Fitz in the Morning: Troop Salute: Recent Episodes
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I hope everyone will take a moment to think about all of those men and women serving this nation over this holiday season: they are on base eating Christmas dinner in a chow hall, they are overseas in a foreign land calling and emailing home to connect with family and friends, and they are at sea on ships, living and working in the middle of the ocean so that we can all have a happy holiday season. Shannon Connors wrote me to salute her husband, who she is thrilled to have home this year. Today we are saluting Staff Sergeant Martin Connors of the United States Army. Martin has been in the Army for almost 10 years. He works as a combat engineer and he loves what he does. The family has moved around a few times for Martin's service, and he's been away for close to a year until now. The separation has been hard on the couple and especially hard on the kids, but Shannon is thrilled to tell me that Martin will be flying in this weekend to spend the entire holiday season with his loved ones, "I don't need any gifts, because he is coming home for the holidays." Today we salute Staff Sergeant Martin Connors of the United States Army who WILL be spending the holidays with family and friends at home. AND our thoughts and our respect go out to ALL of our troops defending our freedoms wherever they are during this Christmas and New Year's season.
Centuries ago sailors in our Navy rigged sails, manned ropes, and tarred planks to keep our ships at sea. So much has changed. Now, sailors work on some of the highest-tech equipment in the world to keep our fleet in the action. Today we salute Petty Officer Jerad Sheen of the United States Navy. This Bothell Native is a Machinist Mate Nuclear aboard the aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower. Petty Officer Sheen is responsible for operating and maintaining the nuclear propulsion plant on the ship. This is definitely not rigging sails any more. Sheen and everyone on the Eisenhower completed a 7-month deployment at sea earlier this year. Sheen says he enjoys the rigorous challenge the nuclear plant program sets forth.
We love and honor all of our troops here and we're proud to salute them on this show. Even if they're fresh out of boot camp, or leaving next week, we salute those who have made the commitment to this nation. And there is no time in service necessary to be honored here - I am just as thrilled to honor a new recruit as I am to honor a WWII vet who did 30 years. Today we are saluting Simon Peter Hemingway of the United States Army. Simon just graduated from boot camp, and his mother Lorraine McCready is incredibly proud of him. With the last name of Hemingway, those Drill Sergeants probably had some fun with Simon, but it all adds to the strength and character that everyone builds in Basic. Simon has a lot of adventure ahead of him, and his service will help to ensure our American Way of Life. For that, we are so very proud to be saluting Simon Peter Hemingway of the United States Army.
Service to the nation usually comes with a little bit of sacrifice, and today's troop has given up his holidays at home to serve. Today we salute Clayton Mutzinger of the United States Marine Corps. Clayton is just 18 years old and his military journey is just beginning. Stephanie Butcher asked us to salute her cousin Clayton because the entire family is so very proud of him. Clayton JUST left for boot camp in October – that’s important because Clayton and all of the other young recruits earning their stripes will be in boot camp while you are enjoying your Thanksgiving dinner with your family. Marine Corps boot camp lasts 12 full weeks so if he had started on October 1, he chose to sacrifice his family Thanksgiving in order to start his service and of left at the end of the month, he would be missing Christmas too. We should all thank these brave individuals like Clayton Mutziger, who chose to serve over the comforts of home, so that we can all enjoy those comforts.
Many times during the Troop Salute we've mentioned the incredible variety of jobs available in the service – even creative roles like artist and illustrator. Today we salute Sergeant Stanley Lieber of the United States Army. Stanley was born in New York in 1922. He had a natural talent for writing and artistry and was doing it professionally by his teens. In 1942 with war kicking up all over the world, Stanley enlisted in the Army as…what else…an Artist. He joined the Signal Corps where he repaired telegraph lines and poles but was later transferred to the training division where he wrote and illustrated training manuals, training films, slogans, signs, and even the occasional cartoon. After the War, Stanley Lieber continued to work as a writer and illustrator. Late in the 1950's Lieber was fed up with his career and nearly quit but his wife recommended he make one last attempt and submit a superhero idea to a new comic book publisher. That first creation that he sent in was the Fantastic Four. Yes, Stanley Lieber wrote comic books under the pen name of Stan Lee. He went on to create The Hulk, Thor, Iron Man, the X-Men, Daredevil, Doctor Strange, and Marvel's most successful character Spider-Man, along with many others. Stan Lee eventually reshaped Hollywood and entertainment in general, and revolutionized the entire comic book industry. Two years ago this week on November 12th, Sergeant Stanley Lieber died at the age of 95. He will forever be known and loved as Stan Lee.
America is a nation of fighters, a nation of people who demand their freedom, and who are willing to fight for it. Many Americans fully understand and appreciate the contribution that ALL of our troops and all of our services make to our personal freedoms. Not EVERY American can appreciate what the military has done for them, but that’s OK, because freedom means every American has the right to think and feel whatever they want. You may get a day off of work for Veterans Day, but the day is not just a chance to skip work, or to sleep in. The day is an opportunity to reflect on the contributions and the sacrifices that have been made by generations of Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen, and Guardsman; in order for you to enjoy the freedom of this nation. This nation was conceived and drafted by great men who envisioned a land of freedom. But this land and that freedom was WON by our Service people in uniform. We live in the Land of the Free Because of the Brave, and on this Veterans Day, each and every one of us should take some time to reflect on that. Thank a veteran for their service. Ask an elderly family member or friend about their service stories, or their memories of others who served. We are a nation of fighters, built on the bravery and actions of the warriors who came before us.
On November 10th, 1775, the Continental Congress signed an order to create a corps of Marines for the purpose of ship-to-ship fighting, shipboard security, and to assist in landing forces for war. That same day Samuel Nichols and Robert Mullan held the first Marine recruitment drive at the Tun Tavern in Philadelphia, where they raised two battalions of Marines. Since that day The United States Marines have fought in nearly every conflict in the United States History. During World War I, the Marines served a central role in the US entry into the war, including the famous battle of Belleau Wood in France. As the Marines arrived, they found the French forces overwhelmed and retreating. The Marines charged into battle headlong after their commander Captain Williams told the French "Retreat? Hell, we just got here." This battle is largely responsible for the birth of the mystique of the US Marine as an unstoppable fighting force. Gunnery Sergeant Dan Daly, a Marine Corps legend, urged his men on by shouting "Come on you S.O.B.’s, do you want to live forever?" When the outmatched Marines drove the German Army from the region, it was the Germans who nicknamed these fierce soldiers "Devil Dogs", a name that Marines still wear proudly today. Having become one of the finest Amphibious assault forces in the world, the US Marines were a cornerstone of the American efforts in the Pacific Theatre during World War II. United States Marines have distinguished themselves in times of war, and in times of peace throughout the entire history of these United States, and all across the globe. And that is why tomorrow, November 10th, on their 245th birthday, we salute Every Marine, Past, Present, and Future.
There is no denying that families are proud of their troops. Moms and Dads, sisters, grandparents, and all the aunts and uncles. But imagine how the younger brother feels when he looks up to his older brother in uniform. Today we salute Sergeant First Class Kenny Thomas of the United States Army. Kenny’s little brother Kyle Slitherwood from Port Angeles wrote in for this salute because he is that incredibly proud of younger brother to Kenny. Sergeant First Class Thomas has been serving in the Army for over 15 years. Kenny has done six tours in Iraq and the Middle East. He's an outstanding soldier, son, and brother says Kyle. In fact, Kyle says he's the best possible brother a guy could have, and he'll always look up to him. Now stationed at Fort Lewis, Thomas is pretty close to home, and I'm sure Kyle loves having him nearby.
What does it take to feed an entire fleet of sailors? A massive coordinated effort by many highly trained Food Service Specialist. Today we salute Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Jacob Saldana of the United States Navy, who happens to be one of those specialists. Saldana, who is from Mill Creek works aboard the USS Blue Ridge. The Blue Ridge is the oldest operational ship in the Navy, and it’s the command ship of the 7th fleet. The Blue Ridge actively works to foster relationships with our allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region of the world. And Sailors like Gunner's Mate 2nd Class Jacob Saldana keep the crew and the officers of the ship fueled up and working.
Today we salute Joah Cash, who happens to be a friend of Claire's. Joah is a top high school linebacker who had multiple scholarship offers from colleges, but he earned and accepted a full ride to the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Joah says he chose the Naval Academy because, even though he was on a sports scholarship all the other schools just talked about football – the Naval Academy talked to him about life after football, and the difference he could make in the world beyond the gridiron. Joah has his sights firmly set on playing in the NFL, but his path takes him through service in the Navy. He will go through the same academic and physical rigors of all the other cadets, and once he graduates, he will be required to serve five years as an officer in the US Navy, which is just right with Joah - he not only embraces it as a way to serve his country, but it also fits in nicely with his other love: Oceanography. Today we salute future Cadet Joah Cash of the United States Naval Academy at Annapolis. This is a kid with a very bright future!
There are very few individuals who demonstrate the valor, the bravery, the courage, and the action necessary to be awarded the highest honor that our military can bestow upon them. That award is the Congressional Medal of Honor. Today we salute one such Honoree, 1st Lieutenant Garlin Murl Connor of the United States Army. Receiving the Congressional Medal of Honor officially makes Lieutenant Connor the 2nd most decorated combat veteran of WWII. Standing just 5 foot 6 inches tall and weighing only around 120 lbs. Lt. Connor was not the most physically imposing soldier on the battlefield, but on January 24, 1945, he was an obstacle that wave after wave of German troops could not pass. Lt. Connor took part in 10 campaigns with the Army's 3rd infantry division during his 28 months of combat time. He was wounded 7 different times, but kept on fighting. On that January day in 1945 he actually slipped away from an Army hospital to join his unit. He volunteered to be an artillery spotter for the mission, since he wasn't cleared to fight. He took a field telephone, and a machine gun and ran forward toward the enemy. Lt. Connor hunkered down in a drainage ditch for hours reporting on troop movements and calling in artillery strikes. The German forces numbered around 600, including an SS contingent and German tanks. At one point the Germans got within 10 meters of his position. It was then when Connor called in the artillery strike on his own position, and told them to "Just keep firing for effect." His selfless act, and courage in the face of certain death is exactly why his commanding officer recommended him for the CMH after this engagement. Garlin Connor survived the battle that day and returned home a hero. His wife Pauline said he never directly told her what happened on that day. 1st Lieutenant Garlin Connor died on November 5th, 1998 at home. Two years ago, President Trump presented his widow Pauline with his posthumous Congressional Medal of Honor. Today we all salute 1st Lieutenant Garlin Murl Connor of the United States Army, Congressional Medal of Honor.
The oceans of the world are safer for Americans and just about everyone because of our Navy. Work on the water can vary widely from day to day, and sailors have to be ready for just about anything. Today we Salute Lieutenant Dylan Jessum of the United States Navy. Lt. Jessum is a native of Sammamish, Washington, and he knows all about those daily trials at sea. He hosted an event called a “Day in the Life” during this year's virtual Seafair festivities to let future sailors and curious civilians know what a life at sea is really all about. Jessum gave viewers a glimpse into his daily life as an anti-submarine warfare officer and sailor. This 2015 graduate of the University of Washington, serves aboard the guided-missile destroyer USS Jason Dunham. “I have always loved being out on the water and so a career in the Marine Industries made sense,” says Jessum. “The Navy was able to offer so much more besides a job though, I was able to receive a quality education, experience many different cultures, work with some of the most outstanding Americans this country has to offer, and have the satisfaction of working for an organization that demands you give your best every single day.” It takes thousands of sailors to run our Navy, and life at sea is interesting to say the least. For bridging the gap between the civilian world and the sailor's life, today we salute Lieutenant Dylan Jessum of the United States Navy.
Today we are saluting Jack Walker of the United States Army and Army National Guard. This salute was sent to us by Kim Walker, who is Jack's niece. Jack Walker first served in the US Army in Vietnam. As a squad leader in the 1st Infantry, he led his squad on field missions in the jungle. They spent most of their time out in the jungle and were rarely at a base according to Jack. He was part of the 1st Infantry Division, aka "The Big Red 1". Jack enlisted in the National Guard after Vietnam, and served with them until he retired. During his time in the National Guard he was activated for operation Desert Storm, and served his nation overseas once again. He retired from the National Guard with a full 20. Walker holds several medals including a Silver Star. Jack's niece Kim told us "He is by far the bravest, strongest man I know, he is a true American hero, but most of all he is my hero. He may not know it, but he has taught me how to live life by his example".
The struggle to maintain the freedom of Democracy around the world is ongoing. American troops support nations around the world who are fighting for a free way of life. In Afghanistan a bloody and long war against many foes from inside and outside the country has left the nation fractured and chaotic. Two years ago this month, one of Americas Heroes paid the ultimate price to assist this struggling nation with its bid for freedom. Today we salute Major Brent Taylor of the United States Army National Guard. Major Taylor was killed in an "insider attack" In Kabul, Afghanistan, that was carried out by a rogue agent of the Afghan Security forces. Major Taylor was everything that an American Hero can be. He had served in the US Army as an officer for about 12 years, including 7 years of active duty, before joining the National Guard. But Major Taylor's service did not end when he was at home. Brent Taylor was also the Mayor of the small town of North Ogden, Utah which is about 45 minutes north of Salt Lake City. This deployment was meant to be one year away from home. Taylor temporarily stepped down from his position as mayor in order to serve his nation. As if service to this nation, and to the people of his home town, was not enough for one man, Major Brent Taylor, also Mayor Brent Taylor, was also a husband to wife Jennie, and a father to 7 children, aged 11 months to 13 years old. A wife without her husband, and 7 children without their father, and a nation with another hero returning home, is a casualty of the war of freedom against oppression. This sacrifice in the name of freedom is why we salute Major Brent Taylor of the United States Army National Guard.
There are many fields to work in for our military, and today's troop's military occupational specialty is definitely in the spirit of the Halloween season. Today we salute Sergeant Daniel Cotnoir of the United States Marine Corps. Sergeant Cotnoir is a mortuary affairs specialist. Outside of the Corps he is a husband and father with his wife Kate and two their daughters, Ashley and Morgan, and they are all so proud of him. Daniel started his journey at Camp Pendleton, California, where he was assigned to help train Marines in mortuary affairs. Previously, the Corps had relied on Army units for this work and Cotnoir helped pioneer a new mortuary affairs military occupational specialty for the Marine Corps by training 40 Marines in mortuary and remains-recovery skills. Cotnoir has been deployed to Iraq, where his unit was tasked with retrieving fallen Marines. Off the battlefield, he's a funeral home director. Cotnoir has been recognized by his superiors as an outstanding Marine who treated with the utmost respect and sensitivity the job of getting deceased Marines home. But even for a funeral home director, the memories of the job still weigh heavy on the heart. Cotnoir continues his service by volunteering for military funeral details a couple of times per month and is on the board of directors for an organization that raises money for local hospitals.
Dad should be a hero to every kid. And in most cases that is true. When a dad is an actual uniformed hero, his kids have the best bragging rights on the block! A young man named Andrew wrote in to salute his dad and his hero. Today we salute Lieutenant Colonel Jesus Cosme of The United States Air Force. Lieutenant Colonel Cosme, who is called "Zeus" by his friends, first graduated from the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado in April of 2001. Since graduating the Academy, "Zeus" has lived in Oklahoma, New Jersey, Hawaii, California, and Washington State. The Air Force life meant frequent moves, sometimes just 3 years apart as Jesus trained and advanced through the Officer and Pilot programs. In 2012 "Zeus" graduated from Test pilot school at Edwards Air Force Base in California. Cosme excelled at his duties and his courses easily moving through the ranks. In 2015 he was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel. His son and his whole family could not be more proud of their dad and their hero. Lieutenant Colonel Cosme, his wife Amber, and their 3 sons, Andrew, Robert, and Evan, are moving on from the active duty life. Just over a year ago "Zeus" was hired as a pilot by UPS and moved on to the Air Force Reserves where he plans to complete his 20-year service. Andrew says that he speaks for his whole family when he says "We are so proud of you Dad, and Thank You for your service."
The US military instills important values in all of its members. Values like honor, courage, and commitment ensure that troops are dedicated to the success of the mission, and to the survival and success of each other. Every successful member of our armed forces has accepted these values and several others. When faced with real combat situations, these seemingly academic concepts become critical to survival. Some individuals rise above others and embody the very spirit of the soldier, and frequently those Americans are responsible for saving missions and saving lives. When the actions of an individual are so courageous and so honorable, the nation has the option to award that soldier it's highest honor, The Medal of Honor. Today we salute a recipient of this highest honor, Staff Sergeant Ronald Shurer of the United States Army Green Berets. In 2008 Ssgt Shurer was the medic in a small unit of Green Berets dropped in remote northern Afghanistan for a mission. While climbing a mountain the unit fell under intense and unexpected fire from a very large force of about 200. During the fight Ssgt Shurer lowered injured soldiers back down the mountain with makeshift slings and secured their evacuation by helicopter. He then returned to the pinned down unit and fought by their side replacing some of the injured men, while continuing to treat injuries to others. He was even struck in the helmet by a bullet during the battle. Due largely to his actions, alongside his unit, No Americans were killed in this bloody 5-hour battle. Staff Sergeant Shurer who graduated from Rogers High School in Puyallup and earned a degree from Washington State University before joining the Army, continued his service to the nation by becoming a Secret Service Agent after he left the military. On Monday, October 1, 2018 Staff Sergeant Ronald Shurer was awarded the Medal of Honor. The Medal was presented by the President of the United States in a White House ceremony.Sadly, Ronald Shurer, The Soldier, Secret Service Agent, Husband, and Father of 2 passed away in May of this year from lung cancer that he had battled bravely for years. This nation can never do enough to honor a soldier like him. This is why today we Salute Staff Sergeant Ronald Shurer of The United States Army, Recipient of our nation's most distinguished award, The Medal of Honor.
Today's Troop Salute is a special one. What makes this salute special is that it is not only from one Sailor to another, but also one brother to another although I would like to salute them both! Military service can be a powerful family bond and an important family tradition. Today we salute Petty Officer 1st Class James Boland of the United States Navy AND his brother QMSN Gregory R Boland also of the United States Navy. James is a Fire Controlman and has been serving in the Navy for 10 years. For those who don't know, Fire Controlman is the guy with his finger on the button of those massive weapons on our ships and subs. James' younger brother wrote in to me for this salute. Seaman Quartermaster Gregory Boland also of the United States Navy. Gregory tells me "My brother James is the 7th sailor in our family and he is my inspiration to be who I am today. His dedication to our country and family are inspiring, and he makes me strive to be the best that I can be." James enlisted In the Navy at 20, because nothing was working out for him, he tried school but it just wasn't for him. He couldn't find a job he really enjoyed and he needed guidance in life. The Navy was his answer, and he has been proudly surviving this country since. He is currently stationed in Japan. Gregory was so inspired by his older brother that he enlisted at 24 years old. "I am currently stationed aboard a Guided missile destroyer. And Even though I have a wife and two daughters myself, I am most worried about living up to the standards set my big brother James." Today we salute BOTH James and Gregory Boland, both of the United States Navy. Service runs deep in this family.
Our Greatest Generation fought for everything that makes this country what it is today. The men and women who went off to fight WWII, and the ones who stayed here and built this nation and its military, laid the foundation for everything we have. Just a few years after WWII ended and America came home to prosperity, there was another war. The Korean War put our men and their equipment and training to the test again. By some accounts, this short war was at times more brutal than the long drawn out engagements of WWII and it forged some very tough men. Today we salute Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class Donald Dean Dodson Sr. of the United States Navy. Donald's granddaughter Rebecca Ann sent me this salute. She says "My grandfather was the toughest man I ever knew, however, as soon as his grandchildren showed up he turned into a big sweet marshmallow." Donald was forged by war and his generation into a tough man, but he also knew how to enjoy life when he had the opportunity. These are the qualities that make America great as well. Rebecca lost her grandfather and her grandmother about 10 years ago, and just 8 months apart. "Their marriage is what inspired me to always work through issues, and always do what's right." Rebecca says. And for the examples he set, and the wars that he fought for us, today we salute Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class Donald Dean Dobson Sr. of the United States Navy.
So many Americans answer the call to service when their nation needs them. When the events of 9/11 unfolded before our eyes nearly 20 years ago, thousands flocked to recruiting offices to sign up and serve their nation. The Marine we honor today felt that same urgency to sign up. But the events that SHE heard the call from were way back on December 07, 1941, the day Pearl Harbor was attacked, plunging America into World War II. Today we salute Sergeant Dorothy Cole of the United States Marine Corps. Sergeant Cole just celebrated her 107th birthday on Saturday, which officially makes her the OLDEST living U.S. Marine. Cole, known as Dot to her friends, said "Everyone was out doing something, so I decided I needed to do something too, I would go into the Marine Corps." The road wasn't an easy one. Women weren't allowed in the Marines during the early years of WWII. By February 1943, the rules were changed and women were allowed to join the Corps and by the end of WWII there were over 18,000 women serving in the Marines. Today almost 10% of the Marine Corps' 185,000 members are women. For her service to the Nation, and for helping to blaze the trail for women in the Marine Corps, today we salute Sergeant Dorothy Cole. And we wish her a happy 107th Birthday as well!
Marines consider themselves a little bit special among the services. Of course they do. Other branches feel the same way. Today we are saluting a Marine whose wife feels like he's pretty special too. Today we salute Corporal Benjamin Gibson of the United States Marine Corps. Corporal Gibson is a Combat Engineer in the Marines. His wife Emily says, she isn't exactly sure what that means exactly, but she knows that he loves his job. Ben Gibson Joined the Marine Corps after attending community college and receiving an Associate's Degree in business administration. Emily says, "He originally thought the degree would mean a comfortable job in an office somewhere." Ben finished the program, but realized that an office was not the place for him. He told Emily that he was planning on enlisting on their 3rd date, and he followed through with the promise just a few months later. The pair married after Gibson finished Basic training and MOS school. Ben has been in the Marines for just over 5 years and is currently stationed in Camp Pendleton, California. Emily is so proud of her husband Ben, and she is excited for the future. She's ready to follow him wherever his Marine Corps career takes them. Today we salute Corporal Benjamin Gibson of the United States Marine Corps.
We get so many submissions for Troop Salutes from parents, spouses, siblings, and children of our service men and women. We all understand the toll and sacrifice that service and deployment has on these relationships. The strain on a marriage, or separation from a parent for service is one of the oldest ideas associated with the profession of soldier or sailor. But we cannot forget the strain on friendships. People become close, only to move around the country or the world and turn that regular companionship into a long-distance connection. Today we salute Alicia Garofolo of the United States Navy. Alicia's best friend Christopher Boivin wrote in to remind me just how much it hurts when a friend has to relocate for service. "Alicia has been stationed here for a few years. She is shipping off to Hawaii soon to complete her service in the Navy, and that really sucks because I won't get to see her much." Christopher said. "But our friendship is really important, and so is her job. We've grown really close, and I wouldn't change that for the world." Stories like this play out all over the country. But Sailors like Alicia make all of these sacrifices in order to continue our American way of life. And that is why today we salute Alicia Garofolo of the United States Navy.
For many of our military men and women, service to their nation and to their fellow members doesn't end with retirement. Today we're saluting someone who is carrying on the mission past his retirement: Master Sergeant Jesse Reynolds of the United States Air Force. Jesse's daughter Jennifer Dorward from Federal Way wrote in to tell us about her dad. "He's very humble and I believe he deserves every kind of recognition he can get." Jesse retired from the Air Force, but he still serves veterans through an organization called "Around the Sound". And Jennifer says he does his best to get a smile out of every one he helps out. For his continued service to the nation and the people who have served this nation, today we salute Master Sergeant Jesse Reynolds of the United States Air Force.
As we reflect on this important week, ending with the anniversary of 9/11, each of us needs to recognize the value and importance of the service from our troops. Signing up for service can mean a lot of opportunity for young men and women, but when the nation is at war, volunteering for service means consciously accepting a very serious amount of risk. Today we salute Sergeant Mitchell Wilson of the United States Army, who signed up when we needed him most. Sergeant Wilson was a high school kid headed for college in the year 2000. He had never even considered military service. Mitchell's sister Cara wrote me to tell me her brother's story, and to let him know how much she wants to thank him and all of the people who made that choice. When September 11, 2001 had passed, our nation was stunned. No one was really sure what had happened, or why, but we all seemed to arrive at the same patriotic feeling on that day. We all knew that we could not let this stand; that we had to defend our nation. Mitchell Wilson made his mind up that morning that he was going to enlist in the Army and be part of the team that would avenge those innocent Americans who died on that day. Cara says "He had never even thought about the military, but after 9/11 it was all he could talk about. He's my little brother, and I was so scared for him, but I could tell that his mind was made up." Mitchell Enlisted about 3 months after graduating and never looked back. He served for about 6 years in the Army, and was deployed to the Middle East 3 separate times. Mitchell is now an electrician living in Oklahoma, and he is a father to 2 wonderful kids. Cara is so proud of her little brother, and of all the men and women who signed up, knowing that they were heading into the danger to defend this nation. Today we salute Sergeant Mitchell Wilson of the United States Army, And ALL of our service men and women who defend this nation.
If you would like to honor someone you know who is serving in our armed forces, do not be shy to write me and tell me about them. You don't have to have all the details and dates, you don't need ranks and honors. You just need a name of someone you care about. Charish Brooks is a P1 who forgot a lot of the details in her request, but I still feel her passion and her pride regardless. Today we are saluting Derek Livingston of the United States Army. Derek is an active duty soldier in the Army and he is currently deployed overseas for the 3rd time since he and Charish have been together. She had one simple message for her boyfriend Derek, and that is "Hurry home, I'm waiting". The salutes may be more comfort for the submitting person like Charish, than they are for the troops who may not hear this show on the other side of the globe, and that's OK. Those waiting at home have a big part of themselves wrapped up in service too. When anybody serves this nation overseas, they take a little bit of everyone who cares for them along. So today we salute Derek Livingston of the United States Army.
Most of us have someone close who has served this nation in the military. If you think about that person or those people, and you think about what type of character they have, you'll probably notice that they are a bit tougher. The service isn't only for those who are extra tough or resilient going in. Anyone can make the choice to join up today. But the person that comes out of the service has that extra something. They are a bit tougher, they have a different perspective, and usually a different appreciation for what it means to be OF service to this nation. Today we are saluting a man who has kept up that resilience all the way through life. Today we salute Rayford T Wilson of the United States Army. Rayford served very proudly in the Army during Vietnam. He worked in intelligence and logistics. Much later on Rayford retired from the Army and took that grit to a job at the Post Office where he served the community until he made retirement there. Two retirements in one life is pretty good, but that's not quite enough here. Wilson went to work as a security guard after the post office, until open heart surgery forced him to give up the beat. Rayford's granddaughter Ashley Graham wrote to me for this salute because she says her grandfather is the toughest man she knows and he's her hero every day. Ashley also mentioned that after leaving the security job and the open heart surgery, Rayford still remodeled his entire house alongside his bride of 50 years. And during all of this, Rayford found time to go back to school to earn a degree. For all of this, today we salute Rayford T Wilson of the United States Army.
Joining the US Military has always been one way to get out and see the world. Today we salute Electronics Technician 3rd Class Michael Paveglio of the United States Navy. ET3 Paveglio is experiencing the other side of the globe right now aboard the Arleigh Burke-Class Guided Missile Destroyer USS Mustin in the Indo-Pacific. That's a long way off from his hometown of Seattle. The USS Mustin is assigned to Destroyer Squadron 15 which is the US 7th Fleet's principal surface force. From right here in the Pacific Northwest, to the other side of the globe, our Navy is keeping America dominant on the seas, thanks to sailors like Electronics Technician 3rd Class Michael Paveglio.
Today we have a salute from a wife to a husband. This wife wanted to make sure to mention that she is not only saluting her husband who she is very proud of, but also each and every member of his branch of service, because she feels like they don't get the credit they deserve. Today we salute Boatswains Mate 2nd Class Christopher Labreck of the United States Coast Guard. Christopher's wife and biggest fan Christine Labreck wrote me for this salute because she says the Guardsmen don't get nearly enough attention for what they do for us every day. BM2 Christopher Labreck has been in the Coast Guard for Just over 8 years. He has had duty stations all over the US including the very busy Gulf Coast region. Christine says they are currently stationed up in the North now, and while they miss the weather of Florida, they don't always miss the action. She wanted to remind us all that Guardsman are really the last line of defense for the US, and they are on high alert every day on the water and in the air, because this is one of the only branches that faces danger every day of the year, even when they can still see home. She is so proud of Christopher and all he has done for her and for the country, and she says their next adventure together is going to be parenthood. Today we salute Boatswain's Mate 2 Christopher Labreck of the United States Coast Guard
Grandfathers love to tell stories. And when they're good stories, kids and families look forward to each one. When Grandpa's real-life stories and experiences read like the best action movie on the big screen, you can bet those grandkids are hanging on every word. Today we are saluting William West of the United States Army Air Corps. William's Grandson Alan let me know that his grandfather had the most incredible war stories to tell anyone who would listen. William was a pilot during World War II. Through a complex series of events, William ended up getting shot down multiple times during the war. Each time, West escaped death or major injury. And each time, William fought to get back into the cockpit, and back into the fight. Alan tells me that his Grandfather liked telling anyone who would listen his stories of flying, crashing, narrow escapes, and of course injuries. He would tell Alan about the fear that he faced each time he got back into a warbird after an incident. He also stressed how courage and commitment allowed him to get back into the action, when fear wanted him to stop. William could have gone home after his first downing, but he knew that pilots were in short supply, and he knew every one of them was needed to win the war. The commitment that William West showed to the cause, and to his fellow warriors is what makes him a hero to his grandson, and to all Americans. They are the Greatest Generation for a reason. Today we salute William West of the United States Army Air Corps
Today's military employs some of the most high tech tools and equipment available anywhere to maintain the equipment they rely on for readiness. Some troops use equipment, so sophisticated that it sounds like it came straight from a sci-fi movie. Today we salute Aviation Structural Mechanic 2nd Class Matthew Taylor, from Bothell, Washington. Matthew is assigned to the “Red Rippers” Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 11. A standard day in his life includes inspecting F/A-18F Super Hornet fighter jets with a Vetra Sonic response machine in the hangar bay of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman. Matthew makes sure that those fighters are fit to fly and maintain domination of the skies. Life aboard the Harry S. Truman is busy, and right now the carrier group is remaining at sea to protect the sailors aboard from the threat of Covid-19. Our men and women in uniform are staying one step ahead of Covid, while remaining in optimum readiness during these uncertain times. And using some serious high tech equipment to do it. That is why today we salute Aviation Structural Mechanic 2nd Class Matthew Taylor of the United States Navy.
The unmatched effectiveness of America’s Armed Forces requires countless hours of training, and sometimes in conditions that are as dangerous as actual combat. Often, no matter how prepared they are, our service members can lose their lives in these training exercises, a tragic reminder that when you sign on that dotted line, you are living a life in the Line of Duty. Last month our military suffered the loss of 9 brave young men, all between the ages of 18 and 22, following an accident in which their amphibious vehicle sank during a training mission off the coast near San Diego. The 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit lost 8 US Marines and 1 US Navy Sailor that day. Their names are: Lance Cpl. Guillermo S. Perez Lance Cpl. Marco A. Barranco Cpl. Cesar A. Villanueva Pfc. Bryan J. Baltierra Pfc. Evan A. Bath Pfc. Jack Ryan Ostrovsky Cpl. Wesley A. Rodd Lance Cpl. Chase D. Sweetwood Navy Hospital Corpsman Christopher Gnem
Freedom has never been free, and for those who secure that freedom for the rest of us, there can be risk even when they are at home. We are all grateful for their service and their sacrifice. And that is why we honor our troops here. We live in the Land of the Free because of the Brave.
Men all over America struggle to find acceptance from their in-laws. We've all heard about troubles with the mother-in-law, and there are nearly as many stories about guys butting heads with their father-in-law too. Maybe all of those guys are doing it wrong. Maybe all they need to do is become a soldier. Today we salute Philip Oligmueller of the Army National Guard. This salute was sent to me from Philip's In-laws who are very proud of their son-in-law. Philip was runner up for "Soldier of the Year" in 2017 and they tell me that he is a shining example of patriotism for this nation. He is also a brand new father. Philip's Mother and Father-in-law tell me that they are so proud of him, and all of the men and women who serve alongside him. For his service, and for breaking the in-laws barrier, today we salute Philip Oligmueller of the Army National Guard.
I've said many times that there is no one more proud of their troop than Momma. There are probably a few dads and even some husbands and wives that might try to challenge me on this one, but I'm sticking to my guns because I know Momma feels something a little bit more when it comes to her kids. Today's salute comes from one of these incredibly proud mothers. Today we salute Gunnery Sergeant Roy Calica of The United States Marine Corps. Roy's mom, Sandy Calica wrote in to tell me that she is "beyond proud" of her Marine. This month marks 20 years that Gunny Calica has been in the Corps. He served in the 2003 wars in Afghanistan and Kuwait. He is a Purple Heart recipient, and he continues on to this day. Outside of his service Roy has made Momma proud by being a wonderful husband and a father to 3 beautiful boys. Sandy says Roy has excelled at everything that life has ever put in front of him. For his 20 years of service to the nation, today we salute Gunnery Sergeant Roy Calica of the United States Marine Corps.
Who among us can say they are excited every day they go to work? Well most of the men and women who serve aboard our nation's naval vessels, can make that claim proudly. While we commute, they launch planes, missiles, or Helicopters and it’s an adventure every day. Today we salute Chief Boatswain's Mate Cameron McKay, from Seattle. Chief McKay is assigned to the guided missile destroyer USS Sterett, which is part of the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group and is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. McKay and the rest of the sailors in the carrier group ensure maritime stability and security in the Central Region, connecting the Mediterranean and Pacific through the Western Indian Ocean and three critical chokepoints to the free flow of global commerce. Our navy serves a vital role, not only in the protection of the American way, but also in the free commerce of the entire globe. For doing his part to keep our seas free, today we salute Chief Botswain's Mate Cameron McKay of the United States Navy.
Veterans and service people make good employees because they are dedicated and know how to work hard. And they make good friends because they are committed and reliable. A P1 listener named Shelby Welborn wanted me to know that they make great spouses too and has asked me to salute her husband, Corporal Brandon Welborn. Brandon served in the Marine Corps from 2006 - 2010. He was a Heavy Equipment Mechanic in the Corps and he carried on that training and expertise after the Marines because he works for Caterpillar now. Shelby also tells me that her Marine is a great father. The couple have four kids together. He works long hours to support his family, but he always comes home in a good mood. He's been through a lot but he always keeps a positive outlook. Shelby says she's grateful for his service, even though she didn't know him then. She finished by saying "Thank you for everything you do for me and for our kids. I cannot imagine a better partner in life." For being an excellent Marine, Father and Husband, today we Salute Brandon Welborn of the United States Marine Corps.
Our military services are always ready to fight – they keep their skills sharp with training, discipline, and dedication to the cause. The very nature of warfare means you may not know what is coming, so you have to prepare for anything. Today we salute a sailor who is fighting a different kind of war, but it's a war he's fighting to keep his fellow sailors alive and well. Today we salute Seaman Noah Graddis of the United States Navy. Seaman Graddis, who is a native of Seattle, is playing a critical role in the U.S. Navy’s efforts to maintain a healthy and ready fighting force in the face of the Coronavirus pandemic. As a hospital corpsman working at Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command New England in Newport, Rhode Island, Graddis’ skills are vital to maintaining the health of the sailors in the Newport area, and by extension, the readiness of the Navy’s officer training commands of which they serve. “The COVID-19 Pandemic brought an invisible enemy to our shores and changed the way we operate as a Navy,” said Admiral Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. "The fight against this virus is a tough one, but our sailors are tougher. We must harden our Navy by continuing to focus on the health and safety of our forces and our families. The health and safety of our sailors and their families is, and must continue to be, our number one priority.” As a Corpsman, Seaman Graddis is in the trenches of that fight every day. For keeping our fighting forces healthy and ready to fight, today we salute Seaman Noah Graddis of the United States Navy.
Today's Troop Salute is twice the honor, because today we are celebrating two US Marines. And this salute was brought to us by those Marines' mother, Seana-Lynn Sibley. Seana-Lynn is so proud of her boys and she wanted to make sure everyone hears what this proud mother already knows. Corporal Robin A. Williams enlisted with the Marine Corps in 2008 and served until 2015. Corporal Williams served one tour in Afghanistan and one tour in Libya as an 81mm Mortar-man. Robin returned from his time serving this country with hearing loss and suffers from PTSD. His younger brother Corporal Nicolas G. Williams enlisted in the Marine Corps in 2010 and he served his country until 2014. He was also an 81mm Mortar-man. Corporal Nicolas Williams also served in Afghanistan and also returned from fighting with injuries to his back and suffering from PTSD. Both brothers had permanent duty stations at Camp Lejeune, NC. Their mother Seana-Lynn says she was a single mother for most of the boys' life, and when she put her oldest son on the plane to leave for boot camp, she felt like her life was over, and that she had just shipped away one of her two best friends. But it was on the way home from that departure, that Nicolas told his mom that he was going to enlist as well. She says neither boy had ever so much as held a gun in their lives, and she was confused about why they were enlisting. When she asked them, both boys replied that it was the "right thing to do". And she couldn't be more proud of them. Although both of her sons returned with injuries and changed forever, Seana-Lynn says both boys loved serving in the Marines, and neither of them regrets it. Both Williams men went to college after returning and are doing fantastic. Robin, the older brother works as a computer tech, and travels around the country consulting with major companies on computer security and Nicolas is a Cardiac Tech in Atlanta, GA. For making their mother proud, and protecting the status and traditions of our nation, today we salute brothers in arms and brothers by blood, Robin A. Williams, AND Nicholas G. Williams Both of the United States Marine Corps.
I am so pleased when I receive troop salutes sent from individuals outside of the family or close friends who normally send them in. It is always nice to see how much others respect our service members, and how much the people around them can be affected by them. Today we are saluting Edwin Mason of the United States Navy. Edwin Mason passed away last year at the age of 86. Edwin was known to friends and family as Ed, or Grandpa Ed. We don't have all of the information about his rank or the dates of his service with the Navy for this salute, because it was brought to us by a close friend of Edwin's and a friend of Edwin's granddaughter, Marie Jones. Ms. Jones says that Grandpa Ed would tell stories about the Navy and talk fondly about his service, but his Dementia prevented him from sharing clear information, details, or dates. She didn't know the details of his service, but she did know how proud he was to have served his nation. Ms. Jones cared for Grandpa Ed during his final years in a nursing home. She also said that after his service with the Navy he continued to serve his community as a member of his local fire department, serving at least 15 years and eventually becoming the Chief of the department before his retirement. Clearly Edwin was a great American and a great man. He made an impression on everyone around him, right up until the end. For his service to the nation and his community afterwards, today we salute Edwin Mason of the United States Navy.
Today we salute the US Army Golden Knights Parachute Team as they spend this week honoring our local health care workers with aerial salutes over area hospitals. For 60 years, members of the Army Parachute Team have been marking milestones of achievement as "Ambassadors of the Army". The Golden Knights are the most formidable parachuting competitors and demonstrators working anywhere today. The professionalism, the precision, and the excellence displayed by these soldiers is a glowing beacon of what the army has to offer, and what our forces are capable of. On more than 30 weekends per year, the team demonstrates their skills, nerves, and capabilities to crowds all around the US. While the shows always "wow" the crowd, the work and the dedication that these soldiers put in to show America, and the rest of the world, is the real achievement. And these demonstrations of precision parachuting aren't only for fun. These are the very same skills that American soldiers and paratroopers are training at every day to keep America on top. If we need to land a man on the roof of a building or in the middle of a walled yard, the Golden Knights show us just how capable we are of doing just that. For their heroic demonstrations, and today we salute the Army Golden Knights Parachuting Team.
Serving in the military is a choice that every American gets to make for themselves. Some people join alone, others join with friends, and some join to follow a tradition. Today's Troop Salute is for a soldier that joined to follow a family tradition of service. Today we are saluting Garrett Lee Brodersen of the United States Army National Guard. Garret is currently serving the nation while deployed in Afghanistan. He has been in the National Guard already for 8 years, and just signed up for another 6. The tradition of service in Brodersen's family runs deep like so many others. He followed his father James who served in the Army and participated in Desert Storm back in the 90's. And they both followed Garrett's grandfather into service, as he served with the US Navy before them. Garrett loves what he does for this great country, and he plans to follow through and retire with the full 20 years. That level of commitment to the cause is why we salute Garrett Lee Broderson of the US Army National Guard.
Is anyone more proud of a new soldier, sailor, or Marine than their parents? Probably not, and that pride that a parent feels for their new troop supersedes the messy labels we put on step-parents and step-children, and in this case, it even blows right past ex-husbands and ex-wives. Today we salute Private Lauren Dougan of the United States Marine Corps. Lauren graduated from boot camp in Parris Island, South Carolina last November. She is now in Camp Pendleton, California for Ordnance training, because Lauren is going to be in the Infantry. Lauren's Step Mother Kristina Tancredi sent me this salute. She is incredibly proud of Lauren. She says "Lauren is the big sister to my 12-year-old son Jesse. Even though I divorced her dad 2 years ago, Lauren will never be my ‘ex- step daughter’. She is a daughter to me and always will be." Lauren was a top-level gymnast growing up, and Kristina was her coach. She retired from gymnastics at 15, and a few years later, she saw a pull-up contest at the County Fair that was being put on by the Marine Corps. Lauren and her then 9-year-old brother stepped up to challenge each other. Jesse was able to do 14 pull-ups, but Lauren the ex-gymnast had him beat with 21 pull ups. That was all the recruiters needed to see from Lauren, and they knew she was meant to be a Marine. Now Pvt. Dougan is off on her new military life, and her family could not be prouder.
We love to salute the people who keep America strong. Honoring our men and women in uniform is one of the highlights of our job on the radio. Today we salute Cody Gebo of the United States Air Force. Cody is brand new in the Air Force. In fact, he is just 19 years old and he has just finished boot camp. Cody's father David Gebo wrote me to share his pride for his son and the service that he has chosen to give this nation. “We enjoyed writing back and forth to him while he was in boot camp." David Gebo said. "It was very exciting to hear about his experiences. He was really starting to miss our small town." Everyone misses home just a little when they're in boot camp, but the adventure ahead will make that all seem worth it. David says "Cody is a great kid with a huge heart, and we couldn't be prouder of him." So today we salute Cody Gebo of the United States Air Force.
The US military is responsible for a lot of firsts, breaking in new technologies to enhance our troop's capabilities, developing new tactics and techniques to increase mission accomplishment, and creating tools and equipment that end up enhancing lives in the civilian world. Remember: GPS was a military tool first! Today we are saluting another first: Today we salute Captain Emily "Banzai" Thompson of the United States Air Force. Captain Thompson is the first female fighter pilot to ever fly combat missions. Thompson goes by the call sign "Banzai" when she's in the cockpit of her F-35A Lightning II. That is one of the world's most advanced fighter aircraft, and Capt. Thompson is one of just a few female pilots rated to fly them. She serves in the 388th Fighter Wing out of Hill Air Force Base, Utah. “This is my first deployment … so for me it was a pretty big deal, the first combat sortie for me…of course being the first female, it’s a pretty big honor," she said. "There’s a lot of females who have come before me and there’s a lot of females already flying combat sorties in other platforms. So just to be the person who gets that honor, that first, it just meant a lot.” Those combat missions were flown out of Al Dhafra Air Base in the United Arab Emirates just this month. Captain Thompson is blazing a trail as she rips through the sky. She will definitely not be the last female combat pilot we see, but she will always be the first. And for that we salute Captain Emily "Banzai" Thompson of the United States Air Force.
I love doing these extra special salutes we get, written to honor a spouse who is serving in our military, by a spouse who served at the same time! Today we are saluting Aviation Ordnanceman 2nd class Quincy Salyer of the United States Navy. This salute was brought to us by AO2 Salyer's wife Erin Salyer, who just recently finished her seven years with the Navy. Quincy Salyer served in the Navy from 2012 until 2017. He was deployed aboard the USS Nimitz Aircraft carrier in 2013. Aviation ordnancemen operate and handle aviation ordnance equipment. They are responsible for the maintenance of guns, bombs, torpedoes, rockets, and missiles. Their duties include the stowing, issuing, and loading of munitions and small arms. Salyer was specifically tasked with loading bombs and guns on the F/A-18 Super Hornet Fighter Jets. When his time ended with the Navy Quincy pivoted to a job in the civilian world with Lockheed Martin as an F-35 Engine mechanic. From Bombs on the F/A-18 to the engines on the F-35, Salyer is the man to talk to if you need to know about Navy fighter jets. His wife Erin says Quincy is smart and versatile, so moving from weapons systems in the Navy, to Jet engines in the civilian world was an easy switch for him to handle. Quincy's civilian job often keeps him on the road travelling away from his wife and his son, but this family is familiar with time and distance away like most military families. Erin says they miss him tons, and love him even more. They are so very proud of him, and they are looking forward to his return home later this year.
A full career in the military is a life well lived and a life of good service to your nation. When you hear us talk about the sacrifice of service, we're not talking about the jobs in the military; we are referring to the risks involved. Working in the military today can be a career that's rewarding and full of opportunity, but the risk is always present. Today we salute Master Sergeant Casey Payne of the United States Air Force. Master Sergeant Payne has served in the Air Force for 20 years. He had a full career with many tours overseas including some into war zones and just retired last October at the end of that rewarding career. Casey's Cousin Tiphany wrote in to salute him. "He has been married for 20 years and has 3 wonderful children" Tiphany says. And Casey comes from a very long line of military men: his father and paternal grandfather both served in the Navy, and his grandfather on his mother's side served in the Air Force like him. And yes, Master Sergeant Payne did face the risks of service during his time as well: in 2009 his unit was hit with an IED, and Casey spent several months recovering in a hospital in Germany before coming home in 2010. Tiphany says Casey is kind hearted and always steps up to assist those in need. And he has a huge impact on kids that he has coached throughout the years. For his incredible 20 years of service, today we salute Master Sergeant Casey Payne of the United States Air Force.
The endless number of jobs offered in the military means anyone who enters can probably find something exactly suited to them. Our services have a giant scope of missions, and they need divisions to cover every type of issue - and problem. Having their own jail system is one way to handle some of those problems. Today we salute Corporal Donald J. Shipman of the United States Marine Corps. Corporal Shipman is a corrections specialist with the Security and Emergency Services Battalion at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. Shipman has found the MOS that suits him perfectly. He was recently selected for the American Correctional Association Military Corrections Committee Marine Corps Corrections Specialist of the Year Award for outstanding performance during calendar year 2016. I'd like to see the plaque that fits that title. "There is never a task Cpl. Shipman cannot handle, and he is always eager to do more, he can’t get enough" said Chief Warrant Officer 5 Joseph J. Moschetto, who is the commanding officer of the brig where Corporal Shipman works. Whether you're ranging artillery, or doing a cell check in the brig, every job in the Marine Corps is essential to the mission and to the Corps.
We all appreciate and honor any service from someone who does their best to contribute to this great nation's military. For some individuals that service is a calling. These are the "lifers", the men and women who find their place in the service and go the whole distance. Today we salute Ronnie Carroll of the United States Army AND the United States Air Force Reserves. Ronnie's niece Kristie Bray Dawson asked me to salute her uncle for his tireless service to this nation. Ronnie Carroll knew the soldier's life was the one for him. He enlisted in the Army at 18 years of age and never looked back. Ronnie served for 30 years in the Army until they forced him to retire. But Ronnie was not ready to hang up the uniform so he found a way to stay in the military. He joined the Air Force Reserves and continued his contribution. Ronnie eventually obtained the rank of Senior Master Sergeant, which is just about as high as one can get in the enlisted ranks. Sadly, Senior Master Sergeant Ronnie Carroll passed away about a year ago. He was over 60 years old. This is a very rare breed of serviceman; his commitment was absolute and lasted a lifetime. A family and a Nation will miss this hero.
War is an extreme event in a nation's history, and extreme events often require unique solutions. During the great World Wars I and II, America and her allies relied heavily on signals, communication, and information to guide troops and equipment, to coordinate attacks and defenses, and keep commanders informed on the latest information. In this era of incredibly rapid technological advancement, it was becoming harder and harder to protect those communications from enemy eyes and ears. Enemies would tap telephone wire lines, intercept radio transmissions, intercept physical messages and their messengers, and use of technology to crack any coding that was attempted. America realized early that we possessed an asset unique to this land. That asset was America's Native People and their unique languages. The many languages of America's Native population were unlike any other form of communication around the world, and knowledge of their use was non-existent outside of the US. The US military enlisted the help of these brave Americans as early as WWI. In WWII it is suspected that our military employed as many as 400 Native "Code Talkers", but the exact number is unknown, because much of this program was classified. Samuel Tom Holiday was a Navajo Code Talker Enlisted in the United States Marine Corp in 1943. Samuel served with the 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine division, fighting all over the Pacific Theatre. Holiday passed communications over radio with other Navajo Code Talkers ensuring that America's enemies never captured valuable battlefield data. After the war Samuel returned to the Navajo reservation where he served as a police officer, and later started a heavy equipment company. He married and had several children. Holiday's participation in the Code Talker program was classified until 1968. He didn't share any details about the program with even his own family members until the 1980's. Samuel was active in the veteran’s community throughout his life. He later became an advocate for sharing the story of the Navajo Code Talkers and their role in the war, and often visited schools to share his exciting stories. One year ago this week, on June 11, 2018 Samuel Tom Holiday passed away in St. George, Utah at the age of 94 He was a unique warrior and a unique kind of hero. Our nation stands proud of all its service people and all of its people. The Navajo Code talkers like Samuel Tom Holiday are one more special characteristic of our nation that makes us the greatest nation on earth.
There are Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines who serve their country and their brothers in arms exactly as they should with honor and courage. There are a select few who become legends for their bravery and accomplishments. Today we salute Capt. Arthur Jackson of the United States Marine Corps. Captain Jackson is a legend in the Marine Corps, known for "The One Man Assault". All the way back on Sept. 18, 1944 at the battle of Peleilu, then 19-year-old PFC Jackson was asked if he could establish a foothold in a shallow trench 100 yards ahead. He replied like any young kid, saying "yeah, I guess so" and set out on his mission. 50 enemy soldiers and 12 pillboxes later, he had single handedly cleared the entire southern sector of the island. Remember that he was just 19 years old at the time! After taking a serious injury Jackson was sent to Okinawa where he received treatment and Two Purple Hearts. In October of 1945, President Harry S. Truman awarded then 2nd Lieutenant Jackson with the nation's highest honor for his bravery and his actions. He received the Congressional Medal of Honor. Captain Jackson joined the Army years later, then returned to the Marines. Captain Arthur Jackson passed away in Boise, Idaho, where he had lived out his golden years just 3 years ago at the age of 92. He was buried with full military honors by United States Marines.
We are so proud to salute the troops here on this show. And we love to see stories like this the one: where another person shows a troop the honor and respect that they've earned. Today we salute Jack Bennetts of the United States Marine Corps. This story starts a few hundred miles from Jack's home in Billings, Montana, when a 15-year-old kid named Wyatt Macy saw something shiny in his backyard and started digging. Wyatt uncovered a lost set of military dog tags and some Sergeant rank sleeve patches. When he showed his find to his mother, she reached out to the local American Legion Post, and they located the rightful owner of these military treasures. Wyatt and his mother mailed the dog tags and the rank insignia to 84-year-old Jack Bennetts. Jack Bennetts served in the United States Marine Corps from 1953 - 1957. He doesn't know how his tags got into the ground, but his mother had lived in the Macy's house until 1982. Sergeant Bennetts says it means a lot to him that the Macy family took the time to find him, and says Mrs. Macy wrote him a beautiful letter thanking him for his service. Today we salute Jack Bennetts of the United States Marine Corps.
Service in the military can take you to some pretty interesting and exotic places. For the Northwest native we feature today, service in the Navy took him back in time. Today we salute Aviation Ordnanceman Third Class Ziven Meyer of the United States Navy. Ziven is a native of the northwest and a graduate of Olympic High School in Bremerton. He has served on active duty in the Navy for 2 years, and he just re-upped for an additional 6 more years of service. Meyer has been serving the history of the US Navy aboard the USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned warship afloat. The Constitution is also known as “Old Ironsides” and has served the US in the War of 1812 and the Barbary Wars. She was undefeated in battle and captured 33 opponents during her patrol of the world’s shipping lanes. "It was an honor and a privilege to serve aboard the Constitution", Ziven says "One I will never forget". The next six years of Meyer's life will probably take place on newer equipment, but the adventure will be just as epic. Today we salute Aviation Ordnanceman Third Class Ziven Meyer of the United States Navy.
An American soldier and serviceman is a hero to many. Often these brave men and women are the most revered by their family and friends, but usually the people who idolize them the absolute most are their children. Today we salute Staff Sergeant Thomas E. Cain of the United States Army. Gloria Cain asked me to salute her father because he was a true hero. Gloria tells me that no one ever really knew how much her dad had served, and how much he had really accomplished in the Army, until they found his paperwork after he passed in August 2017. Her father Thomas was a lifer: he did the full 20+ years in the Army, retiring with many honors, but never bragged. Staff Sergeant Cain was a humble man and a brave soldier who did two tours in Korea during the Korean War, and 4 more tours in Vietnam. When he passed, Thomas E. Cain was laid to rest with full military honors at Arlington Cemetery. Gloria says his funeral was the most humbling experience of her life. She was amazed at all of the honored men and women that her dad was laid to rest with. She says "They all deserved those honors. These are the people who didn't sit back and wait for someone else to do the job." Gloria finished her message by adding "God bless all of our soldiers, and God Bless America.”
As we enjoy this long holiday weekend, I want to make a special salute.
Instead of saluting a single service member, on this Memorial Day Weekend I would like to salute Every service man and woman who has made the ultimate sacrifice for this great nation.
Memorial Day Weekend is typically the first big event of the year with good summer weather, so we tend to focus on the hot dogs and the boats and the picnics and the parties, but the reason for this extended weekend is meant to be about the sacrifices that others have made so that we may all enjoy these freedoms.
Unlike Veterans day which celebrates all service men and women, Memorial day is special because we honor those who died while serving.
There are many great reasons to join the armed forces in this country. Some join for training, or adventure. Others join for education benefits and discipline, or to follow a family tradition. Everyone who joins does so for their own reasons. But the one common thread amongst all service members is the acceptance of the possibility that they may be asked to face their own mortality. All of our Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen, Guardsmen and all service people accept the challenge and the risk when they sign up.
For several periods in our nation's history men were made to join without the option, these were the days of the draft. And just like volunteers, these drafted individuals faced the risk of death, and many of them fought bravely and died.
This weekend we should all stop to think of EVERY service member who has died. Enjoy your cook out, enjoy time with friends and family, enjoy the freedoms granted to you as an American, Just stop and remember that you have all of these freedoms because those of who came before, and particularly those who sacrificed all.
So many movies have been made about American servicemen's experiences in the Vietnam War. One of the common elements of many of these movies is the PT boats. These light gunboats were used by the US to move up and down the many tight, jungle-choked rivers of the region. PT Boats are common in Vietnam movies because they were hotbeds of action: the boats and their crews motored up and down rivers, in and out of enemy territories, and frequently fell under severe enemy fire. A calm and serene day cruising on the river could explode into a fight for life in the blink of an eye. Today we are saluting Dan Mendenhall of The United States Navy who was one of these brave PT boat crew members. In fact, he was the head gunner on his boat. Dan says the action was frequent, and in one particular engagement his boat was ambushed and Dan was shot in the leg. They lost the Captain of the boat and a junior gunner in the fight, but Dan helped save the remaining crew members and get the boat to safety. Dan now resided in Kahlotus, Washington, a small quiet town in South Eastern part of the state. He is proud of his service and his contribution, and also sad for the sacrifice of his friends and boat-mates who didn't return. Dan witnessed the action, the pain, and the loss of war. He lost friends and comrades, and he did all of this so that he could return to the America that he loves, and so that we all have the chance to enjoy our freedoms. Today we Salute Dan Mendenhall of the United States Navy.
The Troop Salute is not a military “resume” – while we love to read through the submissions with details of military careers and accomplishments, we aren't just saluting medals and accolades, or combat bravery. The Troop Salute is all about honoring the men and women who make this country possible by serving in her military. Today we salute Joe McCloskey of the United States Navy. I didn't receive details of his service or his ranks and jobs, just a message expressing the gratitude that his niece, Gia Timmons, and Joe's whole family, feel for what he's done. Gia was particularly proud of the way Joe came into her aunt's life at a time when she was a single mother, and helped her to raise her two children into amazing adults. Gia also says Joe was a quiet man, but when he did talk, you definitely wanted to listen because he was a brilliant man. And Gia says he always treated her aunt like a princess. Joe was proud of his service in the Navy, and proud of his family. Sadly Joe McCloskey passed away in 2015 after a long battle with the condition known as ALS. His family found peace in knowing that his fight and suffering were over. But his service will live on forever in this nation. Today we salute Joe McCloskey of the United States Navy.
How does someone know if military service is right for them? We have the luxury of making that decision for ourselves in this nation, and sometimes you just know it is the life for you, like the young man we are talking about here. Today we are saluting Michael Ian Castle of the United States Marine Corps. This salute was sent in my Michael's mother Stacy Castle who says Michael never had to make the decision to join the Corps because he ALWAYS knew that is was what he wanted to do. He knew that the Marine Corps was what he was meant to do; it's almost like he was born to wear the uniform. Castle had mentioned enlisting in the Marines several times throughout his teenage years, but his mom never really took him very seriously. She says "I just thought this was what teenage boys talked about." But at 17 years old, Michael was going to finish high school, and he told his mom he wanted to go straight to the Corps. She resisted at first because she was scared for her "little boy", but Michael explained to her that he was just going to join as soon as he turned 18 anyway, so all she would be doing was delaying his career. Stacy signed the parental authorization forms and Michael Ian Castle enlisted in the United States Marine Corps at 17. Stacy is so proud of her son: it’s been almost 6 years since she sent him off to boot camp and he is now a Corporal, and looking forward to a long career in the Corps. Thanks to Marines like Michael, and service men and women from all of our branches who make that commitment, America is as strong as ever. That is why today we salute Corporal Michael Ian Castle of the United States Marine Corps.
Troop salutes flow in to my inbox a bit like the tide at the beach. I've noticed trends in who is sending them, and who is being saluted. We love and honor all of our troops here and we're proud to do it. Lately, the Tide has brought in a ton of salutes for brand new soldiers, sailors and Marines. Whether they're fresh out of boot camp, or leaving next week, we salute those who have made the commitment to this nation. There is no time in service necessary to be honored here. I am just as thrilled to honor a new recruit as I am to honor a WWII vet who did 30 years. Today we are saluting Simon Peter Hemingway of the United States Army. Simon has been a soldier in the Army for less than a year, and his mother Lorraine McCready is incredibly proud of him. With the last name of Hemingway, those Drill Sergeants probably had some fun with Simon, but it all adds to the strength and character that everyone builds in basic. Simon has a lot of adventure ahead of him, and his service will help to ensure our American way of life. And for that we are so very proud to be saluting him here.
You have heard us salute every type of troop out there, from veterans to new recruits. We've saluted entire branches of the service on special occasions, and we've selected very special individuals both alive and no longer with us. But one of the special types of salutes I'm getting more and more is a "whole family salute" and I'm loving them. Many times, I've talked about families that have a tradition of service running deep in them. Today we are saluting one of those families. Heidi Sandoval of Salem, Oregon, sent in this salute covering many members of her family in the past and present, and even though she's modest, Heidi is in there herself. Today we salute: Tammy Collins and Jerry Collins both of the United States Navy, who are Heidi’s cousins, Kenneth Gressel of the United States Marine Corps, who is Heidi’s uncle, William Johnson Jr., of the United States Army, who is Heidi’s Grandfather, and Heidi Sandoval herself, of the Oregon Army National Guard. The tradition of military service is a proud one, and it is going to continue in this family: Heidi tells me her daughter Alicia Sandoval-Jamison plans to enlist and serve after she graduates from high school. With families like this one keeping the tradition of service alive, the future of America is looking pretty bright. To this entire family I say: it is my honor to salute you and your tradition!
Today we salute Don Allen Montgomery of the United States Marine Corps. Don has written in to the show on numerous occasions, responding to stories, participating in discussions, and sending us memes and pictures. Don was commenting on a troop salute that we had done a few weeks ago and I decided I was going to do a salute for him. Montgomery enlisted in the Marine Corps back in 1992. He went to boot camp and combat training at Camp Pendleton, California and then on to Supply Logistics School in Albany, Georgia. He returned to Camp Le Jeune outside San Diego until 1995 when he was transferred to Camp Kinser in Okinawa, Japan. Montgomery was allowed to transfer back to the states in 1996 when his father was diagnosed with cancer, so that he could spend time with family. He finished out his active duty service as a recruiter. Don got out of the Marines in 2000, and he made sure to mention that he and Drew served together in the Corps for a few years. Don was commenting on another story we had done and thanking us for saluting everybody who served, whether or not they saw combat or served in a war zone. He actually said that he has heard people say things to diminish his service because he didn't go to battle. We honor and salute everyone who makes the choice to serve this nation, no matter what job they do in the military, or what action they see, or don't see. Going to war isn't a choice individual troops make, but signing the line to volunteer to do it is what makes heroes out of every single one of them. And that is why we are saluting Don Allen Montgomery of the United States Marine Corps
Today we salute one of the most recognizable United States Marines to ever wear the uniform: Gunnery Sergeant R. Lee Ermey. “Gunny”, as he liked to be called, became the essence of the Marines in the eyes of the American public, when he stepped into the role of Gunnery Sergeant Hartman in the 1987 Stanley Kubrick film "Full Metal Jacket". R. Lee started life on a Kansas farm in 1944 and in 1958 moved with his family to a small town in Washington State where he got into repeated scrapes with the local law until a judge offered him a choice: jail or enlisting in the military; he chose to enlist. R. Lee Ermey went to Boot Camp at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego and then served in the aviation support field until he was assigned back to MCRD as a Drill Instructor from 1965 to 1967. Then-Sergeant Ermey was stationed in Okinawa in support of MWSG-17 and in 1968 was sent to Vietnam where he spent 14 months In Country. He was promoted to Staff Sergeant during his time in Okinawa but in 1972 was medically discharged as a result of numerous injuries. Ermey then moved to the Philippines where he attended the University of Manila on the G.I. Bill and had his first brush with Hollywood when he was asked to be the technical advisor on Francis Ford Coppola’s "Apocalypse Now" being filmed there. But Ermey changed the movie world forever when he was hired as a technical advisor to Stanley Kubrick's film "Full Metal Jacket". When Kubrick saw Ermey's instructional tape on how to act like a drill instructor, he knew that no one else could play the role of Gunnery Sergeant Hartman. R. Lee Ermey was granted the honorary rank of Gunnery Sergeant by The Commandant of the Marine Corps, General James L. Jones in 2002. He went on to act in dozens of movies and television projects, playing military roles, cops, judges, and authority figures in movies like “Seven”, “Mississippi Burning”, “Miami Vice”, and many more. He also voiced the plastic green soldiers in all of the “Toy Story” movies as well as characters in “Sponge Bob”, “The Simpsons”, and “Family Guy”. On April 15, 2018 at the age of 74, Gunnery Sergeant R. Lee Ermey passed away from complications related to pneumonia in a Santa Monica Hospital. He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery outside of Washington D.C.
Today we salute a veteran who exemplifies everything that our armed forces stand for. This Former US Navy Aviator personifies the Honor, Courage, and Commitment of the US Military every day. Captain Tammie Jo Shults of the United States Navy is a Captain for Southwest Airlines, where she flies Boeing 737's daily. It was in this position, at the controls of Flight 1380, two years ago on Tuesday April 17th, 2018, where Captain Shults safely and confidently made an emergency landing in her fully loaded aircraft saving the lives of her passengers and crew. Sadly one passenger was killed when an exploding jet engine sent shrapnel into the airplane interior, puncturing the skin and blowing out a window. But even with the knowledge that her airplane was severely damaged, down one engine, and that there were a number of injuries aboard including some serious, Captain Shults commanded that airliner to a safe landing in Philadelphia. A native of New Mexico, Shults graduated college in 1983 with degrees in both Biology and Agribusiness from MidAmerica Nazarene University before joining the Navy. Shults always dreamt of becoming a pilot, and initially applied for the Air Force but was unable to test to become a pilot because the Air Force was not accepting female pilot applicants then. The US Navy welcomed her, and she went on to become one of the first female fighter jet pilots in US Navy history. She rose to the rank of Lieutenant Commander during her 10 year career with the distinction of being THE FIRST woman to fly the Navy's F/A-18 Fighter Jet and was a member of Tactical Electronic Warfare Squadron 34 when she finished her career with the Navy in 1993 and accepted a position with Southwest Airlines. Now a Captain with the airline and a mother of 2, she lives in Texas with her husband Dean who is also a pilot. Captain Tammie Jo Shults is a hero and an inspiration to an entire nation.
So much has changed in the world in a matter of months, but something that does not stop is our military. From the highest operations, right down to recruits working their way through boot camp, the military keeps on working. I received a troop salute from David Bond, of Buckley, Washington. His son Wyatt graduated from Marine Corps Boot Camp just last week. 12 weeks ago, this class of young recruits was stepping off the bus in a world that was only just learning about the existence of Coronavirus. And while so much changed for us on the outside, those recruits fought through the same grueling 12 weeks of training that have been building Marines since the beginning. David says, “Our son Wyatt (22) is in the final stages of becoming a US Marine. He follows in his grandpas footsteps of becoming a Marine. He is an Eagle Scout and graduated high school with his AA degree. He was a Police Explorer while in high school, we thought he would follow and join law enforcement like his dad and two brothers. He has dreamed of being a Marine his entire life and was born on the Marine Corp birthday. He has dedicated his life to serving others and recently finished a 2-year religious mission just prior to signing up for this latest adventure. Wyatt is the latest family member who will be serving in our military. We are all so grateful for his decision to make life a better place, and grateful for all those that serve! Last week Wyatt and his 1st Recruit Battalion, Alpha Company, Platoon 1006 conquered “the reaper” and had the ceremony that officially makes them Marines. Today we salute you, Wyatt Bond, for earning the title of United States Marine.
The Family connection to the military runs deep, and I continue to receive tons of salutes for military members who are following in the traditions of those who have come before them. Today we are saluting a pair of siblings who are serving at the same time and come from such a family. Chris and Janis Roan are a couple of extremely proud parents. They wrote a fantastic detailed letter to me telling me about their two kids who are both currently serving in the Air National Guard. Their son C.T. Roan, who is 24, AND their daughter Kaylyn Roan, who is 26, are currently serving in the Guard together. And even more than just serving together, they are both currently serving in Operation Spartan Shield overseas. C.T. and his wife Brittany have just celebrated their 1-year anniversary while separated by half a world and Kaylyn has a 5-year-old son Deikan who is staying with these proud grandparents while mom is away. Chris and Janis reminded me of all the firsts that Kaylyn is missing for her service as well, like Deikan's first day of school this year and everything that comes along with that. The Roan kids definitely knew what to expect when they signed up because they were military "brats" themselves! Get this: Chris and Janis BOTH also served in the same unit of the Air National Guard, and they both served in Operation Desert Storm and Desert Shield, and Chris went on to serve in Operation Iraqi Freedom. This is a family of service and contribution that all Americans should look up to. Today we are saluting C.T. Roan, Kaylyn Roan, Chris Roan, AND Janis Roan; ALL of the Air National Guard.
Our Navy truly is a global force. Protecting freedom and the American way of life sends the Navy to every corner of the planet and service in the fleet can take sailors to places that they never knew existed. Today's troop probably never dreamt that she would be spending time at her current duty station while growing up in Kingston, Washington. Today we salute Lieutenant Jessica Huntington of the United States Navy. Lieutenant Huntington is a civil engineer for the Navy, overseeing all of the camp requirements and base projects at her duty station. That duty station is Camp Lemonnier in Djibouti. Djibouti is a place that most of us couldn't find on a globe, if they’ve even heard of it. It's on the Horn of Africa, nestled in between Ethiopia and the entrance to the Red Sea. Camp Lemonnier provides support of combat readiness and provides for the security of our ships in this incredibly active part of the globe. Lieutenant Huntington has a difficult and busy job keeping a base operating in such an arid and austere environment, but the mission of so many other sailors and troops depends on her efforts, and the efforts of everyone on that station. And that is why, today we salute Lieutenant Jessica Huntington of the United States Navy.
When we talk about the troops in all of our military services keeping our country safe for the way of life that we enjoy, almost all of us picture uniforms, rifles, tanks, ships, planes, and other military hardware. We are most often thinking of scenes like we might see in a movie of a battle fought in the mud and smoke. Today, so many of our troops are waging a different kind of war. The battle against the Covid-19 virus is no less deadly, and no less of a threat to our way of life in America as a rogue nation. Today we salute Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Benjamin Ong of the United States Navy. Benjamin hails from Bremerton and right now he's deployed aboard the hospital ship USNS Mercy in Los Angeles Harbor. Mercy and her crew of just about 1000 Sailors are on the front lines of the battle against Covid-19. Corpsman like Ong are trained in a wide range of medical treatment and techniques, and the Mercy is better equipped than most land based hospitals. With Sailors and other military personnel assisting and supplementing civilian medical personnel, we will win this battle. Today we salute Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Benjamin Ong on the United States Navy.
Every once in a while I decide to veer away from the salutes and requests that come in and just do our own Troop Salute. We have so many hard working and dedicated service men and women listening to this show, and to the station, and we are constantly communicating with many of you over our text lines, or on our social media pages. I received a message on my social media from today's troop. She wanted to shout out all the hard working people on the front lines of this Covid current crisis that we are all going through, but when I read her story, I decided that she is someone who needs to be saluted as well. Today we salute Sergeant Alexis Marissa of the United States Army National Guard. Alexis is a full time law enforcement officer, and a Sergeant in the National Guard when her nation needs her. In her role as law enforcement, Alexis says it has been a tough couple of weeks. The workload with this crisis, combined with recent losses of officers has put a strain on her entire "Blue Family". But Alexis says regardless of all of it, they are all out there 24/7 keeping us all safe as usual. Alexis also shouted out her "Green Family", “who are serving overseas and staying brave and on mission, despite the additional challenges of this crisis." Alexis' man is one of those currently deployed, and she's looking forward to his safe return in a couple of months. For keeping our streets safe at home, and our state and nation secure in the guard, today we salute Sergeant Alexis Marissa of the Army National Guard.
The Troop Salute is your opportunity to honor the soldiers, sailors, Marines, and Airmen in your lives. I want to hear all about the people you're proud of because we're all proud of them and grateful for their service. P1 Bailey Johnson is lucky enough to have two family members to salute here today. Staff Sergeant William Johnson of the United States Air Force is Bailey's husband. He has been serving in the Air Force for 8 years, and he is just about to deploy on a mission. Her husband isn't the only military man in Bailey’s life; she also wanted to thank her father, Staff Sergeant Scott Murray Jr. of the United States Army. Staff Sergeant Murray served his nation for the full 20 years and retired. That service included two tours in Afghanistan and several others. Bailey said, "My father came into my life when my mother and I needed him most." "He makes me want to be a better person, always." Once again we see from these examples how family members are not only proud of their military members, but they are also inspired by them every day. And that is why we salute them here. Today, saluting Staff Sergeant William Johnson of the United States Air Force and retired Staff Sergeant Scott Murray Jr. Of the United States Army.
Today we salute an incredible soldier who fought through impossible odds for his nation but now faces a new battle. This soldier took the burden upon himself to save the lives of many of his fellow soldiers in a war that many thought was not their problem and now through a brutal twist of fate is struggling against an unseen and deadly enemy, the Covid-19 virus. Today we salute Command Master Sergeant Bennie Adkins of the United States Army Green Berets and Holder of the Congressional Medal of Honor. It is a sad irony when veterans of Vietnam who sacrificed so much of their youth for the nation have become among the most vulnerable. Benny Adkins served 22 years in the Army including several tours in Vietnam. On March 09 - 12th of 1966 Adkins fought insurmountable odds, repeatedly risking his own life to save those around him and hold off enemy forces said to outnumber Americans 10 to 1. Sergeant Major Adkins' exploits during the battle are well known and led to his receiving the Congressional Medal of Honor for the lives he saved without regard for his own safety. Adkins received 18 separate injuries during a 38 hour battle followed by a 48 hour escape and evasion. The Green Berets with Adkins that day fought until the last round of ammunition ran out before digging their way out of their bunker and escaping under heavy fire. The grit, determination, and sacrifice shown by soldiers like Adkins should inspire each of us to do our part to save American lives. And each of us should pray for his battle with this virus. And that is why, today we salute Command Sergeant Major Bennie Adkins of the United States Army Green Berets, holder of the Congressional Medal of Honor.
I get a lot of salutes from parents and spouses, friends of the troops, and often even from other troops. But there's something special about getting a salute from a sibling. Salutes from siblings are special because you just know that younger brother or sister really looks up to their proudly serving sibling. And if it's an older brother or sister sending it in, then they have a different kind of pride in their "kid" brother or sister doing something really important. Today we salute Austin Thompson of the United States Army. Austin's older brother Cody Thompson sent this salute in to me. Austin has been in the Army for just over a year now and Cody says he's like a different guy already. Cody is so very proud of his little brother Austin. He wants him to know that the whole family loves him and is proud of him. He also wants to say that the whole family loves all of our troops. Austin has made a huge commitment to himself and to the nation. He's serving in the Army so that his brother and his family can continue to enjoy their freedom. Earning the respect of his older brother? Well that’s just a bonus. Today we salute Austin Thompson of the United States Army.
When you love your nation, and you love to be in the service of this nation, then a job in the military won't really feel like much of a job at all. Today we salute Henry "Mike" Pokrzywka of the United States Air Force. Mike loved serving in this nation's Air Force. He enlisted in the Air Force in New York before he even graduated from High School back in 1955. Pokrzywka specialized in hydraulics and he worked on the C-130s 109th Tactical Air Lift Group. The 109th is the only unit in the world with C-130s outfitted with skis to fly into and out of frozen runways around the globe. We know that Mike loved his job with the Air Force because he did that job for over 30 years, retiring from the 109th as a Master Sergeant and Crew Chief in 1988. After retirement, Mike loved to hunt and fish and spend time with his family. According to his granddaughter Allison, who wrote in for this salute, he also made some fantastic homemade French fries. "When my sister and I were younger, we would sit at the table for hours while he made French fries. We would eat them faster than he could make them." Allison said. He was also making memories in that kitchen. Master Sergeant Henry "Mike" Pokrzywka passed away in January at the age of 83, surrounded by his family and their love.
Today's Troop Salute is doing double duty as we salute two soldiers and two brothers. This salute was provided by a very proud and loving mother, a P1 by the name of Tracie Briels. Today we are saluting Carl Briels AND Jacob Briels, BOTH of the United States Army. Tracie says she always knew her boys were heading for a life in the service. On that fateful day in September 2001, when America was attacked, the family was living on a small ranch in South Dakota. Carl and Jacob were young boys at the time, but Tracie says she felt like they made their decision to serve right then and there. One of the boys' oldest cousins was a Marine when the events of 9/11 and the war that followed unfolded and while they were worried for their cousin, they were but so proud that he was involved with fighting for our nation. Now Carl is 24 and Jacob is 20 years old, and they enlisted together because Carl waited for his little brother to finish school so that the two could start their adventure together. Mom says Carl is her “hot-headed, bull riding, mud-bogging, cage fighter” and Jacob is the quiet one who enjoyed reading and studying and even taught himself different languages so that he could better communicate with players in online games from around the world. Carl is currently stationed in Korea, while Jacob is at Ft. Bliss awaiting deployment orders. And mom is at home, looking forward to seeing her boys again. Today we salute Carl AND Jacob Briels, Both of the United States Army.
The US Navy serves proudly, protecting our nation and keeping the seas safe around the entire globe. Although the mission of the Navy is primarily above and below the oceans, there exists an entire segment of the Navy whose sailors are trained to work almost entirely on land. The “SeaBees” is the name given to the Navy's Construction Battalion and today we salute one of these dry footed sailors. Today we salute Constructionman James "Jax" Hammer of the United States Navy Construction Battalion. James is a native of University Place where he graduated from Curtis High School. Hammer is a natural fit for the SeaBees; just look at that nickname! "Jax" Hammer says "I enjoy the structure and the skills the Seabees train me as a warfighter." James says high school and college athletics helped prepare him for the navy physically, and emotionally the Navy is a family tradition that he is proud to carry on. "My grandfather was a supply officer in the Navy during WWII on D-Day. He served aboard a ship that crossed the English Channel 66 times." Hammer says. "His ship was one of the few in his fleet not destroyed by underwater mines. I also have an Uncle who was a Lieutenant Junior Grade, who served as a communications officer during the Vietnam War." For his selfless commitment to the Navy and to our nation, and for carrying on a rich family tradition of service to the fleet, today we salute Constructionman James "Jax" Hammer of the United States Navy Seabees.
It truly is my honor to be able to share your pride and your respect for the people who make this great country possible. Today we are saluting Sergeant Christopher Anthony Gamboa of the United States Marine Corps. Usually I know who sent in the salute, but this one didn't have a name or a relationship laid out. What it did have was a ton of pride for this Marine. I did figure out that this salute was sent by Sergeant Gamboa's wife or girlfriend because while the writer told me about Gamboa's 12 years of service in the Marine Corps, including 7 deployments, she mentioned that he missed the birth of one of their 3 kids while away. Missing the birth of a child is just one of the sacrifices that service members sometimes have to make for the job. Sergeant Gamboa served in the Corps from 2003 until 2015. His family is beyond proud of their Hero. She finished with that special Marine Corps motto "Semper Fi, Devil Dog". You don't have to write a book to honor your troop. The Troop Salute is here for any of you listening to honor your soldiers, sailors, airmen, guardsman or Marines. Today we salute Sergeant Christopher Anthony Gamboa of the United States Marine Corps.
There are as many reasons to join the military as there are individuals serving in our military. Today we salute Operations Specialist 2nd Class Angelo Baluca of the United States Navy who says he joined the Navy on a kind of a whim. The Kent native says "When I joined the Navy, it was completely random; it sounded like fun." Angelo has turned that random action into a very interesting career in the Navy. He remains on active duty 7 years later working in the marketing and advertising department of the Navy recruiting office in the San Francisco region. There are so many career fields in our service, that it's hard to imagine a job that isn't available to service people. Angelo says the Navy has been an incredible experience that has given him training, experience, structure, and lots of travel. Baluca works in the recruiting department for the Navy, and he is a kind of walking talking recruiting poster for the possibilities in the service. Today we salute Operations Specialist 2nd Class Angelo Baluca of the United States Navy.
The experience a soldier has in war can be exciting or terrifying. The experience can be tedious or it can be fulfilling. No matter what kind of experience a soldier has in war, they return home with their memories, and probably a few life-long buddies. Not every serviceman likes to share stories of their "adventures" in uniform, but some of the veterans who do share, can give the best Hollywood stories a run for their money. Today we salute Don Leonard of the United States Army. Don is a story teller and he has many interesting stories because he served as a Paratrooper in WWII. Don is still alive and telling his stories at 94 years old. His granddaughter Ellianna Hicker wrote in to share her story of Grandpa Don. Ellianna says Grandpa Don always tells his stories as an adventure including how he was shot during a jump over Europe and earned a Purple Heart. He inspires everyone with his enthusiasm and his attitude. Ellianna says Grandpa Don is the last grandpa she still has, and he means the world to her. Don Leonard is among the last of that Greatest Generation and one of the few people who can give a first-hand account of that war and that time that shaped the world. Telling his stories as exciting adventures is the best way that he can share this knowledge with the next generations. Today we salute Don Leonard of the United States Army.
Helping to honor our veterans and service people is a real privilege for us. We want to share your respect and appreciation for the people in your life who have given back to the nation. Today we are Honoring James Elder of the United States Army. James proudly served this nation for 24 years. He started his service back in Vietnam, and obviously the military life suited him because he stayed on for another 2 decades afterward. I received this salute from Hope Snoke. Hope had heard us salute other soldiers and she asked if I would do a salute for James Elder. She gave me a few pieces of information about his service and his time in. He didn't ever talk about his service much, Hope said. She was worried that she didn't have enough for a salute. Some people just prefer to keep their memories private, or perhaps they don't want to bring the realities of war home to others. Hope also made sure to tell me that she was also very proud of ALL of the men and women who were serving with James when he started back in Vietnam. I asked Hope what her relationship is to James, she replied "He's my father." And sadly she also said she lost him just 2 years ago. Elder gave a lifetime of service to the United States Army, and even though he has passed on, he will never be forgotten by his daughter, or his nation. So today we salute James Elder of the Unites States Army.
The Service has changed a lot during it's nearly 250 years in this country. Muskets and cannon were replaced by M-16's and smart missiles. Biplanes and spotting balloons were replaced by Next-gen stealth fighters and satellites. And couriers and secret codes have been replaced by computers and encryption. But all this new equipment and capability still serves the same mission and learning to operate in this high-tech military takes some very special training. Today we salute Lieutenant Jason Franks of the United States Navy. Lieutenant Franks has just completed his training at the Information Warrior Training Command (IWTC) in San Diego, California. Franks is a 2005 Redmond High School graduate and native of Redmond. He graduated from Western Washington University in 2008 with a degree in math. As a Naval Intelligence officer, Lieutenant Franks is responsible for providing regional and adversary information to commanders in support of the Navy mission. "My job is to help the commanders make the best decisions based on the information available,” he says. “The training I received at IWTC gives me an opportunity to learn about U.S. Marines,” said Franks. "This is really important, since I'll be serving aboard an amphibious ship where we have sailors and Marines working together." In a very connected world, we need more very connected warriors. And that is why today we salute Lieutenant Jason Franks of the United States Navy.
Some of proudest Troop Salutes come from moms and the dads who are always so happy that their son or daughter has found their calling, and stepped up to serve. But I also really love the salute submissions that I receive from siblings. I think there's something special in a salute from a troop's brother or sister because you just know they fought off and on their whole lives and probably competed with each other in everything. So when I read these salutes that come in from siblings, I see a special kind of respect shine through. Today we are saluting Dylan Thompson of the United States Marine Corps. This salute was sent in by Dylan's younger brother Cole. Cole is a very persistent young man. He wrote me over and over to make sure his salute made it in! Private First Class Dylan Thompson is just 18 years old, and just starting his journey as a Marine. He is a 3521 Motor transport Mechanic serving in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Cole is very proud of big brother Dylan, as is his entire family. Cole told me that he is inspired by his brother's service, but hasn't made a decision to serve yet himself. If he does decide to enlist he says the Marine Corps is the only branch for him. I guess now Dylan is going to have to hug his little brother next time he sees him, instead of punch him in the arm. Today we salute Dylan Thompson of the United States Marine Corps.
Today we stop and think about the men who lead us, and helped shape this country into what it is from the very highest seat of leadership. But I would like to use this troop salute to honor those presidents who served in our nation’s military. We all know about the exploits of General George Washington and his decisive leadership largely responsible for the military victory of a "rag-tag" group of colonials over the world’s best trained and equipped military force in the world. But Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, James Monroe, and Andrew Jackson also served in the Revolutionary War. Jackson also served in the War of 1812 along with William Henry Harrison, John Tyler, Zachary Taylor and James Buchanan. We honor James K. Polk, Millard Fillmore, and Franklin Pierce as well as Abraham Lincoln's service as a Captain in the Illinois State Militia. Andrew Johnson, Ulysses S. Grant, Rutherford B. Hayes, James Garfield, Chester A. Arthur, and Benjamin Harrison were all Generals during the Civil War where William McKinley was a Major. Teddy Roosevelt led men into battle as a Colonel leading the "Rough Riders" in the Spanish-American War and Roosevelt is the only US President to receive the Medal of Honor for his military courage and bravery. Harry S. Truman served as a Colonel, while Dwight D. Eisenhower was one of the few 5 star generals in history as Supreme Allied Commander in Europe during WWII. John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard Nixon, and Gerald Ford all saw battle in WWII as officers. Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan served during WWII as well. George H.W. Bush's Service record includes famously being shot down over the sea as a Naval Aviator in World War II and his son George W. Bush served out country in the National Guard.
A life in the service can be the first step on a very interesting path. Today we salute Issur Danielovich of the United States Navy. Issur walked a very interesting path after serving in the navy, and he walked it for a very long time. Danielovich was born in 1916 in New York to Jewish Immigrant parents. The family adopted the name Demsky to fit in a little better in Early 20th century America. Issur went through his formative years known as Izzy Demsky. Life was difficult. The family was poor and Izzy had 6 sisters. Everyone in the family helped out to earn enough for the family to eat. Izzy had passions and dreams and he yearned to get out of his situation. In 1941 Izzy joined the Navy in response to America entering WWII. Just before he signed up. Issur Danielovich, who had been going by Izzy Demsky most of his life, made one more name change. He legally changed his name to Kirk Douglas. Douglas served in the Navy as a communications officer in anti-submarine warfare until receiving a medical discharge in 1944 for an injury resulting from a depth charge accident. Kirk Douglas had planned to be a stage actor after the War, but his skill and his style quickly landed him in Hollywood where he went on to become one of the greatest actors of his generation, and one of the longest lived. Kirk Douglas died just over a week ago at the age of 103 years old. He will always be remembered for his movies, and he will never be forgotten for his service to this nation. Today we salute Kirk Douglas of the United States Navy.
Today it's almost hard to imagine a time when our military wasn't really very open for women. Women serve in just about every critical role all across our services. Today we are saluting a woman who was a pioneer among women in the service: Rosemary Bryant Mariner of the United States Navy. Mariner logged a lot of firsts during her service but the biggest was becoming the first EVER female fighter pilot in the United States military. Mariner was selected for the Navy back in 1973 along with 7 other women. She became the first female Jet pilot in 1974 flying the A-4C and the A-7E Corsair II in 1974. Shortly after this the young aviator reported for duty aboard the USS Lexington where she qualified as a Surface Warfare Officer. Fast forward to 1990 Rosemary Mariner logged another first when she became the first ever female air squadron commander when she took command of VAQ-34 based in California. In 1997 Captain Mariner finally retired after a long and distinguished career where she opened many doors for other women in the service. Sadly Captain Rosemary Mariner passed away last January after a battle with ovarian cancer. She was just 65 years old. Captain Mariner was laid to rest in a full military honors service including the first ever all female piloted "missing man" formation flight over her service in F/A-18 Super Hornets. Many friends and admirers attended her service along with her family including the Second ever female fighter pilot AND the first ever female helicopter pilot, who were both friends and classmates of Captain Mariner. Today, we honor Captain Rosemary Mariner for her service, for her determination, and for her life well spent defending this great nation.
We all know about the great education and training that our service people receive in the military. In some fields it's the best in the world. Along with that there's discipline and physical fitness, and on top of it all is the pride and satisfaction of being a big part of something that makes up the fabric of America. But there might be another benefit that most don't think about. Could being in the service make you sexier? Tiffany Hess thinks it does. Today we are saluting Jeremy Lewis of the United States Marine Corps. Jeremy served in the Marine Corps from 2004 to 2009. He was a Corporal when he got out, and Tiffany says "Once a Marine, Always a Marine." You know it's true Tiffany. She says, "Thank you for your service and the sacrifices you made...Love, Tiffany". We are saluting Corporal Jeremy Lewis for his service to this country, and if it sounds like we just did a long distance request on the lover’s line, know that Tiffany loves her Marine, and the rest of us respect and honor what he has done for all of us. Who could resist the appeal of someone who did their part to secure this nation?
The experience of war is a life changer. Those who go into hell and come out to tell their tale are changed forever. Those people have valuable lessons to share for those who listen. Today we salute Wilson Fox of the United States Army. Wilson proudly served this nation during the Korean War. Although this war is not spoken about as much as other 20th century wars that America fought in, The Korean War was a devastating affair. The conditions in Korea were very tough, and the fighting was brutal. Wilson Fox survived his time in Korea and returned to the States to raise a family and live the American dream. Fox's grandson Nick Carey wrote in for this salute. He is so very proud of his grandfather and he learned so much from him and his shared experience. Nick says "February 18th is the anniversary of his passing. He died with all of his family around him." The family continues to honor Wilson Fox by visiting his gravestone on the anniversary. Nick says "I still tear up every time." If you have a veteran in your family, sit down with them. Learn about their experiences and benefit from the knowledge and life that they risked so much to gain. Today we Salute Wilson Fox of the United States Army.
A lot can be said about opportunity while serving in this nation's military. Some join for pride and tradition, while some join our services for the job training opportunities and educational opportunities. Something that almost everyone gets in the Navy is the opportunity to see the world. Today we salute Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Daniel Langhorne of Auburn, Washington. This local boy is out on the high seas right now, serving on the Arleigh Burke-Class Guided-Missile Destroyer USS Milius. HM1 Langhorne serves as a Corpsman and a safety officer on the destroyer, which is part of Destroyer Squadron 15 in the Indio-Pacific region. Destroyer Squadron 15 is the largest forward-deployed Destroyer Squadron in the Navy, and it's the 7th Fleet's principal surface force. He's a long way from Auburn out there on the other side of the world, and he probably feels like a whole different person from who he was before starting his adventure in the Navy. For his part in keeping our Sailors safe, and keeping our nation secure, today we salute: Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Daniel Langhorne of the United States Navy.
The Awesome might of the US Military is built on its troops. The American Military machine is nothing but a bunch of cool equipment without the Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, and Airmen to bring it to life. When most of us think about the military, we might picture the heroes, the salty old dogs with lots of stripes, the commanding officers we watch on movies, etc...but any of those senior members will tell you that the real heart and soul of our military is the new recruit. After all, each of them was once a fresh young "boot", arriving at boot camp for the first time, a little scared but ready for the adventure. Today we salute a brand new Marine. Ricky Lashley. Ricky's Mom Tisha Lashley asked me to salute her son Ricky. Rick is just beginning his adventure and his career in the Marine Corps. Tisha could not be more proud of her son. She says, "I am so happy that he has dedicated his life to something so honorable and important. We love him!" Lashley graduated from Boot Camp on November 30th, he went through Marine Combat Training, and will be starting his MOS School soon. Whether this Marine serves for just 4 years, or he makes a career out of the Corps, he will be the human element that keeps our military strong. And that is why we are saluting Ricky Lashley of the United States Marine Corps.
Everyone on this show has personal connections to our nation's military. Most of us have an immediate family member who served, or at least an uncle or a cousin. One of us, Drew, even served himself. Today I would like to honor one of my own personal relatives who served. Today we salute Verdian Lee Fitz of the United States Navy. Verdian, or "Vern" as he was known was born in 1923 in New Mexico. He was part of the "Greatest Generation". They started out without much of anything other than hope, and from that they built the greatest nation on earth. Just like most of the men in his generation, Vern enlisted in the service to answer the call of WWII. Vern joined the Navy in 1943, just as the war was raging around the world. Very was stationed on the U.S.S. Lauderdale in the South Pacific during the war. He fought with his shipmates in the Battle of Okinawa. His ship picked up nearly 3800 survivors of more than 30 sunken ships from that battle. After WWII, Vern continued to serve the nation in the Korean War where he was stationed in Greenland working with radar systems which was brand new, cutting edge technology at the time. After his discharge Vern set up a home in Estes Park, Colorado, and married and had a family. Always an avid history buff, Vern Fitz collected ships logs from WWII along with stories of the war to preserve them for future generations. He remained active in veterans events his entire life, eventually becoming the oldest member of Western Slope VFW Post 3981. Verdian Lee Fitz passed away on November 19th, 2019. He was 96 years old.
You don't need to write a 1000 word thesis to thank someone you know for their service. Sometimes I receive long, detailed letters telling the stories of a troop and the sender. They'll tell me how they met, how their troop and the service has played a role in their lives, or their friendship, and then I might get detailed information about where that person is serving, about the job they do for our military, and possibly about awards or great stories...and I love reading each and every one of them. But I also read the very short salutes. Today we are saluting Daniel Kennedy of The United States Military. I am going to read you EXACTLY what I received. "Thank you Dan for Serving our country and putting your life on the line to protect us. We love you. Billie and Kris". Billie and Kris are obviously very proud of Dan, and they clearly love their troop. Are they his friends, his parents, maybe his siblings, or maybe they're neighbors? I don't know, but it really doesn't matter here, because they are proud of Dan, and they are thanking him for his service to this nation. I don't know what branch Dan served in, or what he did, but that doesn't matter because he did serve. And we are honored to thank Daniel Kennedy for his service to this nation. And that is what the Troop Salute is all about. And so today we salute Dan Kennedy of The United States Military.
There is an unfortunate connection between war and politics that I think we're all aware of. Soldiers don't start wars.... That is up to politicians. Sometimes the politics become the focus of everyone's attention, and sometimes we get bogged down in the details and the maneuvering between the parties involved. In the 20th Century it became common for governments to call wars “conflicts”. Both Korea and Vietnam were called conflicts by the media and the suits, but the men on the ground knew the truth...these were wars. Today we are saluting Don England of the United States Army. This salute was brought to us by Don's loving daughter Joyce Britton. Joyce started her salute by mentioning that her daddy Don served in Korea, which was called a conflict at the time. Her dad would say "It was a war! Friends of mine were getting injured and killed, and people were shooting at me!" We salute our fighting men and women because the experience on the ground is war, no matter what it's named, or how the press discusses it. And Veterans like Don England who survive wars like Korea return to a nation that they helped keep secure. Unfortunately Joyce lost her father on Valentine’s Day 2005, but she says he will always be loved and remembered. Today we are saluting Don England of the United States Army.
I really enjoy the opportunity to salute all of the men and women who serve this nation in our military. Every job, in every branch is an important piece of the military machine that keeps us secure. I don't get many salutes for Coast Guardmen, but I would love to get more. The Guardsman's wife who submitted this salute heard us do one for another "Coastie" a few months ago, and realized that she wanted to honor her man as well. Today we salute Electrician's Mate 2nd class Carey Johansen of the United States Coast Guard. EM2 Johansen served in the Coast Guard from 1999 until 2010. His wife says they met and fell in love about 3 years before he got out. "He was a dedicated guardsman, and a great boyfriend, who is now a wonderful father and husband." She said. Carey entered the Coast Guard a few years after high school, originally planning to go into law enforcement. After receiving his electrician's training in the Guard, he fell in love with electricity, and specifically the high power electrical systems that make modern ships go. His wife says the training and experience he got from the Coast Guard has led them to a very wonderful life, and he has a fantastic and very rewarding career in the shipping industry. She's so proud of her husband and his level of commitment to his nation, his family, and his profession. And that is why we are saluting EM2 Carey Johansen of the United States Coast Guard.
Last month marked the 78th Anniversary of the bombing of Pearl Harbor which has been immortalized in the words of Franklin D Roosevelt as "A date that will live in infamy". For most of us, this is an important historical date. We study it in school and we learn about the significance of the events of this day thrusting the United States into World War II all at once.
But, for a very small group of individuals, the events of that morning are a memory of a day that changed their entire world. Today we salute Lauren Bruner of the United States Navy. he is one of these brave Americans. One of the most significant losses in the attack was the Battleship Arizona, which lies on the bottom of the harbor to this day. On that December morning the Arizona took only 9 minutes to sink after the surprise attack. 1,178 of her crew died. Just 335 survived the attack.
Lauren Bruner was one of those 335 sailors to escape with his life. Bruner was a fire controlman on the Arizona, and he was just 21 years old on December 7th, 1941.
Bruner was hit by gunfire, and suffered burns over 70% of his body while trying to escape the sinking and burning ship. He spent weeks in a naval hospital recovering before he could return to his life.
On September 10th of last year just months shy of the 78th anniversary of the event, Lauren Bruner passed away in a hospital bed at the age of 98 years old.
Bruner was laid to rest in an urn in the Arizona, with his shipmates, on the anniversary of the attack just last month.
There are just 3 more surviving crew members of the Arizona. Each of these men have not elected to be interred with the Ship, but to be laid to rest with family when their time comes. And that means, with Lauren Bruner aboard, The USS Arizona finally has her entire crew.
Today we are not saluting an individual, but a group of service members. This last Saturday was December 7th, and on December 7th, 1941, 77 years ago, American Troops stationed at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii were enjoying a typical sunny Sunday morning. America was not yet involved in the bloody war raging elsewhere in the world so on that sunny Sunday morning the base at Pearl Harbor was relatively quiet: duty stations were just about to change hands for the day and off-duty troops and sailors were probably enjoying coffee, or preparing for church or a day of leisure. At 7:48am All Hell broke loose when 353 Japanese fighter aircraft shattered the calm morning with a surprise attack. At the end of the furious attack which lasted only around 2 hours, 2,403 Americans lay dead, and 1,178 more were wounded. Many critical installations were damaged or destroyed as well as 8 battle ships, 3 cruisers, 3 destroyers, a minelayer, and 188 aircraft were destroyed. This salute isn't about the attack, or about our response and the United States' entry into the War immediately afterward. This salute is about the soldiers, sailors, Marines and the support personnel who were killed or injured that day. Service to this nation includes an accepted risk, sacrifice, and honor. Over 3,500 Americans made an incredible sacrifice on that day, and we owe each and every one of them our respect and our thanks. We live in the land of the free, because of the brave.
Over the holidays American families everywhere will sit down and give thanks for all of the opportunity that we enjoy. We have the right to live where we want to, to follow our hearts for occupation, hobbies, and interests. And those rights belong to us because many Americans chip in and serve the needs and security of the nation in the military. And in some cases whole families serve the nation. Claire Renko wrote me to tell me about her proud family, and their incredible record of service to the US. Today we are saluting Robert John Renko, Bruce Robert Renko, and Catherine Francis Renko. All of the United States Army. Claire wanted to thank her family for their service. Robert is her father, Bruce is her brother, and Catherine is her sister. Each of them served in the Army, and all of them have completed their service and have gone back to the civilian world to enjoy the freedom. Claire wasn't done thanking her retired military family members. Her daughter Nikie Noelle Renko is currently serving in the Army National Guard. She is so proud of her daughter for her service, and for carrying on the family tradition. So as you sit enjoying the holidays in America this year, take just a moment to give thanks to those like the Renko family who have served this nation, and are continuing to serve this nation, to make your opportunities possible.
I salute troops from every corner of the US and every place in between. We receive submissions from every state in the union. Today, I can definitely say this salute is a first for us. Today we are saluting Master Sergeant Franklin Carter of the United States Air Force. Franklin's daughter Megan Carter is a P1 listener to this show, from all the way over in the UK! When Carter was first stationed in England 30 years, ago he met his wife, an English woman, he married her and had a daughter. And now that daughter is saluting her father. Master Sergeant Carter has served this nation with pride for over 32 years! He is currently an AVN technician in the Air Force. Carter served in Kuwait in 1998. He was stationed in Germany from 1990 - 1993, and he has been all over the US and the world. Meagan says the family was posted all over the world when she was little. Her dad is her hero not only because he protects the country, but because he has provided a fulfilling and interesting life for her and her mother. "I'm English at heart, but I'm American by birth." Megan says. "Mum and I are so lucky to have my dad in our lives." Today we salute Master Sergeant Franklin Carter of the United States Air Force.
How do you measure a man? In America in 1942, the measurement certainly started at joining the service.
George Herbert Walker Bush was a very young man in December 1941 when the Japanese surprise attack on Pearl Harbor thrust America into World War II. He was just 18 years old, and still in his Senior year at Phillips Academy in the Northeast US.
That very young Man opted to put his college plans on hold immediately and without hesitation to join the United States War effort as soon as he graduated Phillips Academy in that spring of 1942.
It would be very fair to say that he was a privileged young man, and with college plans already in place, he surely could have continued with his path and probably avoided the war altogether.
But that was not the Man that George Bush was.
He joined the Navy and immediately signed up to be a pilot. After a 10 month training program aboard the USS Sable He was Commissioned Ensign Bush on June 9, 1943. His commission in June came 3 days BEFORE his 19th birthday, making him the youngest Naval Aviator in the US Navy at the time.
Ensign Bush flew Grumman TBM Avengers from the USS San Jacinto in the Pacific Theatre, earning a promotion to Lieutenant Junior Grade.
During an attack of the Japanese strongholds at Bonin Islands Lieutenant Bush's plane was struck by enemy flak, but he still delivered his bombs and torpedoes on target. He was forced to ditch the Aircraft in the sea.
Lieutenant Bush parachuted safely to the sea, but his copilot was killed when his chute failed to open. Bush waited in a life raft until he was rescued by the Submarine USS Finback.
He lived and worked on the Finback for a whole month, participating in the rescue of other downed airmen before returning to the San Jacinto.
Lieutenant Bush took the loss of his fellow airmen to heart. He often wondered why he was saved, when others were not. He wondered if God had a plan for him all along. And he vowed to never forget those brave men.
Before leaving the Navy Bush married his sweetheart Barbara Pierce in 1945. The marriage produced 6 children, although a tragic illness took their daughter Robin before she had a chance at life.
After his discharge from the Navy, Bush enrolled at Yale where he earned a degree in economics. He became president of his fraternity and even played on the Yale baseball team in the first 2 College World Series ever.
After college George moved his family to Texas and entered the Oil business.
With much success in that venture, George Bush turned his attention to politics.
He won his first public office in 1966, and after a long and diverse political Career he became the Vice President of the United States in 1980.
In 1988, after 2 terms as VP, He was elected to the office of President of The United States where he served from 1989 to 1993. George Herbert Walker Bush was the first Incumbent Vice President to be elected to President in 152 years.
His marriage to Barbara lasted until her death in 2018, making them the longest married presidential couple in the history of the nation at 73 years of marriage. The next longest pair was John and Abigail Adams at 54 years.
On November 30, 2018, One Year ago this week, Former President George Herbert Walker Bush passed away at the age of 94.
If we ask again how to measure a man, we must look at the lifetime of service from George H.W. Bush as the highest marks on that rule, along with the lifetime of commitment to his family and his nation.
The military is a lot of things to a lot of people. But most probably don't think of it as the place to achieve your dreams. But it is exactly that for today's troop. Today we salute Lieutenant J.G. Thomas Logan of the United States Navy. Lieutenant Logan is a native of Kenmore, Washington and he always knew that he wanted to fly airplanes. He was majoring in Aviation Flight at college when he first spoke to a recruiter for the Navy. "It felt like a great fit for me, and it made too much sense for me to do it." Logan has been in the Navy for 4 years now, and he is living that dream. Lieutenant Logan serves with the "Screaming Eagles" Maritime Patrol Squadron VP-1 out of Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington. VP-1 is a high-tech reconnaissance squadron tasked with monitoring the world's oceans from above, in the state-of-the-art P-8A Poseidon aircraft. "We do a lot with what is essentially an airliner that a lot of people can't even imagine." Logan says, "We took an airplane that was originally designed to be a commercial airliner and made it into a great platform for the Navy." Logan didn't just breeze through the training process. Even for pilots, military training starts the same way as it does for everyone else. "I got hurt early on in flight school and I almost got kicked out of the program" he says, "I made it through, and the moment they pinned the wings on me was the biggest accomplishment in life." This Naval Aviator is living his dream and protecting our forces and our nation, and for this reason we salute Lieutenant J.G. Thomas Logan.
Sons look up to fathers who serve. That goes without saying, and that father-son bond is obviously a special one. I get a lot of salutes from kids honoring their parents. And I always feel the strength and the quality of that relationship. I can honestly say that the way a daughter looks up to her daddy when he's served the nation is probably the most special bond of them all. Today we salute Edward Reiner of the United States Navy. Edward served in the Navy from 1968 - 1972. He was a "ship fitter" on the USS Bausell, a Gearing-Class Destroyer. Reiner did a tour of Vietnam aboard the Bausell; they made stops in Japan, the Philippines, and Hong Kong. And the Bausell saw a lot of action during shore bombardments in Vietnam. Edward's Daughter Melissa wrote to me to salute her Daddy. She says the thing he was most proud of about his service was that during a time of the draft and uncertainty in the nation, he volunteered to enlist because the job had to get done. Sadly, Edward Reiner passed away last year from Mesothelioma caused by the exposure to the asbestos insulation in the ships of the era. Even though he is not with us any longer, the love and respect that his daughter feels for her Daddy will never diminish. Today we salute Edward Reiner of the United States Navy.
Sons look up to fathers who serve. That goes without saying, and that father-son bond is obviously a special one. I get a lot of salutes from kids honoring their parents. And I always feel the strength and the quality of that relationship. I can honestly say that the way a daughter looks up to her daddy when he's served the nation is probably the most special bond of them all. Today we salute Edward Reiner of the United States Navy. Edward served in the Navy from 1968 - 1972. He was a "ship fitter" on the USS Bausell, a Gearing-Class Destroyer. Reiner did a tour of Vietnam aboard the Bausell; they made stops in Japan, the Philippines, and Hong Kong. And the Bausell saw a lot of action during shore bombardments in Vietnam. Edward's Daughter Melissa wrote to me to salute her Daddy. She says the thing he was most proud of about his service was that during a time of the draft and uncertainty in the nation, he volunteered to enlist because the job had to get done. Sadly, Edward Reiner passed away last year from Mesothelioma caused by the exposure to the asbestos insulation in the ships of the era. Even though he is not with us any longer, the love and respect that his daughter feels for her Daddy will never diminish. Today we salute Edward Reiner of the United States Navy.
America is a nation of fighters: a nation of people who demand their freedom, and who are willing to fight for it. Many Americans fully understand and appreciate the contribution that ALL of our troops and all of our services make to our personal freedoms. Not EVERY American can appreciate what the military has done for them.... But that is OK, because freedom means every American has the right to think and feel whatever they want. If you are a Teacher, or a Postal worker, or a Banker, or a Student, you probably have this Monday off for Veterans Day. But the day off is not just a chance to skip work, or to sleep in. The day you are given today, is an opportunity to reflect on the contributions and the sacrifices that have been made by generations of Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen, and Guardsman; in order for you to enjoy the freedom of this nation. This nation was conceived and drafted by great men who envisioned a land of freedom. But this land and that freedom was WON by our Service people in uniform. To this day, all over the world American forces make the world safe for freedom to grow and to thrive. We are very fortunate to live in this country in this era. And we have Veterans to thank for that. We live in the Land of the Free Because of the Brave, and on this Veterans Day, each and every one of us should take some time to reflect on that. Thank a veteran for their service. Ask an elderly family member or friend about their service stories, or their memories of others who served. We are a nation of fighters, built on the bravery and actions of the warriors who came before us.
As we approach Veterans Day in America we will all be giving thanks and honoring the men and women who have served this nation. As Americans we know that we owe much of what we have to them. We received a special salute for this Veterans Day from within the service this year. I'm going to play a recording that was sent to us by email from the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. This is from Navy Commander Ariel Atienza of the United States Navy. It's a special kind of Salute not only because it’s an audio message, but also because it is from one service member to all the rest, past and present.
There is an unmistakable link between our service men and women and our law enforcement community in America. So many times we receive salutes that tell us about a Soldier, Sailor, or Marine that is now working in Law Enforcement or went into the field after leaving the service. Today we salute Lance Corporal Steve Hurd of the United States Marine Corps. Steve was an MP for 4 years at Camp Pendleton in California way back in the day. His son Cory, who is our very own P1 Honey Bucket Corey, wrote in to ask me to salute his dad for his service to the nation as a Marine. Corey also asked me to salute his dad for his service to our community back home, because Steve brought that MP training back from the Marine Corps and became a police officer in Olympia for 36 years! Corey was born just as his dad left the Marines, so he doesn't remember that part of dad's life, but he does remember being scared for his dad as an officer when he was a kid. Corey's sister also followed dad into Law Enforcement by becoming a Washington State Patrol trooper. Corey wants everyone to know how much he appreciates his dad for his service and how much he appreciates his sister for her work as a State trooper, and for all of our men and women in uniform serving all of our communities. Today we salute Lance Corporal Steve Hurd of the United States Marine Corps
We have honored troops here who are fresh-faced recruits heading off to boot camp for the first time. We have also honored veterans of just about every American war in the 20th century, and service members who served the nation during all parts of the last century. Today we are saluting a Sailor who would have turned 99 years old this week, so today we are honoring someone who served in a different time, seemingly a world away. Today we salute Robert Coryell of the United States Navy. Robert is no longer with us, but the pride that his grandson Will Hunter feels for his grandfather will never die. Coryell was born in Indiana on October 27, 1920. He served in the Navy during WWII including time spent in Guadalcanal. If you know a little bit of WWII history, you know that Guadalcanal was a major event for US forces, as it was the first US offensive against the Empire of Japan. Coryell was a Pharmacist in the Navy; another job that people don't usually think about, but is absolutely mission critical. After leaving the Navy, Robert worked as a Pharmacist for Walgreens for many years. Today we salute Robert Coryell of the United States Navy.
Soldiers save lives: we've all heard that about soldiers on the battle field but today's soldier saved a life off the battle field. And that person he saved wants you to hear all about it. Today we salute Staff Sergeant Tom Durski of the United States Air Force. Tom is just 25 years old and already his accomplishments and accolades are adding up. He enlisted in the Air Force right out of high school, and has been going strong ever since. The life he's saved at home was that of his wife Brittney Durski. Brittney says she was struggling with life early on. She was living in her home state of Idaho, a single mother to a 13-month-old little girl, struggling with dependency. She left her daughter with her parents to go to California to get sober... and that's where she met Tom. Tom is from Las Vegas, Brittney is from Idaho, and the two met in California by chance. That's how she knows that Tom was meant to save her. Later, just after they had married, Tom was deployed for 6 months. But the couple endured and grew stronger. After returning from that deployment, the two settled into a life together and he’s been deployed a few times since. Brittney says she has been sober since she met Tom, and its his strength and his love that keep her going, even when he's half way around the world. Their daughter Layla is now 5, and their son Ford is 2, and Tom is back in the states. The couple now lives on Joint Base Lewis McChord. Brittney says she wanted to salute her husband for all he has done for her and for their family. Today we Salute Staff Sergeant Tom Durski of the United States Air Force.
On Sunday October 20, 2019 America lost three of her sons to a tragic training accident. We salute troops here because we appreciate what they do for us, and we salute them for accepting the risk of service, so that we all can live in a free America. Today we salute Sergeant First Class Bryan Jenkins of Gainesville, Florida; Corporal Thomas Walker of Conneaut, Ohio; And Private First Class Antonio Garcia of Peoria, Arizona of the US Army’s 3rd Infantry Division 1st Armored Brigade. Just before 3:30 am on that Sunday, the Bradley armored fighting vehicle these three soldiers were riding in rolled off a bridge during a training exercise, and landed upside down in a stream. All three of these brave soldiers lost their lives in the accident. 3 more soldiers who were riding in the vehicle were injured, but survived the wreck. Major General Antonio Aguto said in a statement, "The training is tough, realistic, and we train for all sorts of conditions no matter where we would go." He added "It's hard enough when you lose one soldier, but losing three at one time amplifies the pain we are all feeling." The loss of these three soldiers is a reminder to all of us that our troops face danger from the time they sign up to serve, until they leave the service of the nation. They are in the business of making war, and that means they must prepare for threats. Each of us owes our gratitude to the men and women who accept that risk so that we can live in this free nation. For their sacrifice to the cause of freedom, today we salute: Sergeant First Class Bryan Jenkins; Corporal Thomas Walker and Private First Class Antonio Garcia, of the United States Army.
It's never too late to say Thank You. It's never too late to show respect and let the world know how proud you are of your service member. Even after they pass, your thanks and respect are a powerful message to others who have served, and others who are serving now. Today we are saluting Vincent Cortese of the United States Navy. This salute was suggested by Vincent's granddaughter Jasmine Meade. She had originally sent me a message a few months ago, letting me know that her grandfather was one of the oldest surviving veterans of the Navy from World War II. Between the time she sent that message, and this salute you're hearing now, Vincent Cortese passed away. He was 96 years old, and he was indeed one of the oldest surviving veterans of the Navy from World War II. Vincent was born in 1923 in Texas, and he joined the Navy Air Corps in August of 1941. Granddaughter Jasmine says her grandfather earned many medals during his service in the Navy, and he was very proud of them all. Vincent served his community well for his entire life and is survived by 2 sons, 2 daughters, 2 brothers, 1 sister, 7 grandchildren, and 7 great grandchildren. Today we salute Vincent Cortese of the United States Navy. He was a member of the Greatest Generation, and a member of the greatest military the world has ever known.
Usually we put together the information from Troop Salute submissions into a kind of story. But sometimes the salutes come to us just perfect; when a mom writes the way Stephanie DeGagne did, all I have to do is read it. Stephanie Writes: “I would like you to honor my son Sergeant Jake Ness. Jake enlisted in the Army when he was just 18 years old and spent his 19th birthday in basic training. Jake is a geospatial engineer; he had to be cleared by the FBI to get that position. He has served in Afghanistan and is currently serving in Germany. When in Afghanistan, he was recognized by the Chief of Staff of the Army who talked about Jake in a speech, using him as an example of a soldier who was in Afghanistan leading our troops when he wasn't even old enough to drink yet. Jake has been in the Army over 7 years now. He has been recognized by many of his officers as one of the hardest working Sergeants they have ever seen. He's currently doing the work of a First Sergeant, and he's taken on many other duties as well: Jake is in charge of the barracks that he lives in and is responsible for making sure everyone there is taken care of. Jake has only been home for Christmas once since he’s been enlisted. I am SO very proud of my son. I hear all of the wonderful stories you do about other military members and I wanted to share a little bit about my son. Thank you. Stephanie DeGagne.” Today we salute Sergeant Jake Ness of the US Army, because he has made his mother so incredibly proud.
Almost every single Troop Salute you hear me do here on the show will include the word "Pride". Pride is one of the most common elements of every salute I receive. People are so proud of their troops and that is why they want to tell the world through the Troop Salute. Another word comes up from time to time, and that word is fear. Today we salute Corporal Hunter File of the United States Marine Corps. Hunter's mother Karen File, who is a P1 of the show, wrote in originally because she wanted to win some concert tickets as a gift for her son. She wanted to thank him for all he's done and for his service. I asked her if she wanted to do a salute for him and she agreed. Karen told me that she was originally very afraid to have her son enlist in the military. "It was my biggest fear that my son would join." She said, "Then one day he texted me at work and told me he had a surprise, and that he had joined the Marine Corps." Hunter File served a 4-year enlistment in the Marines as a Fire Direction Control Man. That means he worked with an artillery unit to calculate and deliver precision strikes on targets, sometimes VERY far away. He advanced to the rank of Corporal, spent a full year on deployment, and then finished his active duty time. Karen says Hunter is the kind of man that would help out anyone in need, and any fear that she once felt has been replaced by an abundance of pride. Today we salute Corporal Hunter File of the United States Marine Corps.
The different combinations of Troop Salutes I receive here really paint an interesting picture of America and its serving families. Whether its kids saluting their parents, sisters saluting their brothers, or friends letting the world know about their friend in the service, pride is the constant element of any salute. Today we salute Lori Hollman of the United States Navy. Lori's salute was sent to me by her mother Jaqueline Olsen. Jaqueline was so very proud to tell me about her daughter because she raised her alone, and it wasn't always easy for them. She said that she put everything she had into giving Lori a decent life, and usually she did it on very little. Lori enlisted in the Navy after going to community college for 2 years and earning her associates degree. Lori has been in the Navy for 3 years now, and her current plan is to complete a 4-year degree while serving, and she has her eye on an officer commission down the road. Jaqueline is so proud of her daughter and her service. "She has become so much stronger than I even had hoped for" says Jaqueline. "I always told her she could do anything if she worked hard at it." For being a strong woman and making her mother proud, and for setting herself up as the future of our Navy, today we salute Lori Hollman of the United States Navy.
Everyone assumes the parents of young Americans who sign up to head off into the service are proud of their troop. A much harder family member to impress, though, might be a sister or brother. The sibling we heard from for this salute was impressed enough with her brother to let the world know. Today we Salute United States Army PFC Corey Wenning. Corey's sister Chrystal submitted this salute to us because she says "Even though he drives me crazy sometimes, he is my little brother and I'm proud of him." When he was still in high school, Corey was sure he wanted to do his part by serving his nation, so immediately after graduating in 2015, he enlisted in the Army. While was waiting to leave for training he attended a class called Future Soldier Training. Corey left for training in July of 2016. He graduated from boot camp and moved on to A.I.T at Fort Huachuca, Arizona. Now serving for a few years, Wenning works in Army Intelligence, and his sister Chrystal says that's a great fit for her little brother and she couldn't be more proud of him. For his service to the nation, and for showing younger brothers everywhere that they can impress that older sister, today we salute Corey Wenning of The United States Army.
The old advertisement for military service says "sign up and see the world". This isn't the leading recruitment slogan these days, but the offer definitely still stands. The sailor in this salute is serving his nation half way around the globe. He is definitely seeing the world. Today we salute Petty Officer 3rd Class Adam Wheeler of the United States Navy. Adam graduated in 2006 from Kentwood High school in Kent, Washington, and that is a long way from where he's living now! Petty Officer Wheeler is a builder in the Navy Mobile Construction Battalion 11, based out of Gulfport, Mississippi. But right now he is stationed in Guam at the Naval Construction Battalion Center in Guam. The Navy's construction battalions known as the Sea Bees, have served in all American Conflicts since 1942, and during peace time they use their construction skills to help communities around the world by aiding following hurricanes, earthquakes, and other natural disasters. Wheeler says he's made a lot of life-long friends in the Sea Bees and in the Navy in general. For his service to the nations, and for promoting the Navy and helping our services benefit all of humanity, today we salute Petty Officer 3rd Class Adam Wheeler of the United States Navy Sea Bees.
So many of us are proud of the service members in our lives. I started doing the Troop Salute years ago because I know that people want the opportunity to share that pride with the world. Today we salute Donald Kloepfel of the United States Army. Donald's daughter Katherine Kloepfel wrote in on our Facebook page just to thank us for doing the troop salute. She said in her message that she herself was the proud daughter of a Vietnam Veteran, so we asked her if we could salute her dad. Her father Donald served as a medic in the 41st Civil Affairs Company starting in 1966. Donald enlisted before his 18th birthday and was already serving, and actually already in Vietnam when his draft notice arrived at his parent's home. Katherine says her dad wasn't the first in the family to serve. Her Grandfather Robert Kloepfel served in the US Army as a German translator during WWII. Another family with a rich history of service. Today we salute Donald Kloepfel of the United States Army.
Serving in the military can be just a chapter in your story, or it can change the whole direction of your life. The service can provide opportunities like job training and life experience, or it can provide much much more. Today we salute Ed Durrant of the United States Air Force and his wife Nancy Durant Also of the United States Air Force. This salute really is a family affair. Ed and Nancy's son Scott wrote in for this salute, and although he didn't follow his parents into the Air Force, he did follow them into the service of this nation. Scott Durrant served in the Navy. Scott wants to salute his parents today however. Ed Durrant served for 23 years in the Air Force and was involved in many career fields during his time. Nancy Durrant served for 3 years as a medic in the Air Force. The two met and we're married while they were serving the nation, and have been married for over 51 years now. Scott is so proud of his parents and their service, and the values that they instilled in him growing up. Scott says that his father Ed is suffering with Alzheimer's disease and fighting kidney failure right now. He's a tough old guy and he's fighting with everything he's got, but Scott says the family could always use any prayers they can get. For an incredible family commitment to service spanning more than half a century, Today we salute Ed Durrant of the United States Air Force, and Nancy Durrant also of the United States Air Force.
One of the best parts of receiving Troop Salutes from proud family members is hearing their cherished stories and beloved family legacies. P1 Jamie Richardson wrote in to tell us about her grandfather who was a VERY brave WWII Airman. Today we are Saluting Sergeant Louis Edgett of the United States Army Air Force. Louis was a good ole' farm boy from Edmond, Kansas in the early 1940's. After graduation he joined the Army Air Forces in 1943, and trained as a B-17 gunner. Still only a teenager, Louis headed off to the big war raging over Europe and was assigned to the Eighth Air Force, 490th bombing group flying sorties out of England, where he served as a crew member and belly turret gunner on a B-17 named "Looky Looky". During a bombing mission deep inside German territory, Sgt. Edgett's group had dropped their bombs and turned for home when they were swarmed by an attack group of Messerschmitt ME 262 Jet Fighters, the first active jet fighter planes the world had ever seen. Louis' turret was damaged and the door holding him into the bottom of the aircraft blew open leaving nothing below him but four miles of space! Edgett had to continue fighting even though he struggled to remain inside the aircraft, held only by the straps on his legs. "If the jet pilots saw that my turret was not operating, they would probably have attacked from the below." Sergeant Edgett was awarded several medals for his bravery. And that is why he and his pals are called the Greatest Generation. And it’s also why today we Salute Sergeant Louis Edgett of the United States Army Air Force.
There is no bigger hero to a little girl than her Daddy. Today's Troop Salute is for a Daddy that is a hero to his daughter, to his grandkids, and to the rest of us. Today we salute Sergeant Jim McArthur of the United States Air Force AND The United States Army National Guard. Yes, Jim served in two of our nation's military branches and he served for close to 15 years. Amanda Doss is Jim's very proud daughter and sent in this salute. "My dad is absolutely the BEST!" Amanda says. McArthur started his service in the Air force in 1983, serving up through 1987 where he attained the rank of Sergeant. After his time in the Air Force, Jim made the move to the National Guard to continue his service. He spent more than 10 years in the National Guard, serving from 1987 to 1997. Sergeant McArthur was deployed to Desert Storm in 1990 when Amanda's brother was born. She remembers that her Daddy got to come home for 10 very special days to be with the family for the birth. Amanda says, "Now he is the best "Paw" ever". Jim picks up her three boys, Asher 7, Adler 5, and Ander 4, after school nearly every day and so continues his work as a hero and as a grandfather by making it possible for Amanda to work for the last 7 years by helping out with her boys. For being a hero to his little girl, and to his grandkids, and for his many years of service to the nation in two branches of the military, today we salute: Sergeant Jim McArthur of the United States Air Force, AND The Army National Guard.
A troop salute can trigger more troop salutes. It happens all the time. Just a short time ago we did a troop salute for a serviceman who was a dentist in the Army. I believe that salute probably reminded the person sending in today's salute about the person they wanted to honor. Today we salute Lieutenant Commander Clarence "Doc" Mehlenbeck III of the United States Navy. Lieutenant Commander Mehlenbeck is known as "Doc" because he was a doc in the Navy. Specifically a Dentist. You can see how I put together that connection now! Doc Mehlenbeck served the nation from 1971 until 1995. After Lieutenant Commander Mehlenbeck left the Navy, he continued serving the community as a dentist at Willamette Dental in Silverdale, Washington. This salute was sent to us by P1 Holly Llots, who also served in the military, but she wants the Doc to get the attention today. "He truly cared for his fellow service members, and it showed." Holly says. "He was well loved by all that knew him." Doc Mehlenbeck passed away much too early and is no longer with us, but those who knew him share stories all the time. Today we Salute Lieutenant Commander Clarence Mehlenbeck III for his amazing 24 years of service to the Navy and to the Nation.
You hear me speak often about how varied the opportunities are in our military. There is a nearly unlimited variety of jobs that one can do when they join and today's Salute shows a wide range of Military Occupational Specialties. Today we salute Keith White of the United States Air Force and Charles Bolender of the United States Army. This salute is brought to us from our very own Keith who works right here at the radio station. Keith wanted to salute both of his grandpas for their service to the nation. Grandpa Keith served in the Air Force for 4 years back in the early 50's right out of high school. He was in from 1950 to 1954. He was a helicopter mechanic over in Korea during the war. Helicopters were cutting edge technology at that time, and they were being used for many purposes for the first time ever. Those early primitive helicopters were finicky and difficult, and required constant maintenance and repair. But a helicopter mechanic is the kind of job people imagine right away when they think of the service. Keith's Grandpa Bolender had a much different type of military occupation and not one that most people think of right away. Charles Bolender went into the Army right after college in the early 50's as well and served the Army as…a Dentist. Yes, Dental health is really important to operational readiness. You can't fight effectively if your mouth hurts, so Army Dentists keep our troops ready, just like Dentists in all the other branches. Keith is really proud of both of his grandpas and proud of their service. Today we salute Keith White of the United States Air Force and Charles Bolender of the United State Army.
We love receiving troop salutes sent in from people outside of the normal family or close friends who normally send them. It is always nice to see how much others respect our service members, and how much the people around them can be effected by them. Today we are saluting Edwin Mason of the United States Navy. Edwin Mason passed away last year at the age of 86. Edwin was known to friends and family as Ed, or Grandpa Ed. We don't have all of the information about his rank or the dates of his service with the Navy for this salute, because this salute was brought to us by a close friend of Edwin's and his granddaughter, Marie Jones. Ms. Jones says that Grandpa Ed would tell stories about the Navy and talk fondly about his service, but his Dementia prevented him from sharing clear information, details, or dates. She didn't know the details of his service, but she did know how proud he was to have served his nation. Ms. Jones cared for Grandpa Ed during his final years in a nursing home. She tells me that after his service with the Navy he continued to serve his community as a member of the Crystal Beach Fire Department in Western New York, serving at least 15 years and eventually becoming the Chief of the fire department before his retirement. Clearly Edwin was a great American and a great man. He made an impression on everyone around him, right up until the end. For his service to the nation and his community afterwards, today we salute Edwin Mason of the United States Navy.
I received a few more troop Salutes after we discussed 9/11 just a couple of weeks ago on the show. That event was responsible for so many Americans waking up and realizing their own role and their own responsibility in the security of our country. Today we honor Private Christian Keller of the United States Army. Christian's mother Heather wrote in with this salute. "September 11th changed all of our lives" She said, "I am so proud of my son to accept the demands of service to keep his family and friends safe." Keller was a young man when 9/11 happened, much too young to enlist at the time. But that new American sense of duty and responsibility to service meant that his family instilled these values into Christian, like so many other families. Christian grew up knowing that he wanted to do his part for the country when he could. Keller completed basic training last year, and his mother couldn't be more proud of her son's dedication. "He is following in his grandfather's footsteps of service, and we are all praying for him each day." His mother tells me. We are proud of Christian too, just like we're proud of everyone who signs on that line. Today we salute Private Christian Keller of the Unites States Army. And that is why we are saluting Private Christian Keller of the Unites States Army National Guard.
We are all fans of our soldiers. We're proud of them and we appreciate everything they do every day for this country. But none of us can ever be as proud as one person: the soldier's mother. Today's salute was sent in by that proud mother. Angie Shreiner is a very proud Army mom.... twice! Angie asked me to salute her 2 boys who are both her personal heroes. Today we salute Specialist Sean Moyer of the United States Army AND Private Zachary Moyer, also of the United States Army. Sean is the eldest of Angie's two sons, and he's been in the Army just a bit longer than his younger brother. Sean is currently deployed overseas. Zachary has only been in the Army for a short time and he's stationed in Texas. Angie is very proud of her boys, and she is praying and waiting for the day they both come home safe. She knows they're doing the right thing, and she knows they are capable young men, serving in the best Army in the world, but you can't ask a mom not to worry, just a little bit. For their service to the nation and for making their momma proud, today we salute Specialist Sean Moyer of the United States Army, AND Private Zachary Moyer also of the Unites States Army.
The freedom that we enjoy in this country, and the freedom that we help other nations secure around the globe, is never free. We honor our service men and women here because the job they have volunteered to do to secure that freedom comes with a significant amount of risk to their lives. These brave individuals put their lives on the line to make the world a better place. Today we salute a soldier who sacrificed his life to protect others. Today we salute Sergeant First Class Jeremy W. Griffin of the United States Army Special Operations Command. Sgt. 1st Class Griffin was killed in action by small arms fire during combat operations in Wardak Province, Afghanistan on Monday is this week. He was 41 years old. Griffin, who was from Greenbrier, Tennessee, served as a Special Forces communications sergeant with 3rd Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. He was on his fourth combat deployment. “He was a father, he was a husband, he was a son, he was a Green Beret and he was an American hero,” Army Chief of Staff Gen. James McConville said. “The loss of Sgt. 1st Class Griffin is felt across the 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne) Family and the entire Special Forces community,” Col. Owen G. Ray, commander, 1st Special Forces Group said. “He was a warrior — an accomplished, respected and loved Special Forces Soldier that will never be forgotten. We ask that you keep his Family and teammates in your thoughts and prayers." For his bravery and his dedication to the service, the nation, and his teammates; and for his ultimate sacrifice, today we salute Sergeant First Class Jeremy W. Griffin of the United States Army.
There are a lot of obvious reasons to join the military. We talk about all the benefits and the educational opportunities, and the life lessons that are available to our service men and women. Today's troop is showing us another benefit of military service that we may not have thought about prior. Today we salute Staff Sergeant Shane Durkin of the United States Army. Staff Sergeant Durkin has served 16 years in the army thus far, and is still going strong. The benefit that Durkin shows to us today is one he may not have even realized himself. That benefit is impressing one's father-in-law. This salute was written to us by Shane's father-in-law Mark Wright. While so many others struggle to forge a relationship with their in-laws, or to even find common ground, Shane Durkin's father in law is so proud of him, he's letting the whole world know. "He's the father of my three grandchildren and he's my daughter's knight in shining armor." Says Mark with pride. He goes on to say that Durkin represents our nation's strength and character. It's obvious these two are close; Mark says that Shane presented him with the American Flag that flew over his base in Afghanistan. For his service to the nation, and for setting the example for all sons-in-law, today we salute Staff Sergeant Shane Durkin of the United States Army.
Members of the same family serving together is something we talk about a lot on the Troop Salute. While we know a family tradition of service is not uncommon, the individuals we are saluting today bring another level of commitment to that family service, and they are the first to accomplish this very lofty achievement. Today we salute Major General Maria Barrett of the United States Army and Brigadier General Paula Lodi also of the US Army. These two Army Generals that we salute today are sisters. Major General Barrett is not only the senior officer of the two, but she is older sister to Brigadier General Lodi. Having two service members is not at all uncommon for one family, and even having two officers is not unusual, but having two Generals serving at the same time in one family is extremely uncommon. And there has never, ever been another occurrence of two sisters achieving the rank of General. This is the first time in the 244 year history of the US Army that it has ever happened. Brigadier General Lodi is the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations in the Army's Surgeon General's office, and was just promoted to the rank in July, while her sister, Major General Barrett, commands the Army Network Enterprise Technology Command. Both are outstanding officers and outstanding soldiers according to the Army Chief of Staff. And we think that both of these women are icons of strength, intelligence, perseverance, and possibility. And that is why today we salute: Major General Maria Barrett of the United States Army and her sister, Brigadier General Paula Lodi of the United States Army.
Today’s salute comes from Sharron Taylor, written to us in honor of her father. "My dad, Troy E. Nelson, served in the U.S. Army during WW II. He was a medic with the 12th Armored Division, 43rd Tank Battalion, known as The Mystery Division. While he was in Frankfort Germany he got to meet his brother-in-law for the first time. Dad always wanted to go back and see what the country looked like, because he only remembered it as war torn and destroyed. I so wanted to do this for him but never was able. Sadly, he is gone now and I miss hearing his "war stories". He and my mom celebrated 66 years of marriage; I miss them both so much, so thank you for this opportunity to honor them." Her dad had said he wanted to go back and see the country and meet the people because he was never at war with the citizens or the landscape, but he was there to defend freedom. Nelson never made it back to Europe, but Europe enjoys freedoms today because they were defended by Nelson and the other men from our American military that traveled there to fight for it. And that is why today, we salute Troy E. Nelson of the United States Army.
Today we salute a troop who followed his parent into the service of this nation. Like so many others who we've saluted here, growing up with tales of service and the connection to our military led this American to do his part. Today we salute Samuel Corman of the United States Navy. Before you draw too many conclusions about this Sailor, there is one detail that makes this story a little different that so many others that you hear. Samuel followed his mother into the service and into the Navy. Corman's mother Shannon was an active duty Sailor in the navy for 6 years, and was still a member of the Navy reserves for most of Samuel's childhood. "He is proud of his mother's service", says his girlfriend Leanne who asked me to salute Samuel. “I think it's really cool that he is doing the same job that his mom did in the Navy, and I think it's also really cool that he is so proud of the fact that he's following her." She said. Corman is military police in the Navy as was his mother before him. For continuing a tradition of service, and for following his mother into the service of this nation, today we salute Samuel Corman of the United States Navy.
Everyone here appreciates our troops. That's why we do the troop salute. It's a safe bet that just about everyone in Country music appreciates our troops as well. Today's salute is from a very proud mother, she wants us to honor her son for all he did in the service, and all that he does now that he's out of the service. She also slipped in a fun story that shows just how close Country Music is to our military. Today we salute Ed Linge of the United States Marine Corps. Ed's mother Janet is so proud of her son and his 10 years of service to the nation. Linge was a mechanic on the F-18A and spent much of his service stationed at Miramar Air Station in Southern California. Ed served one tour in Afghanistan that caused him to miss the birth of his first child. He received several medals and commendations while he was in. Janet says that Ed has become a leader in his community of Maple Valley now that he's out. He's on the board of directors for the junior football league, and he coaches his daughters in softball. Janet had to share a great story from her son's time in the Marines. One night in 1999 he and his buddies went to a casino in Southern California to see a brand new country artist. After the show the artist came over to their table and bought them all a beer. He sat and visited for a while and talked with them about their service. That artist was Brad Paisley. For his service to that nation in the Marine Corps, and for his service to his community now, and for making his momma proud, today we salute Ed Linge of the United States Marine Corps.
Some people are just born with the drive and the desire to serve. When you find someone who is truly born with this trait, you probably couldn't stop them if you tried. Today we salute Rod Hanson of the United States Navy. Rod hasn't worn the uniform of a sailor for a long, long time. He dropped out of high school to join the Navy way back in 1945. When asked what drove him to enlist while there was a huge war raging around the world, Rod says "It seemed like everyone else was doing the same thing." While Hanson was in Basic training Germany surrendered. Just before he was scheduled to graduate from boot camp, Japan did the same thing. Rod considers himself lucky in that way. He went back to the civilian world and continued to serve his community as a high school wood shop teacher for more than 30 years. After his retirement Rod became a full-time volunteer, working for Habitat for Humanity, for his church, and for his County Food Bank. At 92 years old Rod is still serving the community. Hanson repairs medical equipment for the Non-profit Medical Equipment Bank in Lacey, Washington, so that people who need wheelchairs or crutches, but can't afford them are able to pick them up free of charge. When he is not performing any of these other services, Rod Hanson retires to his home shop and makes handles for hand-powered scooters for people in Central and South America. Rod says he feels best when he's out working, and doesn't plan on slowing down any time soon. For his incredible life of service to this nation, and to his community we proudly salute Rod Hanson of the United States Navy.
ust when we think we’ve heard all the great stories about all the incredible people who make our military possible, we get messages that completely surprise us. Today we salute both Dennis Dow of the United States Army and the Army National Guard, and the troop that Dennis himself actually asked us to salute: his K9 partner Jag. Jag is a 15-year-old Black Lab Dennis has been working with since 2006. Dennis first joined the Army in 1989. From 1993 until 2006 he moved around in both the Army and then the National Guard, but always wanted to work with the K9's. Dennis' wife was also in the Army at the time, and ended up going off to K9 training school. In 2004, Dennis finally got his chance, when a friend of his wife's from her K9 unit told Dennis that he could get into handling school if he re-joined the Army full time. So at 36 years old he signed back in. In 2006 Dennis was paired with Jag who had just arrived at school after being trained by kids in youth detention. Before the end of their training, Dennis and Jag had orders to Afghanistan. Dennis says he has 100's of stories of Jag making everyone laugh with his antics at the most opportune times, and as many stories of Jag saving their lives as well. Jag is a special type of Combat Bomb sniffing Dog. Now Dennis says he is elated that he AND Jag are retired and holding down "Fort Living Room" together. For sticking with the service and for keep everyone safe we salute Dennis Dow of the United States Army, and his partner Jag also of the United States Army.
Many of our Troop Salutes come from the moms and dads of those who serve, but some of our proudest also come in from the siblings of our troops, because you just know they probably fought and competed as kids but have now earned respect. Today we salute Private First Class Dylan Thompson of the US Marine Corps, sent in to us by his younger brother Cole. PFC Thompson is only 18 year old. His specialty now is working as a 3521 Motor Transport Mechanic – working on everything from 2.5 ton trucks to Hummers to Buffaloes and replacements and everything in between. He is currently serving at Camp Lejeune North Carolina. Cole asked us to salute him for his bravery and giving of himself to serve our country, and Fitz adds that he hopes Dylan doesn’t punch his little brother too hard in the arm the next time he comes home because he is obviously very proud.
Today we salute First Sergeant Brad Michaels of the US Air Force. His son Zachariah wrote in to us after he heard that we do the Troop Salute every Monday, Wednesday and Friday here on 98.9 the Bull, and he knew he had to do one for his dad. First Sergeant Michaels served from 1986-1996 primarily working with munitions. He was a bomb dump assistant at various stations handling all kinds of ammunition, from bullets to bombs, serving in several bases including Germany and Korea. Zachariah says he always knew his father loved him and his family, but wishes they could have spent more time together. Following the Air Force, Brad became a police officer. But when the family had to relocate, and they needed more money, he became a long haul truck driver, which took him away from home for long periods of time. Sadly, Brad then became stricken with ALS – commonly knows as Lou Gehrig ’s disease – from which he ultimately passed away. Zachariah says Brad was a wonderful dad who did everything he could for his family and even when he was away, they always knew he loved them.
Today we salute Sergeant Major Terry Sutton of the US Army. This salute was sent to us by his nephew Jake Abernathy. Terry served in the Army for 25 years but even so it takes someone extra special to achieve the rank of Sergeant Major, which is the highest rank possible for an enlisted man and only the most committed and accomplished service members get there. In fact Drew says there are many people who serve that long and never qualify for that rank. Jake says Terry was as committed as they come: he enlisted in 1994 and became an Army Ranger, serving until 2014, and ultimately doing 5 tours of duty to Iraq and Afghanistan where he led several dangerous missions. He is still active on base, helping to motivate and train young soldiers.
So many of our salutes are for veterans and individuals with long storied service records. The Troop Salute is here to honor and support everyone who has made the commitment to protect this nation. It doesn't matter if someone is a 3-Star General who put in 38 years of service, or a fresh recruit who's just getting through boot camp for the first time, they are serving this nation and they are our strength. Today we salute Christine Sloan of the United States Army. Christine is not still that fresh recruit, but she has been in the Army for just under 1 year. Christine's best friend Lindsey sent me the salute. Lindsey wants Christine to know how proud she is of her decision to serve, and although the two friends aren't going to get to see each other much for the next few years, Lindsey knows that Christine is doing something much bigger than herself. Christine is planning to take advantage of some of the education programs that the Army offers, and wants to get her degree while she's in. For taking that leap, and making the commitment to serve this nation, today we salute Christine Sloan of the United States Army.
A full career in the military is a life well lived and a life of good service to your nation. When you hear us talk about the sacrifice of service, we're not talking about the jobs in the military. When we talk about the sacrifice we are referring to the risks involved in service. Working in the military today can be a career that's rewarding and full of opportunity, but the risk is always present. Today we salute Master Sergeant Casey Payne of the United States Air Force. Master Sergeant Payne has served in the Air Force for 20 years. He has had a full career with many tours overseas and some tours into war zones. He will be retiring in October at the end of that rewarding career. Casey's Cousin Tiphany wrote in to salute him. "He has been married for 20 years and has 3 wonderful children" Tiphany says. And Casey comes from a very long line of military men. His father and paternal grandfather both served in the Navy, and his grandfather on his mother's side served in the Air Force like him. Master Sergeant Payne did face the risks of service during his time as well. In 2009 his unit was hit with an IED, and Casey spent several months recovering in a hospital in Germany before coming home in 2010. Tiphany says Casey is kind hearted, and always steps up to assist those in need. And he has a huge impact on kids that he has coached throughout the years. For his incredible 20 years of service, today we salute Master Sergeant Casey Payne of the United States Air Force.
Our Greatest Generation fought for everything that makes this country what it is today. The men and women who went off to fight WWII, and the ones who stayed here and built this nation and its military, laid the foundation for everything we have. Just a few years after WWII ended and America came home to prosperity, there was another war. The Korean War put our men and their equipment and training to the test again. By some accounts, this short war was at times more brutal than the long drawn out engagements of WWII. This short and brutal war forged tough men. Today we salute Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class Donald Dean Dodson Sr. of the United States Navy. Donald's granddaughter Rebecca Ann wrote me for this salute. She says "My grandfather was the toughest man I ever knew, however, as soon as his grandchildren showed up he turned into a big sweet marshmallow." Donald was forged by war and his generation into a tough man, but he knew how to enjoy life when he had the opportunity. Rebecca lost her grandfather and her grandmother about 10 years ago, and just 8 months apart. "Their marriage is what inspired me to always work through issues, and always do what's right." Rebecca says. And for the examples he set, and the wars that he fought for us, today we salute Boatswain's Mate 2nd Class Donald Dean Dobson Sr. of the United States Navy.
Pride in military service runs deep in many families. Sometimes that pride runs right through a particular branch of the military. Today I would like to salute a Marine who is the latest in a LONG line of Marines. Today we are Saluting Lance Corporal Dade Newell Jr. of the United States Marine Corps. Dade Newell Sr. actually wrote me a few months ago, not to tell me all about his son, but to ask if I knew if a certain artist had any plans to join a USO tour in Okinawa, Japan. His son Dade Jr. is stationed there, and this artist is his favorite. Lance Corporal Newell is an "I" Level Airframes mechanic. He's actually stationed in Iwakuni, Japan and this is his first permanent duty station after he completed his training stateside. Dad says he wishes his son could have stationed somewhere closer to home for his first duty, but he absolutely understands the need to go where the Corps needs you. Dade Newell Sr. understands the Corps because he was ALSO a Marine, who ALSO served in the Air Wing. And what's even cooler than that is that his father was ALSO a Marine, and he ALSO served in the Air Wing. That makes Lance Corporal Dade Newell Jr. the third generation of Father-Son Air Wing Marines: a really strong family tradition of service. For continuing the family service, and for keeping those aircraft in the sky to protect us, today we salute Lance Corporal Dade Newell Jr. of the United States Marine Corps.
Being in our military can be a tough job. There are a lot of responsibilities on the shoulders of our service men and women. When you add the responsibilities and time required to be a parent AND a service member, then you’re talking about a real challenge. Today’s Troop Salute is for a Fearless Female who is not only serving in the US Navy, but is also a mother to two little kiddos who are both under two years old! Today we salute our very own “Navy Mom Ashley”. Navy Mom Ashley writes in and calls in to the show all the time. She is definitely a P1. This salute to her was sent in from a friend of hers who wanted to make sure Ashley got some of the recognition that she deserves for everything she does. Ashley is an active duty sailor in the Navy, and right now she is doing double parenting duty because her husband, who is also active duty Navy, is away at sea. She makes lots of sacrifices to find the time to make sure her kids get all the time and attention that they need with just one parent at home. According to her friend, Ashley will be leaving the area on new orders next year. She wasn’t clear if the whole family was going, or if this new duty station will put more time and distance between them, but I’m sure a dedicated mom and sailor like Ashley will make it work, whatever the situation. For being an outstanding mom, and outstanding wife, and for being a dedicated Sailor, today we salute Navy Mom Ashley of the United States Navy.
We do a lot of Troop Salutes for service men and women who have been in uniform for years. We tell stories that are passed to us about achievements and accomplishments from years of service. Sometimes you can't help but picture that action hero character that we see in the movies. But the Troop Salute is not here to glorify only those tough veterans with years of service under their belt, The Troop Salute is here to honor EVERY hero who wears the uniform of the United States Military, or who has worn the uniform, or who WILL wear the uniform. Today we salute Kiarah M Burke of the United States Air Force. Kiarah comes from that last category, because she is still in boot camp at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas. Kiarah will graduate soon in the first week of September, and her mom LisaAnn Dickinson could not be more proud of her youngest daughter. LisaAnn tells me that Kiarah is especially proud of the fact that she can break down her M-16 and reassemble it in 33 seconds flat! That's an improvement on her last score of 38 seconds. It sounds like she's a great student, a great recruit, and soon to be a serious force to be reckoned with. LisaAnn says they live in Sedro Wooley and Kiarah grew up competing in the Logger Rodeo and placed in several events, so mom wasn't too surprised that her girl is taking to the rigors of military life so well. Recruits like Kiarah are the future of our military might, and when she signed on the line, she became an American Hero to us. And that is why today we are saluting Kiarah M Burke of the United States Air Force
We salute the troops on this show because we respect the courage and sacrifice it takes to keep this nation safe. We know that military service is rarely easy. Service comes with risks and it comes with rewards. It would probably be easier for most who serve to take a job in the private sector, plant roots, and enjoy the fruits of other's sacrifices as an American, but our troops are the men and women who make that possible for those who wish to. Today we salute Paul Fawett of the Unites States Air Force. Paul's grandson Aaron Taylor of Port Orchard wrote to me to salute his grandfather. "He served in the Air Force for 27 years and retired as a Master Sergeant," Aaron writes. "He recently passed from a battle with cancer. Paul fought the cancer three separate times over five years but eventually lost his fight. I want everyone to know just how proud we are of him, and of his service." 27 years is an entire lifetime of service. He clearly loved what he did and he loved serving the nation, and that is why today we are saluting Paul Fawett of the United States Air Force.
I've said many times before that there is no one more proud of their troop than Momma. There are probably a few dads and even some husbands and wives that might try to challenge me on this one, but I'm sticking to my guns because I know Momma feels something a little bit more when it comes to her kids. Today's salute comes from one of these incredibly proud mothers. Today we salute Gunnery Sergeant Roy Calica of The United States Marine Corps. Roy's mom, Sandy Calica wrote in to tell me that she is "beyond proud" of her Marine. This month marks 19 years that Gunny Calica has been in the Corps. He served in the 2003 wars in Afghanistan and in Kuwait. He is a Purple Heart recipient, and he continues to this day. Outside of his service, Roy has made his momma proud by being a wonderful husband and a father to 3 beautiful boys. Sandy says Roy has excelled at everything that has ever been put in front of him. For his 19 years of service to the nation, today we salute Gunnery Sergeant Roy Calica of the United States Marine Corps.
This Troop Salute is a bit of a personal message from all of us here on the show. We had an opportunity recently to fly with The Golden Knights team as they went up for a performance. It was an incredible honor and a "bucket list" day that none of us will ever forget. For 60 years, members of the Army Parachute Team have been marking milestones of achievement as "Ambassadors of the Army". The Golden Knights are the most formidable parachuting competitors and demonstrators working anywhere today. The professionalism, the precision, and the excellence displayed by these soldiers is a glowing beacon of what the army has to offer, and what our forces are capable of. On more than 30 weekends per year, the team demonstrates their skills, nerves, and capabilities to crowds all around the US. While the shows always "wow" the crowd, the work and the dedication that these soldiers put in to show America, and the rest of the world, is the real achievement. And these demonstrations of precision parachuting aren't only for fun. These are the very same skills that American soldiers and paratroopers are training every day to keep America on top. If we need to land a man on the roof of a building or in the middle of a walled yard, the Golden Knights show us just how capable we are of doing just that. For their heroic demonstrations, and for taking us on a ride we'll never forget, today we salute the Army Golden Knights Parachuting Team.
When you love the service, you want to tell everyone else about the great experiences that you've had. And recruiting is a great way to share your experiences and help others find theirs. The sailor in today's salute does both of these things: Today we salute HM2 Almond Groves of the United States Navy. HM2 means that Almond is a Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class. That means she's a "doc" or a medic to other sailors and Marines. Almond's husband Christopher asked me to salute his wife because he is so proud of what she has accomplished in the Navy. “August marks 17 years Almond’s been in the Navy," he says, "In September she's going for her promotion to E6 First Class". Almond served 14 years out in the fleet. She served aboard the Camden, The Reagan, The Lincoln, and The Rainier. She then went on to two more years in the Naval Reserves and has spent the last year as an Active Duty Recruiter. Christopher says she is the top recruiter for the Navy in the area, another thing to be proud of. For her many years of service, and for helping others both as a Corpsman, and helping others find their careers in the Navy, we salute HM2 Almond Groves of the United States Navy.
Today’s salute was sent to us as a beautiful letter by the daughter of Sergeant Douglas Booker Sr. of the United States Army. These are her words: Sergeant Booker, known as Pat, served two terms in Vietnam. He was married to my mom for 46 years. My brother, my sister and I all knew that he had gone through so much in the war, but growing up we didn’t hear much about the things he saw. As we all got older he started opening up to us about some of the horrors he had to face there, but he never wanted to burden us with it. After the army he had a few different jobs, finally finding a career on a floating fish processor in the Bering Sea. He was also a volunteer firefighter and ambulance driver for 25 years, known as one of the best ambulance drivers his lifelong hometown of Darrington, Washington had ever seen. Dad was the kind of guy that would help anyone out and would give them the shirt off his back. He would make friends with older lonely folks in town, and made his rounds every morning for coffee, checking on each of them. During the summer of 2017, we found out he had cancer from the Agent Orange he was in contact with Vietnam. He turned 70 that August. Dad fought with everything he had, some could say fighting the hardest battle of his life but lost that final battle on August 4th, 2018. He was an amazing man, with the biggest heart ever. Even after what he went through in war, the things he saw and had to do, he didn’t let it change his heart. Today we salute Sergeant Douglas Booker Sr. of the United States Army.
Today we have an update on a troop Fitz saluted quite a while ago. We first saluted PFC John Long of the United States Marine Corps back when he was just leaving for boot camp. His dad Mike is one of our favorite P1's of the show - you may have heard Fitz refer to him as "Trash Man Mike". Mike and his wife Tish are so incredibly proud of John, and Mike has updated us on John's journey in the Corps. On July 15th John graduated from Marine Corps Engineering School in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, as an 1142 Generator Mechanic. Now John is off on his 6-year enlistment, heading to his first permanent duty station in California. Mike and Tish are also proud to say John is engaged and hopes to be getting married very soon. As parents, Mike and Tish can hardly believe how far John has come in such a short time, and even though they miss him terribly, they are so proud of the man he has grown into. Today we Salute PFC John Long of the United States Marine Corps.
There are jobs in the Military that can actually seem pretty regular; jobs that don't differ too much from their civilian world counterparts. But then there jobs that just sound cool: the stuff right out of the movies. Today we salute Chief Petty Officer William Shultz of the United States Navy who has exactly one of those exciting jobs. His wife Francesca wrote in for this salute. William Shultz has been in the Navy for more than 14 years, and is currently a chief of the fire control systems on the USS Michigan, an Ohio-class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine that has been converted to a guided missile submarine to meet the current wartime demands of the nation. The Michigan is based out of Naval Base Kitsap but is currently deployed somewhere in the world, under the seas. Francesca is so proud of her husband and she misses him a lot when he's away. She says the couple's two sons, William, 4, and Thomas, 1, also miss their dad tons as well. Every job performed in our military is important to the overall mission, but some jobs require a bit more grit and determination. Sailors like Shultz spend weeks or months beneath the sea in a submarine so Freedom can spread and survive around the globe. Today we salute Chief Petty Officer William Shultz of the United States Navy.
Most people who have served this nation have a story or two to tell. Sometimes the stories are incredible, action packed tales of triumph, sometimes they can be just down right funny, and sometimes they can absolutely heart breaking. Today we salute Kurt Lynn Boorigie of the United States Army. Kurt is no longer with us. He passed away in 2003 from lung cancer, but his stories and his legacy live on. Kurt's niece Hunter wrote in to tell me about him. He was in the 101st Airborne Screaming Eagles from his enlistment in 1980 on. He saw action in Lebanon, and other places, He made Sergeant, but Kurt's real story hits you right in the heart. On a return trip home after a Peace keeping deployment, Sergeant Boorigie allowed another of his troops take his seat on the full flight so that this man could get home a day sooner to be with his wife and brand new baby. Sergeant Boorigie opted to take the man's seat on the next flight a day later... The original flight, including the new father crashed shortly after takeoff, killing all 248 soldiers aboard. This was known as the Gander Plane crash, and it will never be forgotten by those who were there, and certainly was never forgotten by Sergeant Boorigie, who carried that burden of that loss for the rest of his days. His story was incredible and tragic. He shared it with many including his niece Hunter. For his bravery and for his loss, today we salute Sergeant Kurt Lynn Boorigie of the United States Army.
Today we are saluting Petty Officer 2nd Class Terry Ballard of the United States Navy. Petty Officer Ballard is a Seabee. Seabees are what the Navy calls its construction battalion. Specifically, PO2 Ballard is a Steelworker. He's a welder, he works with structures, buildings, I beams, and more. He's building structures and buildings, because the Navy needs buildings on land, just like they needs ships in the sea. After enlisting in the Navy Ballard chose the Seabees because he realized that the training and skills he learned there would translate really easily to his civilian life when he got out. Terry originally planned to do one 4 year enlistment and get out. He has since extended his enlistment twice, and is working on his 9th year in the Navy. Ballard went to "A" School in NCBC Gulfport, Mississippi where he became a certified welder. He has had several other postings since then, but now he is stationed at Port Hueneme, California which is actually the main home of the Seabees for the Navy. Terry says "I used to miss home a lot and think about getting out, but one day I just felt like I was at home." Ballard also says that Ventura has been the best station of his career, and he's thankful for the opportunity to serve there. And we're all thankful for sailors like PO2 Terry Ballard of the United States Navy.
We all know that the United States Air Force keeps our skies safe. We know that they use superior technology, tactics, and training to dominate the air over this nation and most of the globe. But those pilots and crews can't do their job unless they have teams of men and women supporting them on the ground. Today we Salute Brady Stevenson of the United States Air Force. Brady is a member of the Air Force Security Services. The Security Services is actually the largest career field in the Air Force and it covers many jobs from missile security, to base security, to law enforcement, and more. Maureen Stevenson is Brady's proud mom, and she tells me that Brady is basically like an MP for the Air Force. He works to secure air fields and facilities where he's stationed. Maureen also says her son Brady has been in the Air Force for 6 years, and he is considering a full 20 year career. "He just loves his job, and he loves the travel and opportunities." She said. It sounds like Brady is making his momma proud. Every day Stevenson puts on the uniform to keep the ground and the equipment safe, so that the pilots and the crews can maintain that airborne superiority that keeps us all safe. And that is why today we are Saluting Brady Stevenson of the United States Air Force.
A job well done for a military member can mean a lot of different things. For our troop today, it means the successful completion of a 9 year military career.
Today we salute Machinists Mate 2nd Class Dennis Harris of the United States Navy.
Dennis just mustered out of the Navy recently. His last day of service was July 12th according to his wife Alicia who wrote in for this salute.
Alicia is obviously very proud of her husband for his service and his hard work, but she wanted to do a salute so that everybody could hear just how proud she is.
Dennis served 9 years in the Navy. He was stationed out of the Bangor submarine base and served aboard the USS Ohio for the last 4 years. Harris enlisted back when the economy was crashed out in 2009. He needed to make some sacrifices in order to take care of his family. Alicia says that Dennis put aside a few of his other goals to provide for them.
Sadly, in 2012 Dennis' mother passed away from Cancer and he was unable to attend the service because he was on deployment. This event reminded Dennis of just how precious time with the family is, and was part of his motivation to not seek another enlistment and move home to be close to them all.
For his decade of service to this nation, and his hard work and values, today we salute Machinists Mate 2nd Class Dennis Harris of the United States Navy.
I'm starting to get some really good Troop Salutes sent in, The one I have today is actually a follow up salute.
Morgan Hill is a P1 of the show, and she asked if she could salute her brother. Obviously, we welcome it, but this is actually not her first time through.
Today we salute Specialist Christopher Hill of the United States Army.
Christopher served several years in the Army including a tour in Afghanistan. Morgan says he's out now and living a good life, taking care of his family like he always has. She says "I guess that means he's technically a veteran, but I don't think of him that way."
Morgan says that her brother is her best friend, and she could not be more proud of him.
And that follow up I mentioned earlier, that is because several years ago, Morgan asked me if she could salute her brother on my show back when he was still in active duty. We've saluted Christopher before, and I think that's really cool. I love P1's like Morgan inviting us in to being part of their military family tradition.
That is why today we salute Christopher Hill of the United States Army.