Blue Line”, go to https://thejaggedblueline.com/.
If you want to improve your shooting skills, please visit Graham’s website at https://ragnartactical.com/.

Today, the Late Crew discusses the passing of Jake’s Uncle, Marines Maj Benjamin Franklin Collins III, how SpaceX caught its Starship booster with “Chopsticks” (08:12), the Navy launches an investigation into faulty welds (17:39), a Marine recruiter gets sentenced to 1 year in the brig (23:02), Miss America puts on a bite sleeve and gets a taste of military service dog training (40:34), and the history of the Marine Corps barracks bombing in Lebanon on 23 Oct 1983 (53:54).

Today’s Late Crew discussions include the FAA giving SpaceX permission to launch just 1 Falcon 9 (05:40), troops at Schriever SFB have to bring their own food containers (12:42), Vietnam vets exposed to nerve agents and hallucinogens tests seek years of back benefits (23:59), 8 examples of Military dark humor (34:49), and on 8 October 1918 Alvin York single-handedly defeats a German machine gun battalion (43:24).

Today, the Late Crew discusses how a Falcon 9 sends new crew to ISS on first crewed launch from SLC-40 (06:10), a Russian fighter cuts off an F-16 during a NORAD intercept (10:30), the Marines overhaul their marksmanship training (15:33), how an Air Force special ops squadron damaged three Ospreys in five days (25:27), the USS Nautilus is commissioned as the first nuclear submarine on 30 Sep 1954 and the 1st Cav Air Mobile becomes operational in South Vietnam on 1 October 1955 (34:28).

Today, the Late Crew talks about First non-government spacewalk goes off without a hitch for Polaris Dawn crew (13:10), Polaris Dawn astronaut plays 'Star Wars' song in music video beamed from space (17:51), the U.S. military investing in reentry vehicles for space-to-Earth cargo delivery (24:23), the Soldier who deserted to North Korea sentenced to year in prison, released immediately for time served (30:38), protein shakes pulled from military base GNC stores because they contained hemp seeds (42:18), and Operation Magic Carpet in September 1945 (53:00).

Today, the Late Crew talks about where you were for 9-11 (04:26), Starliner lands safely in New Mexico (13:49), Vets’ benefits checks could be delayed without a VA funding fix soon (18:57), Army inks $1 billion deal for Switchblade portable munitions (28:50), Navy's innovative programs pay off as it meets recruiting Goal (39:10), first submarine fully integrated for coed crews to join Navy fleet next week (46:25), and The Battle of Lake Erie on 10 Sep 1813 (54:00).

Today, the Late Crew talks about how Starliner’s return from ISS is set for Sept. 6 (08:06), NASA astronaut Butch Wilmore reports 'strange noise' coming from Starliner (10:20), the 310th Space Wing at Schriever prepares for inactivation (14:55), new Tinker Air Force Base motto immediately lampooned by airmen (29:52), 100,000 veterans who later qualified for VA disability benefits must repay old bonuses for leaving the military early (37:57), and the first time the American flag went into battle on 3 September 1776 (51:45).

Today, the Late Crew discusses the Spacesuits of Boeing astronauts are incompatible with SpaceX craft (04:47), Boeing Starliner astronauts will return home on a SpaceX Dragon in 2025 (08:05), Trump pledges to create a Space National Guard if reelected (20:24), Gary Sinise reflects on ‘Lt. Dan’ and his work for veterans on 30th anniversary of ‘Forrest Gump’ (37:34), and Operation Argus on 27 Aug 1958 (43:40).

Today, the Late Crew discusses the heat-related ‘mass incident’ at Pikes Peak Regional Airshow (01:45), Facebook Follies (11:14), Air Force basic trainees required to carry rifle for first time in years (18:40), Army researchers find electric pulses help soldiers get better sleep (37:27), experts break down the possibility of astronauts having sex in space (44:12), and the Battle of Fallen Timbers on 20 August 1794 (59:02).

Today, the Late Crew discusses that Gen Whiting is now calling for “Space Fires” (24:38), Vandenberg’s Military Working Horse program ends (32:19), how a TikTok video got one military officer court-martialed (42:06), and the history of VJ Day on 14 Aug 1945 (55:28).

Today, the Late Crew reviews Military members in the Olympics (05:01), NASA might delay upcoming Crew 9 mission to return Starliner Astronauts to Earth (21:20), the Air Force rolls out ‘Foundations’ courses for enlisted development (31:48), on August 6th, 2011 Chinook helicopter Extortion 17 is shot down in Afghanistan and on August 6th 1945 the U.S. drops “Little Boy” on Hiroshima, Japan (01:08:30).

On this episode, the Late Crew discusses recent Facebook posts (07:38), how the Space Force increases select re-enlistment bonuses up to $180,000 (22:30) and the U.S. and South Korean defense chiefs ‘strongly’ urge North Korea to cease trash balloon flights (33:50). We then test our knowledge with a World War II slang quiz and finish by marking the date of the sinking of the USS Indianapolis on 30 July 1945 (59:23).

I’m joined today by Air Force MSgt (Ret) Craig Kim. Craig attended Taylor-Dewitt Middle-High School in Pierson, FL. After graduating in 1998, he spoke to an Air Force recruiter and decided to join at 17 as a 3P0X1 Security Forces. He attended Basic Training and Tech School at Lackland Air Force Base, TX. He was first assigned to the 45th Security Forces Squadron at Patrick AFB, FL. During that assignment he was deployed twice. When he returned he re-trained to Information Management and attended Tech School at Kessler AFB, MS. Upon graduation in 2002, he was assigned to Goodfellow AFB, TX. During that assignment he deployed to Jordan in 2003.
In 2005, Craig’s next assignment took him to NORAD-USNORTHCOM in Building 2 at Peterson AFB, CO. In 2008, his AFSC was consolidated and he was placed in the IT Field. He was next assigned in 2011 to the 39th Comm Squadron at Incirlik AB, Turkey. Upon returning in 2012, he was assigned to the 460th Space Comm Squadron at Buckley AFB, CO. In 2017, he was promoted to MSgt. In 2018, he took his final assignment at the Joint Improvised Explosive Device Organization in Reston, VA. Craig retired from the Air Force on 31 July 2020.

On this episode we welcome AF Maj (Ret) Ana Mondragon. Together we discuss how a new device will allow astronauts to drink their pee (10:12), troops will now get economic hardship bonuses of $20 a month (20:01), the costs associated with PCS moves (32:48), military families overseas may not be able to ship their dogs home (52:55), and The Battle of Fire Base Ripcord in July 1970 (01:05:43).

Military Transition Programs Focus Too Much on Higher Education, Not Enough on Jobs, Rand Report Says

Today we talk about how the Sentinel ICBM jumps 81% in costs (07:31), the Air Force increases number of bonus pay jobs (18:25), a former Army family awarded $10M for moldy home that damaged son’s health (27:03), Joey Chestnut takes on 4 soldiers in hot dog eating at Ft. Bliss, TX (35:35), Guam commander invites Air Force base to July 4 block party at his house (41:09), and the USS Thrasher attack sub is launched on July 9th, 1960 and sinks less than 3 years later (51:01).

Today we talk about ISS astronauts directed to use Strainer as a “lifeboat” (06:00), NASA offers SpaceX $843M to destroy the International Space Station (16:14), a mother breaches Patrick SFB with a 4 year old (26:45), a Marine F-35 in Japan sports a bat insignia (36:30), and the Battle of Gettysburg (42:44).

Today we discuss how NASA again delays Starliner’s return to Earth (07:55), how thousands of Air Combat Command Airmen now face inspections (18:45), the Navy eases rules on consecutive fit test failures (37:52), a Florida family files claim against NASA because of space junk (50:20), and the June 25th tragedies of Little Big Horn and Khobar Towers (58:30).

Today we talk about three companies competing for Pentagon launch contracts (11:56), DARPA unveils 6 new VTOL UAS designs (21:56), and how military transition programs don’t focus enough on jobs (30:00). We also play the space movie game (54:24) and the start of the War of 1812 (75:50).

Today we discuss the Boeing Starliner crew flight test (20:43), the SpaceX Starship heavy booster splashdown (24:24), how Maui rejected the Space Force telescope proposal (39:37), AF Security Forces Center reaches the final phase of fielding Model Defender gear (46:45), our submission for the Patron Saint of the Space Force (57:05), and the “Great Marianas Turkey Shoot” of June 1944 (69:54).

We are joined today by BG (Ret) Chris Petty. We discuss the Space Force proposal to convert National Guard to active duty (05:30), then we decide which US Military helicopter joins the “All Military Team” (25:27), and Gen Petty presents a battle analysis of The First Battle of the Marne in Sep 1914 (47:07).

Today the crew talks about The Freedom Hunters clay shoot fundraiser (04:20), the Space Force STARCOM gets official nod to come to the Space Coast (21:05), military beards gain new momentum as House panel OKs Air Force pilot program (37:22), an Air Force security team can breach an ‘impenetrable’ SCIF in one minute (50:02), the 134th Air Refueling Wing Security Forces train with the local Sheriff’s Office (65:20), and The Battle of Cantigny fought on May 28, 1918 (68:58).

Freedom Hunters: https://freedomhunters.org/
Houndsman of Colorado Ballot Initiative #91: https://www.unitedhoundsmenofco.com/post/ballot-initiative-91-prohibit-trophy-hunting

Today my guest is Air Force SMSgt (Ret) Kevin Reed. Kevin grew up in the Los Angeles area both in Canoga Park and Thousand Oaks. He attended Westlake High School and graduated in 1998. After a semester at Cal State Northridge, he met with an Air Force recruiter and signed a delayed enlistment contract, and in May 1999, he attended Basic Training at Lackland AFB, TX as a 1C6 Space Operator. He then attended Enlisted Undergraduate Space Training (EUST) at Vandenberg AFB, CA.
Kevin’s first assignment was to 1st Space Operations Squadron at Schriever AFB, CO. In May 2001, he was reassigned to Kapaun, Germany for DSP Missile Warning. He left Germany in Aug 2002 for assignment to the 2nd Space Operations Squadron (GPS) back at Schriever AFB. His next assignment was to the 2nd Space Warning Squadron (SBIRS) at Buckley AFB, CO. There, he was selected to the 2006 SBIRS Guardian Challenge Team.
In 2008, he was reassigned to the 533rd Training Squadron as a SBIRS System Instructor at Vandenberg AFB. During this time, he completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Liberty University. After four years he was reassigned back to 2 SWS at Buckley AFB. In 2014, he took an Active Guard/Reserve position with the 8th Space Warning Squadron. In 2015, he was promoted to MSgt and earned his Master’s Degree in Space/Planetary Science from American Military University. In 2018 Kevin was promoted to SMSgt and became the Squadron Superintendent for Det 1, 8 SWS which later reflagged as the 4th Space Warning Squadron. He went on to be selected as a Traveling Instructor for the SNCO Leadership Course for the Air Force Reserve Command in 2019.
Kevin retired from the military on June 1st, 2021.

Today we talk about further delays to Starliner Crew Flight Test launch (06:01), Inversion Space wants “warehouses in space” (17:10), House bill proposes to end recruit marijuana testing (32:29), the last WWII “triple ace” dies at 102 (50:10), and the 10th Mountain gets three new aces for drone kills (55:12).

Join us as we discuss pet and animal stories while in the military (03:54), Millennium Space lands $414 million contract to build missile-tracking satellites (30:24), the Navy tests a surface drone (38:55), DARPA's autonomous 'Manta Ray' drone (46:13), the Coast Guard offloads $185 million in cocaine and marijuana (51:12), an Air Force pararescue team dropped onto a cruise ship to retrieve a sick child (54:32), and the SS Mayaguez incident on 15 May 1975 (58:42).

Joining me today is Army Retired CW3 Jaime Hernandez.
Jaime was born and raised in Ponce, Puerto Rico and graduated from Ponce High School in 1989. He attended Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico pursuing a degree in Accounting. He enlisted in the Army as an 11B and went to basic training at Fort Benning, GA in 2002. His first assignment was to B Company, 2/35 Infantry at Schofield Barracks, HI, and deployed to Afghanistan in 2004. In 2008, he reclassified to MOS 88N Transportation and went to Fort Eustis, VA for training. After being promoted to E-7, he again deployed to Afghanistan in 2010. During that deployment, Jaime applied and was accepted into the Warrant Officer program. He graduated from the Warrant Officer course in 2013 and was next assigned to the 4th ID at Fort Carson, CO. He was next assigned to Camp Casey, South Korea in 2016 followed by an assignment to Fort Hood, TX. He completed a Bachelor’s degree in Transportation and Logistics management from American Military University in 2018, and then deployed to the Arabic peninsula in 2019. Jaime was promoted to CW3 and was assigned to his final duty station back at Fort Eustis. He retired in 2022.

Today we talk about Boeing’s Starliner team delays 1st astronaut launch due to rocket issue (13:43), 3 Guardians complete Army Cavalry Spur Ride (25:00), Navy beats Army in annual Best Warrior Competition (46:41), the Army’s first small drone obstacle course (52:57), and on 7 May 1960 Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev announces that his nation is holding American U-2 pilot Gary Powers (1:02:00).

Today we talk about SpaceX making Starship in-space refueling, Prosthetics chief at Aurora VA improperly canceled 1,000 orders without telling vets, 4th ID bans leaders from contacting soldiers after work, Kirkland AFB Airman sets New Mexico powerlifting record, and on 30 Apr 1789 Washington is sworn-in as the 1st U.S. President.

Today we talk about Rocket Lab launches new NASA solar sail tech toward orbit, Barksdale Air Force Base closes dining facility amid reports of a rat problem, Soldier earns ‘Ace of Syria’ nickname after downing 6 drones, and Pat Tillman killed in Afghanistan 20 years ago.

Joining me today is Army MAJ (Ret) Ruslan Emelyanov.
Ruslan was born and raised in the former Soviet Union. When he turned 18, he was conscripted into the Soviet Army in 1989 and chose to be a Paratrooper. Over the next couple years, he accepted an invitation to attend the newly formed Russian Military Academy. He graduated in 1995 and was commissioned as a Lieutenant in the Russian Army. He had also earned his Jumpmaster status at that time. His first assignment was to join his new unit already fighting in the First Chechen War. At the conclusion of the war, his unit redeployed in December 1996. Ruslan was then reassigned to Moscow and transferred to the Military Police. In 1998 as a Captain, he resigned his Commission and left the Russian Army.
Family relatives who lived in California applied for a Green Card for Ruslan, and in 2000, he joined his relatives in Carmel, CA. When the Sep 11th attacks occurred in 2001, he contacted an Army recruiter about the possibility of joining the U.S. Army. The recruiter said he could enlist with a Green Card and signed him up as an 11B Infantry MOS. At 28, he attended Basic Training at Ft. Benning, GA. After graduating Basic, he attended Jump School and earned his U.S. Parachute Badge. His first assignment was to B Co., 2/35th Infantry at Schofield Barracks, HI. In 2003, he renounced his Russian citizenship and was sworn in as a U.S. citizen. In April 2004, his unit deployed to Afghanistan for a year tour. Upon returning, he was promoted to SGT. He also earned Jumpmaster in the U.S. Army. A few years later, he was recommended for OCS at Ft. Benning, and in 2007 he was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the Infantry. In 2009, Ruslan changed branches to Civil Affairs and spent the next 12 years working with Special Operations Forces out of Ft. Bragg, NC. He retired from the Army in 2023.

Joining me today is Air Force SMSgt (Ret) Juan Lopez. Juan grew up in California both in Los Angeles and later Vacaville. He attended Vacaville High School and graduated in 1999. He joined the Air Force in 2000 and went to Basic Training in 2001. His AFSC was 1C6 and he attended tech school at Vandenberg AFB, CA. Juan’s first assignment was to 11 SWS (ALERT) at Schriever AFB, CO. In 2002, he was reassigned to 2 SWS at Buckley AFB, CO. After that tour, his next assignment was to work HEO with 460th Det 1 back at Schriever AFB in 2006. Three years later, Juan was chosen to be an instructor with the 533rd Training Squadron back at Vandenberg AFB. In 2013 he was assigned to 13 SWS at Clear AFB, AK for a one year remote tour. He was then assigned back to Buckley with the 2 SWS to work the SBIRS Block 10 program. In 2017, he was promoted to MSgt and then converted to the Reserves through Palace Front. He was assigned to 4 SWS at Buckley as an Active Guard/Reservist. Later, he was moved to the 710th Operations Group and was promoted to SMSgt in 2019. Juan retired on 1 Nov 2021.

Today we talk about inflatable space station modules made by Max Space, the return of horse-drawn caissons at Arlington Cemetery has been delayed, the cost of sustaining the F-35 is now forecasted to exceed $1.5 trillion, medical beard waivers have nearly doubled in the Air Force and Space Force, why the Marines were at Mar-A-Lago, and the 82nd anniversary of the Doolittle Raiders.

To help out Mrs Texas, Krendra Harralson, please visit https://www.lovewithoutboundaries.com/

Today I have the pleasure of speaking with Army SFC (Ret) Krendra Harralson. Krendra grew up in Tacoma, WA and attended Lincoln High School. As a Sophomore, she joined the school’s JROTC program. During her Junior year, she signed a contract with the WA National Guard at 17, and attended Army Basic Training at Ft. Jackson, SC during the summer before her Senior year in High School. After graduating in 1998, she completed her AIT at Ft. Sam Houston, TX as a 92B Medic.
Her first assignment was with the WA NG Aviation unit as a Traditional Guardsman until Aug 2000. Then she enlisted in the Active Duty Army and was assigned to Wiesbaden, Germany with the 557th Ground Ambulance Company in 2003. Her next assignment was to the 4th Engineer Battalion at Ft. Carson, CO. In 2009 her unit was deployed to Taji, Iraq. During that deployment, her unit was relocated to Kandahar, Afghanistan where she was battlefield promoted to SSG in 2010. A year later, SSG Harralson was assigned to the 555th Engineer Brigade at Ft. lewis, WA. Her last assignment was to Ft. Sam Houston, TX in 2016 and she retired in 2018.
After retiring, Krendra competed in the Ms. Veteran America through the non-profit Final Salute Inc. Later, she received the appointed title of Mrs. Texas 2024 and will be competing for Mrs. USA at Omaha, NE in Aug 2024. To find out more about Krendra’s journey and how you can help, please visit the links below:

Final Salute Inc. https://www.finalsaluteinc.org/Home.html
Love Without Boundaries. https://www.lovewithoutboundaries.com/
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093336497504
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/krendra_harralson/

The Veterans of Foreign Wars organization is an unrivaled source of past and living military history. I had the honor of visiting VFW Post 101 in Colorado Springs, CO, where I met Army SFC (Ret) Keith Francis. Keith grew up in Alexandria, LA. In 1974, he attended Grambling State University. After getting a little burned out on school, he talked to an Army recruiter and swore in at the Shreveport, LA MEPS in 1976. He attended Basic at Ft. Jackson, SC and was branched into the Air Defense. After completing AIT at Ft. Bliss, TX he was assigned to the 3rd Infantry Division at Giebelstadt, Germany.
His following assignments included the 7ID at Ft. Ord, CA, the 2ID at Uijeongbu, South Korea, the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) at Ft. Campbell, KY, the 25th ID at Schofield Barracks, HI, and the 4ID at Ft. Carson, CO. Keith retired from active duty in 1996.

Today we talk about NASA selects three companies to advance Artemis lunar rover designs, the Air Force proposes bypassing Governors in 7 States to move Guard Units into the Space Force, the Navy fires the head of its only South American Command, General Lee surrenders the Army of Northern Virginia to General Grant at Appomattox Court House on April 9th, 1865, and we play the military movie props auction game.

Today we are joined by former Air Force SrA Josh Rzepecki. Together we talk about Northrop Grumman’s orbital refueling port, on-orbit service satellites, on-orbit space junk removal, families at Edwards Air Force Base living in RVs, Sailors can now live in RV parks full time, hip replacements and other orthopedic devices not properly tracked by the VA, and Woodrow Wilson declares war on Germany in 1917.

Today I speak with Air Force Retired Major Ana Mondragon.
Maj Mondragon grew up in San Angelo, TX, and attended San Angelo Central High School where she graduated in 1995. She joined the Air Force in August 1995 under an Open Administration contract. Upon completing basic training, she attended tech school at Kessler AFB in Biloxi, MS. Her first assignment was to Reese AFB, in Lubbock, TX.
In 1997, she was assigned to a Joint Support Squadron at Stuttgart, Germany. She came back to the States in 2000 when she was assigned to the 55th Space Weather Squadron at Falcon AFB, CO. As a SrA, she left active duty and joined the AF Reserves. Shortly thereafter she transitioned to the Air Reserve Technician program as a GS 7 with the 302nd Airlift Wing at Peterson AFB, CO.
After being promoted to Master Sergeant, she was hired in 2006 as an AGR in the 310th Space Wing with the 19th Space Operations Squadron. She was later selected to the Deserving Airman Commissioning Program and was commissioned in 2010. In 2017 she took a position with the 8th Space Warning Squadron at Buckley AFB, CO. In 2020, she was hired into the 42nd Combat Training Squadron and was promoted to Major. Maj Mondragon retired in 2024.

Today we are joined by BG (Ret) Chris Petty. We discuss his lengthy career in Army Aviation, the National Guard, deployment to Balad, Iraq and being a NATO Commander in Bosnia. We also talk about his website BattleDigest.com and his book, “12 Battles Every American Should Know.” In addition, Gen Petty takes us through an analysis of the Battle of Shiloh during the Civil War.

Find Gen Petty’s book and more at https://battledigest.com/

Today we talk about the ‘Fighting 69th’ leads New York City’s St. Patrick’s Day parade for 173rd year in a row, SpaceX Starship lifts off on third test flight, a Blue Star Families survey finds considerable reluctance for recommending military life, and overnight camping at California beach banned thanks to excess of ‘human waste’.

Today we talk about the ORBITS Act, Stratolaunch performs its first powered Talon flight, 1,000 US troops deployed for temporary port operations off the coast of Gaza, a World War II Veteran Is Getting Married near the beaches of D-Day, and George Patton is promoted to Lieutenant General on 12 Mar 1943.

Today we talk about the new Air Force grooming standards, the US dropped MREs instead of Humanitarian Daily Rations over Gaza, Veterans fight to clear their names for military crimes they did not commit, and the creation of the Navy “Seabees” on March 5th, 1942.

Today we have assembled some of the best NCOs from the early days of SBIRS at Buckley AFB, CO. Guests include CMSgt (Ret) Robert Cherry, SMSgt (Ret) Derick Lucas, SMSgt (Ret) Jake Wall, MSgt (Ret) Ron Denmon, MSgt (Ret) Kevin Dunaway, MSgt (Ret) Mike Johns, and TSgt (Ret) Kevin Balcom. Come relive the majesty of the Mission Control Station as we talk about the service members and events that shaped SBIRS!

Today we talk about the top 5 hated US military movie characters, Intuitive Machines' Odysseus historic moon landing, the Marine Corps passes its audit, a Drill Sergeant shoots first perfect score at Army marksman course, a Sailor becomes Navy’s first Robotics Warfare Specialist, and the first prisoners are taken to Andersonville prison camp in 1864.

Today I speak with Marine Lance Corporal Samuel Myers. Sam grew up in Ventura, Ca and graduated high school in 1984. After a brief time at the Philadelphia Phillies camp, Sam took a job in offshore drilling. He decided that three years of that backbreaking work was enough and went to see the Marines recruiter in Ventura, CA. In June 1989 went to MCRD Sand Diego for Bootcamp under an open contract. His MOS became 0811, Field Artillery Cannoneer and his first assignment was to 3rd Battalion, 11th Marine Regiment at 29 Palms, CA in 1990. During his unit’s UDP to Okinawa, Iraq invaded Kuwait. Sam and his unit were then sent to Kuwait where he saw action in Desert Storm and the Battle of Khafji. After the Gulf War, and a brief time back home at 29 Palms, his unit was sent to Mogadishu, Somalia for Operation Restore Hope. After spending 36 months in combat zones, Sam exited active duty in July 1993.

Today we talk about the Super Bowl commercials, how each military service advertised at the Super Bowl, how VR therapy takes veterans back to 'virtual Vietnam’, the Air Force takes back retirees, and the history of the first Medal of Honor winner.

Today we talk about getting the Air Force advertising on Call of Duty Mobile, refueling satellites, Space Force is sending its first member into space, asbestos and cancer-linked toxins reported in Air Force nuclear bases for years, and the Navy waives requirement for high school diploma or GED.

Today we talk about getting the new USID card for retirees, Japan’s upside-down moon landing, NASA reveals the new X-59 'quiet' supersonic jet, and an astrophysicist counters climate change claims.

Today we talk about how Space Force Guardians can now choose to work part time under new policy change, a video shows massive wave crashing into US Army Base in Marshall Islands, how a misplaced flashlight got sucked into an F-35 engine causing $4 million in damage, and we recount Audie Murphy's Medal of Honor action in January 1945.

Today we talk about SpaceX success and failures, Miss Colorado makes history as first active service member to be crowned Miss America, China's record-breaking Gravity-1 rocket, a DOD audit finds that More than $1B in US military aid to Ukraine not properly tracked by the Pentagon, the first Army NCOs get automatic promotions for completing recruiting school, and the US military academies focus on oaths and loyalty to Constitution.

Today we talk about Pentagon agencies team up in upcoming launch of hypersonic tracking satellites, a US Company Says Its Moon Landing attempt is in jeopardy, Miss America field features Air Force officer who champions cancer research, and we have a new segment called “Midshift Conversations” where we talk the CFB National Championship.

Today we review the upcoming domestic space launches for January, we react to the livestream of the SpaceX Falcon 9 launch from Vandenberg SFB, CA and we play the Military Auction Game.

Today’s episode is a yearly compilation of 2023!

My guest today is former Navy Petty Officer, 2nd Class Steven Leapley. Steven grew up in the midwest and went to high school in St. Charles, IL. After graduating, he joined the Navy and went to Great Lakes Naval Training Center in 1991. He became a Corpsman and attended A School at Great Lakes. His first assignment was to the Medical Center at Great Lakes. His next assignments were to Guam, Mare Island in California, and then to San Diego. He left the military on September 4th, 2001. Steven currently owns and operates Leapley Enterprises LLC where his specialty is ghostwriting.
He can be found at the links below:
https://leapleyenterprises.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenleapley/

S3E17 Air Force Lt Col Owen Freeland
My guest today is Air Force Lt Col Owen Freeland. He attended high school in Biloxi, MS and joined the Air Force in 1997 as a Precision Measurement Equipment Laboratory or PMEL Airman. His first assignment was to Mountain Home AFB, ID in 1998. In 2000, he cross-trained to communications, got married, went to tech school at Keesler AFB, MS and was then assigned to Peterson AFB, CO. In 2003, he put a package in for Officer Candidate School (OCS) and was commissioned as a 33S Communications Officer. After attending OCS at Maxwell AFB, AL and Basic Comm Officer training back at Keesler, he was assigned to Offutt AFB, NE. In 2008, he was deployed to Al Udeid and was promoted to Captain after his return. He was next assigned to USAFCENT at Shaw AFB, SC. In 2012, he deployed to Afghanistan for a year. After returning in 2013, he was assigned to Ft. Meade, MD. There he was promoted to Major and was selected to attend Command and General Staff College at Ft. Leavenworth in 2016. In 2017, he was selected to command a Cyber Detachment at Ft. Meade. After command he was assigned to CYBERCOM Staff. He was promoted to Lt Col in 2019 and was assigned to USSPACECOM at Peterson SFB in 2022. LtCol Freeland is set to retire in 2024.

Today we talk to former Navy PO2 and owner of Leapley Enterprises LLC, Steven Leapley. We also discuss the newly passed NDAA and George Washington sets up winter quarters at Valley Forge on 19 Dec 1777.
You can find Steven on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenleapley/ ) and at Leapley Enterprises LLC (https://leapleyenterprises.com/)

Today we talk to veteran Marine and stand-up comedian Mel Austin, the Air Force disciplines 15 airmen in investigation of accused leaker Jack Teixeira, the Air Force to start tracking why recruits back-out before joining up, the VA hired 1800 health care workers with felony drug convictions, and Charles E. Yeager's Mach 2.44 flight on December 12, 1953.
Mel Austin’s Laughing 2 Success Entertainment: https://laugh2success.com

Today we talk about Flight 19 that disappeared over the Bermuda Triangle on Dec 5, 1945, South Korea launches its first spy satellite after North Korea does the same, extremism stand-down checked a box with no lasting result, how day drinking went undetected at one of America's top military bases, and we review our guests from 2023.

Late For Changeover 11.29.2023
Today we talk about USS Enterprise delivers aircraft to Wake Island, Space Force is going to track “abnormal” objects in outer space, these 2023 USO troops of the year saved injured civilians with tourniquets, the Pentagon fails audit for sixth year in a row, the Marine Corps abandons physical training uniform redesign after 3 years, and we listen to the best outtakes of 2023.

Today we talk about Operation Ivory Coast on 21 Nov 1970, SpaceX Starship’s second uncrewed launch ends in explosion, how to make Air Force Bases safer and Security Forces happier, Army sent letters to soldiers separated for vaccine refusal, a stolen National Guard humvee found after a long chase, and we play the Late For Changeover Rotten Tomatoes Game.

This is part 4 of my interview with General Petty. We discuss his time as a NATO Commander in Bosnia. In 2015, he was moved to his next assignment at the National Guard Bureau in Arlington, VA as Special Assistant to the Director. After only a year at the National Guard Bureau, he took an assignment at the Pentagon as the Deputy Director of Operations for the DAMO-OD (Dept of the Army Management Office-Operations and Contingency Plans Division) on the Regular Army Staff. His next assignment was to USNorthcom at Peterson AFB, CO as the Deputy Director of Operations. General Petty retired in 2018.

Today we talk about the battle of Ia Drang valley on 14 Nov 1965, troops and veterans don’t like “Thank You For Your Service”, US military gives Lockheed Martin $33.7 million to develop nuclear spacecraft, Space Force’s secretive X-37B space plane is going back in orbit, the B-21 Raider’s historic first flight, and the VA rolls out free healthcare for World War II veterans.

Today we talk about Adm Ken Mattingly dies at 87, prank stories, Air Force gives Lockheed $1B for new ICMB RV, SOCOM’s potential new firearm, LtCol hits 10,000 flying hours, and the Army apologizes for last-minute recruiting orders.

Today we talk about the explosion aboard the USS Westchester County in November 1968, a new Space Force painting offers a glimpse of space warfare, testing of Air Force all-electric plane, Air Force and Space Force raise max age for active-duty recruits, National Guard hasn't paid out thousands of enlistment bonuses, Guard and Reserve troops get fewer disability claims approved, and we play the military movie showdown game.

Today we talk about the 40th anniversary of the Beirut bombing that killed 241 US troops, Space Force finalizes plan for commercial surge capacity during crisis, SpaceX launches 23 Starlink satellites in one day, the Air Force’s only active tugboat, the “Space Spa” restroom for balloon tourist flights, and a Marine mom is running 100 100-mile runs.

Today we talk about the Space Force’s first Space Ranger, the USSF’s exercise Black Skies 23-3, the VA’s National Buddy Check Week, Marine Commandant wants all Marines to do a tour in the Indo-Pacific, Nearly 70% of active service members are overweight, and a dating app user sends comically fake deployment orders.

Today we talk about LTC Custer’s internment at West Point, our most memorable logbook entries, Space Force takes over JTAGS mission from the Army, Space Force awards contract to SpaceX for Starshield, Defender Challenge and Defender Flag 2023, Army announces new recruiting military occupational specialty 42T, and the guys take an astronaut quiz.

Defender Challenge/Defender Flag: https://www.afimsc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3552246/defenders-to-hone-skills-at-combat-readiness-events/

Facebook page for Defender Challenge: www.facebook.com/AFDefenders

Today we talk about Operation Gothic Serpent in 1993, the SECAF authorizes Space Force Good Conduct Medal, Space Force kicks off final phase of uniform testing, NASA's Frank Rubio sets US space record, Ukraine says it has a massive database to track every weapon the US has sent to Kyiv, top VA executives were mistakenly paid $9.7M in bonuses, and raising an Army for large scale conflict.

Space Force uniforms: https://www.cbr.com/united-states-space-force-uniforms-reveal-reactions-negative/

Nasa’s Frank Rubio: https://apnews.com/article/nasa-astronaut-space-station-c3a0f36bb3b44d038f9fc0af99425c16

Today we talk about the Meuse-Argonne Offensive in 1918, the Space Force looks to accelerate launches, America’s new approach to air warfare, the insane plan to turn C-130s into ‘glass cannons’, the Air Force Revamps ‘Zero Week’ at BMT, and the Buckley SFB idling policy for Government vehicles.
Rapid Dragon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WZLDDpIzGvg&t=55s

Today we talk about the 76th Birthday of the U.S. Air Force, the Pentagon plans to produce 100,000 artillery shells a month in 2025, US weapons headed to Ukraine at risk of theft from lax security, a German goes on drunken joyride in stolen Humvee, and we play another round of “Guess the branch-business edition”.

This is part 3 of my interview with General Petty. He starts off by describing what is what like returning with his battalion from deployment to Iraq in Aug 2007. Then he left command to become the Branch Chief of Standards and Training for the COARNG. Later, he was promoted to full Colonel and took command of the 89th Troop BDE. After command, he became the Chief of Staff for COARNG. As he was preparing to retire, he received a call hat he was selected for Brigadier General. He was promoted in 2014 and sent to Sarajevo, Bosnia as a NATO Commander.

Today we talk about President Bush’s press release on 12 Sep 2001, 4,500 3rd Infantry Division soldiers deploying to Eastern Europe, US moves troops and equipment within Niger as ‘precautionary measure’, and the Navy Department begins process to reconsider 3,770 medical discharges for retirement upgrades.
Department of Navy Reconsider 3,770 Medical Discharges for Retirement Upgrades: https://www.military.com/daily-news/2023/09/07/more-3700-medically-discharged-sailors-and-marines-eligible-reevaluation-retirement.html

Today we talk about Little Willie-the first British tank in 1915, Chinese Nationals posing as tourists have accessed US Military Bases, 3M settles its combat earplug lawsuit for $6 billion, 4 foot 7 inch Marine completes boot camp, Marines eating crayons, Coast Guard arrest Florida man trying to travel to London by crossing Atlantic Ocean in hamster wheel. “Drinking Crayons” beer: https://www.marinecorpstimes.com/off-duty/military-culture/2023/08/30/cheers-marines-theres-a-craft-crayon-beer/ Marines coloring book: https://www.military.com/off-duty/books/2023/09/05/green-weenie-can-be-whatever-color-you-want-new-terminal-lance-coloring-book.html Florida man “hamster wheel”: https://www.fox35orlando.com/news/florida-man-tried-to-get-to-london-by-crossing-atlantic-ocean-in-hamster-wheel-coast-guard 4 foot 7 inch Marine completes boot camp: https://www.stripes.com/branches/marine_corps/2023-09-06/shortest-marine-boot-camp-11280787.html National Museum of military vehicles: https://www.nmmv.org/ The world’s first tank, Little Willie: https://tankmuseum.org/tank-nuts/tank-collection/little-willie

The gang discusses the Soviet Union’s first atomic bomb in 1949, how the Coast Guard rescued 4 lost divers, the Air Force Academy defends ‘Doolittle’ football uniform from online critics, test pilot-turned-tennis champ Vic Seixas is turning 100, and we play another round of “Guess the branch” game-athlete edition. Coast Guard rescues 4 divers: https://taskandpurpose.com/news/navy-coast-guard-rescue-divers/ USAFA alternate football uniform: https://goairforcefalcons.com/galleries/football/apls-doolittle-raiders/apls/1757/145195 Vic Seixas turns 100: https://www.stripes.com/veterans/2023-08-28/vic-seixas-ww2-wimbledon-champion-11188329.html

Army SGM (Ret) Ken Ramos joins the gang and we discuss news stories about the Korean Tree Incident in 1976, a paratrooper is awarded the Soldier’s Medal, a Chief Warrant Officer 5 also awarded the Soldier’s Medal, Defense Media Activity names Stars and Stripes journalist its NCO of 2022, a military report says female soldiers in Army special operations face rampant sexism and harassment, and 3 legendary leaders who made America's special operations units into the elite forces they are today. 1LT Joseph Guerra awarded the Soldier’s Medal: https://www.armytimes.com/news/your-army/2023/08/14/how-a-paratroopers-combat-medic-training-saved-lives-during-shooting/ Chief Warrant Officer 5 Nigel P. Huebscher awarded the Soldier’s Medal: https://taskandpurpose.com/news/army-chief-warrant-officer-5-soldiers-medal-fire/

Discussing news stories about Operation Dragoon in 1944, Coast Guard rescues 14 people from ocean after fleeing Maui wildfires, a Sikh graduates Marine Corps Boot Camp with beard and turban, a new study links forever chemicals to testicular cancer in troops, and a new bill designates Air Force space operators as “legacy guardians.” Sikh Graduates Marine Corps Boot Camp with Beard, Turban: https://www.military.com/daily-news/2023/08/11/after-legal-battles-sikh-graduates-marine-corps-boot-camp-beard-turban.html Study links ‘forever chemicals’ to testicular cancer in US troops: https://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/your-military/2023/08/14/study-links-forever-chemicals-to-testicular-cancer-in-us-troops/

Discussing news stories about the U.S. drops second atomic bomb on Nagasaki on 9 Aug 1945, the Navy makes promotion to E-4 automatic, President Biden keeps Space Command in Colorado, the Marine’s have a new drone truck, Lockheed makes bank restocking the Pentagon, 3 pieces of special operations gear that give troops “super powers”, and an Air Force spouse pours bleach in husband’s coffee. Magnetic climbing system: https://www.sandboxx.us/news/special-ops/3-pieces-of-special-operations-gear-that-give-soldiers-super-powers/

This is Part 2 of my interview with Army Brigadier General (Ret) Chris Petty. After leaving the Active Duty Army in 1991, Gen Petty joined the Colorado Army National Guard and took command of C Company, 1/131st Aviation Regiment in Eagle, CO. That unit ran the High Altitude Aviation Training Site or HAATS. In 1994, he moved to Buckley Air National Guard Base and assumed command of A Company, 2/135th Aviation Battalion. After getting promoted to Major in 1996, he became the Battalion Assistant S3. After 18 months, he was reassigned to become the Deputy Commander of the Colorado Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) Response Team, which was later renamed to the Civil Support Team (CST). After two years, he left to go back to the Guard and took over as the 2/135th Battalion S3. His next assignment was as the Headquarters Commandant of the Joint Force Headquarters of Colorado. Later, he assumed command of 2nd Battalion, 135th Aviation Regiment and in 2006, he led the Battalion’s deployment to Balad, Iraq, supporting Joint Special Operations Command.

Discussing news stories about Pres. Truman signs the National Security Act in 1947, Air Force officer saves swimmer from rip tide, The Navy is developing an “Iron Man” dive suit, Air Force summer moves back on track, Tony Bennett, passed away on July 21 at age 96, and we play the guess their branch game: musician version. DSEND diving suit: https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2023/07/10/the-navy-is-working-on-a-transformational-iron-man-dive-suit/

Discussing news stories about Operation Plum Bob in 1957, a Schofield soldier earns the Soldier’s Medal, four PJs water jump to save a Costa Rican, a soldier sprints across the DMZ, and we play the military auction game.

Pararescue jump: https://taskandpurpose.com/news/pararescue-pjs-costa-rica-rescue/

My guest today is Army Brigadier General (Ret) Chris Petty. He attended Heritage High School in Littleton, CO and graduated in 1983. He earned an appointment to the United States Military Academy (West Point). In 1986, he attended and successfully completed Ranger school. He graduated USMA in 1987 and received a commission as a 2LT in Aviation. He attended Officer Basic Course at Ft. Rucker, AL, and, in 1988 was assigned to the National Training Center at Ft. Irwin, CA. Gen Petty left active duty in 1991 and joined the Colorado Army National Guard.

Discussing news stories about US forces entering Canada during the War of 1812, four generations of submariners, Supreme Court to hear case about VA education benefits, The California National Guard is missing a Humvee, 'Rocky Top' Singer Bobby Osborne Was Shot in the Head in Korea, and we play guess the celebrity’s branch of service. Tank rampage: https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/lifestyle/people/sdut-tank-rampage-story-symbol-2015may16-htmlstory.html

Discussing news stories about Thomas Hickey hanged for plot against George Washington, Congress' dueling ideas for the Army fitness test, Army National Guard can't retain enough soldiers, flame-throwing robot dogs, The New Yorker makes a joke of the Army’s tactical bra, and we choose the winner of the All Military handgun.

Flamethrower robot dog: https://taskandpurpose.com/tech-tactics/robot-dog-flamethrower-thermonator/ Robot dog with a rocket launcher: https://taskandpurpose.com/news/robot-dog-rocket-launcher/ Drone airdropping an armed robot dog: https://taskandpurpose.com/tech-tactics/robot-dog-machine-gun-drone-airdrop-kestrel-defense-video/

Discussing news stories about the 1944 Battle of the Philippine Sea, the 10 most intense battles in US history, military support to the lost Titanic submersible, and the All Military handgun selection.

Discussing news stories about the US Court of Claims settles with the Sioux Nation in 1979, “Join the military, become a US Citizen”, the Army’s new M10 Booker, the Marine Corps’ Ultra Light Tactical Vehicle (ULTV), the Marines want Tomahawks, the Army suspends horse-drawn funerals at Arlington, and balcony trouble in Okinawa. The M10 Booker: https://www.stripes.com/branches/army/2023-06-10/army-combat-vehicle-m10-booker-10387122.html

The Marines’ ULTV: https://taskandpurpose.com/tech-tactics/marine-corps-ultra-light-tactical-vehicle-fielding/

My guest today is Army MAJ (Ret) Annette Whittenberger. Annette grew up in Simi Valley, CA, and graduated from La Reina High School in 1994. After attending Community College for a year, she attended Arizona State University and joined their R.O.T.C. program. In 1999, she graduated with a BA in Psychology and was commissioned as a 2LT in the Chemical Corps. She attended Officer Basic Course at Ft. Leonard Wood, MO. Her first assignment was to the 16th Corps Support Group in Hanau, Germany as the BDE Chemical Officer. In 2003, she returned to Ft. Leonard Wood for the Officer Advanced Course. After being promoted to Captain, she was assigned to the 4th Infantry Division at Ft. Hood, TX. She took command of Headquarters Headquarters Battalion (HHBN) and, in 2005, deployed to Camp Liberty, Iraq for 12 months. After returning to Ft. Hood, she again deployed in 2008 to Afghanistan as part of Task Force Duke. In 2010, after being promoted to Major, she was selected for in-residence Command and General Staff College at Ft. Leavenworth, KS. In 2011, she was assigned to Ft. Bliss, TX, as the 1st ID, Division Assistantt CHEMO, and eventually a Battalion XO. In 2014, she was assigned to JRTC G3 at Ft. Polk, LA. Annette retired from the Army on Nov 1st, 2016.

Annette currently runs “A Wild Ride Called Life, LLC” (https://www.awildridecalledlife.com/). She has written a book entitled, “The Wall Between Two Lives”, and has recently become an independent music artist (https://www.theannwhittmusic.com/home-page?fbclid=IwAR3ZPIiWD3GQAhHso6ZP8gYmV3WVAXVVsl9ubLlyGNuzCqZOn39WbSVMj6M#contact)

Discussing news stories about the 79th anniversary of D-Day, unsolicited D-18 watches, VA can’t find $3.5B, Air Force aviators get a bonus, and Japan/South Korea police arrest service members for vandalism.

In honor of Memorial Day, I present an excerpt of my interview with Air Force SSgt (Ret) John “Andy” Anderson. Andy grew up in Belford, New Jersey and joined the Army in 1947 at 17 years old. He attended Basic training at Lackland AFB, TX, followed by his first assignment at Ft. Lewis, WA. He went TDY (temporary duty) to Howard AFB, Panama, before being reassigned to Ft. Slocum, NY. There he was given the chance to cross-over into the newly formed Air Force. Afterwards, he was sent to Lowry AFB, CO where he married his wife of 60 years. In 1952, he was assigned to March AFB, CA as part of Strategic Air Command (SAC). Two years later, he was assigned to Guam. After that he went to Lincoln, NE, Taiwan and then retired in 1967 out of Holloman AFB, NM.

After retiring from the military, he became a Deputy Sheriff for Arapahoe County, CO. Later, Andy joined the Post Office and returned to the work he did in the military. He retired from the Post Office in 1988.

In honor of Memorial Day, I present an excerpt from the interview with former Army SGT Joe Guagno (1947-2022). Joe was born in 1947. He attended Most Holy Trinity High School in Brooklyn, NY. In 1964, he swore in to the Army at just 17 years old, and his MOS was 11B Infantry. He did his basic training and AIT at Ft. Gordon, GA. His first assignment, was to Ft.Wainwright, AK as part of the 4th BN, 9th ID. Later in the year, his unit was transferred to Hawaii and became part of the 25th ID. After jungle training at Schofield barracks, he was sent to Vietnam in 1966. Joe became a “tunnel rat” and instructor on the M-60 machine gun. He was wounded towards the end of his tour, but successfully completed his 12 months of wartime service. After being flown back to the States, SGT Guagno exited the military in 1968. He earned a Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and Combat Infantryman’s badge.

Today my guest is Former Army SPC, and Current Firefighter Captain, Roy Gagne. Roy grew up in Southbury, CT and graduated from Pomperaug High School in 1995. In 1996, he joined the Connecticut Army National Guard and went to Basic Training at Ft. Leonard Wood, MO. His MOS was a 91B Medic and he attended AIT at Ft. Sam Houston, TX. His first assignment was to HHC 1/102nd Infantry in New Haven, CT. Roy left the Army as a SPC in 2002. That same year, he was hired as a firefighter with the Norwalk, CT Fire Department. Roy remained with the Norwalk Fire Department where he currently works as a Captain.

My guest today is Former Army SSG , owner of Zenith Authentic Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and co-host of From The Ashes Podcast, Seth Rodenbaugh. Seth was born in Nebraska, moved to Colorado when he was 12 and eventually attended East High School in Denver. He had an interest in the military but it wasn’t until the attacks on 9/11 that he joined. He swore into the Army on September 12th, 2001. Seth attended Basic and AIT at Ft. Benning, GA as an 11B Infantry. His first assignment was to 2/35 Infantry at Schofield Barracks, HI, where he was later assigned to the Scout Sniper Section. In 2003, he went back to Ft. Benning to attend Sniper School. After completing Sniper and Airborne Schools, he deployed to Kandahar, Afghanistan in 2004. During that deployment, he was assigned to a Counter-IED Sniper Task Force. After returning to Schofield, he re-enlisted and was assigned to the 1/27 Infantry Wolfhounds. Seth left the military as a SSG in 2009.

Discussing news stories about cracking the Japanese code in WW II, SOCOM’s new “crop duster” support aircraft, the Air Force offers $1000/month to extend in Turkey, the Navy offers incentive pay for sea tours, the Army starts no-penalty purge of ‘ineffective’ recruiters, and we choose our All Military Aircraft Carrier.

The Sky Warden: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-fxnpaVj7JY

Today, my guest is former Army PFC Nate Haseleu. Nate grew up in Fargo, ND and attended Fargo South High School. In 2000, Nate swore in to the Army with an MOS of 13B-Artillery. He attended One Station Unit Training (which is both Basic and AIT) at Ft. Sill, OK. His first assignment was to the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Field Artillery in Giessen, Germany. In May 2003, he deployed to Baghdad, Iraq. He returned to Germany in 2004 and left the Army in 2007.

Discussing news stories about the capture of Hermann Goering, the A-10 can now cary bombs, the IVAS delayed for two years, Airmen to fly electric air taxis, the Navy announces “bill of rights” for sailors in barracks, the Marine Corps restarts breathalyzer tests, and the winner of the “All Military” Marine General.

My guest today is former Canadian Army Lieutenant, host of the Hard2Kill Podcast, and host of the Dave Morrow PT channel on YouTube, Dave Morrow. Dave was born and raised in Montreal, Canada. He graduated High School in 1999. Shortly after that, he joined the Canadian Army. He completed recruit training in 2001 and was assigned to the Canadian Grenadier Guards, a reserve infantry unit in Montreal. He deployed in 2010 to Kandahar, Afghanistan with the Royal 22nd Regiment also known as the Van Doos. He deployed as part of an Influence Activities (IA) unit, working in the Civilian-Military Cooperation or CIMIC section. Dave later received a commission and became an officer. He left the military as a Lieutenant in 2016.

Discussing news stories about Osama Bin Laden killed on 2 May 2011, Gulf War illness study, veterans of nuclear test site seek compensation, Army National Guard team wins this year’s International Sniper Competition, and the All Military Team discusses Marine Generals.

2023 International Sniper Competition: https://taskandpurpose.com/news/international-sniper-competition-2023-army-national-guard/

Today my guest is Retired Boise Police Department Corporal, John Mathis. John retired from the Air Force in 1998. He moved from Offutt AFB, NE to Boise, ID where he took a position on the State Parole Board. He left that job in 1999 when he was hired on to the Boise Police Department. John attended the State Police Academy and then the Boise Advanced Academy, before becoming a patrolman for the city. He remained a patrolman for the next 19 years and talks about his experiences and what life was like being on the police force. John retired from the Boise Police Department in 2018.

Discussing news stories about Operation Sandblast, Special Forces evac embassy in Sudan, a Senator says there are too many Generals and Admirals, the USS Nimitz reaches a major milestone, the 75th Ranger Regiment wins Best Ranger Competition, and the B-17 wins the All Military propeller bomber.

2023 Best Ranger Competition: http://www.bestrangercompetition.com/event-schedule#

Today my guest is Army SFC (Ret) Rob Williams. Rob attended Nonnewaug High School in Woodbury, CT. He enlisted in the Army as a medic and went to Basic training at Ft. Leonard Wood, MO in 1994. His first assignment was to the 1/102nd HHC Infantry with the Connecticut National Guard. Rob completed Paramedic school in 1997 and joined the active Army in 1999. He was assigned to 1/35 Armor in Baumholder, Germany, and deployed to Kosovo in 1999. His next assignment was to the 571st MEDEVAC at Ft. Carson, CO, and in 2003, he was deployed to Iraq. He was next assigned to the 5th Armored Training Brigade at Ft. Bliss, TX in 2005. Following that was an assignment to the Brigade Combat Trauma Team at Ft. Sam Houston, TX in 2007. After assignments to JSOC in Washington, D.C. and Recruiting Command in Denver, CO, Rob finally retired in 2020.

Discussing news stories about the 81st anniversary of the Doolittle raid, Thule Air Base is now Pituffik Space Base, a congressional bill to raise the military’s minimum wage, a sailor’s killer to be disinterred from Arlington, and we select the All Military propeller bomber.

Discussing news stories about the first U.S. submarine, researchers want to prevent injuries in soldiers before they happen, Marine trio honored for foiling stabbing at a Virginia Chick-fil-A, the Air Force vs. Army knowledge quiz, and the selection of the “All Military” machine gun. Rob Williams and Seth Rodenbaugh with “From the Ashes Radio” and “About Face Media” are guests on the show.

About Face Radio: https://live365.com/station/About-Face-Radio-a59615

From The Ashes Radio: https://www.facebook.com/fromtheashesradio/

Seth Rodenbaugh’s Jiu Jitsu academy: https://authenticbjjzenith.com/

Discussing news stories about the assassination of Martin Luther King, the Green Berets test a prototype glider, the Army holds it’s Small Arms Championships in March, fatter recruits now welcome in the Air Force, and we select the All Military Animal.

Silent Arrow GD-2000: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PDf4Fi20CZI

U.S. Army Small Arms Championships: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iY840H-Anbc

Discussing news stories about the final troop withdrawal from Vietnam in 1973, the Army pulls “Be All You Can Be” commercials after Jonathan Majors’ arrest, the U.S. could carry out its first military execution in over 60 years, the Army Finds Mold in 2,100 buildings, and the Army awards a ribbon for “Refer a Friend” program. We also select the All Military Dog.

Discussing news stories about the start of the Iraq war 20 years ago, the US military plans to start making its own jet fuel, higher cancer rates found in military pilots and ground crews, female Air Force pilots can now pee in-flight.

Today my guest is Air Force MSgt (Ret) Ivan “Tron” Thomas. Tron grew up in Wagener, SC. He graduated from Wagener Salley High School in 1992. He then joined the Air Force and went to Basic training in 1994 as a 1C6 Space Operator. He attended technical school at Vandenberg AFB, CA. His first assignment was to the CONUS Ground Station (CGS) at Buckley AFB, CO in 1994. His next assignments include Cavalier Air Force Station, ND in 2001; Buckley AFB in 2003; Thule, Greenland in 2005; back to Buckley AFB in 2006; and Offutt AFB, NE in 2011. He retired in 2015.

Today my guest is Air Force MSgt (Ret) John Mathis. John grew up in Nebraska and graduated from high school in Millard, NE. He enlisted in the Air Force at 17 and went off to Basic training in 1977 with a guaranteed job in the Security Police. His technical school was at Lackland AFB and Camp Bullis, TX. His first assignment was to Elsworth AFB, SD in 1978. He was subsequently assigned to Kadena AFB, Okinawa in 1979, Offutt AFB, NE in 1980, RAF Greenham Common, England in 1982, Lowry AFB, CO in 1985 and Clark AFB, Philippines in 1989. It was at Clark that John experienced a coup attempt, earthquake, and the Mt. Pinatubo eruption. He returned to Offutt AFB in 1992 where he later retired as a MSgt in 1998.

Discussing news stories about the FBI’s 10 most wanted list in 1954, robot dogs in the military, new conditions to name your tank, and the Air Force top enlisted advisor says beards don’t belong in the military.

Army LTC (Ret) Rob Smith guest hosts.

Robot dogs: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qb8XHB44nXA

Robot dog with machine gun: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-bgad3HRb64

Tank names: https://taskandpurpose.com/culture/tank-names/

Discussing news stories about the FBI’s 10 most wanted list in 1954, robot dogs in the military, new conditions to name your tank, and the Air Force top enlisted advisor says beards don’t belong in the military.

Army LTC (Ret) Rob Smith guest hosts.

Robot dogs: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qb8XHB44nXA

Robot dog with machine gun: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-bgad3HRb64

Tank names: https://taskandpurpose.com/culture/tank-names/

Discussing news stories about the Merrimac and Monitor battle, USAF and Spaceforce to allow neck and hand tats, Army’s new ad campaign brings back “Be all you can be”, and the “All Military” selection of Air Force Generals.

The new “be all you can be” ad: https://www.military.com/daily-news/2023/03/06/armys-new-ad-campaign-brings-back-be-all-you-can-be-it-courts-gen-z.html

1980s “Be all that you can be” ad: https://www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-1-d&tbm=vid&q=the+old+be+all+that+you+can+be+ad&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwj1rvu2hsj9AhUTBzQIHY52AOgQ8ccDegQIDBAH&biw=1377&bih=790&dpr=2#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:98e12eef,vid:ms9pxvEbILs

Today my guest is former Air Force Technical Sergeant, Justin Rutherford. Justin grew up in Omaha, NE but moved to Rhode Island for his senior year in high school. He graduated in 2002, and enlisted in the Air Force. He went to Basic training in 2003 with an Avionics specialty. He attended tech school first to Keesler AFB, MS, then to Sheppard AFB, TX. His first assignment was to McGuire AFB, NJ. In 2004, Justin deployed to UAE for 6 months. In 2007, he re-trained to 1C6 Space Operator and was sent to Vandenberg AFB, CA for tech school. He was then assigned to the 11th Space Warning Squadron at Schriever AFB, CO. After a short assignment with the Space Aggressor Squadron, he was assigned back to Vandenberg AFB to be an instructor. Justin exited the air Force in 2014.

Discussing news stories about the 40th anniversary of the finale of MAS*H, USAF AI pilot flies real F-16, U.S. tanks might not reach Ukraine this year, and why the Army can’t get in shape.

Discussing news stories about when President Hayes forbid alcohol on military posts in 1881, the Navy lifts COVID-19 vaccine requirement for deployments, the Navy removes failed fitness tests from records, old AFN commercials, and Dos Gringos plays the song “AFN”.

AFN commercials: https://www.wearethemighty.com/mighty-movies/top-american-forces-network-commercials-no-one-wanted-watch/

Dos Gringos: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=bWwQNU3OD2E

Discussing news stories about the USS Maine 1898 explosion, the JLTV versus the HMMWV, and the duties of a JTAC. Also, we get to hear near-death stories from MSgt (Ret) Ron Denmon.

Discussing news stories about Operation Rolling Thunder, the Coast Guard saves a huge Goonies fan who had stolen a yacht, all your burning questions about the Chinese spy balloon, and the military rifle entry to the “All Military Team” selection.

My guest today is retired Air Force Master Sergeant, Shannon Singleton. Shannon grew up in Scarbro, WV and graduated from Oak Hill High School in 1997. He joined the Air Force on a delayed enlistment and went to Basic Training in February 1998. His AFSC was 1N0 Operations Intelligence and he attended tech school at Goodfellow AFB, San Angelo, TX. His first assignment was to Schriever AFB, CO with the 11th Space Warning Squadron. His next assignments included Scott AFB, IL, Osan, Korea, and Wright-Patterson AFB, OH. In 2009, he deployed to Kabul, Afghanistan. He returned with an assignment to Washington D.C., followed by his last assignment to Barksdale AFB, LA. Shannon retired in 2019.

Discussing news stories about the 37th anniversary of the Challenger disaster, a jet fuel scented candle, another drone strike using the “ninja bomb”, Navy Captain Royce Williams and his classified Korean dogfight, and the U.S. fighter jet entry to the “All Military” Team selection.

Jet fuel scented candle: https://www.billingtonfarms.com/products/jet-fuel-scented-candle-pilot-gift-scented-jet-fuel-candle

AGM-114 R9X Hellfire missile: https://taskandpurpose.com/tech-tactics/hellfire-r9x-missile-ninja-bomb-yemen/

Combat stats for all jets in use: https://migflug.com/jetflights/the-combat-statistics-for-all-the-aircraft-currently-in-use/

A Q&A session with special guest Air Force TSgt (Ret) Kevin Balcom as well as discussing news stories about US special operators to test an X-wing-like loitering munition, and the US Tank entry to the “All Military” Team selection.

Link to the “ROC X”: https://taskandpurpose.com/tech-tactics/us-special-operations-loitering-munition-point-blank/

The M4 Sherman: https://www.nationalww2museum.org/visit/museum-campus/us-freedom-pavilion/vehicles-war/m4-sherman-tank

The M-60 MBT: http://www.military-today.com/tanks/m60_patton.htm

The M1 Abrams MBT: https://asc.army.mil/web/portfolio-item/abrams-main-battle-tank/

Discussing news stories about Captain Jack and the Modocs in 1873, the Navy uses Saildrones, blast exposure history may become part of medical records, and the inaugural “All Military” Team selection.

My guest today is former Army SGT Mike Appleby. Mike grew up in Cedar Rapids, IA. He graduated from Washington High School in 1963, and then attended the University of Iowa, graduating with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration in 1967. Upon his graduation, he was drafted by the Army, and was sworn in at Camp Dodge, Des Moines, IA in Sep 1967. His basic training was at Ft. Lewis, WA where he received an MOS of 11B. After attending AIT at Ft. Ord, CA, Mike was sent to Ft. Campbell, KY to be trained as an armored vehicle driver in may 1968. His first assignment was to Camp Casey, 7th Infantry Div, Korea, where his MOS was changed to 11L, Army Education Specialist. After a successful tour in Korea, Mike was discharged from the Army in April 1969.

Discussing news stories about Congress voting to take action in Kuwait, the A-10 Warthog’s new mission, the F-15EX, and the Air Force’s replacement for the tape test.

Hello and welcome to The Swearing In Podcast, I am your host Marty Smith. Today is a special episode of the Podcast. Yesterday, on January 10th 2023, we lost a brother in service. Air Force Staff Sergeant (Ret) John Anderson passed away at the age of 92. In his honor, I am re-posting his interview from December 2021. Thank you, John, for your service to our country, and may God bless you and your family!

Today, my guest is U.S. Air Force SSgt (Ret) John “Andy” Anderson. Andy grew up in Belford, New Jersey and joined the Army in 1947 at 17 years old. He attended Basic training at Lackland AFB, TX, followed by his first assignment at Ft. Lewis, WA. He went TDY (temporary duty) to Howard AFB, Panama, before being reassigned to Ft. Slocum, NY. There he was given the chance to cross-over into the newly formed Air Force. Afterwards, he was sent to Lowry AFB, CO where he married his wife of 60 years. In 1952, he was assigned to March AFB, CA as part of Strategic Air Command (SAC). Two years later, he was assigned to Guam. After that he went to Lincoln, NE, Taiwan and then retired in 1967 out of Holloman AFB, NM.

After retiring from the military, he became a Deputy Sheriff for Arapahoe County, CO. Later, Andy joined the Post Office and returned to the work he did in the military. He retired from the Post Office in 1988.

Discussing news stories about the creation of the SEALs, launching cruise missiles from C-130s, the first female Abrams Tank Master Gunner, new parents get 12 weeks of parental leave, and the Navy’s Marine Mammal Program.

A short compilation of entertaining service headlines of 2022.

Discussing news stories about Congress approving the 5 star rank in 1944, the new Command Sergeant Major of the Army, the Navy announces the USS Fallujah, the Army’s new Mobile Protective Firepower vehicles, and blind and disabled veterans can’t access VA websites.

Discussing news stories about Hitler’s “Night and Fog” decree, blood delivery by drones, the Army chooses its new helicopter, the Air Force ends BEAST week, and the Marines allow ponytails.The V-280 valor: https://www.bellflight.com/products/bell-v-280Sikorsky-Boeing Defiant X: https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-us/products/flraa-defiant-x.html

Discussing news stories about JFK’s assassination, the Navy begins major revamp of promotions, the AT-802U Sky Warden, and former combat vet Richard Fierro saving lives at the Colorado Springs nightclub shooting.

Sky Warden Link: https://www.defensenews.com/air/2022/08/01/us-special-operations-command-chooses-l3harris-sky-warden-for-armed-overwatch-effort/

Discussing news stories about the history of Veteran’s Day, the number of Veterans running for office, the Army launches JPMRC, the Wall of Faces Project, Sylvester Stallone Says 'First Blood' Producers Wanted to Cut Rambo's Iconic Speech, and a Marine re-enlists at a Raising Canes.

My guest today is retired Air Force Technical Sergeant, Kevin Balcom. Kevin graduated from Mona Shores High School in Michigan in 1997. He swore in at the MEPS station in Lansing, MI and went to Basic Training in June 1998. His AFSCN was 1C6 Space Systems Operations. After Basic, he attended technical school at Vandenberg AFB, CA. His first assignment was to the 11th Space Warning Squadron at Peterson AFB, CO. When that unit shut down in 2002, Kevin was assigned to the 2nd Space Warning Squadron at Buckley AFB, CO. Later he served in assignments to Boulder, CO and Vandenberg AFB, CA. He retired in 2018.

Discussing news stories about the first hydrogen bomb, NFL head injuries vs. military head injuries, Pearl Harbor’s fuel tanks drained, and extremism among military veteran’s.

Today is a special episode of the Podcast. Yesterday, on Oct 28th, we lost a brother in service. Army SGT Joe Guagno, passed away in the hospital at 75 years old.

Joe was born in 1947. He attended Most Holy trinity High School in Brooklyn, NY. In 1964, he swore in to the Army at just 17 years old, and his MOS was 11B Infantry. He did his basic training and AIT at Ft. Gordon, GA. His first assignment, was to Ft.Wainwright, AK as part of the 4th BN, 9th ID. Later in the year, his unit was transferred to Hawaii and became part of the 25th ID. After jungle training at Schofield barracks, he was sent to Vietnam in 1966. Joe became a “tunnel rat” and instructor on the M-60 machine gun. He was wounded towards the end of his tour, but successfully completed his 12 months of wartime service. After being flown back to the States, SGT Guagno exited the military in 1968. He earned a Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and Combat Infantryman’s badge.

Discussing news stories about the first Kamikaze attacks on US Naval forces, the Army’s XM1211 HEP anti-drone round, a Marine study on boot camp injury, and Cher’s 1989 music video aboard the USS Missouri.

Discussing news stories about the Continental Army’s victory at Yorktown, the Army’s new Army Combat Fitness Test, and the Heritage Foundation rates the US Military as “weak”.

Discussing news stories about Benedict Arnold’s naval defeat, the renaming of 9 Army posts, the Army’s plans to field mixed reality goggles, the Air Force does away with bullet writing, and the Top 5 retention ideas for the military.

Today, my guest is Navy CDR (Ret) Lem Shepherd. Lem graduated high school in Newport, RI in 1972. He attended the University of California at San Diego (UCSD) where he graduated with a Psychology degree in 1976. After speaking with a Navy recruiter, he joined the service and in October 1976, he swore in. Lem attended Officer Candidate School (OCS) at Newport, RI followed by Surface Warfare Officer (SWO) school at San Diego, CA. His first assignment was aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ranger. His next ship was the oil tanker USNS Kawishiwi. An assignment to Yokosuka, Japan followed by shore duty back at San Diego. In 1986, he left the active Navy and joined the Naval Reserves. After several different Reserve assignments, he deployed to Kuwait in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). He retired from the Navy in 2004.

Discussing news stories about the USS Ranger sinking 5 German ships in 1943, plant-based MREs, the Coast Guard suspends high-year tenure discharges, the Air Force grounds the C-130H, the Biden administration defends 20,000 military discharges for not taking the COVID vaccine, and a Marine sets a Guiness World Record for number of burpees in 1 minute.

Discussing news stories about SF Camp A-109 in Vietnam is attacked, Florida military prep for Hurricane Ian, Hawaii Coast Guard spots Chinese and Russian ships, Army dumping money into the Commissaries to lower food costs, and the history of BCGs.

Today, my guest is Army retired LTC Rob Smith. Rob grew up in Philadelphia and graduated from Overbook High School in 1983. He joined the Army right after graduation and swore in at the Philly MEPS at just 17 years old. He went to Basic and AIT at Ft. Jackson, SC as a 71L Administrative Specialist. His first assignment was to Engineer School BDE in Ft. Belvoir, VA. That was followed by an assignment to Korea, and then back to Arlington Hall Station, VA. It was there that he was accepted into the Green to Gold program and attended Shippensberg University in Pennsylvania. Upon graduation, he was commissioned a 2LT in Armor. He attended Officer Basic Course at Ft. Knox, KY. Then he was assigned to the 4th Infantry Division at Ft. Carson, CO. After four years in Armor, he was branch detailed to Military Intelligence. He went to Officer Advanced Course at Ft. Huachuca, AZ where he was promoted to Captain. He later served as a Basic Training Company Commander, transferred to Acquisitions branch, deployed to Afghanistan in 2016, and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in 2017.

Discussing news stories about Black Sheep Squadron debuts on NBC, the 12 coolest jobs in the Marines, Air Force decides not to cut Special Duty Pay, the Army creates a new lifting suit, AI and robots on the battlefield, and the Space Force debuts its new branch song.

Today, my guest is former Air Force A1C Shelley Perez. Shelley grew up in Tampa, FL. Upon graduating high school in 1986, she went to work for GTE phone company. After a few years and wanting try something different, she joined the Air Force. In 1989, she swore in at the St. Petersburg MEPS station and went off to Basic training as an ADR Specialist. Her Tech school was at Lowry AFB, CO, and her first assignment was to Upper Heyford, England with the 55th Fighter Squadron. A1C Perez exited active duty in 1991.

Discussing news stories about Gen Winfield Scott raises the American Flag over Mexico in 1847, Marines SRT trains in multiple scenarios, poll of family members shows they wouldn’t recommend military service, information about the Together We Served website, and a Navy enlisted man saves 18 migrants.

Discussing news stories about President Eisenhower accepts surrender of Italy in 1943, Air Force cutting special duty pay, Air Force/Space Force considering waiver’s for recruits who test positive for THC, and the National Defense Service Medal will no longer be awarded after this December.

Discussing news stories about Gen Sherman’s attack on Atlanta, a Ukrainian soldier’s quest to train A-10 pilots, the newest USS Enterprise, the Army’s special CID unit gets a new sidearm, and the Space Force studies allowing beards in uniform.

My guest today is Marine Gunnery Sergeant (Ret) Louis Reyes. Louis was born in San Antonio, TX and graduated from Judson high School in 1976. After taking the ASVAB test he was offered a job in Avionics but entered the Marine Corps as a Structural Mechanic. He left for Marine Boot Camp in San Diego, CA in January 1977. After completing Boot Camp as the Platoon Honor Man, he attended tech training at Millington, TN. His first assignment was to HMA-169 at Camp Pendleton, CA in 1978. He later became a Drill Instructor and eventually retired from the Marines in August 1997.

My guest today is Marine Gunnery Sergeant (Ret) Louis Reyes. Louis was born in San Antonio, TX and graduated from Judson High School in 1976. After taking the ASVAB test he was offered a job in Avionics but entered the Marine Corps as a Structural Mechanic. He left for Marine Boot Camp in San Diego, CA in January 1977. After completing Boot Camp as the Platoon Honor Man, he attended tech training at Millington, TN. His first assignment was to HMA-169 at Camp Pendleton, CA in 1978. He later became a Drill Instructor and eventually retired from the Marines in August 1977.

On the Podcast today is Firefighter Field Training Paramedic Mike Grossman. Mike was born and raised in Bryan, TX. He attained an Emergency Medical Technician License while still in high school. After graduating from Bryan High School in 2008, he attended the University of Texas at Arlington. Taking a break from University, he enrolled in Paramedic School and volunteered at the Rendon, TX Fire Department. As he completed Paramedic School, he then began his enrollment in the Fire Academy in 2013. He was hired by the Keller Fire Department in March 2014 where he currently works today.

Discussing news stories about Japan’s surrender on 14 Aug 1945, four Vietnam era Medal of Honor presentations, Space Force now controls all SATCOM, China-U.S.-Taiwan simulation, the Navy offers up to $115,000 to return to Active Duty, and the first female Blue Angels pilot.

Discussing news stories about the PACT Act, the F-35 ejection seat issue, the Hellfire missile used on Zawahiri, Ft. Bragg moldy barracks, and the Army’s tactical bra program.

Today is the premier episode of Service Headline News. Air Force MSgt (Ret) Eric Piarrot and Air Force SMSgt (Ret) Marty Smith bring you the latest military headlines and updates pertinent to all servicemen and women.

Joining me on the Podcast is Former Navy Petty Officer First Class Mike Asay. Mike grew up in Parker, CO and graduated High School in 2006. After a semester of college and a construction job, he joined the Navy. In 2009 he attended boot camp at Great Lakes Naval Training Center in Illinois. He was selected to be a Navy Diver and attended Dive School in Panama City, FL in 2010. His first assignment was to Guam with the Special Warfare Unit 1. After that, he was assigned to Bangor, WA. Mike left active duty in January 2017.

Today my guest is Air Force Retired MSgt Eric Piarrot. MSgt Piarrot grew up in Tampa, FL before moving to Frostproof, FL. He graduated high school in 1981 and joined the Air Force later that year. He did both Basic Training and Tech School at San Antonio, TX as an AFSC 81130 Security Specialist. His first assignment was to Incirlik Air Base, Turkey. His next assignment was to Charleston AFB, SC in 1983. There, he was selected to the Base Emergency Service Team (EST) and deployed to Panama in support of Operation Nimrod Dancer.

Welcome to Part 2 of my interview with Air Force Retired MSgt Eric Piarrot. Returning to Charleston AFB after Grenada, MSgt Piarrot was placed in the “Raven” program. Later he received a special duty assignment as a Stinger Air Defense operator and was sent to Ft. Bliss, TX for Army Air Defense training. Afterwards, he was stationed at Kunsan, Korea. His next assignment was to Clark AFB, Philippines where he experienced the coup attempt against President Corazon Aquino in 1989, then the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo in 1991. His last assignment was to Peterson AFB where he joined the IG Team. He retired in 2003.

Today, my guest is Marine Sergeant Kelly Speelman. Kelly grew up in Northern California. After moving several times, he graduated from high school in New Mexico in 1976 at 17 years old. He joined the Marines in January 1977. He went to boot camp at San Diego, CA, then attended tech school at Twentynine Palms where he was trained as a MOS 2831 Microwave Radio Relay technician. His first assignment was to Okinawa, Japan. He was later assigned to Marine Corps Air Station El Toro, CA and was promoted to Sergeant. He returned for one more assignment to Okinawa before getting out of the military. After working some civilian jobs that were less than satisfying, he went back into the Marines and was sent to Advance Radio School back at Twentynine Palms. He was then assigned to Camp Pendleton, CA for the next three years before exiting the military for the final time inAugust 1987.

My guest today is Air Force Retired Lt Col Sean Masterson. Sean grew up in Dufer, OR. He graduated high school in 1993, then enlisted in the Air Force later that year. After completing Basic training, he attended tech school at Sheppard AFB as a C-130 engine mechanic. He first assignment was with the 9th Special Operations Squadron at Eglin AFB, FL. In 1996, he exited active duty through the Palace Chase program and joined a National Guard unit at Fairchild AFB, WA. During this time, Sean attended the University of Idaho and enrolled in the school’s R.O.T.C. program. He graduated in 2001 with a Psychology degree and was commissioned as a 2Lt Space and Missile Officer. Over the next 18 years, Sean moved from Active Duty to the Reserves then to an AGR position. He finished his career as the Director of Operations for the 26th Space Aggressor Squadron at Peterson AFB, CO, then as the Commander, 926 Operations Group, Detachment 1 at Hurlburt Field, FL. He retired in 2019.

On today’s episode, I present a compilation of stories from the second half of Season 1. Guests include Kevin Dunaway, Scott Swick, Robert Cherry, Derick Lucas, Ron Denmon, Maryanne Smith, Bjorn Oswalt, Jimmy Smith, John Anderson, and Ron Neeper.

This episode contains a collection of stories from the first half of Season 1 featuring Scott Westfall, Jake Wall, Kyle Smith, Joe Guagno, Chad Rancourt, Chuck Martinez, Jeff Breton, Jerry Casados, Rene Gonzalez, Ryan Eanes, and Nick Carnesi.

Joining me today is former Army 1LT Bart Miller. Bart grew up in Dubuque, IA and graduated high school in 1985. He attended the University of Dubuque and joined the school’s ROTC program. During the summer of his Junior year, Bart attended Airborne School, then ROTC Assessment Camp, followed by Cadet Troop Leadership Training in Korea. He graduated in 1989 with a BA in History and was commissioned a 2LT in the Transportation Corps. His Officer Basic Course was at Ft. Eustis, VA and his first assignment was to the 70th Ordinance BN at Ft. Bliss, TX. He deployed for both Desert Shield and Desert Storm, and exited active duty in 1993.

Today my guest is former Air Force Buck Sergeant Dave Oswalt. Dave grew up in Walled Lake, MI, just outside of Detroit. Dave graduated from high school in 1970 and went on to attend Bob Jones University in Greenville, SC. After a year, he left the University and joined the Air Force in 1971 as an Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) 811 or Security Police. His tech school was at Kelly AFB, TX where he trained to be a Strike Action Team (SAT) member. His first assignment was to Elmendorf AFB, in Anchorage, AK as part of the 6981st Security Group. Dave left the Active Duty Air Force in 1976.

My guest today is Former Army Sergeant Luster Garrett. Luster grew up in Cincinnati, OH. After high school, he attended then Cumberland College in Kentucky and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Data Processing in 1986. After working for the Hamilton County, Ohio Juvenile Court and School system for several years, Luster decided to join the military. He enlisted in the Army in 1994 and attended Basic Training at Ft. Jackson, SC. His Military Occupation Specialty (MOS) was 31S, SATCOM and he went on to AIT at Ft. Gordon, GA. His first assignment was to the 52nd Signal Company in Mannheim, Germany, during which he supported Operation Joint Endeavor, the NATO Peacekeeping force for Bosnia. Later he was assigned to Ft. Richie, MD and exited the Army in 2000.

I’m joined today by USAF LtCol (Ret) Ron Neeper. Ron grew up in Moody, TX. Always wanting to join the military, he attended Baylor University in 1984 and was a cadet in their Air Force ROTC program. He was commissioned in 1987 as a 2nd Lt and attended Navigator training at Mather AFB, CA. There, he selected the B-52 airframe and went to Castle AFB, CA for B-52 Navigator/Electronic Warfare Officer (EWO) training. His first assignment was on the B-52H model out of Carswell AFB, TX. In 1992, he switched airframes to the RC 135 Rivet Joint and was stationed at Offutt AFB, NE until 1998. After a long and successful career, Ron retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in 2009 out of Buckley AFB, CO.

Today, my guest is U.S. Air Force SSgt (Ret) John “Andy” Anderson. Andy grew up in Belford, New Jersey and joined the Army in 1947 at 17 years old. He attended Basic training at Lackland AFB, TX, followed by his first assignment at Ft. Lewis, WA. He went TDY (temporary duty) to Howard AFB, Panama, before being reassigned to Ft. Slocum, NY. There he was given the chance to cross-over into the newly formed Air Force. Afterwards, he was sent to Lowry AFB, CO where he married his wife of 60 years. In 1952, he was assigned to March AFB, CA as part of Strategic Air Command (SAC). Two years later, he was assigned to Guam. After that he went to Lincoln, NE, Taiwan and then retired in 1967 out of Holloman AFB, NM. After retiring from the military, he became a Deputy Sheriff for Arapahoe County, CO. Later, Andy joined the Post Office and returned to the work he did in the military. He retired from the Post Office in 1988.

Today, my guest is U.S. Air Force MSgt (Ret) Jimmy Smith. Jimmy grew up in Arkansas and joined the Air Force in 1994 as a 1N5, Electronic Signals Intelligence Exploitation. His first assignment was to Wright-Patterson AFB, OH with the then National Air Intelligence Center. Later, he was assigned to Misawa, Japan as an F-16 targeteer. Throughout his career, he deployed to Saudi Arabia as well as four deployments to Al Udeid, Qatar. He retired after his last assignment at Defense Intelligence Agency-Charlottsville in 2016.

I welcome in former Army Specialist 4, Bjorn Oswalt today. Bjorn grew up in Detroit, MI. After graduating high school in 1969, he came out to Colorado to work for Mountain Bell. As his draft number drew closer, he returned to Michigan and enlisted in the US Army. He attended basic training at Ft. Knox, KY, then attended Advanced Individual Training (AIT) at Ft. Gordon, GA. His Military Occupation Specialty (MOS) was 31M, Tactical Control Room Technician. Bjorn’s first assignment was with the 1st Infantry Division at Ft. Riley, KS. He later went to Germany as part of the 1st Armored Division. Returning to the US, he left Active Duty and joined the National Guard in Arizona as a Surveyor for a Field Artillery Battalion. He exited military service in 1987 and settled in Colorado.

Former Air Force Buck Sergeant Marianne Smith is my guest today. Marianne grew up in Oscoda, MI and joined the Air Force in 1984. She attended tech school at Chanute AFB, IL as a 32551 Avionics Instrument Systems Specialist. Her first assignment was to Fairchild AFB, WA, where she was one of the few females to be on flight line maintenance. She later cross-trained to Manpower, then exited the Air Force in 1995.

Today, my guest is Air Force retired MSgt Ron Denmon. Ron grew up in Southeast Houston, TX, attended Texas A&M and then joined the Air Force in 1982. His initial job was as a Combat Controller. He later switched to AFSC 3N0 Combat Camera and was assigned to Luke AFB, AZ for his first assignment. After some time as an OSI Special Agent, he eventually retired in 2007 as a 1N071 Intel troop, out of Buckley Air Force Base, CO.

Retired Air Force SMSgt Derick Lucas joins the podcast. Derick grew up in Lawrence, MA and joined the Air Force in 1989. He attended tech school at Lowry AFB, CO as a 2S0X0 Material Management troop. His first assignment was to Clark AFB, Philippines. There he went through a coup attempt, an 8.2 earthquake, and the eruption of Mount Pinatubo. Later, he cross-trained from supply to 1C6 Space Operator and retired in 2015.

Retired Air Force Chief Master Sergeant Robert Cherry is my guest today. Robert grew up in Orange County, CA and joined the Air Force in 1981 at 17 years old. He attended tech school at Chanute AFB, Illinois, and his first assignment was to F.E. Warren AFB, Cheyenne, WY. He moved from active duty to the reserves and deployed to Saudi Arabia in support of Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm. After 33 years of service, Robert retired in 2014.

Retired Air Force MSgt Scott Swick joins the show. He tells me about growing up in Rochester, Indiana and how he joined the Air Force in 1989 as a Civil Engineer 54550 Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Specialist. He went to tech school in Wichita Falls, TX and his first assignment was to George AFB, CA. He deployed to the Kingdom of Bahrain in support of Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm. He eventually retired in 2009 as a 1C6 Space Operator.

Retired Air Force MSgt Kevin Dunaway continues his interview. In this episode, we talk about his first assignment to Germany, his deployment to Bosnia, and the infamous Doofer Book.

Retired Air Force MSgt Kevin Dunaway joins the show. Kevin grew up in Gonzales, LA and joined the Air Force in 1990. He went in as a 275X0 Tactical Air Control Party Specialist or TACP. We go into his tech school at Hurlburt Field, FL, his first assignment in Germany, his deployment to Bosnia, and the infamous Doofer Book.

Former Army Specialist 5 Jerry Casados joins the show. We talk about the late 1960s, the Vietnam War, and draft classifications. Then we go into his 74D MOS, the Army Security Agency (ASA), and being assigned to Kagnew Station in Ethiopia. We close the interview by discussing his business, “Plant Based Nutrition and Lifestyle”.

Former Army SPC Jeff Breton is my guest today. We discuss how he swore in based on a bet, his path through Ft. Knox on his way to becoming a 19D Armor Scout, and his deployment to Iraq. We wrap the interview by talking about his job with the VA and his advice for servicemen and women when dealing with the VA.

SMSgt (Ret) Scott Westfall (Episode 2), SMSgt (Ret) Jake Wall (Episode 5), and SMSgt (Ret) Marty Smith (Episode 1) reunite to tell some R-rated stories.

Air Force MSgt Ryan Eanes joins the show. He talks about growing up in an Army family but joining the Air Force instead. He recounts his tech school being interrupted by Hurricane Katrina, being a sim pilot, deploying to Iraq as a radar operator, and his incentive ride in an F-16D.

Former Army PFC Chuck Martinez sits down to talk about his time in the service. Chuck grew up in Denver and he swore into the Army in 1948 as a 92G Food Service Specialist. He discusses how the Army struggled with integration at that time and how difficult it was to serve in a post World War II military. He also talks about being an Active Reservist and doing field time at, what was then known as, Camp Carson.

Battalion Chief Nick Carnesi joins the show. We discuss his path from the financial world to firefighting, taking the Candidate Physical Fitness Test, becoming an EMT, and rescuing goats.

Part 2 of my interview with former Army SGT, Kyle Smith, (MOS 25U Signal Support Systems Specialist). This time we talk about his assignment to the 1st Ranger Battalion in Savannah, GA and his deployments to Afghanistan.

Former Army SGT, Kyle Smith, (MOS 25U Signal Support Systems Specialist) joins the show. He tells me about growing up with Marine parents, working at Cook Out restaurant and navigating military recruiters. We then discuss how he got his MOS and share some stories about Airborne school.

Former Army SSG and Bronze Star recipient, Chad Rancourt, continues his interview. In this episode, Chad tells us all about the Army Sniper school and how he received his B4 Sniper certification. He then discusses his deployment to Afghanistan and how that differed from his time in Ramadi, Iraq.

Former Army SSG and Bronze Star recipient, Chad Rancourt, joins the podcast. We talk about growing up in Winslow, Maine and learning outdoor skills before joining the Army as an 11B. Then we discuss his time in the 101st Airborne Division and his deployment to Ramadi, Iraq.

Former Army SPC, Rene Gonzalez, joins the show and we talk about growing up in Puerto Rico, joining at 17, and his Mom’s reaction. He describes his MOS (05H-Morse Intercept Operator), his service in Hawaii, and decoding intel from the Tiananmen Square event.

Jake Wall, retired SMSgt from the Air Force, talks about his time on an Elk and Llama ranch, becoming a 2W1 Aircraft Armament Airman, getting assigned to Eielson AFB Alaska, and dealing with Flight Docs.

Part 2 of the interview with SGT Joe Guagno where he details more of his time in Vietnam

Vietnam veteran and former Army SGT Joe Guagno details his time in service

SMSgt (Ret) Scott Westfall describes his path to service and his first assignment.

I detail my own service in both the Army and the Air Force.