Podcasts about air force achievement medal

Chelle O'Keefe, SPHR is a seasoned HR executive with over 20 years of experience, specializing in fostering growth and vibrant workplace cultures. As Chief People Officer at Platinum Dermatology Partners, she drives initiatives that build cohesive cultures, optimize processes, and elevate company results. Previously, as EVP and CHRO at Associa, Chelle championed innovative HR methodologies and diversity initiatives, significantly reducing employee turnover and increasing leadership diversity. She holds a BS in Psychology from Texas A&M University and an MS in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Capella University. Passionate about creating workplaces where people thrive, Chelle's expertise spans HR, change management, training, and marketing strategy.Janine Moore, AIF®, CPFA, CFS has over 25 years of financial services experience. She co-founded Peak Financial Group in 2002 and served as Principal until the HUB International acquisition in 2019. Janine specializes in 457(b) and 401(a) governmental deferred compensation plans and served as the City Director for the City of Houston's deferred compensation plan for six years. Recognized as a Top Women Advisor All Star and Captain, she has led professional and non-profit organizations committed to improving lives and promoting women in business. Janine holds a BA in Journalism and Public Relations from The Ohio State University and multiple registrations through LPL Financial. She is also registered with Global Retirement Partners as an Investment Advisor Representative. A proud veteran, she served as a Staff Sergeant with the Ohio Air National Guard and received the Air Force Achievement Medal. In this episode, Eric, Chelle O'Keefe, and Janine Moore discuss:Benefit philosophy mattersBuilding trust and partnershipThe potential for underutilized plans Building trust and transparencySimplify and educateKey Takeaways:Companies should intentionally develop a clear benefit philosophy that reflects their goals, demographics, and employee needs, rather than just maintaining a status quo plan.Successful service provider relationships are built on more than just expertise - they require listening, education, transparency, and the ability to have difficult conversations.Even seemingly neglected or underutilized 401(k) plans can be transformed through collaborative efforts, persistent advisors, and a commitment to participant outcomes.Financial professionals should focus on simplifying complex concepts, seeing the potential in plans, and educating clients in a way that doesn't make them feel overwhelmed or inadequate.“We are the reflection of all of the people that we spend the most time with.” - Chelle O'KeefeConnect with Chelle O'Keefe: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelleokeefe/ Connect with Janine Moore:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janinejeffersonmoore/ Connect with Eric Dyson: Website: https://90northllc.com/Phone: 940-248-4800Email: contact@90northllc.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/401kguy/ The information and content of this podcast is general in nature and is provided solely for educational and informational purposes. It is believed to be accurate and reliable as of the posting date but may be subject to changeIt is not intended to provide a specific recommendation for any type of product or service discussed in this presentation or to provide any warranties, investment advice, financial advice, tax, plan design or legal advice (unless otherwise specifically indicated). Please consult your own independent advisor as to any investment, tax, or legal statements made.The specific facts and circumstances of all qualified plans can vary and the information contained in this podcast may or may not apply to your individual circumstances or to your plan or client plan-specific circumstances.

Elle Russ chats with Dr. Todd Bertoch, M.D. - a diplomate of the American Board of Anesthesiology. He graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biochemistry from California State University at Fullerton and received a Doctor of Medicine degree from the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda, Maryland. After an internship in Internal Medicine, he completed his Anesthesiology residency at Wilford Hall Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas, where he was Chief Resident and received the Arthur B. Tarrow Outstanding Resident Award. He is a member of the esteemed Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. Dr. Bertoch served as an anesthesiologist in the United States Air Force until 2006 where he gained extensive experience in both trauma care and pain management. He is a recipient of the Air Force Achievement Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, and the Meritorious Service Medal. After completing his military service, Dr. Bertoch served for 11 years as the managing partner of Prescott Anesthesia in Prescott, Arizona where his practice included a focus on cardiovascular surgery, chronic pain management and addiction medicine. Since joining JBR Clinical research in 2017, he has served as Principal Investigator for over 100 clinical trials, defended development programs for sponsors before the FDA, been invited to present study results on behalf of clients at professional meetings, designed and authored numerous clinical trial protocols, and has helped author several industry-related articles and white papers.   SELECTED LINKS: https://www.elleruss.com/ https://cenexelresearch.com/jbr/

Dr. Joe Parker is our guest. Listen to what led to his prison sentence. Dr. Parker's Bio Dr. Joseph Parker's career spans the fields of science, military service, and medical practice. He has used his rare blend of scientific expertise, military leadership, and medical acumen to contribute significantly to the advancement of science and the betterment of human health and safety. He writes as an advocate for physicians and patients and for the humane treatment of those suffering from addiction and the incarcerated. His journey towards this impactful role began with four years of dedicated service in the US Marine Corps, where he earned accolades such as the Meritorious Unit Citation and Good Conduct Medal. His exceptional service led to acceptance into the US Air Force Officer Training School and a subsequent role as a Minuteman II ICBM Commander within US Space Command, earning further recognition, including the Presidential Unit Citation, National Defense Service Medal, and the Air Force Achievement Medal. Transitioning into the medical field, Dr. Parker pursued studies at Mayo Medical School and joined the US Medical Corps, ultimately achieving the rank of Captain. Having personally suffered wrongful convictions gives him a unique perspective on the American justice and prison system, and he has dedicated himself to advocacy for the wrongfully prosecuted. He is currently serving as the Chief Science and Operations Officer at Advanced Research Concepts LLC, a pioneering company dedicated to biomedical research to alleviate pain and addiction, and to the development of innovative solutions for the complex challenges of space travel, including spacecraft propulsion systems, energy storage, radiation shielding, artificial gravity, and space-related medical issues.  He is also active in biomedical research, space science, and the study and treatment of addiction. The information in this podcast is not to be considered medical or legal advice

Today, we dive deep into the mission and endeavors of Operation Vet Now (OVN) with our special guest, Tony Aubrey. Tony, a retired Air Force mechanic and recruiter, shares his compelling journey from military service to founding OVN, an organization dedicated to supporting veterans. Tune in as we discuss the origins of OVN, its innovative outreach approach, and the transformative Ambassador Athlete Program that utilizes sports as therapy for veterans. Join us as we explore how OVN is making a significant difference by connecting veterans to essential resources and honoring the heroes we've lost. This episode promises heartfelt stories, keen insights, and a clear call to action for our veteran community. Visit their website: https://opvetnow.org/   Tony Aubrey Co-Founder & Program Director at Operation Vet NOW Inc. (OVN)  Tony's Story:  After graduating from High School in 1984, Tony enlisted in the United States Air Force as a mechanic and later crossed-trained to be analyst. His years of active duty included 12 tours (5 overseas and 7 state side), including a 9-month deployment to Operation Desert Shield/Storm where he earned the USAF Commendation Medal for achievements in direct support of the liberation of Kuwait. Since leaving the military Tony has worked in event and sports marketing, and non-profit leadership. In 2017 he and some past teammates created the organization Operation Vet NOW Inc. (OVN), a non-profit organization focused on improving the overall mental wellness of every veteran who served through outreach and honoring those who paid the ultimate sacrifice. Tony uses his experience and networks in all levels of sports as the platform for OVN's three focus projects. He enjoys golfing, riding dirt bikes, and most of all spending time with his three grandchildren.  Tony left active duty after 22 years of service and since completed his BA from American Military University and MS from Endicott College, in addition he's earned a Six Sigma Masters Certification and an Executive Certification in Non-Profit Management from Notre Dame's Mendoza School of Business. He also serves on the Endicott College's Sports Leadership Advisory Board.  Military Decorations 4 Meritorious Service Medals, 3 Air Force Commendation Medals, 1 Air Force Achievement Medal, 2 Air Force Outstanding Unit Medals 1 with Valor, Southwest Asia Service Metal, Global War on Terror Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Kuwait Service Medal, Kuwait Liberation Medal, and Air Force Good Conduct Medal. 

A conversation with Maj. Julian “Cosmo” Gluck '12, a flyer with the heart of a pilot, the soul of a golden age aviator, and an insatiable yearning to learn. Why? In part to support developing leaders of tomorrow. ----more---- SUMMARY Major Julian "Cosmo" Gluck '12, shares his background and experiences in the Air Force and as a bomber pilot. He discusses his childhood, involvement in various activities, and his decision to join the military. Major Gluck also talks about his leadership roles at the Air Force Academy and the challenges he faced. He then delves into his experience flying B-52s and explains the difference between a pilot and an aviator. Finally, he clarifies the distinction between rated and non-rated officers. He discusses his involvement with the Order of Daedalians, a professional fellowship organization for military aviators. He also shares his experience transitioning to Harvard Business School and the Air Force Reserve and about the importance of leadership across different lanes. Julian reflects on what he has learned about himself and his future plans. He emphasizes the significance of giving back and volunteering, as well as the impact of the Air Force Academy and alumni involvement.   OUR FAVORITE QUOTES "I would say the juxtaposition between the military lifestyle—which often is more regimented—and a desire to both give back and be creative. So these secondary and tertiary desires that I really wanted to have in my personal life and professional life to continue to self-actualize and feel comfortable were always at sort of a crossroads, but the Academy made that possible." "I think there is a lot of strength in knowing that you do not know something. And through my time in business school, there is a lot that I think many of those who are coming from civilian careers—that more directly relate to business—would think is just information that everyone is armed with that is absent for many of us who were not as directly involved in running for-profit organizations or who weren't involved in sales, investment banking, or any of these other careers." "I would say, I'm going to do a plug for the AOG: If there are things that you want your AOG to do, you are the person who can help facilitate that as well, just like I aim to, like many others. An alumni organization, a nonprofit, a charity is only as strong as its membership corps." "I think overall down the road, as long as I'm making a positive impact in my circle and in my community, that's the most important thing to me. Like, I don't want to give up the uniform. I've loved serving in the Air Force, and I'll stay in the Air Force Reserve—hopefully as long as they'll keep me—and it would be great to have more opportunities to lead again." "I would leave you with, if you have some time available, if there's money that you're seeking to donate, there is a cause that will resonate with you. Just go to the search engine of your choice, maybe it's Ask Jeeves … [or] go to Lycos—I think that was a search engine—in your Netscape Navigator. Go look up on AOL these interests, and you'll be able to find a charity that works for you.” - Maj. Julian "Cosmo" Gluck '12   SHARE THIS EPISODE  FACEBOOK  |  LINKEDIN  |  TWITTER  |  EMAIL   CHAPTERS 00:00:  Introduction and Background 04:01:  Childhood and Life Before the Academy 08:01:  Leadership Roles at the Academy 14:53:  Flying B-52s 19:50:  Difference Between Rated and Non-Rated 21:30:  The Order of Daedalians 26:14:  Transitioning to Harvard Business School 30:06:  Leadership Across Different Lanes 33:08:  Learning About Oneself 37:15:  Future Plans 40:10:  Giving Back and Volunteering 42:37:  The Air Force Academy and Alumni Involvement   TAKEAWAYS FOR YOU - The Order of Daedalians is the professional fraternal order of military aviators and commemorates the service and valor of World War I pilots while providing fellowship for current and former flyers today. - Programs like the Civil Air Patrol—the civilian auxiliary of the Air Force—provide another avenue for service members, veterans, and civilians to give back in meaningful ways. - Transitioning from the military to civilian life can provide opportunities for strategic development and new ways to support organizations. - Leadership takes different forms in various contexts, from leading in the military to leading in the classroom. - Humility and the willingness to learn from others are important qualities for personal growth and effective leadership. - Giving back and volunteering in various organizations can provide a sense of fulfillment and make a positive impact in the community. - The Air Force Academy and alumni involvement play a significant role in shaping individuals and fostering a sense of pride and service.   MAJ. GLUCK'S BIO Maj. Julian "Cosmo" Gluck is a reservist in the Defense Innovation Unit in the Office of the Secretary of Defense. He additionally serves as Chairman Emeritus of the Department of the Air Force Company Grade Officers' Council, supporting the 47,000 captains and lieutenants of the Air & Space Forces. Maj. Gluck grew up in LaGrange, Georgia and received his commission in 2012 as a Distinguished Graduate of the United States Air Force Academy. During his career he was selected as the 2018 Air Force Times Airman of the Year, received the 2019 Secretary of the Air Force Leadership Award, was named to the 2020 Forbes 30 Under 30, and chosen as one of the 2023 Ten Outstanding Young Americans by JCI USA. Prior to his current position, Maj. Gluck served on Air Combat Command staff; served as Aide-de-Camp to the Commander of Seventh Air Force; led 64 aircrew flight equipment and SERE personnel; and was Executive Officer for the Department of Defense's largest bomb group. He is an instructor pilot in the B-52H Stratofortress and is a graduate of Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training. Maj. Gluck flew combat missions in Operations INHERENT RESOLVE and FREEDOM'S SENTINEL out of Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar and has deployed in support of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command. MAJOR AWARDS AND DECORATIONS - Meritorious Service Medal with oak leaf cluster - Air Medal - Aerial Achievement Medal with oak leaf cluster - Air Force Commendation Medal with five oak leaf clusters - Air Force Achievement Medal with oak leaf cluster - German Armed Forces Badge for Military Proficiency in Gold PUBLICATIONS “Opening the Door to Cultural Understanding and Mutual Cooperation,” Journal of Indo-Pacific Affairs, June 2021 “The Gray Legion: Information Warfare Within Our Gates,” Journal of Strategic Security, December 2021 “Kasa-obake: A Spirited Case against Abandoning the U.S.-Japan Nuclear Umbrella,” On the Horizon, May 2022 “South Korea's Second Sight: Risks and Rewards for the ROK-US Alliance with Russia,” Issues & Insights, June 2023 PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS AND ASSOCIATIONS - British-American Project - Center for a New American Security - Council for the United States and Italy - Order of Daedalians - Pacific Forum   CONNECT WITH JULIAN LINKEDIN  |  @JULIANRGLUCK ON INSTAGRAM     ABOUT LONG BLUE LEADERSHIP Long Blue Leadership drops every two weeks on Tuesdays and is available on Apple Podcasts, TuneIn + Alexa, Spotify and all your favorite podcast platforms. Search @AirForceGrads on your favorite social channels for Long Blue Leadership news and updates!        TRANSCRIPT OUR SPEAKERS Guest, Maj. Julian "Cosmo" Gluck '12  |  Your Host, Lt. Col. (Ret.) Naviere Walkewicz '99   Naviere Walkewicz 00:01 My guest today is Maj. Julian “Cosmo” Gluck, USAFA Class of 2012 graduate of distinction based in Boston. He is currently serving in the Air Force Reserve in the Defense Innovation Unit and pursuing his MBA at the Harvard Business School. There is so much in Maj. Gluck's background that we'll just touch the surface for now. He flew B-52s for more than six years, and in 2023 he was named one of 10 outstanding young Americans, which puts him in the company of American presidents, statesmen and generals, including the Air Force Academy Association and Foundation's Gen. Mike Gould, Class of '76, who received the honor in 1985. In 2020, Maj. Gluck was named to Forbes 30 Under 30 list for law and policy. In 2018, he was named Air Force Times airman of the year. He is a published author, public speaker and contributor to international discourse on public policy, sharing his lessons in leadership with students in elementary school, at university, senior leaders in defense, nonprofits, and national level elected policymakers. We'll talk with Maj. Gluck about his work as a member of the Air Force Reserve, and how that relates to his membership in the Order of Daedalians, a fraternal organization founded after World War I comprised of aviators. He is a gregarious man of warmth, humility and humor, always willing to share what he knows with those aspiring to become aviators, lead or be better leaders, and always ready with an enthusiastic, “Howdy!” This should be a very enjoyable conversation. Joining us from Boston, Julian, welcome to Long Blue Leadership.   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 01:42 Well, I feel like I have to say howdy now, but I was gonna' say it anyway. So good to be here.   Naviere Walkewicz 01:46 Howdy. So glad you're here with us today. Thank you for making the time. We are really excited to learn more about your thoughts on leadership. But as we like to, we want to kind of take a step back, rewind the time a little bit and learn about young Julian. Why don't we start there? Tell us about your childhood life before the Academy.   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 02:06 Sure. So, I grew up all around primarily the southeastern United States. My dad's a pilot and was going through different positions. My mom's an occupational therapist. They had met in Texas, but I was born in Florida. And then over the course of my childhood, I lived in Florida, Tennessee, Maryland, South Carolina and Georgia, where I finished out elementary school, middle school and then high school. And when I was a kid, I was involved in a myriad of different activities. I really enjoyed acting and got the chance to co-star in a public broadcasting television show with the GPB, one of the stations back in Georgia. I did a little bit of entrepreneurship, starting a company when I was 14. I became involved in the Civil Air Patrol and high school wrestling, extemporaneous speech competitions. And with all the different activities going on, I wanted to continue on the tradition in my family of military service. Applied to the Air Force Academy. Thankfully, the “Zoo” let me in. And it's been a great time since.   Naviere Walkewicz 03:04 Who were some of the influences in your life that kind of led you down that path. I know you mentioned, you know, your family has had many that have served. Are those who influenced you? Are there others maybe that you read or influenced you as well.   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 03:16 The members of my family are the largest influence on my decision to join the military. I'm fifth generation. As you go through different lines in the family, people on both sides had served primarily in the United States and hearing their stories of both sacrifice of putting the organization over oneself, the service to country really resonated with me as a kid. And so I knew even when I was very young that I wanted to serve in the military, as well as a lot of the reading I did as a child, I would say. And then going through my time at the Academy was also very much a philosophical focus throughout. A lot of philosophy mixed in as well with the standard books that one would read as a kid.   Naviere Walkewicz 04:01 Five generations. Would you say that it was destiny then to go into the military via the Air Force Academy or just the military in general? Or was it really intentional on your part?   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 04:11 I think there were definitely some elements of the Academy being the destination. Now as far as Air Force Academy versus a few of the others, I would say lesser options with our rivals on the East Coast there. I wasn't initially sure which one I was going to apply to. And ultimately the Air Force Academy made the most sense to me, primarily because of the Academy's awesome record of placing people into really impactful, strategic roles later on. I like the emphasis on technology. And I think as well, having a Japanese program which only the Air Force Academy and maybe the Naval Academy had, I wanted to take Japanese classes, so that was something that was on my mind.   Naviere Walkewicz 04:54 Did you take Japanese class?   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 04:56 [Speaking Japanese here.] So, I did indeed study Japanese. It was my minor at the Academy, and sometimes really useful either in like bilateral track to diplomatic scenarios or ordering sushi at really nice restaurants.   Naviere Walkewicz 05:16 I don't think I would be as successful. All I remember is [speaking Japanese here], which is, “Where is the bathroom.”   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 05:22 That's really important.   Naviere Walkewicz 05:26 So let's talk about the Academy. Maybe what were some of the roles in leadership you had? Or let's just talk about your Academy experience in general. Kind of set the stage for us.   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 05:34 So, the first leadership role I ever had at the Academy was the Mitchell Hall Food Focus Committee. So, Doolie year, freshman year, I'm sitting in the SAR, the squadron assembly room — I'm not sure if the audience is all super-familiar with the acronyms or if they've changed over time — but I'm in the SAR, and they're like, “Hey, we have a volunteer opportunity.” And I'm just thinking in my mind, I've been at the Academy for a few weeks, this is my chance to be an impactful leader early on, and they just needed someone to test out the food at Mitchell Hall. I raised my hand really proudly. And over the course of the year, I gave my own attempt at food criticism to the excellent staff and Mitchell Hall trying to shape the meals cadets would have. Now, I'm not sure if I've had any jobs since then that is quite as impactful. I'm still trying to chase that incredible opportunity to rate how hard the cookies were, or that the chicken fillet sandwiches were pretty solid. But after that one, I would go into primarily roles that were focused on sort of command-oriented leadership, I was the first sergeant I believe, squadron superintendent for basic cadet training. I served on group staff a couple of times culminating as the Group Commander for Cadet Group 1, First Group, so I had a great time doing that. My summers were spent flying gliders, doing the SERE program when we still had CST, and as well as getting the chance to do an internship at the Senate. So, I was the one cadet that was sent there as sort of an interim military legislative assistant, and did basic another time, as well as the Director of Military Guidance Officers. Another role that I did through sophomore through first year was the Personal Ethics and Education Representative Program, the Peer Program, at a really good time. And I thought that it was really valuable getting to speak with cadets who are having troubles in their personal life, professional life, and really be able to help for more challenging issues, such as ones that may involve the law or medical needs. And then for ones that I felt like I could have a good handle on being able to practice my interpersonal communication and super useful later on in my career.   Naviere Walkewicz 08:06 You held many leadership positions, and I'm sure there are many accolades that came with that. What were some of the challenges that you experienced in those positions? And how did you balance being a leader all the time with your own needs, and developing yourself?   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 08:20 I would say the juxtaposition between the military lifestyle which often is more regimented, and a desire to both give back and be creative. So, these secondary and tertiary desires that I really wanted to have in my personal life and professional life continue to self-actualize and feel comfortable. We're always at sort of a crossroads. But the Academy thankfully made that possible. Now I did that at the expense of probably getting eight hours of sleep per night, maybe about half of that most of the time, and a lot of all-nighters, but I think there were some people who are just hardcore DGs and still got eight hours of sleep. I'm not one of those. I did not get a lot of it. But when I was there doing the cadet leadership jobs, I needed an outlet. So, for Doolie year, I acted with Blue Bards, I tried to relive a little bit of that child acting background and that was a lot of fun. We did Grease and 12 Angry Men. Then through both four degree year, all the way up through first year, and a little bit as a casual lieutenant, I sung with the In the Stairwell acapella group, and was a beatboxer and sung bass as well. And that was a phenomenal time getting to perform for the senior leaders that came in at the White House a couple times, and then later on getting to relive that as well as an alumnus at the America's Got Talent semifinals doing an exhibition before the then current crop of cadets just totally crushed it out there on the stage. So, I think throughout that time at the Academy, just being able to go, “Hey, I need to really focus on academics, I need I grow in my leadership capabilities.” But I also want creative things. And then community service-oriented things. And that was where I became involved with programs like the Knights of Columbus, when I was a cadet finding ways to give back and the local community and lead volunteer projects across the state of Colorado and then eventually, nationally, internationally.   Naviere Walkewicz 10:20 I really appreciate you sharing that. Because I think sometimes there might be a misconception or a perception even that, you know, you can be a leader and you have to be really strict and focus and you can't really focus on other things that you're really passionate about, or you know, that bring joy as well. Right. So maybe you can't have both, but I really appreciate that you shared that you can. So, do you prefer beatboxing or bass? What does that sound like?   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 10:44 Well, these days, so I recently joined the Harvard Business School acapella group, which is called Heard on the Street. And I'm still beatboxing. But I'm getting a little bit more into the singing part primarily because over the past 10 years, it's mostly been playing along with my guitar, and singing karaoke. So, I definitely enjoy beatboxing but I'm enjoying doing more singing these days as well.   Naviere Walkewicz You're holding back on…   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 Go to YouTube and see some old clips. I think I'll refrain from beatboxing on your… I haven't checked this mic to see if like a…. [Beatboxing]   Naviere Walkewicz 11:25 So, that was amazing. No, I think that the mic came through fantastically. And no, that is wonderful. We really appreciate that. And again, it also plays into, you know, we really can be fully immersed in a lot of things, right? We don't have to just be down one lane when it comes to leadership and, you know, pursuing our dreams. So, let's talk a little bit about while you were in the military. You share that you flew B-52s for over six years. What was that experience like? And then I'm gonna' ask you a follow-on about flying because there's something as a non-flier, non-rated grad, I just have a question on so first, tell us about what it was like flying B-52.   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 12:05 So, flying the B-52, aka the “Buff,” was a blast. It's a very challenging aircraft, I think, compared to many others in the inventory. It is an older platform. It's older than my father. And based on earlier versions that are older than both my parents, and probably many of the current cadets' grandparents. My grandfather, in fact, asked me when I told him I fly the B-52, “They're still flying those?” And I was like, “Indeed, Grandpa, and you enlisted in the Air Force after they'd already been in service.” But I can tell you, although they are up there in years, it's a very lethal platform. It's an effective platform. It's constantly being brought to the forefront of innovation through the incredible work that the tech community does, that the primes and other companies are able to leverage with different technologies as far as munitions, its radar capabilities, a lot of exciting changes with new engines that will be coming about for the next generation of bomber pilots. So, I enjoyed flying it. It definitely had its moments where it tested my limits. And I'm super grateful for the instructors and weapons school graduates who helped develop me from a young, very uncertain co-pilot to being a more adept, and I would say, empowered aviator, as I continued to like, become more comfortable, and eventually have the chance before I departed the community for other opportunities to instruct as well.   Naviere Walkewicz 13:39 What were some of the challenges that you faced in that? Was it more just a level of comfort? Or was it other things?   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 13:44 I think in the B-52, there's a wide range of different mission-sets that you need to be familiarized with. I mean, not only the nuclear deterrence mission, that is the Secretary of Defense's No. 1 priority, and extremely critical for our ability to deter and assure you also have the close air support mission, you see just a massive suite of different weapons, you need to be able to control an aircraft that has sometimes sluggish controls. And as you're powering through different regimes in the airplane, you also need to be not only taking care of your own aircraft, but if you're flying in formation, as a formation leader, mission leader or even a mission commander, you need to be able to have an awareness of all the other aircraft and players that are out there in the “kill box” or wherever you're operating. So, I think as we're moving up from co-pilot to aircraft commander and mission lead and eventually to instructor, the stakes become higher. The challenges as far as your knowledge set your situational awareness and task management increase. And thankfully with great instructors and those in more senior positions who believed in the opportunity to continue to progress, I had the just joy of a lifetime getting to fly the B-52. Particularly with my crew in 2016 to [2017], as a young co-pilot out in Iraq, Syria and Afghanistan in operations Inherent Resolve and Freedom Sentinel. So, by far the most impactful, meaningful six months of my life, and that would not have been possible without the B-52 community.   Naviere Walkewicz 15:29 That's really powerful. Thank you. One of the questions that's on my mind, and I think for others that maybe aren't in the aviation community — so, pilot versus aviator: Can you demystify this?   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 15:40 Sure, I'll do my best. And I think it also depends on which branch, the terminology differs a little bit, I believe in the Navy particularly. But for the Air Force, I would normally think of an aviator as a rated individual who would either be a pilot, a weapons systems officer or navigator, a flight surgeon, others who have a set of wings on the officer side, and that take part in some aspect of the airplane. Pilots in particular are the ones normally controlling the aircraft as far as the movements of it, which you would normally think of as aviating — whereas like weapon system officers doing the navigating.   Naviere Walkewicz 16:26 That is helpful. One of the things we do is we know we have a group of listeners that may not know some of our terms. So, can you explain the difference between rated and nonrated?   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 16:35 I will do my best with that as well. So, a rated officer is a person who has gone through a formal technical training program that relates to the flying of a particular mission system. Whether that is an aircraft or a UAS, or remotely piloted aircraft. So, unmanned aerial system for UAS, so these individuals have on their service dress or mess dress or on their flight suit, a set of links that indicate that there's this particular skill set that was developed over time. And the rated aviators have particular requirements. As far as medical, in addition to their technical training, you have to make sure you're able to still fly. And they also have certain other personnel system requirements. So, when I think rated, I think of a person who is in the cockpit or on the airplane with a very specific job of like, an air battle manager is a rated aviator, who on different command control platforms, has a particular mission set with controlling battlespace, that's also considered rated.   Naviere Walkewicz 17:48 We want to make sure that everyone feels able to connect with what you're sharing. So that was a fantastic…   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 17:54 If there's anything wrong, just go to the comments. Just continue to like — increase the social media exposure by saying, “Cosmo, you're wrong!” And I'll make it.   Naviere Walkewicz 18:03 No, that's perfect. Thank you. Well, before we kind of leave this topic of aviation, I'd really like to learn a little bit more about the Order of the Daedalians. Can you talk about this organization a bit? How did it come to be part of your life? I think that's just one that we're not all familiar with.   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 18:20 The Order of Daedalians is a professional order of military aviators that was founded by World War I pilots around 1934. And these particular pilots wanted to start an organization that would commemorate the service that occurred, all the valor that took place in the skies for the Great War, and then afterward to be able to continue to interact with each other and then have a network of convivial interaction between them. But over time, the Order of the Daedalians, and through its charitable arm, the Daedalian Foundation, has grown into this organization for all military aviators of around 10,000. I believe in our current membership, and our organization not only helps connect aviators from the past and present, but also to continue to commemorate that service of the founders of the organization. We do scholarships to the tune of hundreds of thousands of dollars to help students in ROTC programs who wish to become military aviators. And we also have in addition to those academic scholarships, flight scholarships that teach people how to fly. We have a program that supports a Junior ROTC and awards program for different rated aviation training programs to celebrate the success and excellence of the students who are in there. So as the youngest member of the board of trustees, I'm grateful to get to learn from incredible senior leaders and general officers who have flown a variety of different aircraft. And I think it is a wonderful program for those who are still on active duty or in the Reserve as well as those who have separated or who are retired, who would like to continue to swap stories. There are a lot of fantastic speakers who come in and continue to contribute to the next generation of flyer while still paying homage or respect to those who came before us.   Naviere Walkewicz 20:16 What's something that's been really personal to you that you've been proud to see the Order of the Daedalians take part in? Can you share maybe a more specific story?   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 20:24 So, coming into the organization, I noticed that we had, and I will say this resonates with a lot of sort of Golden Age fraternal organizations like the Knights of Columbus and many others, a wealth of experience with our older members who are very dedicated. Perhaps they're fully retired from their jobs, they have a lot of time to give back, but not as many younger members who are coming in, particularly those who are still actively wearing the uniform and flying. So thankfully, with the support of the full-time professionals at the Order of Daedalians and our trustees and directors at the foundation and the order itself, we got together to discuss a lot of ways to innovate the organization to bring it into its next phase, particularly to help drive recruitment and retention with a lot of these potential younger members by having the opportunity to go to bases and really advocate that the order of the Order of the Daedalians is not only a force for good in that it's helping train new aviators, which is a critical need for the national security enterprise, but it's also a fantastic retention tool by providing a strong network of mentorship. So my hope is that a lot of the meetings that we had take place that focused on bringing everyone together, will eventually culminate in a desire for perhaps any listeners to this particular podcast, who go, “You know what, this is a historic program, I would like to volunteer or be a part of it and get to listen to some amazing stories, and then do my part to give back as well.”   Naviere Walkewicz 21:59 Thank you for sharing that. And that really speaks very clearly to me. That's one of the things here at the Association that we're working to do as well, you know, really ignite our younger graduates into membership and participation and engagement. Well, let's shift gears a little bit from the world of aviation, you know, you talked about it as a cadet, you had kind of two facets that you're really interested in the creative side, and also the leadership side. Of course, they don't have to be mutually exclusive. Maybe you can talk about what it's like now to transition. You're at the Harvard Business School, you're an author, let's talk about this lane a little bit.   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 22:35 So, I am super grateful to be a reservist. I had a really engaging time on active duty. It was fantastic for leadership development with some fantastic leaders over the years. But the wonderful thing about the Air Force is there's so many different ways to continue serving in uniform. One of my big interests, that was my desire to go back to school, and find other opportunities to support organizations, including the United States government, through ways that I thought were more focused on strategic development. Going to the Reserve, transitioning through the Palace Chase program, and going back to school has made all of that possible. So as a reservist, now I'm assigned to the Defense Innovation Unit, and the Office of the Secretary of Defense where we help with dual-use technologies, helping bring a lot of the technologists and founders leaders of different programs who have ideas that can support a range of portfolios for the Department of Defense, such as autonomy, AI, energy, human systems, bringing those together to help improve our DOD systems, particularly for a lot of these smaller companies that could use a lot of support. So that has been fantastic. I'm still very much in an embryonic stage within my Reserve service. There's a lot for me to learn. And as I'm going through this transition, it's been amazing getting to talk to reservists who've been there and done that. They've done the transition, and they're continuing to give back. It's not about the money for them. It's about a way to continue to give back to our United States military. And that's something it's really inspiring to me, and inspired me a lot when I was out in Korea as an aide and with all the reservists who would come in to be part of the chase and take time away from their families and from their busy jobs to suit up, you know, put on their flight suits, come out to Korea and really make a difference for our bilateral/multilateral organizations out there. So that's been fantastic. At Harvard, it's been a wonderful learning opportunity. I loved my time at the Academy. I wouldn't trade it for anything. It was the perfect undergrad experience for me. Now going through as a grad school student, I'm kind of getting to see that other side. I've got the more college dorm-style apartment even though I'm not living on campus. As you know, it's not quite hacky sack in the quad that I was imagining that college would be. But the range of different people who are members of the HBS Class of 2025 is so interesting, people from all around the world, very different backgrounds. I mean, of course, we have venture capitalists, consultants, bankers here, but there's also a very, I would say, engaged and interesting veteran group. And I really love hanging out with the other veterans who are in both my section and the class at large. In fact, one of the traditions that we started in my section is the veterans would all wear Hawaiian shirts on Fridays, and so I had to buy a lot more Hawaiian shirts, because I was never stationed at Hawaii, did not have a hardly any of them. And that's where I found this Air Force Academy, Hawaiian shirt.   Naviere Walkewicz 25:55 So, that is outstanding.   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 25:58 I don't think anyone else who's coming on your podcast is probably gonna' have one of these. So, yes, it's been really great at HBS. I'm learning a lot. I have two and a half more semesters left. And I'm excited for what comes next as well.   Naviere Walkewicz 26:12 Well, let's dig into that a little bit. So, you went to the Academy, you had incredible opportunities to lead. You've done some of this in the Reserve. And then also, at Harvard, what does leadership look like across those different lanes? How have you seen leadership evolve, and how has it shaped you during this time?   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 26:34 The opportunities I had to lead both at the Academy and on active duty, certainly inform and help bring different context and experience to the leadership opportunities I may have at school now or that I hope to have in the future. I will say there's a lot to learn to bring that into full realization as I continue through this transition from military to the civilian world. So as I look at like my experience as a flight commander for aircrew, flight equipment technicians, and SERE when I was at Barksdale, or getting to serve as a director of staff at Air Combat Command, and the A-3, a lot of those involved, be able to help our junior enlisted to be able to work with phenomenal senior non-commissioned officers how to help pass information up and down the chain to innovate, to go through a lot of the administrative challenges that are elements of bureaucracy and probably omnipresent no matter what sort of organization you're in. So those have been great. Now, at school, I would say a lot of the leadership could be leadership in the classroom. For me as someone not coming from Goldman Sachs or Bain, I have a lot of learning and followership I'm enjoying in the classroom right now is getting to really just taken a lot from all of the incredible experiences of my younger section mates and classmates who have had very relevant experience. And then the aspects of the veteran experience that also relate myself and many others in the veteran community who are students at my business school, and I'm sure at many of the other ones across the country in the world are able to relate to is also super-useful. So, I'm excited as I go into professional work, both this summer and after graduation, to be able to bring the gregariousness as described at the beginning to my next job and a lot of those fantastic opportunities to learn and serve in the military as I continue to grow and hopefully become a more effective cross-sector leader.   Naviere Walkewicz 28:48 So, you talked about, you know, you have a lot to learn. What has been something you've learned about yourself so far in this journey, thinking about leadership and what our listeners are hoping to glean? You know, what's something you've learned about yourself weather as a follower, to your point, you know, how important is it to be a follower in the world of leadership, etc.?   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 29:10 I think there's a lot of strength in knowing that you do not know something. And through my time in business school, there is a lot that I think many of those who are coming from civilian careers that more directly relate to business would think is just information that everyone is armed with. That is absent for many of us who were not as directly involved in running for profit organizations or who weren't involved in sales, investment banking or any of these other careers. So, during my time at HBS, I've definitely practiced the skill of humility. I have seen it in action with some of the challenging tests that I have taken so far over the past semester and a half and I'm learning about myself the sorts of activities that I really enjoy as I consider the kind of careers that are on the outside flying airplanes. And then going into, let's say consulting is a big leap. But there are also a lot of elements of that sort of leadership that are, I would say, at least are correlate with each other. And as I continue to figure out, what am I skilled at, what do I enjoy, and sometimes those aren't always aligned, I can reach out to mentors to classmates, to grads, in particular, I've reached out to a lot of grads who are out there in the civilian world to find out, ‘What do you recommend? How do I improve? How do I grow in this?' And I'm excited for the kind of development that I hope to see and that I will strive to really develop over the next year and a half and then many years ahead?   Naviere Walkewicz 30:54 And has there been a tidbit of leadership from some of those mentors, you've reached out to in the graduate committee or across different lanes that have really impacted you? And if so, what would you share with the group?   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 31:06 I would say, a lot of the grads I have spoken with that are maybe from like the '90s and 2000s, who have gone to business school or law school or medical school, have shared how much of an impact the military had on them. And where there are sometimes vacuums for that sort of selfless leadership and that aspect of giving back that are in uniform, that you really need something like that, to continue to really feel like you're giving it your all, and that you're in the right place - that you could be like, you could be making millions and millions of dollars. That is a story that was relayed to me by a former Air Force pilot. But if you are not finding a way to really do something for others, it may come across meaningless in many ways, like you can be happy on a yacht. I'm sure if anyone out there has got one, I'm happy to hop on sometime over spring break. But programs like the Civil Air Patrol to the Air Force Auxiliary, that giveaway for grads, who are perhaps still in uniform or out of uniform to continue to give back to do things such as domestic search and rescue, or helping mentor and teach middle school, high school and college students. Those are ways that like really connect you with service, that aren't full time jobs, that have less responsibility. I would say then continuing to serve in the Reserve and still allow a lot of different freedoms that maybe you want to experience that provide another shade of meaning that perhaps you're not getting in one full career.   Naviere Walkewicz 32:44 And I think that's really meaningful for people to hear, right? I think, when you're looking at success, how you define success, certainly, there's an element of being able to have the freedom to do things that you want, that money brings. But there's also the fulfillment internally that comes from being part of or doing something bigger. So how much longer in your program?   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 33:03 So, I've got two and a half semesters left. I'll graduate, God willing, or I think I remember from my four-degree days, and basically that 20, if you make it that far, like I heard that a lot.   Naviere Walkewicz 33:16 All right, so May 2025. What's next, Julian?   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 33:19 I'm not sure quite yet after graduation. This summer, I have a really phenomenal opportunity lined up to be a consultant with McKinsey & Company in their London office. So, this is the pre-LinkedIn update. I'll be at McKinsey this summer. I applied to a few other fellowships, and I'm interested in finding ways to continue to learn about these different sectors, how one can grow a company as well as an organization that is a not-for-profit, like most of my experience or within government service. After graduation, I hope to have continued opportunities over the decades to come to give back. Certainly interested in public service, as well as being able to develop different organizations. So, we'll see. But I'm definitely excited for this summer. And I think there's a lot that I have to learn with McKinsey just across the pond.   Naviere Walkewicz 34:18 You're certainly no stranger to kind of putting everything into something and kind of seeing the benefits that come from that — all of the awards I went through beyond learning and seeing what's out there, what you just described, is there something else that you're like, at some point down the road, this is something I'm striving for?   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 34:34 I think overall down the road, as long as I'm making a positive impact in my circle — and in my community — that's the most important thing to me. Like I don't want to give up the uniform. I've loved serving in the Air Force and I'll stay in the Air Force Reserve, hopefully as long as they'll keep me and it would be great to have more opportunities to lead again. Being a flight commander was immensely rewarding. I really loved working with the airmen and if I had other opportunities to lead more directly in the future, I'd love to do so. And hopefully continue to give back, serve other organizations and continue to volunteer at the local level and on up.   Naviere Walkewicz 35:13 And you've had many different experiences in leadership. What are the one or two things you want to leave with the audience to take away from this from you?   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 35:24 I would say and I'll plug sort of my company grade Officers Council message. I had a great time in CGSC as lieutenant and a captain and now serving as chairman emeritus for the department, Air Force CTOC. I would say that, for those who are still on active duty, wherever you're stationed, there is a fantastic place where you can serve your community and do your part. And for our grads, and retirees, no matter where you're at, there is a charity that would love to have you on their team. So, providing your time, your talents, your treasure to a variety of organizations, if you want to work with kids, there are fantastic charities out there that will help you mentor the next generation. If you want to support the elderly and those who've come before us. There are plenty of organizations as well. So, I would leave you with, if you have some time available, if there's money that you're seeking to donate, there is a cause that will resonate with you, just go to the search engine of your choice. Maybe it's Ask Jeeves and just put, you know, what I might have to check after this broadcast. Just making sure I said a different one, it would sound like maybe a sponsorship message, but go to Lycos I think that was a search engine in your Netscape Navigator, go look up on AOL, your interests, and you'll be able to find a charity that works for you. And for the other tidbit of leadership, if there is something that you are not good at, there are people who will help you who care about you, that will continue to take time to help you improve in that. And I'm finding that every day at HBS as I make my way through finance classes and accounting that there are classmates who know far more than me, are far smarter than me. And that can really help out. And I think that's the same in uniform, I got lots of help when I was a pilot in the B-52 and would never have made it through pilot training or the bomber schoolhouse in the FTP or many other programs without incredible support from peers and instructors. So that's what I'll leave.   Naviere Walkewicz 37:32 Those are gifts of information that just keep giving in so many ways. So, thanks for sharing that. Well, we're at a point where I want to make sure that you had a chance to share everything that you would like to with our listeners. Was there anything I didn't ask you, or something that you really want to share when it comes to leadership?   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 37:50 I would say, I'm gonna do a plug for the AOG. If there are things that you want your AOG to do, you are the person who can help facilitate that as well. Just like I aim to, like, many others, an alumni organization, a nonprofit, a charity is only as strong as its membership corps. So, as you continue to think about how you want the Air Force Academy to be a part of your life after graduation, if you're the kind of person that says, “Hey, I drove away from Arnold Hall or North Gate or South Gate with the chapel in my rearview mirror, and it's kind of the furthest thing from my memory at this point,” then, I urge you to consider the impact that the school had, whether it was the those icy days marching outside, or perhaps some of the more fond memories that you'll have of the Zoo. Not everything and everyone's cadet experience was perhaps what you hoped it would be. But all of us were shaped by that experience there. I love the Academy. I got a lot out of it. And I hope to continue to give back to it, whether it's through the AOG, or just being able to talk with the current crop of cadets, alumni and give back. We're either cadets or alumni of an incredible institution. And let's show those other service academies that the Air Force Academy is truly the premier military academy in the United States.   Naviere Walkewicz 39:15 I can get behind that. That's outstanding. Thank you so much. So Julian, for our listeners. If anyone wants to get a hold of you, how would you suggest they do that?   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 39:23 You'll probably find me surrounded by case studies at HBS. So just wake me up so I'll do some more studying. Other ways — you can find me on LinkedIn. I'm one of the only Julian Glucks. You can also find me on Instagram, it's JulianRGluck. If you put it without the “R”, it'll be one of those other Julian Glucks who's probably tired of people reaching out to him. So, I'm happy to talk with current cadets, grads and continue to build those bonds that we have as Zoomies.   Naviere Walkewicz 39:54 Thank you so much for joining us today on Long Blue Leadership, Julian. It's been fantastic.   Maj. Julian Gluck '12 39:58 Always happy to chat with you and anyone else from the glorious old Zoo so thank you very much   Naviere Walkewicz 40:03 Thank you.     KEYWORDS aviators, cadets, leadership, academy, volunteer, organization, continue, flying, Air Force Academy, Julian, Gluck, give, military, charity, opportunities, pilot, serve, learn, rated, fantastic, program, leader     The Long Blue Line Podcast Network is presented by the U.S. Air Force Academy Association and Foundation      

Dr. Parker's journey began with four years of dedicated service in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he earned accolades such as the Meritorious Unit Citation and Good Conduct Medal. His exceptional dedication led to acceptance into the U.S. Air Force Officer Training School and a subsequent role as a Minuteman II ICBM Commander within U.S. Space Command, earning further recognition, including the Presidential Unit Citation, National Defense Service Medal, and the Air Force Achievement Medal. Transitioning into the medical field, Dr. Parker pursued studies at Mayo Medical School and joined the U.S. Medical Corps, ultimately achieving the rank of captain. Specializing in emergency medicine, he served as director of emergency medicine at two hospitals and founded an emergency medicine contracting company to save a floundering hospital from closure. He now speaks out as an advocate for physicians and patients and embodies a rare blend of scientific expertise, military leadership, and medical acumen, contributing significantly to the advancement of space exploration and the betterment of human health and safety. #physician #advocacy #moral #injury #pain #opioids #DOJ #DEA #crisis

Welcome to Fight in Progress!   Today we are joined by Executive Director for the National Guard Association of Arizona, Colonel Paul Aguirre. We learn about the differences between our different branches of military, along with what sets the National Guard apart from the rest.    About our guest: Colonel (Ret) Paul R. Aguirre is the Executive Director for the National Guard Association of Arizona. In this capacity, he represents over 1,100 Officers of the Arizona National Guard supporting the approximately 8,000 Soldiers and Airmen of the Arizona National Guard. Prior to retiring in 2020, Aguirre served over 33 years in the both the Army and Air Force. His military assignments included Counter Drug Task Force (CDTF) Commander for the Arizona National Guard; Commander Logistics Readiness Squadron, 161st Air Refueling Wing; Chief of Staff, 161st Air Refueling Wing; Public Affairs Officer, AZ Department of Emergency and Military Affairs; and Comptroller, 161st Air Refueling Wing. He also has enlisted experience in logistics, aircraft maintenance and air traffic control. Col Aguirre deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and has served in Germany, South Korea and South America. He directly supported several homeland missions including relief efforts for Hurricanes Katrina and Sandy, Operation Jump Start (the original border mission for the Arizona National Guard), and implemented the Substance Abuse Prevention program for the Arizona National Guard supporting drug prevention efforts statewide. The program emphasized fentanyl poisoning prevention and was the largest in the nation. He was awarded the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Air Reserve Forces Meritorious Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal, Nuclear Deterrence Operations Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, and the NATO Medal. Colonel Aguirre completed a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management from the University of Phoenix. His military education includes the Air Force War College, Air Force Command and Staff College, Air Force Squadron Officers School, National Guard Bureau's Commanders Course, Army Air Traffic Controller Course, Army Telecommunications Center Operator Course, Army National Guard Primary Leadership Development Course, Army Basic Training, Air Force Logistics Officer Course and the Department of Defense Information Public Affairs Officer Course. He was born in Peoria, Arizona and currently lives in Phoenix, Arizona with his son Jackson and daughter Alanna. Aguirre has served his community as the Executive Director and board member for the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce; Board of Trustees for Ashford University; member Phoenix Sports Commission Champions Circle; Board Member National Guard Association of Arizona; University of Phoenix Alumni Board; and has worked with or volunteered for numerous other local organizations including Vet Tix, Pros vs GI Joes, Honor Flight, Patriot Guard Riders, Joy Bus Diner and Special Olympics.   Description: Fight in Progress with Susan Simons aims to discuss problems and difficulties our officers face every day from sleep deprivation, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, and adrenal fatigue, to depression, isolation, physical illnesses, emotional distress, divorce and all too often suicide. Fight in Progress looks to cover these topics and discuss their solutions to help these warriors navigate these threats through education and preparation. We speak to experts, officers and their families from around the country to have hard discussions on what challenges this community faces, and what we can do to strengthen our men and women in law enforcement. About the Host- Susan, President and founder of Under the Shield, is a leading subject matter expert in First Responder Stress/PTSI, and has been an instructor for 26 years in many major military and law enforcement installations around the country including, FBI Academy Quantico VA, US Marine Corps 3rd Battalion 23 Marines Lima Company, US Air Force Europe, consulting clinician NYPD/FDNY post 9-11, National Tactical Operators Association, and Luke AFB in Arizona (current). In these trainings she provides resilience training for all first responders and takes a head on approach to the issues of suicide, divorce, and Post traumatic stress, with solutions to the real issues affecting those in the first responder community. Through her non-profit, Under the Shield Inc., she has created the only Stress Coach Certification in the United States specifically for law enforcement, first responders, military and their families. Susan holds a M.S. in Counseling and Human Development from Troy University and is a Board Certified Expert in Traumatic Stress as well as a Fellow with the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress.  Contact a stress coach near you at Under The Shield: (855)889-2348 You can also reach out to the hosts directly for help at: Susan Simmons (334) 324-3570 or susan.simons@undertheshield.com Tom The-Bomb-Dot-Com (480) 861-6574 or Thaubold@undertheshield.com If you want to share your story on our Podcast, reach out to: Tracy “Mrs. The-Bomb-Dot-Com” - Spousal Stress Coach (480) 518-3775 Visit our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Media/Fight-In-Progress-100743441735923/ Find us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2tadjn3I4OC75lGmqZL7sc THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR JOINING US!

Dr. Lonnie Johnson, engineer & Inventor Hall of Fame inductee, visits Google to discuss his past work with NASA, the US Air Force, and his efforts to help underrepresented communities enter STEM fields. He is the founder and President of Johnson Research and Development and the founder and President of the Johnson STEM Activity Center, a 501c(3) dedicated to educating disadvantaged and underserved children in STEM. A prolific inventor with over 150 patents, he is best known for his popular invention, the super soaker. Dr. Johnson attended Tuskegee University where he earned a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, a master's degree in nuclear engineering and two honorary doctorates in science. He served in the U.S. Air Force where he analyzed space systems and worked on the Stealth Bomber Program, earning the Air Force Achievement Medal and the Air Force Commendation Medal twice. At NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, he helped develop some of the nation's most advanced technologies in the Galileo mission to Jupiter, the Mars Observer and the Cassini Mission to Saturn, earning multiple awards for his contributions. Visit http://g.co/TalksAtGoogle/FutureOfInvention to watch the video.

***LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PROGRAM HERE: : https://www.baylor.edu/graduate/dscot/index.php?id=976730 ***Colonel Enrique V. Smith-Forbes is currently the Program Director for the U.S. Army Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD), at the Medical Center of Excellence, Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA), Fort Sam Houston (FSH), TX. He previously served as the Chief of Occupational Therapy services of Brooke Army Medical Center, JBSA, FSH, TX. He also served as the Program Director for the Doctor of Science in Occupational Therapy (DScOT) program, JBSA, FSH, TX.  Additional previous assignments include Chief Occupational Therapy Services at General Leonard Wood Army Community Hospital, Ft Leonard Wood, MO; OIC, Restoration clinic, 98th Combat Stress Control, Camp Liberty, Iraq, 2008-2009; and Assistant Chief, Outpatient orthopedic Occupational therapy section, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, DC.Lieutenant Colonel Smith-Forbes has a Doctorate of Philosophy in Rehabilitation Sciences from the University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, a Master of Occupational therapy from Texas Woman's University, TX, and a Bachelor of Science degree from Park College, Parkville, MO. He completed the U.S. Army Upper Extremity Neuromusculoskeletal Evaluation residency at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, DC. Lieutenant Colonel Smith-Forbes also completed the U.S. Army Officer Basic Course, AMEDD Captains Career Course, and the Army Command and General Staff Officer's Course. He is a board certified hand therapist of the American Hand Therapy Certification Commission and holds active membership in the American Society of Hand Therapists, American Occupational Therapy Association and the Texas Society for Hand Therapy.Colonel Smith-Forbes' awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, and Air Reserves Forces Meritorious Service Medal. Colonel Smith-Forbes was also awarded the Army Medical Department "A" Proficiency Designator (9A) Award, the 2020 SAUSHEC COL Gerald Wayne Talcott “Outstanding Faculty Award,” the 2021 “COL Mary Lipscomb Harrick Army Medical Specialist Corps Research Award”, and has been inducted in The Order of Military Medical Merit (O2M3). His current research interests include upper extremity rehabilitation, patient adherence and behavioral health, and health and wellness interventions and outcomes for military populations.   

 Suzi is joined by Retired Colonel Loren Weeks to talk about some of the issues and possible solutions within the VA Healthcare system. Some of the questions are: Why is the Veterans Affairs Hospital system not mapped out to serve veterans as efficiently as they are served when on active duty? Why is it that when veterans go to a VA hospital no matter where the location, the EMR system cannot retrieve medical records from another VA location? Why does a veteran have to enroll when they come into the Emergency Room before being seen? So many questions? Listen in to Suzi and Loren's perspectives on issues and solutions to create a better system for our veteran community.BioColonel Loren A. Weeks enlisted in the Army Reserve on June 6, 1983 as a 13B, Cannon Crewman, with the C Battery, 4th Battalion, 75th Division Artillery.  He served three years as an enlisted soldier with the U.S. Army Reserve and the Illinois Army National Guard before receiving a commission as a 2nd Lieutenant on May 10, 1986.  His service continued with the Illinois Army National Guard as a Platoon Leader with Company A, 3rd Battalion, 130th Infantry Regiment and Chemical Officer for the 106th Aviation Battalion.  In September 1987, he transferred to the U.S. Army serving as Chemical Officer with the 1st Battalion, 508th Airborne Infantry, 193rd Infantry Brigade stationed in the Republic of Panama.  During this tour, he participated in 28 named Joint Operations concluding with Operation Just Cause.  In 1990, he was transferred to Fort Campbell and served with the 63rd Chemical Company, 101st Airborne Division and the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment.  Colonel Weeks returned to the Illinois Army National Guard in March 1991 with service in the   66th Infantry Brigade, 34th Infantry Division as Brigade Chemical Officer and HHC Company Commander.  Branch transferring into the Quartermaster Corps, he was assigned duties within the Department of Logistics, State Area Command as the Defense Movement and Supply Management Officer. His last duty assignment within the Illinois Army National Guard was as Support Operations Officer, 232nd Corps Support Battalion.  He transferred to the California Army National Guard in 2003 and served as the Support Operations Officer, XO and the Battalion Commander of the 340th Forward Support Battalion and 1/149 Armor Battalion until his first Operation Enduring Freedom deployment.   As part of Task Force Phoenix, the 40th ID Embedded Training Team mentored the 5th Kandak (CSS Battalion), 2nd Brigade, 201st Corps at Forward Operating Base Fiaz, Kunar Province supporting ANA combat operations in the Kunar, Pech, Waterpor, Waygal, and Korrengal Valleys.Colonel Weeks returned to the CAARNG in 2009 to command the Pre-Mobilization Training Battalion, Task Force Warrior, with the primary responsibility for training assistance and certification of mobilizing units. In 2012, he conducted his second OEF Deployment assigned to the Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force - Afghanistan.  Upon return, he was assigned as the Army Division G-4.  In May 2015, he deployed to Afghanistan as commander of the 224th Logistics Mentor Team.Colonel Weeks' military education includes the Chemical Officer Basic Course, Quartermaster Officer's Advanced Course, Combined Arms and Services Staff School, Command and General Staff College. His civilian education includes a Baccalaureate of Arts Degree in Political Science from Southern Illinois University in 1987.Colonel Weeks' military awards and decorations include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star with one Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal with three Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Commendation Medal with two Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Achievement Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Me

Fawn interviews Colonel William Oden and they talk about Local, State and National Politics. Colonel William Oden is the Chairman of the Sumter County Republican Party. Colonel Oden was born in Indianapolis Indiana. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in November 1974. He served 23 years and retired as the Senior Network Administrator responsible for four Fighter Squadrons and associated unit's computer and network systems to include secure networks for the 20th Operations Group, Shaw Air Force Base South Carolina. He also served as the Noncommissioned Officer in Charge of the 20th Fighter Wing's Air Expeditionary Force deployment to Doha Qatar in support of Operation Southern Watch, responsible for 25 F-16s flying combat missions and 350 personnel to include maintenance, medical and supply. He retired from the Air Force in December 1997. While serving in the Air Force he received multiple awards, ribbons and medals to include, Graduate United States Air Force Senior Noncommissioned Officer Academy, Distinguished Graduate and member of the Honor Flight for Tactical Air Command Noncommissioned Officer Academy, Honor Graduate Noncommissioned Officer Leadership School, the Air Force Achievement Medal with one oak leaf cluster, the Air Force Commendation Medal with one oak leaf cluster and the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal. He went to work for Kershaw County School District in October 1996 as a computer technician and retired in August 2016 as their Senior Systems Administrator. While employed at Kershaw School District he was responsible for email, network security and operating systems for over 12,000 students and faculty and over 11,000 computers and servers. During his time at Kershaw County School District he was chosen to present at the first International 1 to 1computing conference in Atlanta GA. COL Oden joined the South Carolina State Guard in 1998 and has served in positions as Company Executive Officer, Company Commander, Battalion Executive Officer, Battalion Commander, Brigade S-1, Division Special Projects Officer, Inspector General and the present position of Deputy Chief of Staff for Cyber Security and Intel. In the position of DCS for Cyber Security he has spearheaded the formation of the first ever Cyber Detachment for the South Carolina State Guard. While serving in the State Guard he has received multiple awards, ribbons and medals to include the State Guard Senior Aviation Badge, the State Guard Master Level Security Specialist Badge, the State Guard Commendation Medal and the State Guard Meritorious Service Medal. He is married to the former Miss Janice Hunter, they have three children and eleven grandchildren.

In the contentious society in which we live, our children need to be comfortable in their uniqueness. How can we help them feel secure, loved and accepted? Is telling them we love them going to be enough?Listen as we discuss this and continue in coming podcasts to explore our world and the challenges we face in supporting our children.Mentorships in Education is brought to you by Just Education, LLC and is hosted by Judith Epstein. Judi has a Master's degree in Education with a concentration in Language Acquisition. She is certified in special education with post-graduate coursework and professional development in Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), Social Thinking, Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Judi created Just Education, LLC and its podcast component, to compile a free resource library for mentors of students who struggle and address a wide variety of topics that are all related to education and student success.Connect With Juan LeeFacebook: JuanleeauthorInstagram: JuanleeauthorTwitter: Lovemadesimple LinkedIn: Juan LeeNonprofit: Clearjourney.orgJuanleetheauthor.comLove Made Simple BlogFree guideAbout Juan LeeJuan Lee is an author and teacher on the powerful principle of love. For over 30 years, he has studied organized religion to find the elements that unite humanity and share the message with those who need it. Raised within the Christian church, Juan has turned to teachings about love over the years to find strength, understanding and hope.As a child, Juan was the youngest of four children raised by a single father. Juan struggled with an undiagnosed learning disability that made school difficult. While being constantly compared to others, he was unable to identify his strengths. Juan's low self-esteem and fear took away his hope for life. He joined the US Air Force out of high school in hopes just to survive.Juan received multiple merits during his time in the military, including the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Air Force Achievement Medal, the Air Force Good Conduct Medal, and the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award. He found new confidence in service but could not separate himself from his disability. During his time in the Air Force, Juan committed his life to Christianity and sought to utilize the principle of love in his life.Juan is a devoted husband and lives outside of Washington, DC. He has a desire to share what he has learned over the years with others and be an agent of love for humanity. Learn more at JuanLeetheAuthor.com.CONNECT WITH USConnect with Judi Our website and podcasts are available hereJudi on Linkedin

Here is the guide to"the 3 mistakes that prevent you from living a happier life. extra.juanleetheauthor.com/freebie http://juanleetheauthor.com/ Juan Lee is an author and teacher on the powerful principle of love. For over 30 years, he has studied organized religion to find the elements that unite humanity and share the message with those who need it. Raised within the Christian church, Juan has turned to teachings about love over the years to find strength, understanding and hope. As a child, Juan was the youngest of four children raised by a single father. Juan struggled with an undiagnosed learning disability that made school difficult. While being constantly compared to others, he was unable to identify his strengths. Juan's low self-esteem and fear took away his hope for life. He joined the US Air Force out of high school in hopes just to survive. Juan received multiple merits during his time in the military, including the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Air Force Achievement Medal, the Air Force Good Conduct Medal, and the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award. He found new confidence in service but could not separate himself from his disability. During his time in the Air Force, Juan committed his life to Christianity and sought to utilize the principle of love in his life. Juan is a devoted husband and lives outside of Washington, DC. He has a desire to share what he has learned over the years with others and be an agent of love for humanity. Why most religions feel restrictive when it comes to the message of love and how to separate the message from the practice. How to use love as the foundation of your life and understand you are never alone...you are part of humanity! Growth, self-reflection, and mindset practices put you on a path of hope. Methods to confidently navigate all stages of life to propel you to greater success. Juan Lee had seen the message of love made so difficult that it's confusing. He removes the confusion by making it very simple. He neutralizes religions and makes the message of love universal. He finds the things that people have in common instead of looking for the things that divide. Love Made Simple: A Guide to Inner Peace, Contentment, and Success is your essential manual for aligning your abilities to gain clarity of mind and soul. If you like overcoming fear with practical tools and pursuing self-improvement, then you'll adore Juan Lee's liberating book.

Why most religions feel restrictive when it comes to the message of love and how to separate the message from the practice. How to use love as the foundation of your life and understand you are never alone…you are part of humanity! Growth, self-reflection, and mindset practices that put you on a path of hope. Methods to confidently navigate all stages of life to propel you to greater success. Get The Book: https://juanleetheauthor.com Life's many obstacles can throw anyone into a tailspin that feels uncontrollable. Ultimately, everyone is searching for acceptance and joy. If you search for that acceptance and joy by living by the book when it comes to religion, your search for hope can be filled with frustration. Instead, live a life of purpose built on the principles that unite us all: love. Conquering an undiagnosed disability, Armed Forces veteran Juan Lee studied religion for over 30 years. The truth he uncovered: Everyone is ultimately searching for acceptance and joy. Love Made Simple: A Guide to Inner Peace, Contentment, and Success is an earnest look into what it means to be part of humanity and live with love guiding your way. Look at success with new eyes and awareness to accomplish any goal before you. Juan Lee is an author and teacher on the powerful principle of love. For over 30 years, he has studied organized religion to find the elements that unite humanity and share the message with those who need it. Raised within the Christian church, Juan has turned to teachings about love over the years to find strength, understanding and hope. As a child, Juan was the youngest of four children raised by a single father. Juan struggled with an undiagnosed learning disability that made school difficult. While being constantly compared to others, he was unable to identify his strengths. Juan's low self-esteem and fear took away his hope for life. He joined the US Air Force out of high school in hopes just to survive. Juan received multiple merits during his time in the military, including the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Air Force Achievement Medal, the Air Force Good Conduct Medal, and the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award. He found new confidence in service but could not separate himself from his disability. During his time in the Air Force, Juan committed his life to Christianity and sought to utilize the principle of love in his life. Juan is a devoted husband and lives outside of Washington, DC. He has a desire to share what he has learned over the years with others and be an agent of love for humanity. About the show: ► Website: http://www.ashsaidit.com ► Got Goli Gummies? https://go.goli.com/1loveash5 ► For $5 in ride credit, download the Lyft app using my referral link: https://www.lyft.com/ici/ASH584216 ► Want the ‘coldest' water? https://thecoldestwater.com/?ref=ashleybrown12 ► Become A Podcast Legend: http://ashsaidit.podcastersmastery.zaxaa.com/s/6543767021305 ► Review Us: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ash-said-it/id1144197789 ► SUBSCRIBE HERE: http://www.youtube.com/c/AshSaidItSuwanee ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1loveash ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashsaidit ► Twitter: https://twitter.com/1loveAsh ► Blog: http://www.ashsaidit.com/blog ► Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/1LoveAsh/ #atlanta #ashsaidit #ashsaidthat #ashblogsit #ashsaidit® Ash Brown is a gifted American producer, blogger, speaker, media personality and event emcee. The blog on AshSaidit.com showcases exclusive event invites, product reviews and so much more. Her motivational podcast "Ash Said It Daily" is available on major media platforms such as iTunes, Spotify, iHeart Radio & Google Podcasts. This program has over half a million streams worldwide. She uses these mediums to motivate & encourage her audience in the most powerful way. She keeps it real!

Why most religions feel restrictive when it comes to the message of love and how to separate the message from the practice. How to use love as the foundation of your life and understand you are never alone…you are part of humanity! Growth, self-reflection, and mindset practices that put you on a path of hope. Methods to confidently navigate all stages of life to propel you to greater success. Get The Book: https://juanleetheauthor.com Life's many obstacles can throw anyone into a tailspin that feels uncontrollable. Ultimately, everyone is searching for acceptance and joy. If you search for that acceptance and joy by living by the book when it comes to religion, your search for hope can be filled with frustration. Instead, live a life of purpose built on the principles that unite us all: love. Conquering an undiagnosed disability, Armed Forces veteran Juan Lee studied religion for over 30 years. The truth he uncovered: Everyone is ultimately searching for acceptance and joy. Love Made Simple: A Guide to Inner Peace, Contentment, and Success is an earnest look into what it means to be part of humanity and live with love guiding your way. Look at success with new eyes and awareness to accomplish any goal before you. Juan Lee is an author and teacher on the powerful principle of love. For over 30 years, he has studied organized religion to find the elements that unite humanity and share the message with those who need it. Raised within the Christian church, Juan has turned to teachings about love over the years to find strength, understanding and hope. As a child, Juan was the youngest of four children raised by a single father. Juan struggled with an undiagnosed learning disability that made school difficult. While being constantly compared to others, he was unable to identify his strengths. Juan's low self-esteem and fear took away his hope for life. He joined the US Air Force out of high school in hopes just to survive. Juan received multiple merits during his time in the military, including the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Air Force Achievement Medal, the Air Force Good Conduct Medal, and the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award. He found new confidence in service but could not separate himself from his disability. During his time in the Air Force, Juan committed his life to Christianity and sought to utilize the principle of love in his life. Juan is a devoted husband and lives outside of Washington, DC. He has a desire to share what he has learned over the years with others and be an agent of love for humanity. About the show: ► Website: http://www.ashsaidit.com ► Got Goli Gummies? https://go.goli.com/1loveash5 ► For $5 in ride credit, download the Lyft app using my referral link: https://www.lyft.com/ici/ASH584216 ► Want the ‘coldest' water? https://thecoldestwater.com/?ref=ashleybrown12 ► Become A Podcast Legend: http://ashsaidit.podcastersmastery.zaxaa.com/s/6543767021305 ► Review Us: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ash-said-it/id1144197789 ► SUBSCRIBE HERE: http://www.youtube.com/c/AshSaidItSuwanee ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1loveash ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashsaidit ► Twitter: https://twitter.com/1loveAsh ► Blog: http://www.ashsaidit.com/blog ► Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/1LoveAsh/ #atlanta #ashsaidit #ashsaidthat #ashblogsit #ashsaidit® Ash Brown is a gifted American producer, blogger, speaker, media personality and event emcee. The blog on AshSaidit.com showcases exclusive event invites, product reviews and so much more. Her motivational podcast "Ash Said It Daily" is available on major media platforms such as iTunes, Spotify, iHeart Radio & Google Podcasts. This program has over half a million streams worldwide. She uses these mediums to motivate & encourage her audience in the most powerful way. She keeps it real!

Juan Lee is an author and teacher on the powerful principle of love.  For over 30 years, he has studied organized religion to find the elements that unite humanity and share the message with those who need it. Based outside of Washington DC, Juan is a decorated US Air Force veteran and author of Love Made Simple. As a child, Juan was the youngest of four children raised by a single father.  Juan struggled with an undiagnosed learning disability that made school difficult. While being constantly compared to others, he was unable to identify his strengths.  Juan's low self-esteem and fear took away his hope for life.  He joined the US Air Force out of high school in hopes just to survive.Juan received multiple merits during his time in the military, including the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Air Force Achievement Medal, the Air Force Good Conduct Medal, and the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award.  He found new confidence in service but could not separate himself from his disability.  During his time in the Air Force, Juan committed his life to Christianity and sought to utilize the principle of love in his life.It was the powerful principle of love that instilled Juan with self confidence and an absolutely knowledge of his self worth.  Now Juan shares this powerfully empowering message with others.  You can connect with Juan at his website JuanLeetheAuthor.com Visit the Linda's Corner website at lindascornerpodcast.com and follow on youtube, facebook, instagram, and pinterest @lindascornerpodcast

Episode 14, Segment 1 of 2 - Steven Lindsey - An Astronaut Walks into a Bar... Trident Room Host Mike Wish sits down and has a drink with former NASA astronaut Steven Lindsey. They discuss Lindsey's background and the path that led to his career as an astronaut. This episode was recorded on March 25, 2021. STEVEN LINDSEY was commissioned a second lieutenant at the United States Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colorado, in 1982. In 1983, after receiving his pilot wings at Reese Air Force Base, Texas, he qualified in the RF-4C Phantom II and was assigned to the 12th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron at Bergstrom Air Force Base, Texas. From 1984 until 1987, he served as a combat-ready pilot, instructor pilot, and academic instructor. In 1987, he was selected to attend graduate school at the Air Force Institute of Technology, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, where he studied aeronautical engineering. In 1989, he attended the USAF Test Pilot School at Edwards Air Force Base, California. In 1990, Lindsey was assigned to Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, where he conducted weapons and systems tests in F-16 and F-4 aircraft. While a member of the 3247th Test Squadron, Lindsey served as the deputy director, Advanced Tactical Air Reconnaissance System Joint Test Force and as the squadron's F-16 Flight Commander. In August 1993, Lindsey was selected to attend Air Command and Staff College at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama. Upon graduation in June 1994, he was reassigned to Eglin Air Force Base, Florida as an Integrated Product Team leader in the USAF SEEK EAGLE Office where he was responsible for Air Force weapons certification for the F16, F-111, A-10, and F-117 aircraft. In March 1995, he was assigned to NASA as an astronaut candidate. Lindsey retired from the Air Force in September 2006. He has logged over 7000 hours of flying time in more than 50 different types of aircraft. SPECIAL HONORS: Distinguished Graduate, Air Force Undergraduate Pilot Training (1983). Distinguished Graduate and recipient of the Liethen-Tittle Award as the outstanding test pilot of the USAF Test Pilot School Class 89A (1989). Awarded Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, Defense Superior Service Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, four NASA Space Flight Medals, NASA Outstanding Leadership Medal, NASA Distinguished Service Medal, NASA Exceptional Service Medal, Air Force Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal and Aerial Achievement Medal. NASA Profile: https://www.nasa.gov/sites/default/files/atoms/files/lindsey_steven_0.pdf The Trident Room Podcast is brought to you by the Naval Postgraduate School Alumni Association and the Naval Postgraduate School Foundation. npsfoundation.org/ For comments, suggestions, and critiques, please email us at TridentRoomPodcastHost@nps.edu, and find us online at nps.edu/tridentroompodcast. Thank you! The views expressed in this interview are those of the individuals and do not reflect the official policy or position of the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, the US Navy, or the Naval Postgraduate School.

Episode 14, Segment 2 of 2 - Steven Lindsey - Space Inspiration Trident Room Host Mike Wish sits down and has a drink with former NASA astronaut Steven Lindsey. They discuss, “the overview effect”, space wine and the future of tourism. This episode was recorded on March 25, 2021. STEVEN LINDSEY was commissioned a second lieutenant at the United States Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colorado, in 1982. In 1983, after receiving his pilot wings at Reese Air Force Base, Texas, he qualified in the RF-4C Phantom II and was assigned to the 12th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron at Bergstrom Air Force Base, Texas. From 1984 until 1987, he served as a combat-ready pilot, instructor pilot, and academic instructor. In 1987, he was selected to attend graduate school at the Air Force Institute of Technology, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, where he studied aeronautical engineering. In 1989, he attended the USAF Test Pilot School at Edwards Air Force Base, California. In 1990, Lindsey was assigned to Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, where he conducted weapons and systems tests in F-16 and F-4 aircraft. While a member of the 3247th Test Squadron, Lindsey served as the deputy director, Advanced Tactical Air Reconnaissance System Joint Test Force and as the squadron's F-16 Flight Commander. In August 1993, Lindsey was selected to attend Air Command and Staff College at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama. Upon graduation in June 1994, he was reassigned to Eglin Air Force Base, Florida as an Integrated Product Team leader in the USAF SEEK EAGLE Office where he was responsible for Air Force weapons certification for the F16, F-111, A-10, and F-117 aircraft. In March 1995, he was assigned to NASA as an astronaut candidate. Lindsey retired from the Air Force in September 2006. He has logged over 7000 hours of flying time in more than 50 different types of aircraft. SPECIAL HONORS: Distinguished Graduate, Air Force Undergraduate Pilot Training (1983). Distinguished Graduate and recipient of the Liethen-Tittle Award as the outstanding test pilot of the USAF Test Pilot School Class 89A (1989). Awarded Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, Defense Superior Service Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, four NASA Space Flight Medals, NASA Outstanding Leadership Medal, NASA Distinguished Service Medal, NASA Exceptional Service Medal, Air Force Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal and Aerial Achievement Medal. NASA Profile: https://www.nasa.gov/sites/default/files/atoms/files/lindsey_steven_0.pdf The Trident Room Podcast is brought to you by the Naval Postgraduate School Alumni Association and the Naval Postgraduate School Foundation. npsfoundation.org/ For comments, suggestions, and critiques, please email us at TridentRoomPodcastHost@nps.edu, and find us online at nps.edu/tridentroompodcast. Thank you! The views expressed in this interview are those of the individuals and do not reflect the official policy or position of the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, the US Navy, or the Naval Postgraduate School.

Clay is joined by Anna Paulina Luna to talk about the experience of running for Congress, what to expect from her and the Republican Party, the state of the election results and whether 2021 will be the year when we finally start to get along.  But first we’ll have to collectively decide on a winner.  Can we? Host: Clay Aiken (https://twitter.com/clayaiken) has sold 6 million albums, authored a New York Times bestseller, and ran for Congress in North Carolina in 2014. Guest: Anna Paulina Luna (https://twitter.com/realannapaulina?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor) ran for election to the U.S. House to represent Florida's 13th Congressional District (https://ballotpedia.org/Florida%27s_13th_Congressional_District) . She is a strong independent leader, earning her stripes by serving her country, not by serving herself. Raised by a single mother in Southern California's low-income neighborhoods, Anna learned that she must work hard and be independent to succeed. Anna joined the Air Force at age 19, earning the Air Force Achievement Medal. She spent a total of six years in the military, including five on active duty. She is a small business owner with a degree in Biology. Her husband, Andy, is a special forces operator at MacDill Air Force Base.  They met in the Air Force and live in St. Petersburg. Anna is a passionate advocate for veterans.  She experienced firsthand the pitfalls of our veteran care system after enemy combatants shot Andy in Afghanistan.  Andy is a Bronze Star and Purple Heart recipient. Follow Anna Paulina Luna further on  Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/realannapaulina  Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/realannapaulina Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/realannapaulina  Anna For Congress: https://www.voteannapaulina.com/ Email your questions to podcast@politicon.com Follow @politicon (https://twitter.com/Politicon) and go to Politicon.com (https://politicon.com/) Email your questions to podcast@politicon.comFollow @politicon (https://twitter.com/Politicon) and go to Politicon.com (https://politicon.com/)

This week Shana sat down with Noel Rivera. Noel is the Green Party candidate for the 127th Pennsylvania House District. The district includes parts of the City of Reading and Kenhorst. Noel is originally from Lebanon, PA, and is an Air Force Veteran. He served and was deployed to Bagram AB, Afghanistan, and was awarded the Air Force Achievement Medal for volunteerism and excellence in service. After the military, he moved to Reading, PA, and earned a B.S. in Accounting in 2019 and an MBA focusing on community engagement and economic development in 2020. Currently, he works in the Accounting Department of a company in the Reading area. Throughout his work and experiences, he knew that he always wanted to get involved in the community and politics. Throughout their discussion, Noel talked about some important issues that are of key interest to him. One of them, is developing Reading into an Ecodistrict and finding creative ways to bring the city into an up and coming green and sustainable city! If elected, he hopes to work with other elected officials in Harrisburg to develop a network of Ecodistricts across Pennsylvania. Shana and Noel talked about other issues that he is concerned about and what influenced him to run. One of the key issues is passenger rail being brought back to Reading. Together they talked about how crucially important it is for the service to come back to Reading and it also should be implemented in a fair and just way for all of the city's residents. To find out more about Noel's campaign please visit his website or Facebook page. We all need to vote in this very important election on November 3rd! Here in Pennsylvania, you have the choice of voting early, by mail-in paper ballot, and in person. Your mail-in ballot MUST be postmarked before November 3rd to count. Don't forget if you decide to vote in person, Election Day is November 3rd. Polls in Pennsylvania are open from 7 am-8 pm. If you are a Pennsylvania voter and would need any necessary voter information, please go to votespa.com.

Anna Paulina Luna was raised by a single mother in souther California's low income neighborhoods. She saw things that would break most people; yet she used it to fuel her. For only the second time, we are having a...Primal Queen on! Anna has so much value to share. Yes, she is running for the congressional seat in the 13th District in Florida but she has already done so much in a short period of time... From serving in the Air Force and earning the Air Force Achievement Medal to getting her degree in Biology to winning the Republican primary election against all odds. Make sure to tune into this one as Anna will leave you inspired!

Anna Paulina Luna is a proven leader. Anna joined the United States Air Force at age 19. She graduated from basic training with honors and became president of the Airman's Council. A recipient of the Air Force Achievement Medal, Anna was honorably discharged with five years of USAF active duty service and one year of service in the Air National Guard. After leaving the Armed Forces, Anna turned her love of country into her life's work. She is now running for Congress in Florida for district 13. This episode we go into why you don’t have to be dealt the best hand, overcoming adversity, leadership and many other topics that have helped her in life.

Graciela Tiscareno-Sato is a graduate of the University of California at Berkeley. She completed the Aerospace Studies program as an AFROTC (Air Force Reserve Officer Training Program) scholarship cadet while earning her degree in Architecture and Environmental Design. During her active duty career in the U.S. Air Force, she deployed to four continents and dozens of countries as aircrew member, instructor and contingency planning officer. Flying many combat sorties over Southern Iraq in the NO FLY Zone after Operation Desert Storm earned her crew the prestigious Air Medal on her first deployment. Her favorite rendezvous for aerial refueling was with the SR-71 Blackbird as it came out of its high altitude missions over the Earth at supersonic speeds. She served with a NATO Battlestaff in Vicenza, Italy, as a military liaison officer at the U.S. Embassy in Quito, Ecuador and much more. She earned a Master degree in International Management from the School of Global Commerce at Whitworth University in Spokane, Washington before leaving active service. After an international marketing management career with Siemens headquartered in Munich, Germany, she created her global marketing and publishing firm, Gracefully Global Group, LLC. In November 2010, she received Entrepreneur of the Year honors at the LATINAStyle Magazine Gala in Washington D.C. In 2014, the White House honored Graciela as a White House Champion of Change, Woman Veteran Leader for creating this book series and raising educational expectations of young Latino students. Graciela actively mentors students who need education and career roadmaps, which is a central focus of her four-time award-winning and bestselling book, "Latinnovating." As a journalist and blogger, her work has been published in the U.S. and Europe in a wide variety of media. She is a sought-after keynote speaker, workshop leader and lecturer in classrooms, business schools, corporate events and educational conferences around the nation. Graciela and her family live in the San Francisco Bay Area. Graciela's military decorations include the Air Medal, the Aerial Achievement Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Joint Service Achievement Medal, the Air Force Achievement Medal, the Joint Meritorious Unit Award, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, the Combat Readiness Medal, the National defense Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Southwest Asia Service Medal, and the Armed Forces Services Medal.

Edward Taylor III, 49, of Pickerington is an Ohio Army National Guard veteran of the 1990-91 Gulf War and served during the 2003-11 Iraq War with the Ohio Air National Guard, for which he still serves as a chief master sergeant. A Canton native, Taylor graduated from McKinley Senior High School and attended the University of Akron and Grantham University. He has been in the Ohio Air National Guard since 1999. He was promoted to senior master sergeant in 2012 and to chief master sergeant in May. He enlisted with the idea of becoming a pilot. “(My) family didn’t have a huge background in the military, ... but I do remember specifically both my grandfathers and my father back in the time, during World War II, black men were stereotyped as having flat feet,” he said. “If you had flat feet, some recruiters did not allow you to get in.” Both his grandfathers wanted to serve but weren’t able to, he said. His father also wanted to enlist but didn’t, he said. “Both my brothers and I – all three of us served, (as did) a couple cousins. ... Not a huge military family, but definitely, it’s been a big part of the Taylor family.” Taylor said he admired the Tuskegee Airmen, African American military pilots who had fought during WWII. He said he had taken an African American studies class at Akron, and he learned about such notable African American military pioneers as Eugene Bullard, a pilot who had served in the French military during World War I because he wasn’t allowed to serve in the U.S. military. He knew of Benjamin O. Davis Jr., a West Point graduate and son of a brigadier general who became the first African American general in the U.S. Air Force. And he was well aware of Daniel “Chappie” James Jr., who became the first African American four-star general in 1975. “Once I became familiar with their names and their stories, (I) definitely became a huge fan of their careers and wanted to emulate them,” he said. He didn’t get his pilot license, but he said he found that he really enjoyed the maintenance side of aviation more. “I enjoyed thoroughly aircraft maintenance,” he said. “I still had the chance to fly, you know, on the aircraft ... which was still a wonderful thing – a huge treat, not something everybody can say that they do. ... Being an 18-, 19-year-old kid learning how to fix and maintain a $60 million aircraft is not something that everybody does every day.” He was an armament mechanic on Bell AH-1 Cobra helicopters during Gulf War operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm in 1990 and 1991. Before shipping out, he said, “I really wasn’t worried because I didn’t know what to expect.” He was on duty with the Air National Guard, working in a hangar, the morning of Sept. 11, 2001. Even before the second plane hit the World Trade Center, Taylor said he and his fellow airmen knew it was a deliberate attack. They knew jet aircraft were equipped with a terrain-collision-avoidance system, which keeps aircraft clear of ground obstacles, and the crash could not have been by chance. “We all kind of stopped in our tracks” to watch the news coverage, he recalled, and one airman said, “That’s it. We’re going to war, boys.” Camaraderie is a necessity for military personnel during a deployment, he said. “We have to foster that camaraderie so that we can make it because we’re all human beings. ... I’ve seen young men get their ‘Dear John’ letters. I’ve seen young ladies who just gave birth two months prior and now they’re (deployed) for six months,” he said. Members of the military get very close, he said, and he knows he always will maintain contact with those he served beside. Taylor served overseas in Bahrain, Qatar, Afghanistan, United Arab Emirates and Turkey. In those countries, he saw happy reunions of the local population at airports and realized “they’re just the same as you and I. ... They’re still human beings with emotion. ... All they want to do is love their people and be left alone, similar to the way a lot of us are. ... We’re all just people.” He said he particularly enjoyed being a customer in small shops in Turkey, where the locals wanted to socialize with tea before getting down to business. But once they got to know you, they were ready to sell their goods, he said. Conversely, he said, Bahrain wasn’t as welcoming. “When the king or prince would fly on their jet, we had to go in the house ... go into the hangars or the buildings or whatever because he didn’t want to see us,” he said. Taylor described the Air National Guard as a peacetime organization that effectively accomplished a wartime mission, he said. In all of the guard’s missions, he said, the troops ultimately are serving their own communities. “Whatever our role is, we’re taking care of home,” he said. Taylor suggested veterans adjusting to civilian life “use the foundation of your military training and experience to look at a new challenge. ... Civilian life can be a new challenge.” “If you’re having a struggle, go find other folks who have been out for a while,” he said, like veterans in the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars. “Take the time to find your purpose in life.” Taylor was the avionics superintendent of the 121st Air Refueling Wing at the Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base in Columbus before being promoted to aircraft-maintenance-squadron branch chief. His team maintains avionics on Boeing KC-135 Stratotankers, aerial-refueling aircraft. Taylor said most of the aircraft are at least 50 years old and have to be retrofitted with modern technology. “It becomes real stressful when you think that the majority of the aircraft that we fly – the KC-135 – were developed in the ’50s and built in the late ’50s and early ’60s,” he said. “Think about having an aircraft that’s already 56 years old, putting 2019 technology inside of that and expecting it to fly a mission – and it does eloquently ... thanks to the young men and women that are able to train, maintain that aircraft on a daily basis.” Married and a father of four, his decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal Air Force Commendation Medal with one device, the Air Force Achievement Medal with two devices and a Meritorious Unit Award. State awards include the Ohio Commendation Medal with one device and the Ohio National Guard Special Service Ribbon. Taylor gave the keynote address for the Canal Winchester Veterans Day observance in November. This podcast was hosted and produced by Scott Hummel, ThisWeek Community News assistant managing editor, digital. This profile was written by Paul Comstock and Hummel.

Jerry Vance of Hilliard is a 75-year-old Vietnam War veteran who served two tours in Thailand as a U.S. Air Force pilot. The first in 1968-69 was part of a 60-day temporary-duty assignment with the Young Tigers aerial refueling wing stationed in U-Tapao, about 87 miles southeast of Bangkok near the Gulf of Thailand. As a Young Tiger, Vance flew Boeing KC-135 Stratotankers, which were responsible for refueling the U.S. military’s tactical fighter aircraft in midair, usually after the fighter’s aircraft strike on a target and while en route back to the base. “It was really a busy, rewarding job to give them what they needed to get their mission done,” he said. Vance pointed out that each aircraft has to be refueled at a different speed. For example, he said, a Republic F-105 Thunderchief supersonic fighter-bomber has to be refueled at a faster speed than a North American F-100 Super Sabre supersonic jet fighter. “We were in orbit most of the time in Thailand just to keep our positions, and they would come and find us,” he said. The fighter always comes up from behind, he said. Even if a Boeing B-52 Stratofortress subsonic strategic bomber were approaching from the front, the B-52 would fly overhead and return to the rear of the KC-135 refueler, he said. Vance also said it was never just one aircraft being fueled per flight. “It was a minimum two, sometimes four you’re refueling,” he said. “So they just took turns.” The biggest challenges – or “most exciting times,” as Vance describes it – were in inclement-weather conditions. Vance returned to the United States for a few years, learning how to fly Bell UH-1 Iroquois helicopters – commonly known as Hueys – while in Little Rock, Arkansas. His second tour in Thailand was in 1973-74, this time in Nakhon Phanom, just west of the Makong River in eastern Thailand. As part of the 21st Special Operations Squadron stationed at the Royal Thai Air Force Base, Vance was flying Sikorsky CH-53 Sea Stallion helicopters. The transition from southern Thailand to the United States and back to eastern Thailand wasn’t so difficult, he said. “The big shock is switching over from a fixed-wing airplane to a rotary-wing airplane,” he said. The mission there, he said, was to take people and supplies into “places Nixon said we never flew.” “We would take anywhere from five to 50 people in the back of our helicopter; we would take them out in the middle of nowhere; we would put them on the ground,” he said. “We’d leave them there one, two, three days, depending on what the mission was, and then we’d come back and pick them up – always in a different spot.” After the war, Vance remained in the Air Force until 1987 and spent time at the Hickam Air Force Base in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, helping to recover space capsules. He later moved to the Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, New Mexico, training pilots to fly Sikorsky HH-53 "Super Jolly Green Giant" helicopters. Vance’s decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal with three clusters, the Air Medal with Silver Oak Leaf Cluster, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Air Force Achievement Medal, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, the National Defense Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with device and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal. Vance was born in Pensacola, Florida, and moved to Pickaway County, Ohio, when he was 4. He graduated from Darby Township High School (now Westfall) and attended Ohio State University and the University of Southern California, earning his bachelor’s degree at Ohio State and master’s degree at USC. Vance joined Ohio State’s ROTC pilot-training program. He and his wife, Connie, have two sons, Jeff (Lora) and David (Rebekah); a grandson, Jarod; two granddaughters, Emily and Sara Rowe; and two great-granddaughters, Lilly and Delilah. This podcast was produced by Scott Hummel, ThisWeek assistant managing editor, digital.

Welcome to episode 84 of the Sexology Podcast, today I’m joined by Timothy Wienecke who talks to us about the way in which masculine identity gets tied into military service, how masculinity can manifest in positive and negative ways and the importance for veterans to work with their partners to overcome these issues.   Timothy Wienecke has spent the last decade training and educating in a variety of settings on a broad range of topics. He got started as a primary trainer for various technical positions as a Signals Analyst working with the NSA. That is where he realized he enjoys giving people the skills and knowledge they need to be effective in the places that are important to them. Timothy's command noticed his passion and tapped him for a more delicate and difficult task to be a primary trainer for the Air Force’s Bystander Intervention program. There he spent the next three years training over 3000 Airmen how to notice and engage effectively to stop harassment and sexual assault before it happens. In recognition of his efforts, Timothy earned many accolades, ranging from Airman of the Quarter to Early Promotion and an Air Force Achievement Medal for impact. The enjoyment of these tasks is what led him to leave the Air Force and enter the mental health and advocacy fields full time.   After leaving the military, Timothy became employed as a peer educator for the Auraria Campus and the facilitator to launch Colorado University at Denver’s Peer Advocates for Veteran Education program. He took the skills gained in the military and learned how to connect with traditional college students, university staff, and the business community. Timothy taught and developed curriculum for time management, communication skills, gender dynamics, bystander intervention, cross-cultural communication, military culture, and many other topics over his three years in those positions. Again, people took note of Timothy's passion, skill, and effort; naming him the Feminist Ally of the Year, awarded a Life Time Achievement Award by the Phoenix Center at Auraria, and he left campus as the Outstanding Graduate of the CU Counseling program.   Since leaving the Auraria campus, Timothy has jumped into the greater Denver community to continue empowering people with the skills, knowledge, and drive to move themselves and their organizations toward their goals. He has trained Fire Fighters how to maintain focus and cope with the trauma they see in the world, taught clinicians the knowledge needed to serve men and the veteran community, and helped corporate employees focus in and communicate to complete their goals as a team.   In this episode, you will hear:   The way in which masculine identity gets tied into military service How masculinity can manifest in positive and negative ways The difference between the way civilians and people in the military experience trauma and sexual abuse The differences males and females experience sexual abuse and trauma How men can be more vulnerable when it comes to sexual abuse and trauma The importance for veterans to work with their partners to overcome these issues   Resources https://empoweredchangece.com   Survey - https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/MCM62XY   https://www.facebook.com/oasis2care https://www.instagram.com/oasis2care https://twitter.com/oasis2care

Joshua Brooks, medically retired from the United States Army as First Sergeant Brooks joins the A Desire to Inspire with Manny Patrick show to discuss life at war and then, life after. A proud father of five; Trystan, Madison, Daniella, Christian, and Joshua Junior, josh now makes his home in the beautiful jungle of Costa Rica. In February 2000, he left for basic training. Then he joined the United States Army as a 13F, Forward Observer. He talks about his job going anywhere on the front line, where infantry goes or beyond into or behind enemy lines and call for air support or artillery. Josh quickly made the rank of E-8, First Sergeant, in just ten years. This means he was selected by the Department of Army, part of Congress, two times for excellent service and dedication to duty. As he tells me, normally, soldiers don’t make this rank until closer to twenty years. To make this rank in just ten years put Josh in the very top one percent of performers. On top of this, Josh deployed for a total of over three years to combat. Iraq 2002-2003, 2006-2007, and 2009-2010. He served in units such as the 1-23 Tomahawk Stryker Brigade, 1stSpecial Forces, and the Henry Lind Leadership Academy. His awards and decorations include;1 Bronze Star Medal, 1 Meritorious Service Medal, 5 Army Commendation Medals, 6 Army Achievement Medals, 1 Air Force Achievement Medal, Valorous Unit Award, Meritorious Unit Accommodation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Korea Defense Service Medal, 4 Non-commissioned Officer Development Medal, Combat Action Badge, The Parachutist Badge, Air Assault Badge, Long Range Reconnaissance Identifier Badge,Marksmanship Qualification Badge Expert with Carbine. Josh talks about how proud he is of the time served in the Military and very grateful to have served amongst the humble heroes who made his time in the service so enjoyable. Then Josh talks about what he learned and experienced during this time and how it will forever be a part of what motivates him to continue to grow and be a better man. The brotherhood within the Army, of those whom you deploy to war with, is unexplainable and unforgettable, he says. Josh has found the deepest fulfillment in the success and happiness of his children. Growing up without a father has motivated him to be the best father within his personal abilities. Although, he don’t currently live with some of his children, he puts forth his greatest efforts to maintain a strong relationship with them and to be the foundation they need in their lives. He talks about how he also learned through time away, that it is never the quantity of time you spend with someone but it is the consistency of how you spend time, and the quality of time, you spend with them that will forever touch their hearts and minds. Nothing makes Josh smile the same as seeing the smiles of all five children. A proud father of them all for their will to succeed, excellent grades in school, and most of all their loving and respectful personalities. To the next step in the journey.       In This Episode You Will Learn About:     -Why Josh joined the military   - What life was like on the war grounds - What was going on in his brain during war - What bothered Josh upon his return home from war - How Josh dealed with life post war - What has affected Josh the most from being at war - How many people were lost under Josh's leadership - What you are not trained for at war - Why Josh decides to live in the jungles of Costa Rica - What different types of therapy there are in the military - Why Josh felt stuck after life at war AND MUCH MORE!!

Mark Goblowsky grew up in northeast Ohio and joined the U.S. Air Force at the age of 20 where he served as a non-commissioned officer for 9 ½ years earning the Air Force Achievement Medal as well as the Air Force Commendation Medal. While serving overseas he began his formal study of the martial arts (although his “informal” training in the combat arts began at the age of six in kindergarten with a fellow student who will remain nameless to protect the guilty).  Upon returning to the United States he began teaching part-time. With an honorable discharge in hand and a strong desire to help others build confidence, courage and live a healthy lifestyle, he took up martial arts as a full-time career in July of 1990 just outside of Omaha, Nebraska. Mark went on to grow his two schools to a combined enrollment of over 800 students with his primary facility being one of the largest single locations in the United States. Mark lives and teaches primarily in Omaha but does travel to teach as well.  He is currently working on a book about his life titled Strength Through The Struggle.

A budding Poet and Writer, as early as the third grade when he composed his very first poem, Florida raised writer Anthony Arnold fell in love with words finding them to be a comfort and mainstay throughout his life. Raised to be a reader by his Grandmother, he soon developed a keen awareness and love for Black History. He has a particular gift in this genre although he is one of the most versatile Poets of his generation. As an avid reader of all genres of literature, he has found a particular passion for Black History. He believes his ancestry and the legacy of those who came before him, gave their blood, sweat and tears to make it possible for him to live a life of freedom and liberation. He is saddened by the fact that it appears the current generation has little knowledge of and doesn’t seem to know or speak of Family History, especially Black History. He hopes through his writing he is able to educate others more about the historical significance of the challenges African Americans as well as the contribution of African Americans throughout history including those events which are very rarely discussed or taught in public schools, such as African American roles in the Civil War. He hopes to shed more light on the strength of Black People throughout history. Although his writing passion is focused a great deal on his own African American Culture Anthony Arnold has a deep love for all mankind that grew during his service to his country. Anthony Arnold has proudly retired from service in the US Air Force. During his career he was awarded numerous medals, including Air Force Achievement Medal-1986, 1993 and 2001 and many more. This book is the beginning to fulfill his desire to share with the younger generation to inspire them to learn more about their ancestors and culture, letting them know they are much more than what some in society has labeled them.