Podcasts about airmen

This week, we'll connect with the Program Coordinator for Survivor Outreach Services from the Minnesota Army National Guard and get an update from the MN Patriot Guard. Tune in to our live Memorial Day show from 6-9 AM on Monday, May 26th, on Twin Cities News Talk or iHeartMedia Inc. Guests include: Kylee McArdle – […] The post Survivor Outreach Services appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

Send us a textIn this extended Daily Drop, Jared unleashes a tactical nuke of sarcasm on the Pentagon's parade of WTF decisions. From billion-dollar contracts imploding to Airmen stuck in retirement limbo, it's clear nobody's steering this defense dumpster fire. Cyber Command wants to be SOCOM now (because that worked so well before), troops can't move because the PCS fairy ran out of money, and SpaceX is somehow our last hope in space. Also: PFAS water, political drama, and Congress failing military families… again.If you like your military updates with a side of rage and real talk, you're in the right TOC.

This week, we explore how the Magnus Veterans Foundation supports Veterans and their families, connect with the administrator of the Preston Veterans Cemetery from the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs, and get the latest from the Minneapolis VA Health Care System. Guests include: BG (ret) Tim Kennedy – Magnus Veterans Foundation LT COL (ret) Shawn […] The post Magnus Veterans Foundation and Preston Veterans Cemetery appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

Send us a textMay 16's Daily Drop is here, and it's a clinic in chaos. Jared dives headfirst into a flaming pile of Air Force mismanagement, with everything from canceled retention bonuses to space-based missile defense initiatives nobody budgeted for.We're talking about the Pentagon quietly prepping to boot transgender service members, the DoD admitting it can't staff enough school counselors, and the Air Force building new ICBM silos because fixing the old ones would just be too easy.Meanwhile, Space Force is trying to juggle in-orbit refueling, satellite sensors, a “Golden Dome,” and stealing 600 Guardsmen — all while Airmen are out here getting ghosted on their bonuses.Oh, and Trump wants to build the “F-55.” Whatever that is.

Send us a textIn today's savage May 15th Daily Drop, Jared delivers a glorious roast of Air Force bureaucracy, tone-deaf budgeting, and defense priorities so backwards you'd think they were developed by a Magic 8 Ball.Retention bonuses? Gone. Your SRB? Vamoosed. But hey, at least the Pentagon hired a guy from Uber to help us with hypersonics and laser beams, right?From billion-dollar drone dogfights to literal ducks taking down million-dollar F-16s (no, seriously), this episode is a spicy mix of fiscal disaster, misplaced priorities, and hot takes on why the F-47 probably won't fly before your next retirement ceremony.We hit Pentagon hotline failures (you had one job), Space Force begging for data funds, and some spicy chatter about China's jets being slightly better than India's flying museum pieces. Also, there's a plot to bomb an Army base using drones and Molotovs… because of course there is.If you love chaos, caffeine, and calling out DoD idiocy—this one's for you.

This week, we’re live from Minnesota Wild headquarters, exploring the MN Wild Team Dog Program. We’ll meet the founder of Coco’s Heart Dog Rescue, learn about the Soldiers 6 program providing service dogs to heroes, and connect with a veteran who previously received a MN Wild team dog. Guests include: Wayne Peterson – Minnesota Wild […] The post Wild Hearts & Hero Paws: Inside the Minnesota Wild Team Dog Program appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

Episode 3041 of the Vietnam Veteran News Podcast will feature a story about the last ANZAC aircraft to leave Saigon just before it fell to the North Vietnamese. The featured story appeared on the Australian Government Defense website and was … Continue reading →

Been a couple weeks - I had to replace my old desktop that was starting to crash too frequently and move all the music files etc to the new machine. Back up now with an episode I recorded a week or so ago! Just a few longer tracks from recent records found and purchased. Hope to be back on schedule soon! Enjoy. Tracklist: Keifer Trio, Pete Jolly, Chris Barber, Les DeMerle, Airmen of Note.

The latest episode of the Tinker Talks podcast dives into the critical world of military law with Col. Janet Eberle, the Staff Judge Advocate for the 72nd Air Base Wing. With decades of service in the Air Force and a sharp legal mind, Col. Eberle offers listeners a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how justice and readiness go hand-in-hand on base and beyond. Eberle discusses her career in the Air Force and shares how the legal profession plays a vital role in maintaining good order and discipline across the force. She also breaks down what happens when an Airman is charged with an offense off base and how jurisdiction is determined. She also explains the differences between military and civilian justice systems, providing a clear picture of how court-martial proceedings differ from civilian trials. Legal Assistance Readiness Week, a dedicated effort to provide legal services that support Airmen's personal readiness—from powers of attorney and wills to notary services and more.

Clay and returning guest Dallas Owen conspire and drop a monster rock hit on Michael. Dallas blesses Clay and Mikey with a far lesser known song that we just cannot get enough of.Audio Clips:More Than A Feeling - BostonForeplay/Long Time - BostonPeace of Mind - BostonSmokin' - BostonWillin' - Commander Cody & His Lost Planet AirmenHot Rod Lincoln - Commander Cody & His Lost Planet Airmen

  This week we learn about Limb Loss Awareness Month from the Minneapolis VA Health Care System, hear from Fairview Health Services on becoming a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon company and get and update from our Senior Enlisted Leader. Guests include: Dr. Molly Matsumoto – Minneapolis VA Health Care System Shawn McLaughlin –  Minneapolis VA […] The post Limb Loss Awareness Month and Fairview Health Services appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

Col. Matt Bershinsky and Maj. Mohamed Osman join our host for an in-depth discussion of the 433rd Medical Group's recent work to the Caribbean as part of the Lesser Antilles Medical Assistance Team (LAMAT) 25. Together, they reflect on how this global health engagement mission enhanced medical readiness, strengthened international partnerships, and challenged Airmen to adapt and lead in resource-limited environments. From delivering life-saving care to building sustainable medical capacity with host nations, this mission exemplified the values of agile, integrated operations and real-world readiness.

U.S. Air Force Col. Sean Renbarger, 169th Fighter Wing deputy commander, updates Swamp Fox Airmen and speaks with U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Robin Stilwell, adjutant general of South Carolina, about his priorities for the South Carolina National Guard. Additionally, 2nd Lt. Joshua Spense, the family day project officer, gives an update on what to expect during family day, and Chief Master Sgt. Eric Bowen, the wing command chief, shares details about his planned all-call for Airmen.

Welcome to the Part Time Pilot Audio Ground School Podcast! This podcast releases a 2 new episodes every week on Mondays and Wednesdays. Every Monday, we release an episode that is the next lesson of our IFR Online Ground School. Every Wednesday, we release an episode that is the next lesson of our Private Pilot Online Ground School.    We are working our way through both Online Ground Schools for students to listen to ground school for FREE! If you don't want to wait for new podcasts or you don't want to hear ads or course updates, you can join us in our VIP podcast. In order to join the VIP podcast, you must purchase our Online Ground School. When you do, you'll get sent an email invite to the VIP podcast to download and listen on your favorite podcast app, plus all the amazing lifetime features inside our Online Ground Schools (lessons, videos, audio, quizzes, practice tests, flash cards, test prep PDFs, grade tracking, digital notes, trained AI instructor chat, 7-day a week email support, online study group, scholarships and more).    The #1 reason student pilots never end up becoming a private pilot is NOT due to money. The real reason is actually deeper than that. Yes, flight training is expensive. But every student pilot knows this and budgets for it when they decide to do it.   The actual #1 reason a student pilot fails is because they do not have a good, fundamental understanding of the private pilot knowledge they are meant to learn in ground school.    You see when a student does not have a good grasp of this knowledge they get to a point in their flight training where their mind just can't keep up. They start making mistakes and having to redo lessons. And THAT is when it starts getting too expensive.    This audio ground school is meant for the modern day student pilot... aka the part time student pilot. Let's face it, the majority of us have full time responsibilities on top of flight training. Whether it is a job, kids, family, school, etc. we all keep ourselves busy with the things that are important to us. And with today's economy we have to maintain that job just to pay for the training. The modern day student pilot is busy, on the go and always trying to find time throughout his or her day to stay up on their studies. The audio ground school allows them to consume high quality content while walking, running, working out, sitting in traffic, traveling, or even just a break from the boring FAR/AIM or ground school lecture.    Did I meant high quality content? The audio ground school is taken straight out of the 5-star rated Part Time Pilot Online Ground School that has had over 2000 students take and pass their Private Pilot & IFR exams with only 2 total students failing the written. That's a 99.9% success rate! And the 2 that failed? We refunded their cost of ground school and helped them pass on their second attempt. We do this by keeping ground school engaging, fun, light and consumable. We have written lessons, videos, audio lessons, live video lessons, community chats, quizzes, practice tests, flash cards, study guides, eBooks and much more.   Part Time Pilot was created to be a breath of fresh air for student pilots. To be that flight training provider that looks out for them and their needs. So that is just what we are doing with this podcast.    Private Pilot - Section 3 - Lesson #8: In this Private Pilot ground school audio lesson we talk about the subject of Other Airmen Ratings and Endorsements you can add to your Private Pilot certificate and what it would take to do so.   Links mentioned in the episode: Online Ground School: https://parttimepilot.com/private-pilot-online-ground-school/?utm_source=podcast Free How to Become a Private Pilot course: https://parttimepilot.com/free-how-to-become-a-pilot/ Ultimate Test Prep Book: https://amzn.to/4kHrvfo   Ultimate FAA Written Questions Book: https://amzn.to/4hqTXzm   Ultimate Checkride Oral Prep Book: https://amzn.to/4iGh0XQ   Practical Test Standards: https://www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing/test_standards   Private Pilot Online Study Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/parttimepilot/

Show SummaryOn today's episode, we're featuring a conversation with Marine Corps Veteran, Michael Hudson, Vice President for Insider Risk and Suicide Prevention for Clearforce, a risk analytics company that has developed the Resolve platform that is designed to address challenges associated with personal risk, including increased risk for suicide in the service member and veteran population. Provide FeedbackAs a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health. About Today's GuestColonel Michael Hudson, United States Marine Corps (Ret.), served 30 years as an Aviator, Commanded a Helicopter Squadron and a Marine Expeditionary Unit in support of combat and contingency operation in Africa, Central and Pacific Commands. Has intelligence and operational background, lead joint operational centers, safety, and risk professional designation. Restructured and lead USMC Sexual Assault Prevention Response program, working closely with behavioral health and suicide prevention to take USMC from worst to best program in DoD.  Retiring in 2014, he joined ClearForce as they formed.  Hudson holds a bachelor's Degree from San Jose State University in Aeronautics, Master's Degree from the Naval War College in National Security and Strategic Studies, Master's Degree from Troy State University in Management and is Global Counter Insider Threat Program (GCITP) credentialed.Links Mentioned in this Episode Clearforce Web siteRESOLVE Platform Web sitePsychArmor Resource of the WeekThis week's resource of the week is the PsychArmor course, Helping Others Hold On. Compared to the civilian population, suicide rates among the military and Veterans is very high. This series of lessons help to give tools and tips to recognize, understand, and combat suicidal feelings in Veterans. You can find the resource here:  https://learn.psycharmor.org/courses/helping-others-hold-on Episode Partner: This week's episode is brought to you by Humana, a leading health and well-being company that has joined forces with PsychArmor to develop campaigns and courses that support veterans and their families in achieving their best health. To learn more about how Humana honors and serves veterans visit healthequity.humana.com/veterans” Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media Email PsychArmorPsychArmor on TwitterPsychArmor on FacebookPsychArmor on YouTubePsychArmor on LinkedInPsychArmor on InstagramTheme MusicOur theme music Don't Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families.  You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com  

Chief Christopher Gradel, Command Chief Master Sergeant of the 72nd Air Base Wing, is the latest guest on the Tinker Talks Podcast. The Texas native has the important task of leading and mentoring all of the enlisted Airmen in the Airbase Wing. Gradel's job is a balancing act of gruff, no-nonsense chief, to a softer approach of listening and providing sage guidance. But the most important task is to lay out his priorities, instill a warrior ethos and prepare his Airmen for whatever challenges they may face. It won't take long for you, the listener, to understand why Chief Gradel was selected as the Command Chief. He leads with a laser focus and is truly an Airman's leader.

This week, we'll connect with the 133rd Airlift Wing to discuss Sage Eagle, a joint training exercise involving the Air National Guard and 5th Special Forces Group – Airborne, plus get an update from the MN Patriot Guard. Guests include: MSgt. Tom Boyum – 133rd Airlift Wing SSgt. Mackenzie Miller – 133rd Airlift Wing MSgt. […] The post Sage Eagle – 133rd Training with Green Berets appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

Show SummaryOn today's episode, we're featuring a conversation about a new film, SHEEPDOG, with the actors Steven Grayhm and Matt Dallas.Together, they worked on the movie, which is a film that explores the physical and psychological repercussions of trauma with a focus on Posttraumatic Growth. Provide FeedbackAs a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health. About Today's GuestSteven Grayhm was born in London, Ontario Canada, to a Polish German mother and Canadian father whose family lineage descends from the Weskarini Algonquin First Nation people of La Petite Nation (Little Nation) from Western Quebec, Canada. A graduate of the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in the UK, Steven was nominated for a Hollywood Film Award at the Hollywood Film Awards for his short film, Vodka, Winter and The Cry of Violin, for which he starred, wrote, directed and produced. The film, based on a true story about his Polish grandparents' perilous twilight plight to save their only son from a Nazi German POW camp during the last winter of WWII, was nominated at Raindance UK and was awarded 'Best International Short' at the New York International Film Festival.Steven received critical acclaim for his performance as Young Eddie in the film adaptation of Mitch Albom's best-selling novel, “The Five People You Meet In Heaven”, starring Academy Award Winner Jon Voight, Academy Award Nominee's Jeff Daniels and Ellen Burstyn and Emmy Winner Michael Imperioli. Steven also appeared as series lead Liam Cullen, in Netflix's post-apocalyptic drama “Between”, and Robert Zemeckis' big budget documentary-drama, “Medal of Honor”. Steven has performed on stage including multiple stints in the title role of “Hamlet”, and in the LA theater production of August Strindberg's “The Father”, directed by Academy Award Winner Estelle Parsons, and starring Academy Winner's Al Pacino, Dianne Wiest, and Jessica Chastain. Steven recently returned behind the camera to direct himself in the upcoming Veterans feature film SHEEPDOG, for which he also wrote and produced. The film is Executive Produced by Joe Newcomb (Dallas Buyers Club), and co-stars Academy Award Nominee Virginia Madsen, Emmy Nominee Vondie Curtis Hall, SAG Nominee Dominic Fusuma, Tony Nominee Lilli Cooper and Matt Dallas. The film will be released In Theaters in the Fall 2025.Matt Dallas has starred in several films, and has played the title character in the ABC Family television series Kyle XY for three seasons. Dallas also appeared in Camp Slaughter (2005), Living The Dream (2006), and Babysitter Wanted (2008). He has been a guest on the TV show Entourage. In 2005, Dallas starred with Mischa Barton in James Blunt's music video for Goodbye My Lover and in 2008 he starred in Katy Perry's music video for "Thinking of You".Dallas was cast in ABC's Eastwick, playing Roxie's (Rebecca Romijn) love interest. In 2009, it was announced that Dallas would be appearing in the movie Beauty and the Briefcase with Hilary Duff. Dallas was in an indie western film called The First Ride of Wyatt Earp as Bat Masterson, which was released on March 6, 2012.In 2012, Dallas starred as Max in the musical love story movie You, Me, & the Circus. He played the role of Bat Masterson in an action packed western movie Wyatt Earp's Revenge with Val Kilmer. He also starred as Lance Leigh in the Hallmark movie Naughty or Nice with Hilarie Burton.  Dallas played the role of Scott Orenhauser in the indie sci-fi thriller film Life Tracker. Dallas had a recurring role in ABC Family show Baby Daddy, where he played Riley's (Chelsea Kane) love interest.In 2014, Dallas starred in the horror comedy movie Ghost of Goodnight Lane. In 2015, Dallas starred as Jake in the web series Anne & Jake. The series was released on YouTube on November 11, 2015. In 2017, Dallas starred as Declan in the drama film Alaska is a Drag, written and directed by Shaz Bennett. He also starred as Frank Dean in the western film Painted Woman directed by James Cotten.In 2018, Dallas starred as pastor John in supernatural horror film Along Came the Devil. In 2019, Dallas played the role of Greg Carlyle in the Lifetime thriller film A Daughter's Plan to Kill alongside Claire Coffee. He also co-starred as Bobby Browning in the romantic comedy Nearly Married starring Cassi Thomson.Links Mentioned in this Episode SHEEPDOG the Movie Web SiteSHEEPDOG on InstagramSHEEPDOG on FacebookPsychArmor Resource of the WeekThis week's resource of the week is the PsychArmor course, Posttraumatic Growth After Loss. In this course, Dr. Shauna Springer represents the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors as she discusses how the TAPS Suicide Prevention Model's third phase, posttraumatic growth, has affected one particular survivor. You can find the resource here:  https://learn.psycharmor.org/courses/Posttraumatic-Growth-after-Loss Episode Partner: This week's episode is brought to you by Humana, a leading health and well-being company that has joined forces with PsychArmor to develop campaigns and courses that support veterans and their families in achieving their best health. To learn more about how Humana honors and serves veterans visit healthequity.humana.com/veterans” Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media Email PsychArmorPsychArmor on TwitterPsychArmor on FacebookPsychArmor on YouTubePsychArmor on LinkedInPsychArmor on InstagramTheme MusicOur theme music Don't Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families.  You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com  

For tonight's episode, we meet Sarge in Idaho. Sarge brings us a firsthand account that has stayed under wraps for far too long. Picture this: a quiet spring night in 2010 at Minot Air Force Base in North Dakota—a critical hub for nuclear security. Out of nowhere, UFOs appear—silent, precise, and unlike anything witnesses had ever seen before. These crafts maneuver over the base for exactly one hour, silently observing before vanishing into the night sky. But the story doesn't end there. The very next night, a large reconnaissance plane appears, circling the base at the exact same time the UFOs had the night before. It lingers for several hours before disappearing without a trace. We'll hear from Sarge, who was on duty that night and was one of multiple witnesses to this extraordinary event. And there's more—back in October 1968, at the same Air Force base, ground-based personnel reported seeing a glowing object hovering near the missile sites. It was described as extremely bright, with rapidly shifting colors. A B-52 bomber crew returning to base that night also reported visual contact with a similar object. The incident was investigated under Project Blue Book, the official U.S. Air Force program tasked with evaluating UFO reports.More information on this episode on the podcast website:https://ufochroniclespodcast.com/ep-330-the-minot-encounter-one-hour-of-silence/If you enjoy this podcast, please support the show with a virtual coffee:https://ko-fi.com/ufochroniclespodcastFollow and Subscribe on X to get ad free episodesX: https://x.com/UFOchronpodcast/Want to share your encounter on the show?Email: UFOChronicles@gmail.comOr Fill out Guest Form:https://forms.gle/uGQ8PTVRkcjy4nxS7Podcast Merchandise:https://www.teepublic.com/user/ufo-chronicles-podcastHelp Support UFO CHRONICLES by becoming a Patron:https://patreon.com/UFOChroniclespodcastAll Links for Podcast:https://linktr.ee/UFOChroniclesPodcastThank you for listening!Like share and subscribe it really helps me when people share the show on social media, it means we can reach more people and more witnesses and without your amazing support, it wouldn't be possible.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ufo-chronicles-podcast--3395068/support.

For tonight's episode, we meet Sarge in Idaho. Sarge brings us a firsthand account that has stayed under wraps for far too long. Picture this: a quiet spring night in 2010 at Minot Air Force Base in North Dakota—a critical hub for nuclear security. Out of nowhere, UFOs appear—silent, precise, and unlike anything witnesses had ever seen before. These crafts maneuver over the base for exactly one hour, silently observing before vanishing into the night sky. But the story doesn't end there. The very next night, a large reconnaissance plane appears, circling the base at the exact same time the UFOs had the night before. It lingers for several hours before disappearing without a trace. We'll hear from Sarge, who was on duty that night and was one of multiple witnesses to this extraordinary event. And there's more—back in October 1968, at the same Air Force base, ground-based personnel reported seeing a glowing object hovering near the missile sites. It was described as extremely bright, with rapidly shifting colors. A B-52 bomber crew returning to base that night also reported visual contact with a similar object. The incident was investigated under Project Blue Book, the official U.S. Air Force program tasked with evaluating UFO reports.More information on this episode on the podcast website:https://ufochroniclespodcast.com/ep-330-the-minot-encounter-one-hour-of-silence/If you enjoy this podcast, please support the show with a virtual coffee:https://ko-fi.com/ufochroniclespodcastFollow and Subscribe on X to get ad free episodesX: https://x.com/UFOchronpodcast/Want to share your encounter on the show?Email: UFOChronicles@gmail.comOr Fill out Guest Form:https://forms.gle/uGQ8PTVRkcjy4nxS7Podcast Merchandise:https://www.teepublic.com/user/ufo-chronicles-podcastHelp Support UFO CHRONICLES by becoming a Patron:https://patreon.com/UFOChroniclespodcastAll Links for Podcast:https://linktr.ee/UFOChroniclesPodcastThank you for listening!Like share and subscribe it really helps me when people share the show on social media, it means we can reach more people and more witnesses and without your amazing support, it wouldn't be possible.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/ufo-chronicles-podcast--3395068/support.

This week, we'll join the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development to explore Veteran employment and the upcoming career fair. We'll also hear from the National Director of Paralyzed Veterans of America and get an update from the Minneapolis VA Health Care System. Guests include: Raymond Douha – Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic […] The post Veteran Employment and Paralyzed Veterans of America appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

Show SummaryOn today's episode, we're featuring a conversation with Dr. Melita “Chepa” Rank, a member of the Húŋkpati Dakota Tribe and a dedicated social worker whose mission centers around holistic wellness and well-being within Tribal and Indigenous communities.Provide FeedbackAs a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health. About Today's GuestDr. Melita “Chepa” Rank, a member of the Hunkpati Dakota Tribe, is a dedicated social worker whose mission centers around holistic wellness and well-being within Tribal and Indigenous communities. Her work is driven by innovative practices aimed at tackling the significant challenges faced by our Tribal communities knowing our people are a vital resource and asset.  Dr. Rank's impactful work includes integrated systems for wellness with the emphasize on cultural strengths as a pathway to wellness and well-being knowing our cultural traditions, customs, beliefs, and practices are the foundation to well-being and wellness. Dr. Rank champions the belief-as relatives we are the primary responders who are critical in providing the help where needed and lead the way in centering our well-being.    Recognizing the alarming rates of suicide in Indigenous nations, Dr. Rank works tirelessly on suicide prevention initiatives. Her efforts aim to provide support, resources, and hope.  Within Tribal nations, Dr. Rank advocates for services centered in physical, mental, and spiritual well-being that fosters a culture of overall wellness. A cornerstone value she holds at the forefront is utilizing a collective impact approach to improve health and utilization of data for programmatic decision-making.Dr. Rank journey in early foundational learning began in Head Start, an experience she proudly carries forward as a testament to the importance of early childhood education.  Her academic pathway includes: Doctor of Social Work -University of Southern California Master of Social Work -Florida State UniversityBachelor of Social Work-University of KansasAssociate of Arts-Haskell Indian Junior College As a dedicated professional, Dr. Rank serves as a National Trainer and is a certified trainer in Adverse Childhood Experiences along with various other prevention-based programs. She resides on the Hunkpati Nation, where she finds joy in raising her family, cherishing time spent with her grandchildren and family amid the beauty of her Tribal Nation.    Links Mentioned in this Episode Húŋkpati Oyáte Web SitePsychArmor Resource of the WeekThis week's resource of the week is a previous conversation about Native and Tribal veterans on the Behind the Mission podcast, episode 141 with Dean Dauphinais. Dean is a Marine Corps Veteran and Veteran, as well as an enrolled member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians, and is focused on supporting his fellow Native and Tribal veterans.  You can find the resource here:  https://psycharmor.org/podcast/dean-dauphinais Episode Partner: This week's episode is brought to you by Humana, a leading health and well-being company that has joined forces with PsychArmor to develop campaigns and courses that support veterans and their families in achieving their best health. To learn more about how Humana honors and serves veterans visit healthequity.humana.com/veterans” Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media Email PsychArmorPsychArmor on TwitterPsychArmor on FacebookPsychArmor on YouTubePsychArmor on LinkedInPsychArmor on InstagramTheme MusicOur theme music Don't Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families.  You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com  

What kind of a reaction should you expect when you don't have a jack to fix your flat tire? Is it possible for a young Airmen to just enjoy his day off in his on way without being bothered?  Find out, the answers to these questions and more on this weeks "sode" of The Cammo Comedy Show Podcast! If you have any funny military stories of your own that you would like to share, drop us a line at:stories@cammocomedy.com  or  Leave a voicemail at (531) 222-6146  Sadly, the voicemail will only record in 2 minute blocksWe are here to make you laugh, but behind this there is the imbedded philosophy of, "No One Left Behind." Sadly, 22 vets per day commit suicide, approximately 67,500 vets are homeless and thousands struggle with everyday life after service.  What we hope to accomplish is providing a fun place to gather that will have a similar feel to the conversations that happen at the VFW or American Legion between vets.  Since the latest generations of vets are not really going to these places anymore, we are making it happen online.  We believe that the sense of community will help some who struggle, while providing stories about the good times that we can all laugh at!An additional part of this show is capturing the oral history of the military over the past few decades, so if you happen to know a veteran who served during WW2, Korean War or Vietnam eras, we would love to hear from them.  Obviously, we want to hear stories from all eras, but we have special respect for the older generations.  

This week, we explore leadership development and Army life with Minnesota National Guard soldiers, recap Veterans Day on the Hill with the legislative director from the DAV Department of Minnesota, and connect with the Minnesota Association of County Veterans Service Officers. Guests include: 1SG Steve Cox – Minnesota National Guard SPC Mitchell Houge – Minnesota […] The post Army Life and Veterans Day on the Hill Recap appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

Show SummaryOn today's episode, we're featuring a conversation with Denise Meine-Graham. Denise and her husband help communities develop Local Outreach to Suicide Survivor teams, or LOSS Teams, to provide support to others bereaved by suicide. Provide FeedbackAs a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health. About Today's GuestDenise Meine-Graham, a former corporate executive, turned her personal tragedy into a mission of hope after losing her son, Drey, to suicide in 2012. She founded LOSS Community Services in Columbus, Ohio, to provide support and healing to those bereaved by suicide. In 2022, she transitioned to the role of Director Emerita.That same year, Denise and her husband, Robbie, established Postvention Consulting LLC to help communities develop LOSS Teams and postvention programs nationwide. They also work at the state level to build postvention infrastructures and networks. In 2023, Postvention Consulting took on the responsibility—originally led by Dr. Frank Campbell—of expanding the LOSS Team active postvention model. LOSSteam.comWith a strong business background, Denise has developed a structured approach to launching LOSS Teams, contributed to nationally recognized media guidelines on suicide reporting, testified before state legislators on postvention-related policies, and frequently speaks on suicide postvention and her journey as a loss survivor.Denise has received multiple awards recognizing her achievements and collaborative leadership. She has extensive training in suicide prevention and has served as a QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) Instructor, CALM (Counseling on Access to Lethal Means) trainer, and “How to Share Your Story” trainer. She is a Certified Thanatologist, a Certified Psychological Autopsy Investigator, and holds a Death and Grief Studies certification from the Center for Loss and Life Transition.Links Mentioned in this Episode Loss Team WebsitePsychArmor Resource of the WeekThis week's resource of the week is the PsychArmor course, Postvention: Healing After Suicide. Postvention is a term unfamiliar to many people, yet it is a critical component of suicide prevention. This course explains postvention, what it is and why it is important. You can find the resource here:  https://learn.psycharmor.org/courses/postvention-healing-after-suicide Episode Partner: This week's episode is brought to you by Humana, a leading health and well-being company that has joined forces with PsychArmor to develop campaigns and courses that support veterans and their families in achieving their best health. To learn more about how Humana honors and serves veterans visit healthequity.humana.com/veterans” Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media Email PsychArmorPsychArmor on TwitterPsychArmor on FacebookPsychArmor on YouTubePsychArmor on LinkedInPsychArmor on InstagramTheme MusicOur theme music Don't Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families.  You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com  

This week, we sit down with the Minneapolis VA Health Care System to talk about the National Veterans Wheelchair Games, explore how Children’s Minnesota earned its status as a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon organization, and get the latest from our Command Senior Enlisted Leader. Guests include: Rachel Hammer – Minneapolis VA Health Care System Janelle […] The post National Veteran Wheelchair Games and Children’s Minnesota appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

Show SummaryOn today's episode, we're featuring a conversation with Chad Graham, Executive Director of the Congressional Medal of Honor Society. The Congressional Medal of Honor Society, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Medal of Honor and its Recipients, inspiring Americans to live the values the Medal represents, and supporting Recipients as they connect with communities across America.Provide FeedbackAs a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health. Links Mentioned in this Episode Congressional Medal of Honor Society WebsitePsychArmor Resource of the WeekThis week's resource of the week is a video of a livestream event titled, "Breaking the Wall of Silence" - MoH Recipient Forum on Active Duty & Veteran Suicide. This video features a multi-generational panel of Congressional Medal of Honor recipients sharing their insight, experience, and perspective on key factors surrounding active duty and veteran suicide. You can find the resource here:  https://www.youtube.com/live/-_iIfzvYCFM?si=IyDoS4EmqiiXEqdF Episode Partner: This week's episode is brought to you by Humana, a leading health and well-being company that has joined forces with PsychArmor to develop campaigns and courses that support veterans and their families in achieving their best health. To learn more about how Humana honors and serves veterans visit healthequity.humana.com/veterans” Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media Email PsychArmorPsychArmor on TwitterPsychArmor on FacebookPsychArmor on YouTubePsychArmor on LinkedInPsychArmor on InstagramTheme MusicOur theme music Don't Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families.  You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com  

Episode Summary: Heather “Lucky” Penney and Col. Mark "Chili" Howard explore one of the Air Force's largest, most diverse units: the 55th Wing. Operating from multiple installations, members of the 55th Wing execute everything from the EC-130 and EA-37B Compass Call electronic attack mission to the RC/WC/TC-135 ISR mission and elements of the nuclear command, control, and communications enterprise. They've also got a maintenance group, operations group, and medical group. We explore what these Airmen do and how their contributions connect to the broader national security picture. Every wing in the Air Force is important, but the 55th is key. They're one of those linchpin units that provide foundational capabilities that empower so much of the broader force. Without them, nothing else works. Credits: Host: Heather “Lucky” Penney, Senior Resident Fellow, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies Producer: Shane Thin  Executive Producer: Douglas Birkey Guest: Col. Mark "Chili" Howard, Commander, 55th Wing Links: Subscribe to our Youtube Channel: https://bit.ly/3GbA5Of Website: https://mitchellaerospacepower.org/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/MitchellStudies Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mitchell.Institute.Aerospace LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3nzBisb Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellstudies/ #MitchellStudies #AerospaceAdvantage #MilitaryLeadership Thank you for your continued support!

This week, we’re recorded live from the 32nd Welcome Home Pheasant Hunt at Wild Wings of Oneka, organized by Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Network, Hugo, MN. We’ll explore the 34th Infantry Division Association and chat with leaders from the 148th Fighter Wing and the 34th Red Bull Infantry Division. Guests include: Chuck Haas – Beyond […] The post 32nd Welcome Home Pheasant Hunt appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

Show SummaryOn today's episode, we're featuring a conversation with John Decoteau, Vice President of Military and Campus Admissions at Universal Technical Institute, the nation's leading provider of training for aspiring auto, motorcycle, diesel, marine, collision repair, welding and CNC machining technicians. Provide FeedbackAs a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health. About Today's GuestJohn Decoteau is the Vice President of Military and Campus Admissions at Universal Technical Institute the nation's leading provider of training for aspiring auto, motorcycle, diesel, marine, collision repair, welding and CNC machining technicians.As Vice President Campus and Military Admissions, he has the honor of leading UTI's campus and military admission teams. He is responsible for helping adult and Veterans achieve their educational and career goals. He works with adult and veteran populations to assess their interests, goals and aptitudes, and, if they are fit with UTI, assists them in applying for school, funding their education and if necessary, relocating, finding part time jobs and getting off to a strong start.He joined UTI in 2009 and, in his second year, received the Top Leader 2010 award for his work on behalf of Veterans.Prior to joining UTI, Decoteau spent eight years in the banking industry. He served as a branch manager and became a Certified Residential Mortgage Specialist (CRMS), a designation by the National Association of Mortgage Brokers, which less than one percent of entire industry achieve.John Decoteau also served for seven years in the U.S. Marine Corps. He entered the Marine Corps in 1994 after graduating from high school, completed boot camp at Parris Island and received training at the Logistics and Embark School. He was awarded the Marine of the Year in both 1995 and 1996, meritoriously promoted to Sergeant in just his second year with the Corps. He participated in various deployments including Operation Joint Endeavor and Operation Silver Wake. In 1999, he re-enlisted for recruiting duty, won Rookie Recruiter of the Year and meritoriously promoted to the rank of Staff Sergeant.John earned a Bachelor's Degree from Southern New Hampshire University. He currently resides in Lake Norman, North Carolina with his wife Robyn. Links Mentioned in this Episode Universal Technical InstituteUTI Military and Veteran ServicesPsychArmor Resource of the WeekThis week's resource of the week is the PsychArmor course, Advising Military Students on Higher Education. In this course, we'll take a brief look at higher education options and transition information for military students whom you might advise. You can find the resource here:  https://learn.psycharmor.org/courses/Advising-Military-Students-on-Higher-Education Episode Partner: This week's episode is brought to you by Humana, a leading health and well-being company that has joined forces with PsychArmor to develop campaigns and courses that support veterans and their families in achieving their best health. To learn more about how Humana honors and serves veterans visit healthequity.humana.com/veterans” Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media Email PsychArmorPsychArmor on TwitterPsychArmor on FacebookPsychArmor on YouTubePsychArmor on LinkedInPsychArmor on InstagramTheme MusicOur theme music Don't Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families.  You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com  

Episode Summary: Heather “Lucky” Penney and Senior Fellow Brig Gen Houston "Slider" Cantwell, USAF (Ret.) chat with some of the nation's top remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) commanders about on-going combat contributions and the Air Force's future development path for this incredible mission. They are joined by Brig Gen Christopher "Reggie" Hammond, Director of RPA and Airborne ISR Capabilities at Headquarters Air Force; Col Timothy "Tilt" Monroe, Wing Commander of the 319th Reconnaissance Wing; and Col Nicholas "Fever" Pederson, Wing Commander of the 432nd Wing. Remotely Piloted Aircraft spent the past two decades affording incredible battlefield persistence and compressed the kill chains unlike any weapon system in history. Airmen are now working to develop new tactics, techniques, and procedures to address challenges of today and tomorrow—including the peer threat. We also explore how RPA operations will help inform emerging technologies like Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA). Credits: Host: Heather “Lucky” Penney, Senior Resident Fellow, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies Producer: Shane Thin  Executive Producer: Douglas Birkey Guest: Brig Gen Houston "Slider" Cantwell, USAF (Ret.), Senior Resident Fellow, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies Guest: Brig Gen Christopher "Reggie" Hammond, Director, RPA and Airborne ISR Capabilities Guest: Col Timothy "Tilt" Monroe, Commander, 319th Reconnaissance Wing Guest: Col Nicholas "Fever" Pederson, Commander, 432nd Wing Links: Subscribe to our Youtube Channel: https://bit.ly/3GbA5Of Website: https://mitchellaerospacepower.org/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/MitchellStudies Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mitchell.Institute.Aerospace LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3nzBisb Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellstudies/ #MitchellStudies #AerospaceAdvantage #RPA #UAV #MilitaryLeadership Thank you for your continued support!

This week, our program shines a light on MN Air National Guard Recruiting, offering an inside look at their recruiting team and the keys to  effective recruiting. We'll also bring you the latest updates from the MN Patriot Guard. Guests include: Maj Andrea Kostiuk – MN Air National Guard  MSgt Kayla Crotteau – MN Air […] The post MN Air National Guard Recruiting appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

Last time we spoke about the fall of Mandalay. Fierce battles raged over northern Luzon as General Clarkson's forces advanced, capturing key locations while Colonel Volckmann's guerrillas targeted enemy positions. The challenging terrain favored Japanese defenses, creating fierce resistance. Despite this, American troops steadily progressed, securing hills and towns. By mid-March, the 38th Division's relentless push led to significant Japanese losses. The brutal history of POW massacres fueled American resolve, leading to further victories in the region, American forces, led by Major-General Jens Doe were given the task of invading Palawan. Despite facing fortified defenses and rough terrain, the 41st Division advanced under artillery and air support. Meanwhile, in Burma, British-Indian forces clashed with the Japanese, capturing key positions and repelling assaults. As tensions rose in French Indochina, the Japanese executed a coup, disarming French forces and establishing puppet governments. The conflict intensified, reshaping the region's power dynamics. This episode is the Fall of Iwo Jima Welcome to the Pacific War Podcast Week by Week, I am your dutiful host Craig Watson. But, before we start I want to also remind you this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Perhaps you want to learn more about world war two? Kings and Generals have an assortment of episodes on world war two and much more  so go give them a look over on Youtube. So please subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry for some more history related content, over on my channel, the Pacific War Channel you can find a few videos all the way from the Opium Wars of the 1800's until the end of the Pacific War in 1945.  Today we are picking up on Iwo Jima. By March 10, General Schmidt's Marine forces had finally breached the determined enemy defenses to reach the northeastern shore of the island. However, there were still some Japanese strongholds to eliminate in the central and southern areas. One of these was Cushman's Pocket, named after the commander of the 2nd Battalion, 9th Marines, and located around a devastated ridge overlooking the sea, which housed the stubborn resistance southwest of Hill 362C. The other stronghold, held by General Senda's remaining troops, was established on March 11 after General Cates initiated his final push southeast toward the sea. Consequently, while Colonel Wensinger's 23rd Marines advanced quickly to the coast, Colonel Lanigan's 25th Marines struggled to make headway, as they were quickly halted by intense rocket, mortar, and small-arms fire from Senda's pocket. Unbeknownst to the Americans, Senda had committed suicide on March 8 following the failure of his banzai counterattack, leaving the disorganized Japanese forces in the pocket without leadership. Meanwhile, General Rockey's 5th Marine Division had advanced all the way to General Kuribayashi's last line of defense in northern Iwo Jima, where the battered defenders were prepared to make their final stand. Following a 50-minute preparation involving air, naval, and artillery support on March 11, Colonel Liversedge's 28th Marines launched their attack on the left with three battalions in line, while Colonel Wornham's 27th Marines attacked on the right with four battalions. However, fierce resistance soon forced the combat to close quarters, resulting in the Marines advancing only a few yards—up to 50 yards—across the front. To the right, while the 21st Marines advanced northward to connect with the 5th Division, Colonel Kenyon's 9th Marines resumed their assaults on Cushman's Pocket. The 1st and 3rd Battalions effectively eliminated all resistance in the eastern sector, completely sealing off the area controlled by the Japanese. On March 12, these battalions launched an attack westward toward Cushman's Pocket, with Colonel Withers' 3rd Battalion serving as a holding force on the opposite flank. However, the Marines faced strong opposition and could only advance slowly against the camouflaged enemy positions. To the north, Rocky's units continued to face intense resistance, with Liversedge making no progress and Wornham achieving only minor advances. An intelligence officer with the 5th Division estimated that a minimum of 1,000 Japanese troops were defending the northern end of the island, and stated ". . . there is no shortage of manpower, weapons, or ammunition in the area the Japanese have left to defend." The entire northern tip of the island seemed to be honeycombed with caves and passageways. When a 500-pound bomb landed in the mouth of a cave near Kitano Pint, a big puff of smoke blew out the side of a cliff over 400 yards away, and another bomb landing in a cave entrance in the same area caused a ring of smoke and dust to come up through the ground for a radius of 200 yards around the point of impact. Meanwhile, to the south, the 25th Marines pressed eastward while Colonel Jordan's 3rd Battalion contained the pocket from the north. Supported by tanks, flamethrowers, bazookas, anti-tank grenades, and 60mm mortars, Lanigan's troops engaged in fierce combat with the heavily fortified Japanese forces in the pocket for four days. During this time, Jordan's 2nd Battalion cleared the beach road, allowing the Shermans to move behind the pocket. On March 13, as Withers' 3rd Battalion returned to the 21st Marines, Kenyon's 1st and 3rd Battalions continued their offensive from the east, making significant gains that reduced Cushman's Pocket to 250 yards. Meanwhile, following a successful water-borne reconnaissance of Kama and Kangoku Rocks the previous afternoon, an armored amphibian company landed on these islets without encountering any resistance. At the same time, Rocky's weary Marines maintained pressure on the ridge above the gorge, achieving only slight gains on the right. Fortunately, by March 14, it seemed that the slow, arduous progress of the past three days had enabled the 27th Marines to push through the last strong enemy positions along the northeastern side of the island. As a result, Liversedge was instructed to hold position while the 26th and 27th Marines advanced north and northwest against lighter resistance, successfully gaining up to 1,000 yards by March 15.After armored dozers hacked paths forward, tanks were able to lend support. The flame tanks were particularly effective during this phase and provided "the one weapon that caused the Japanese to leave their caves and rock crevices and run." Army planes flew the last air support missions of the operation on 14 March when five P-51's dropped fire bombs (gasoline and diesel oil mixture) and strafed in front of 3/27 from 1030 to 1100. From then on, the narrow confines of the area of operations prevented use of those planes that had performed so well in supporting ground troops. Artillery and destroyers continued to furnish limited support, firing a preparation for RCT 26 on 15 March and performing night harassing and illumination missions. Meanwhile, operations against Cushman's Pocket entered their final phase on March 14, when Kenyon's 1st and 3rd Battalions finally breached the last enemy defenses by nightfall and completed the cleanup of the pocket two days later. On March 15, Lanigan redirected the main focus of the attack on Senda's pocket to the south, ordering the two battalions in the center to engage aggressively, resulting in a gain of approximately 200 yards and a deep penetration into the left flank of the Japanese's strongest positions. During the night, enemy forces attempted to infiltrate Marine lines from the south, but each attempt was detected and thwarted. Lanigan launched his final assault on March 16, facing only small, isolated pockets of resistance that were quickly eliminated as his battalions advanced toward the beach road. That day, with organized resistance in the 3rd Division's area of operations coming to an end, the 21st Marines were deployed to relieve the 27th Marines on the right flank to continue the northwest attack. With strong naval and artillery support, Withers' 1st Battalion encountered light resistance in its sector on the right, while the 2nd Battalion faced tougher opposition from scattered enemy positions. Nevertheless, both battalions reached the coastline at Kitano Point by the afternoon and began mopping up. To the left, Colonel Graham's 26th Marines also advanced cautiously northwest, with tanks effectively neutralizing enemy positions as the Marines gained about 400 yards. Despite the presence of 500 determined enemy troops still resisting in the western section of Kitano Point and the draw to the southwest, Iwo Jima was officially declared secured by the end of the day. However, on March 17, the battle for the gorge commenced as the 26th Marines advanced under moderate rifle fire, reaching the northern coast before shifting their focus southwestward to confront the gorge in front of the 28th Marines. The gorge in which the last resisting Japanese were now cornered was rocky and steep-sided, approximately 700 yards long and between 200 and 500 yards wide. Rock outcrops cut this ravine into other minor draws that constituted major obstacles to all types of movement. The entire area was ideally suited to the type of last ditch defense the Japanese had adopted. All routes into the main gorge were swept by heavy and accurate fire from machine guns and rifles concealed in cave positions in the cliffs and outcrops. The plan for attacking this strong point called for the 28th Marines, with attached elements of the 5th Pioneer Battalion and Division Reconnaissance Company, to hold the southern rim along the steep cliffs, while the reinforced 26th Marines worked in from the north and east. For the next nine days exhausted Marines carried out a battle of attrition against the thoroughly entrenched enemy. Advances into the east end of the ravine were measured in yards as each cave had to be sealed off before further progress could be made. Flame-thrower tanks, armored bulldozers, and infantry combined operations to provide the power and teamwork necessary to penetrate the last stronghold. As they gradually pushed down the ravine, resistance concentrated around a large concrete structure built into a knoll near the eastern end. After two days of assaults that silenced the supporting positions, engineers used bulldozers to seal a door on the north side and then demolished the structure with five charges totaling 8,500 pounds of explosives. Nevertheless, the battle of attrition persisted, and it wasn't until the end of March 24 that the pocket was reduced to an area of about 50 by 50 yards at the northwest end of the draw. The following morning, units of the 28th Marines, which had taken full responsibility for the pocket, reached the coastal cliffs to finally eliminate the last remnants of resistance in the gorge. On March 20, the 147th Regiment, set to take over the defense of Iwo Jima, arrived from New Caledonia, and by March 24, it had relieved the 21st Marines to establish night ambushes and patrols. The Japanese defenders fought tenaciously until the very end, choosing death over surrender. However, Kuribayashi had one final assault planned. In the pre-dawn darkness of March 26, the final act of the tragedy was performed. Between 200 and 300 Japanese troops from Death Valley and other scattered positions on the west coast silently crept through the ravines of the 5th Division sector headed for a tented area between Airfield No. 2 and the sea occupied by a mixture of Seabees, Air Force personnel, Shore Parties and AA Gunners. Most of them were sleeping, secure in the knowledge that the battle was virtually over. In a coordinated three-pronged attack against unsuspecting Marines and Air Force ground crews, aiming to create maximum chaos and destruction. Kuribayashi and his men stealthily cut through tents, bayoneted sleeping soldiers, and threw hand grenades, resulting in the deaths of around 44 Airmen and 9 Marines. The noise soon alerted troops from the surrounding area, and Marines from a nearby Pioneer Battalion, african american troops from a Shore Party, and soldiers from the 147th Infantry joined battle in a frenzy of shooting, punching, kicking and stabbing. Once the initial surprise wore off, the defenders retaliated, engaging in a chaotic hand-to-hand combat until the 5th Pioneer Battalion quickly organized a defensive line and halted the attack. Dawn revealed the full extent of the carnage in the ruined encampment: 44 Airman and 9 Marines lay dead with a further 119 wounded; of the attackers 262 were killed and 18 captured. Lt Harry Martin of the 5th Pioneers had hurriedly organized a defense line during the attack and single-handedly killed four enemy machine gunners before dying himself. He was to be Iwo Jima's final Medal of Honor hero, bringing the total to an incredible 27.  The circumstances of General Kuribayashi's death have always been shrouded in mystery. Over the years various sources have suggested that he died in the fighting around Death Valley or that he killed himself in his HQ. According to General Kuribayashi's son, Taro: “It seems that it was after sunset on March 25 to the dawn of the 26th that surviving Imperial Japanese forces were obliged to stand still under the US onslaught and showering shells. Under such circumstances, he had his sword in his left hand and ordered the chief staff officer, Colonel Takaishi, who was beside him, 'Send snipers to shoot'. Sargent Oyama heard the order. Oyama, who was seriously wounded in the last combat, fell unconscious, was hospitalized by the US and after having served as a POW came back and testified the dreadful account of the night to me. My father had believed it shameful to have his body discovered by the enemy even after death, so he had previously asked his two soldiers to come along with him, one in front and the other behind, with a shovel in hand. In case of his death he had wanted them to bury his body there and then. It seems that my father and the soldiers were killed by shells, and he was buried at the foot of a tree in Chidori Village, along the beach near Osaka Mountain. Afterwards General Smith spent a whole day looking for his body to pay respect accordingly and to perform a burial, but in vain.” Following the destruction of this final force, the capture and occupation phase of the Iwo Jima operation was declared complete. Over 34 days of combat, approximately 18,000 Japanese soldiers were killed, and 216 were taken prisoner, while the American side suffered heavy losses: 6,821 killed, 19,217 wounded, and 137 tanks destroyed. On April 4, the 147th Regiment took over full responsibility for the ground defense of Iwo Jima as the Marines were departing the island. Throughout April and May, aggressive patrols and ambushes by infantrymen resulted in an additional 867 prisoners and 1,602 Japanese killed, with the Americans losing 15 killed and 144 wounded. Meanwhile, General LeMay's 21st Bomber Command continued its firebombing campaign against Japan. After the successful Tokyo Great Air Raid and a less effective attack on Nagoya, LeMay decided to send 301 B-29s on the afternoon of March 13 to strike Osaka. Despite having to use radar bombing due to cloud cover, American bombardiers achieved a denser and more uniform bombing pattern than the impressionistic methods employed in Nagoya. This resulted in the destruction of 8.1 square miles in the city's core, including commercial and industrial areas, and caused 13,129 civilian casualties, with the loss of 2 bombers and 13 others damaged. Keeping up the intensity of the firebombing campaign, LeMay dispatched 307 B-29s to attack Kobe on the night of March 16. They faced 314 enemy interceptors, which proved ineffective against the Superfortresses unleashing fire over the port. Consequently, the fire on March 17 spiraled out of control, obliterating the eastern half of the business district and devastating a significant industrial zone to the southeast, including the Kawasaki shipyards. Japanese statistics show that the destruction was appalling. About 500 industrial buildings were destroyed, 162 damaged. The loss of 65,951 houses left 242,468 persons homeless. Police reported 2,669 dead or missing and 11,289 injured. Although the destruction was devastating for the Japanese, LeMay was disheartened to find that only 2.9 square miles of the city had burned. To complete his campaign, LeMay sent 313 bombers back to Nagoya on the night of March 19, utilizing radar techniques to cover a large portion of the city. This resulted in the burning of 3 square miles, including the Nagoya arsenal, freight yards, and Aichi's engine works. With an average of 380 aircraft, the 21st Bomber Command conducted 1,595 sorties over 10 days, dropping a total of 9,365 tons of bombs. The results far exceeded expectations, as the B-29s left a trail of destruction across four major cities, decimating 32 square miles and destroying numerous critical targets. Thus, LeMay's strategy proved successful, leading to incendiary area bombing becoming standard practice in the future. The focus now shifts from the Central Pacific to the South Pacific, where we need to address the ongoing Australian operations in New Britain. Following the capture of Milim and Ea Ea in January, General Ramsay's 5th Division aimed to continue its limited advances to the north. To secure crossings over the Ip River and patrol towards Henry Reid Bay, the entire 6th Brigade began moving to the Kiep-Milim area on January 26, completing this relocation by February 11. Concurrently, the 14th/32nd Battalion had advanced beyond the Ip and was conducting patrols towards Kalai Plantation, where they faced enemy resistance. The 36th Battalion also moved forward to Mavelo Plantation, leading to retaliatory actions against the new Australian outpost at Baia. In response, Ramsay dispatched stronger patrols to the Sai River throughout February, successfully establishing a new defensive line along the Mavelo River by the month's end. Returning to Wide Bay, after a series of aggressive patrols and nighttime ambushes, the 14th/32nd Battalion managed to reach Kamandran Mission by mid-February. The Australians continued to advance, and by the end of the month, the 19th Battalion, which had replaced the 14th/32nd at Gogbulu Creek, secured crossings over the Mevelo River and patrolled east toward the Wulwut River. On March 3, Ramsay ordered the 6th Brigade to cross the Wulwut and capture the Waitavalo Ridge. Two days later, the 19th Battalion initiated the assault but struggled to push more than one company across the river due to fierce enemy resistance. On March 6, following an artillery bombardment, another company successfully crossed and quickly seized Cake Hill. The next day, Lone Tree Hill was taken following another round of artillery bombardment. By March 10, Moose Hill, Young's Hill, and Perry's Knoll had also been captured. In the days that followed, Australian artillery began to suppress enemy mortars as infantry moved toward Kath's Hill. By mid-March, the 14th/32nd Battalion replaced the 19th Battalion, and on March 16, the Australians resumed their offensive, facing fierce resistance but successfully encircling Bacon Hill. The assault continued the next day as the 14th/32nd fought to reach the summit of the hill. On 18th March the mortar fire was intensified from the few remaining enemy positions, and it seemed that the Japanese were firing off their ammunition while they could. The attack was resumed. When Corporal Martin's section was halted on the steep spur by fire from three posts he jumped up shouting, "They can't do that to me", and went on alone, firing posts, killing five, before he himself was hit. The decisive attack was launched through this foothold. By 3 p.m. all the Japanese had been cleared from Bacon Hill; and a patrol from Kath's, under Lieutenant Lamshed,3 penetrated to a knoll 800 yards to the east and found no enemy there. No Japanese now remained in the Waitavalo-Tol area. In the five days from the 16th to the 20th 4 officers and 53 others had been killed or wounded.  In the following days, patrols ventured deep into enemy territory but found few stragglers. On March 21, the 19th Battalion took over again and advanced toward the Bulus and Moondei Rivers. On March 28, Ramsay ordered the 13th Brigade to relieve the 6th Brigade, a transition that was completed by April 12. Following the capture of Waitavalo Ridge, there were four months of infantry patrolling and routine maintenance by other troops, with the 16th Battalion patrolling forward to Jammer Bay in this area. Additionally, looking west, a company from the 36th Battalion successfully landed north of the Sai on March 30 but could not proceed to the Matalaili River due to heavy rains. However, Japanese positions there were heavily bombarded by aircraft and the sloop Swan, prompting the defenders to withdraw to the Toriu River in April. Meanwhile, Brigadier King's 16th Brigade advanced to the Ninahau River by March 12, while Brigadier Moten's 17th Brigade continued its westward push through the Torricelli Mountains, aiming to capture the Japanese base at Maprik. Throughout March, the 2/7th Battalion executed several successful ambushes from their new bases at Ilahop, Balangabadabil, and Bombeta, while Hayforce advanced through Sinahau to the north of Utumugu and eastward to Tatimba. By early March, Moten had cleverly led the enemy to believe that the primary offensive would be launched by the 2/10th Commando Squadron from the north via Ami. As a result, the Japanese bolstered their forces in that area, successfully driving back Australian patrols from Chaulak, Gwanginan, and Wambak. On March 13, the commando outpost at Milak came under attack, with the Japanese gradually encircling the position in the following days but failing to overcome the defenders' steadfast resistance. Fortunately, by March 17, patrols had restored communication lines, and two days later, the enemy pressure finally subsided. During this time, smaller Japanese forces also targeted the commando outposts at Murak and Aupik, but the defenders managed to repel these attacks as well. However, as the 2/10th was completely exhausted, the 2/6th Battalion was dispatched to relieve the commandos in late March amid a new wave of Japanese assaults. Meanwhile, the 2/7th Battalion was engaged in assaults on the fortified enemy positions at Ilaheta, which fell on March 20. The Australians then turned their attention to the Aupik villages, successfully focusing their efforts on the west bank of the Ninab River by the end of March, coinciding with Hayforce's crossing of the Amuk River. In the following three days, the 2/7th Battalion cleared all opposition along the eastern side of the Ninab in preparation for the final push toward Maprik. Consequently, General Miyake's 78th Regiment was ultimately compelled to retreat toward Jamei. Looking further north, King decided to initiate his advance towards But. By mid-March, a company from the 2/2nd Battalion had crossed the Ninahau on March 14 and quickly moved through Bai and Ultan. Although the Australian advance faced a strong enemy position that delayed progress for two days, the 2/2nd ultimately broke through Manib Creek, catching the defenders off guard and swiftly capturing the But airfield on March 17. Following this, the Australians patrolled the foothills and the Old German Road towards the Dagua airfield, encountering minimal resistance. Consequently, on March 21, the 2/2nd advanced rapidly again, successfully taking Dagua while the 2/1st Battalion moved in to secure But. At this stage, Japanese resistance along the coast was light, as General Adachi had focused on the Maprik district, which could produce more food. With the main enemy forces now concentrated in the hills to the south, King directed the 2/2nd to clear the foothills south of Dagua and eliminate the enemy in the Tokoku Pass, while the 2/3rd Battalion launched a flanking attack in the Mabam River-Hamsuk-Yalaminuni area. The 2/2nd then patrolled deep towards Magahen and Wonginara Mission, facing strong resistance at the 1410 Feature. On March 24, they finally captured the feature, while another patrol reached Wonginara without encountering enemy forces. However, in the final days of March, the Australians struggled to advance against the strong resistance of the Japanese defenders on the Wonginara Track, although one patrol successfully probed towards Kauremerak Hill. On April 2, following intense air and artillery bombardments, the 2/2nd Battalion finally managed to break through to Tokoku Pass, which was secured the next day. Meanwhile, another patrol advanced south from Dagua to the Autogi-Walanduum area and then to the coast near Kofi. The 2/3rd Battalion moved south from Feature 1410 towards the Mabam River and Wonginara Mission, successfully eliminating a series of Japanese ridge positions by April 6. The 2/1st Battalion patrolled deep into the hills south and west of But, completely clearing the area by April 1 while also pushing eastward to capture Saburuman. Concurrently, the 2/3rd Machine-Gun Battalion advanced to the upper Ninahau, effectively clearing the region up to a north-south line about two miles beyond Muguluwela by the end of March. In early April, the machine-gunners successfully cleared the Marabus area and connected with the 2/1st Battalion. Finally, it was time to shift focus to Bougainville to continue covering the Australian offensives on the island. As previously noted, Brigadier Stevenson's 11th Brigade had secured the Tsimba Ridge area, while Brigadier Field's 7th Brigade was advancing south towards the Puriata River. The swift capture of Mosigetta and the unexpected secondary landing at Toko had already compelled the Japanese to retreat behind the river amid a command crisis. The Japanese policy of resisting the southward advance more strongly even if it entailed heavier casualties failed to impose the hoped-for delay of the Australians. Nevertheless the Japanese leaders considered that the 13th Regiment's "swift damaging hit-and-run tactics" were well executed. However, Mosigetta was at length abandoned and a withdrawal south of the Puriata ordered. The landing at Toko was unexpected and caused an acceleration of this withdrawal. There now occurred a major crisis in the Japanese command. The young reserve officers were highly critical of the conduct of the campaign and blamed the policies of the older professional officers for the constant reverses. This criticism became so outspoken that, in February, a number of the younger officers were relieved of their commands; perhaps partly as an outcome of this crisis, General Hyakutake suffered a paralysis of his left side. General Kanda took command of the 17th Army and Lieutenant-General Akinaga Tsutomu, Chief of Staff of the Army, succeeded him in command of the 6th Division. "This change of command was regarded favourably by the younger officers, but it soon became apparent that Kanda intended to pursue the same policy as Hyakutake. Kanda was a shrewd, hard, fussy little professional soldier of long experience. He was steeped in tradition and a ruthless commander, but even his bitterest critics admitted his capabilities. Akinaga… was a dyed in the wool militarist and a strict disciplinarian. Unused to an active command he was plunged into a situation which was a little out of his depth. One of his staff stated that he spent too much time doing a corporal's job in his forward battalions to be a good divisional commander." In late February, General Bridgeford's forces advanced toward the Puriata, facing only minor rearguard positions. The 25th Battalion captured Barara on February 22 and a five-acre garden two days later, while the 61st Battalion took control of another garden measuring 600 by 400 yards near the river on March 1. Meanwhile, the 2/8th Commando Squadron was sent to secure the Makapeka area, successfully taking Commando Ridge and a ford across the Makapeka River by March 5. With General Savige aiming to reach the Hari River next, Bridgeford promptly ordered the 7th Brigade to move to the Hongorai River line. As a result, Field planned to initiate his main advance on March 11, utilizing the 25th Battalion and the 2/8th Commando Squadron, while the 61st Battalion pushed forward toward Horinu. In response, Kanda dispatched the 23rd Regiment to bolster the 13th at the front, preparing both units for a full-scale counterattack should the Australians cross the Puriata, aiming to delay the enemy long enough to finalize preparations for a decisive battle along the Silibai-Porror Rivers. By March 5, the 25th Battalion had already crossed the river and swiftly captured Slater's Knoll, which soon came under enemy mortar fire. Patrols were sent ahead and found that the 13th Regiment was poised to fiercely contest the Australian advance. Although the northern flank of the 25th Battalion would be effectively contained along the Buin Road on March 11, two Australian companies managed to maneuver through Tokinotu to the south, reaching Hiru Hiru by the end of the day. One of these companies moved along the eastern side of the Buin Road toward Slater's Knoll, but from March 15 to 17, they faced a heavy counterattack that ultimately forced them to withdraw. In response, Field initiated a strong offensive along the Buin Road on March 19, managing to push the Japanese back to some rear positions. Following a significant air and artillery bombardment, the attack resumed on March 22, successfully overcoming all enemy resistance. Meanwhile, the commandos advanced to Nihero, where they began extensive patrols southward towards Unanai, Hari, and the Buin Road. During one of these patrols, they captured detailed orders for a large-scale Japanese offensive planned for early April. As a result, Bridegeford decided to pause his offensive and send the 15th Brigade along with a tank squadron to Toko to reinforce his perimeter. On March 28 and 29, before Akinaga's main assault, the Japanese conducted a series of raids on the Australian lines of communication and rear areas, all of which were successfully repelled by vigilant defenders. On March 30, the 13th Regiment launched several strong attacks against the 25th Battalion, all of which were costly for the attackers and repelled, while the armored squadron advanced toward Tokinotu. Just as the tanks reached the front, the Japanese initiated another wave of fierce attacks against the 25th Battalion on March 31, which were thankfully repelled with the support of the armored units. Consequently, on April 1, two companies advanced again, establishing a perimeter 1,000 yards south of Slater's Knoll. That evening, and for the following three days, Akinaga launched a series of raids to facilitate the arrival of the 23rd Regiment for a renewed assault. In the early hours of April 5, the Japanese began infiltrating the Australian perimeter, launching a vigorous two-pronged assault on Slater's Knoll later that morning. The 23rd Regiment attacked about 1,000 yards to the right of the 13th and north-east of it. The attack failed, Kawano was killed and the regiment withdrew south to the rear of the 13th. The 13th Regiment with 600 men made the main attack from north and east.  Until 6.20 a.m. wave after wave charged forward and was brought low. Some Japanese fell within four yards of the weapon-pits. The artillery sent over accurate defensive fire, registered the previous day. At dawn the surviving Japanese were heard digging in on dead ground. As the light became clearer, the Australians saw that "enemy dead lay, literally, in heaps in front of the wire", and bodies could be seen scattered over an area some 200 yards square. It was gruesome evidence of the efficient siting of weapons and choice of fields of fire in preparation for expected attack. The attackers were ordered to dig in until darkness and make full use of grenades and mortars. However, in the afternoon, tanks and artillery fire drove the Japanese from the positions they had gained, and the Japanese commander accepted defeat. All three battalion commanders in the 13th were killed. After Akinaga had reported his failure Kanda said to his Chief of Staff, Colonel Yoshiyuki Ejima: "It would not have happened if I had been in command. The enemy right flank was wide open. I would have severed his life line and controlled Toko. We could have delayed the enemy for three months."  Concurrently, around 100 Japanese troops attacked the two forward companies along the Buin Road but were similarly repelled with ease. Following the unsuccessful counteroffensive by Akinaga, Slater's Knoll received reinforcements while the remaining Japanese forces were being dealt with, resulting in 620 Japanese fatalities since March 28, compared to 189 Australian casualties. However, Bridgeford could not capitalize on this victory due to the prolonged supply line, which temporarily halted his offensive. As a result, while the 2/8th Commando Squadron moved forward along the Commando Road, the 13th Brigade began to relieve the battered 7th Brigade under Field on April 13. Meanwhile, in the northern sector of the 11th Brigade area, the 26th Battalion launched a significant advance northward on February 21, successfully overrunning the Lalum-Downs' Ridge area by March 8. Two companies then advanced further north to secure the crossing of the Nagam River. On March 13, another company landed near the southern edge of Soraken Plantation and quickly pushed the enemy back behind the Nagam. Australian patrols harassed the Japanese forces at Horseshoe Knoll until March 20, when they finally withdrew. Simultaneously, the 26th Battalion eliminated the remaining enemy positions at the Compton River and secured the Soraken Peninsula, while the Taiof and Saposa Islands were also captured off the coast. The next battalion to take over the forward positions was the 31st/51st Battalion. Perhaps the outstanding patrol leader in the 31st/51st was Lieutenant Reiter, who led out 3 patrols which killed 10 out of the 78 Japanese killed by this battalion's forays. One of these patrols was named by the battalion "the raid on Reiter's Ridge". Reiter and 15 men were given the task of harassing the Japanese occupying a prominent ridge just east of Sisivie and discovering their strength. They departed from Keenan's Ridge at 17:30 on March 27, bivouacked at a former artillery observation post and moved on at 03:00 next morning for a dawn attack. At 06:00 “the patrol moved in, and throwing grenades and firing LMG occupied a small knoll (its report stated). 2 Japanese were killed and 1 pillbox containing LMG destroyed. Patrol raced down narrow neck to a wide clearing in which several huts were sighted. Phosphorus and HE grenades were thrown. In a matter of seconds 4 more Japanese killed (2 in slit trenches, 1 as he ran and another while abluting). 2 were wounded by phosphorus grenades. 3 huts were blazing and 1 (considered to be an ammunition dump) blew up. Enemy opened up with one LMG and 15 rifles and patrol pulled out with 1 man wounded.” Instead of hastening them away Reiter assembled his men nearby in concealment and watched the enemy. At length Japanese began to move about again, and soon they were washing clothes, chopping wood and performing other tasks. There were from 25 to 30 enemy in the post. The Australians watched throughout the morning and at 12:30 opened fire with all their weapons. 2 Japanese were killed and 4 more huts set on fire. The enemy fired back, and at 01:15 Reiter withdrew his men and returned to Keenan's Ridge leaving an ambush on the enemy's track. The ambush party returned later and reported that it had seen no movement.  On the 29th, the day after Reiter's return, a platoon of the 1st New Guinea Infantry Battalion under Lieutenant Martin set out for Buritsiotorara along the Wakunai River. There they found three huts and a large garden with seven Japanese moving about unarmed. Throwing grenades and firing from the hip the native soldiers attacked and killed all seven. Three more who emerged from a hut were chased and killed. Three of the dead men were found to be lieutenants; three machine-guns were cap-tured. Next day at Aviang, 1,200 yards away, seven more Japanese were seen, of whom three including another lieutenant were killed and the others fled. I would like to take this time to remind you all that this podcast is only made possible through the efforts of Kings and Generals over at Youtube. Please go subscribe to Kings and Generals over at Youtube and to continue helping us produce this content please check out www.patreon.com/kingsandgenerals. If you are still hungry after that, give my personal channel a look over at The Pacific War Channel at Youtube, it would mean a lot to me. The battle for Iwo Jima had come to a bitter end. The lessons learnt on Iwo Jima would become guidelines for the Battle of Okinawa in April and would influence allied plans for the invasion of the Japanese home islands. The war planners would later notably take into account that around a third of the troops committed to Iwo Jima, and later again at Okinawa, had been killed or wounded and that they could expect far more in Japan.

Show SummaryOn today's episode, we're featuring a conversation with Mary Bier, MBA, the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC). MCEC's Mission is to ensure that every military-connected child has access to quality educational opportunities.Provide FeedbackAs a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health.  About Today's GuestMary Bier, MBA, is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC). A seasoned leader with more than 20 years of experience in business strategy, organizational leadership, and community engagement, she brings a dynamic vision to MCEC's mission of ensuring every military-connected child has access to quality educational opportunities.As a military spouse and parent, Bier has firsthand insight into the unique challenges and strengths of military families. This lived experience fuels her passion for advocating for military-connected students, ensuring they receive the educational support and opportunities they deserve.Bier's professional background spans both the corporate and nonprofit sectors, where she has successfully led high-impact initiatives, built collaborative partnerships, and served as a subject matter expert on veteran and military family issues. She has been invited to the White House to share insights on military-connected programs, testified before the New York City Department of Veteran Affairs, and facilitated expert panels on military family well-being.Prior to joining MCEC, Bier held leadership roles in business strategy, customer success, and military initiatives, where she was instrumental in scaling operations, optimizing talent development, and fostering inclusive organizational cultures. Her ability to translate strategic goals into actionable outcomes has driven mission impact across multiple organizations.At MCEC, Bier is committed to expanding the organization's reach, deepening partnerships, and championing the needs of military-connected children. Under her leadership, MCEC will continue to be a trusted resource for families, educators, and policymakers dedicated to supporting military students on their educational journey.Bier holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a focus on Management and Organizational Behavior and a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish from California Lutheran University.She resides with her family in Madison, Wisconsin.Links Mentioned in this Episode Military Child Education Coalition WebsiteHeroic Hearts ScholarshipCall for the Arts ScholarshipMonth of the Military Child ToolkitPurple Star National AdvocateStudent to Student ProgramPsychArmor Resource of the WeekThis week's resource of the week is the PsychArmor course, Supporting Children Who Support Veterans. Although your children may be small now, we hope this course gives you some building blocks to address any parenting challenges you may encounter as your children mature. You can find the resource here:  https://learn.psycharmor.org/courses/Supporting-Children-Who-Support-Veterans Episode Partner: This week's episode is brought to you by Humana, a leading health and well-being company that has joined forces with PsychArmor to develop campaigns and courses that support veterans and their families in achieving their best health. To learn more about how Humana honors and serves veterans visit healthequity.humana.com/veterans” Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media Email PsychArmorPsychArmor on TwitterPsychArmor on FacebookPsychArmor on YouTubePsychArmor on LinkedInPsychArmor on InstagramTheme MusicOur theme music Don't Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families.  You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com  

Unit of Action Slick Sheethttps://www.af.mil/Portals/1/documents/2025SAF/Units_of_Action_Reference_Sheet.pdfReoptimization for Great Power Competitionhttps://www.af.mil/reoptimization-for-great-power-competition/USAF Units of Action: Combat Wings, Air Base Wings, Institutional Wings defined > Air Force > Article Displayhttps://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/3908057/usaf-units-of-action-combat-wings-air-base-wings-institutional-wings-defined/————————USAF Units of Action: Combat Wings, Air Base Wings, Institutional Wings definedPublished Sept. 17, 2024The Department of the Air Force implementation of a new construct that will evolve wings into cohesive Units of Action by separating into Combat Wings, Air Base Wings and Institutional Wings will be a phased approach, starting no later than the summer of 2025.The new concept will create several organizations capable of conducting deployed combat operations, as well as base defense. Under this future construct, base, institutional and combat missions will transition into distinct organizations – called Institutional Wings and Combat Wings – each with separate commanders.Air Force combat wings will be structured as mission-ready Units of Action, with all the necessary elements stationed together at the same installation, where they can train together on a day-to-day basis.Deployable Combat Wings will evolve to deploy as fully trained teams and will replace the Expeditionary Air Base and Air Task Force models previously announced in Sept. 2023.Combat Wings will focus on mission-level warfighting readiness, supported by Air Base Wings who are focused on power projection platform readiness (the installation).Institutional wings will continue to provide support and capabilities essential to the organize, train and equip requirements of the U.S. Air Force.The goal is 24 Deployable Combat Wings fielded to meet the Air Force's rotational demands and provide depth for emerging crises – 16 Active Duty and 8 Reserve Component Wings.The phased implementation approach includes:Establishing Air Base Wings at installations that host Combat Wings and/or Institutional Wings with supported/supporting relationships.Establish the deployable variant of the combat wing: the Deployable Combat Wing. Each DCW will have a redesigned concept of support for GPC schemes of maneuver, including Agile Combat Employment, to ensure the wings are prepared to execute their wartime functions and missions with assigned Airmen and units.The Air Force will begin deliberately implementing Combat Wings, Air Base Wings and Institutional Wings across the force as early as summer 2025. The first Combat Wings should be ready to deploy elements by late 2026 (FY27).Evolution from XAB to ATF to CWIn 2023, the Air Force established the Expeditionary Air Base (XAB) as an initial force presentation model in its transition from Air Expeditionary Wings to a future force presentation model. The Air Force has been deploying Airmen under the XAB construct since the fall of 2023 and will continue to do so in the coming years.The first Air Task Forces entered the AFFORGEN cycle during the reset phase in the summer of 2024 and will become deployment-ready in the fall of 2025. These initial ATFs will replace some of the XABs as the US Air Force's deployable unit of action.During this pilot period, the Air Force will deploy Airmen using both the XAB and ATF force presentation models. Concurrently, the Combat Wing, Air Base Wing and Institutional Wing phased approach will begin. Combat Wings will replace ATFs and XABs.

This week, we're joined by a special host and MC for Veterans Day on the Hill, Tom Lyons. We'll sit down with the Legislative Director of the DAV of Minnesota to discuss the upcoming Veterans Day on the Hill and the key legislative priorities for Veterans in Minnesota. Plus, we'll connect with the Vice President […] The post Veterans Day on the Hill 2025 appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

Episode Highlight: On this episode of the "Embracing Only" podcast, we are featuring one of the most impactful moments from episode 52, with guest Kim "KC" Campbell. Do you find yourself scared to make a mistake and wallowing in them when you do? We're exploring the value of failing forward and learning from your mistakes.Kim is a retired Colonel who served in the United States Air Force for over 24 years as a fighter pilot and senior military leader. Kim has led hundreds of Airmen both at home and abroad in deployed locations and enabled them to succeed in their missions. She takes this experience and inspires so many more in corporate spaces. Kim is also a keynote speaker and best-selling author.This episode is just a short snippet that highlights the best and most powerful learning moment from a past episode. You can listen to the full episode (filled with more wisdom) here: Episode 52: From the Cockpit to the Boardroom- Leadership Lessons from a Combat Veteran.Key Discussion Points:00:58 Making Mistakes as an “Only”: As the only woman in the room, you may feel that any mistakes you make are ruining the chances of the women who come after you. This is not true.02:50 Embracing the Mindset of Failing Forward: Wallowing in your mistakes is not a healthy or effective way to improve your performance.03:54 The Value of Talking About Your Mistakes: Normalise your mistakes and see them as learning experiences instead of failures. It's about failing forward.06:18 Letting Go of Your Mistakes: Holding on to your mistakes can cloud your judgment and make you prone to more mistakes.07:58 Creating a Culture of Psychological Safety: To create a culture where people feel comfortable talking about their mistakes at work, you first need to create a culture of psychological safety.In Summary: Kim "KC" Campbell urges us to learn from our mistakes rather than wallow in them. She encourages us to talk about our mistakes and let them go so they don't cloud our judgements. She challenges leaders to acknowledge their mistakes.Resources from this episode:Follow Kim on LinkedIn or visit her website. Flying in the Face of Fear: A Fighter Pilot's Lessons on Leading with Courage by Kim CampbellIf you happen to be a woman of color and you are looking for a community of like minded women, join Olivia here: https://www.mysistersshoulders.com/ Connect with your hosts:Follow Archita on Linkedin or check out her website.Follow Olivia on Linkedin or check out her website.Follow Embracing Only on Linkedin, Instagram, and Facebook, or check out the website._________Produced by Ideablossoms

Welcome to the Part Time Pilot Audio Ground School VIP Podcast! This podcast takes our free podcast to a whole new level by providing students with every single lesson included in the Part Time Pilot Private Pilot & IFR Ground Schools without a single Ad! On top of that, VIP podcast students get BONUS episodes like Mock Checkrides, Checkride Prep, Expert Interviews and more!   The #1 reason student pilots never end up becoming a private pilot is NOT due to money. The real reason is actually deeper than that. Yes, flight training is expensive. But every student pilot knows this and budgets for it when they decide to do it.   The actual #1 reason a student pilot fails is because they do not have a good, fundamental understanding of the private pilot knowledge they are meant to learn in ground school.    You see when a student does not have a good grasp of this knowledge they get to a point in their flight training where their mind just can't keep up. They start making mistakes and having to redo lessons. And THAT is when it starts getting too expensive.    This audio ground school is meant for the modern day student pilot... aka the part time student pilot. Let's face it, the majority of us have full time responsibilities on top of flight training. Whether it is a job, kids, family, school, etc. we all keep ourselves busy with the things that are important to us. And with today's economy we have to maintain that job just to pay for the training. The modern day student pilot is busy, on the go and always trying to find time throughout his or her day to stay up on their studies. The audio ground school allows them to consume high quality content while walking, running, working out, sitting in traffic, traveling, or even just a break from the boring FAR/AIM or ground school lecture.    Did I meant high quality content? The audio ground school is taken straight out of the 5-star rated Part Time Pilot Online Ground School that has had over 2000 students take and pass their Private Pilot & IFR exams with only 2 total students failing the written. That's a 99.9% success rate! And the 2 that failed? We refunded their cost of ground school and helped them pass on their second attempt. We do this by keeping ground school engaging, fun, light and consumable. We have written lessons, videos, audio lessons, live video lessons, community chats, quizzes, practice tests, flash cards, study guides, eBooks and much more.   Part Time Pilot was created to be a breath of fresh air for student pilots. To be that flight training provider that looks out for them and their needs. So that is just what we are doing with this podcast.    Private Pilot Section 3 Lesson 1: This episode breaks down the key differences between aircraft categories, classes, and types. Learn how the FAA classifies aircraft, why these distinctions matter for pilot certifications, and how they impact flight operations. Perfect for student pilots and aviation enthusiasts looking to build a solid foundation in aircraft classification.   Links mentioned in the episode: Online Ground School: https://parttimepilot.com/private-pilot-online-ground-school/?utm_source=podcast Free How to Become a Private Pilot course: https://parttimepilot.com/free-how-to-become-a-pilot/ Documents Required for Student/Private Pilot Video: https://youtu.be/hghzyzMJBhc    Recommended Products & Discounts: https://parttimepilot.com/recommended-products-for-student-pilots/    Aviation Headsets Discount: Part Time Pilot Students & Listeners can now receive 15% off & Free Shipping on Kore Aviation Headsets using the coupon code 'parttimepilot':  https://www.koreheadset.com/discount/parttimepilot   Categories, Classes & Types Video: https://youtu.be/rqqFNbh9CYo    PPL Online Study Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/parttimepilot/ 

Show SummaryOn today's episode, we're featuring a conversation with Garra Lloyd – Lester, the Coordinator of the New York State Suicide Prevention Community and Coalition Initiatives for the Suicide Prevention Center of New York State (SPCNY, where we discuss the Worried About a Veteran Website.  Provide FeedbackAs a dedicated member of the audience, we would like to hear from you about the show. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts about the show in this short feedback survey. By doing so, you will be entered to receive a signed copy of one of our host's three books on military and veteran mental health.  About Today's GuestGarra Lloyd-Lester is the Coordinator of the New York State Suicide Prevention Community and Coalition Initiatives for the Suicide Prevention Center of New York State (SPCNY). As Coordinator, he works with State and County partners, local governmental units, local coalitions, and other systems to build capacity to help reduce suicides across the lifespan. This work is accomplished through systems level planning, coalition building, program development and training among other activities. He facilitates the Lethal Means Safety workgroup as part of the Governors Challenge to Prevent Suicide Among Service Members, Veterans and their Families (SMVF). He has previously facilitated a statewide steering committee to address suicide prevention among first responder disciplines and led the statewide taskforce to develop recommendations on addressing suicide prevention among rural communities in NYS. He has 40+ years of experience in the field of social services including working with the developmentally disabled, working in the child welfare system and within the mental health system.Links Mentioned in this Episode Worried About a Veteran WebsiteCarry the Round PartnershipPsychArmor Resource of the WeekThis week's resource of the week is the PsychArmor course, course, Suicide Prevention and the Secure Storage of Firearms: Conversations for Everyone This course provides critical information for members of every community about the safe storage of firearms. When people are in crisis, honest conversations about accessibility to lethal means for suicide are vitally important. You can find the resource here:  https://learn.psycharmor.org/courses/suicide-prevention-and-the-safe-storage-of-firearms-conversations-for-everyone Episode Partner: This week's episode is brought to you by Humana, a leading health and well-being company that has joined forces with PsychArmor to develop campaigns and courses that support veterans and their families in achieving their best health. To learn more about how Humana honors and serves veterans visit healthequity.humana.com/veterans” Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media Email PsychArmorPsychArmor on TwitterPsychArmor on FacebookPsychArmor on YouTubePsychArmor on LinkedInPsychArmor on InstagramTheme MusicOur theme music Don't Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families.  You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com