Podcasts about oak leaf clusters

Welcome to "The Readiness Brief," a limited podcast series hosted by The O2X Podcast, designed to explore the critical importance of readiness within the tactical community. In each episode, we bring to the forefront seasoned members of the O2X Integrated Readiness Platform (IRP) network, engaging in insightful conversations with senior leaders across the tactical population."The Readiness Brief" aims to foster a deeper understanding of the O2X Integrated Readiness Platform (IRP) while spotlighting successes and valuable insights from organizations committed to preparedness.Part 3 features O2X Human Performance Program Manager w/ U.S. Army Reserves 81st Readiness Division Mark Christiani and Chief Warrant Officer 4 LaTonya Y. Pettigrew.Chief Warrant Officer 4 LaTonya Y. Pettigrew serves as the Army Reserve Medical Command's Senior Warrant Officer Advisor to the Commanding General and G4 Senior Property Accounting/Logistics Management Technician. Since enlisting in 2000, she has built an impressive military career spanning active duty, reserves, and Active Guard Reserve positions, including roles with the 4th Psychological Group (Airborne), 863rd Engineer Battalion, 416th Engineer Command, 472nd Chemical Battalion, 518th Regional Support Group, and 300th Military Police Brigade before joining ARMEDCOM in 2021. CW4 Pettigrew holds a BS in Integrated Supply Chain Operations Management and a Master of Divinity in Christian Apologetics, complemented by extensive military education including the upcoming Warrant Officer Senior Service Education graduation. Her expertise in logistics, property management, and supply chain operations has earned her multiple commendations, including the Meritorious Service Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters. Beyond her distinguished military service, she is married to James Pettigrew and is a mother of three sons.Mark Christiani serves as an On-Site Human Performance Specialist focusing on Strength and Conditioning at the 81st Readiness Division, bringing over a decade of military and civilian expertise to the role. As an Army Veteran and former Brigade Lead Strength and Conditioning Coach for GAP Solutions, Inc., he managed performance programs for more than 3,000 soldiers while demonstrating exceptional leadership in resource management and regulatory compliance. His professional background spans operations management, executive support, and project coordination, with a proven track record of connecting organizational vision to tangible results through strategic empowerment. Mark holds a Master of Science in Sports Medicine from Georgia Southern University and maintains certification as a Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), complemented by ongoing studies in High-Performance Collaboration at Northwestern University. His career highlights include leading operational improvements, conducting research in exercise physiology and biomechanics, and implementing large-scale conditioning initiatives that optimize military personnel performance through his technical expertise in injury rehabilitation, coaching, and sports science.Building Homes for Heroes:https://www.buildinghomesforheroes.org/Download the O2X Tactical Performance App:app.o2x.comLet us know what you think:Website - http://o2x.comIG - https://instagram.com/o2xhumanperformance?igshid=1kicimx55xt4f 

Lt. Col. Bernard House is a distinguished U.S. Army officer, decorated with honors like the Bronze Star (with three Oak Leaf Clusters), the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, and the Meritorious Service Medal (with a Silver Oak Leaf Cluster). In addition to his military career, he serves as a professor of military science at the University of Tennessee at Martin, where he also directs the ROTC battalions at both UT Martin and Murray State University. Lt. Col. House is also an honoree at the upcoming 2025 Discovery Awards. In this episode, Lt. Col. House reflects on his inspiring journey from growing up in the small town of Lexa, Arkansas, to rising through the ranks in the U.S. Army. He discusses his leadership experiences in diverse roles, including as a company fire support officer in Germany, paladin platoon leader in Kosovo, and battalion operations officer in Afghanistan. Lt. Col. House offers invaluable leadership insights—relevant not just for those in the military, but also for professionals in the private sector. This episode is sponsored by Final Flight Outfitters.

Show SummaryOn today's episode, we're featuring a conversation with Navy Veteran and military spouse Melissa Washington. Melissa is the CEO of the Women Veterans Alliance, Women Veterans Giving, and publisher of Women Veterans Magazine. 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 GuestMelissa Washington, Navy Veteran, Founder & CEO: Award-winning advocate, speaker, author, entrepreneur, CEO, publisher, Radio Show Host, and proud Navy veteran Melissa A. Washington wears many hats. Yet woven throughout her diverse pursuits is a mission of service—and a passion to empower her fellow women veterans.The daughter of a Bronze Star Army Vietnam War veteran, Melissa grew up in San Francisco's East Bay. Fiercely independent as a child, she spent many afternoons in her family's video store, developing an early sense of business acumen. That enterprising spirit continued into her teenage years when Melissa began training for a career in early childhood education while still in high school.But something else sparked in Melissa just as she was finishing her certification. Seeking to expand her world and serve her country, the 18-year-old enlisted in the Navy, spending three years on active duty and five years in the reserve. She did a 6-month "Med Cruise" and a 6-month "West Pac" deployment during her active duty. That formative experience set her life on a completely new trajectory—not only taking her across the globe and teaching her vital lessons but also introducing Melissa to her husband and, ultimately, inspiring her to transform thousands of lives. In the mid-nineties, she chose to leave the Navy early, having witnessed the burdens that come with a dual-service family. While her husband would remain in the Marine Corps for 21 years, Melissa embarked on a new path, earning her bachelor's degree in business management. She followed with a decade-long career in corporate recruiting and human resources, working with such entities as Nissan, Oracle, Tickets.com, Randstad, and the 2002 Winter Olympics.But in 2009, amid The Great Recession, Melissa was laid off. Despite the setback, she relied on her military training—which taught her to be adaptable and resourceful—and her innate sense of resilience. Above all, Melissa saw an opportunity to reinvent herself once again.Initially, she held LinkedIn workshops from her dining room table, imparting her vital knowledge to others. Soon, she was hosting larger workshops, which eventually grew into speaking engagements with hundreds of attendees. In 2011, she established Melissa Washington, Inc., a consulting service catering to businesses and individuals that incorporates LinkedIn for research, recruiting, job seeking, and collaboration. After four years at LinkedIn, where Melissa managed global meetings, she returned to her entrepreneurial roots. But this time, she focused on her fellow women veterans. A natural networker, Melissa initially sought to connect with her peers outside of traditional veterans' organizations. Yet, the more meetups she planned, the more she realized the need for a dedicated support system for women veterans. In 2015, what started as a local meetup turned into Women Veterans Alliance—a global organization that seeks to empower and positively impact the lives of women veterans. Three years later, she established the nonprofit wing of WVA, Women Veterans Giving. Both entities offer women veterans opportunities to gain valuable career experience and successfully integrate back into civilian life. WVG also helps fund women veteran-owned businesses, which other organizations often overlook. To date, they have awarded over $20k to women in veteran-owned businesses. In 2016, created and produced the first "Women Veterans Unconference."  Developed The Beyond Call of Duty Award Honoring Sgt Nicole Gee to honor and recognize the women in our communities. In 2021, Melissa expanded her role in the community by co-founding Women Veterans Magazine—the first publication of its kind to address the issues affecting women veterans and provide them with local and national resources. Aside from serving as CEO of WVA and WVG and publisher of Women Veterans Magazine, Melissa stays busy as an in-demand public speaker whose topics range from Maximizing Impact to Unlocking the Power of Purpose. She speaks regularly at conferences and events around the country and has spoken at over 100 events—presenting for the likes of Marriott, the Urban League, Blue Diamond, and IMEX America. Melissa has also appeared on the Dr. Phil Show and the Lifetime Channel's The Balancing Act, as well as on SiriusXM, iHeartRadio, ABC, NBC, CBS, and Fox, among others.Additionally, Melissa is the author of Get Back to Work: Smart & Savvy Real-World Strategies to Make Your Next Career Move (FriesenPress, 2014). And Unstoppable: Being Fierce, Fearless & Unf*ckwithable in Life and Business, based on her experiences with WVA, which offers practical advice on creating a meet-up group and becoming an influencer within one's community (Brave Healer Productions, 2022).A longtime resident of Northern California, Melissa was a 2011 recipient of the Sacramento Business Journal's prestigious 40 Under 40 award and was among the Journal's Women Who Mean Business honorees in 2017. She has also been recognized by the National Association of Women Business Owners with an Outstanding Women Leader Visionary Award and received the 2016 Soroptimist Ruby Award, which recognizes women helping women. In 2019, she received the Center for Women Veterans' Trailblazer Award.   In 2022, she received her first Federal Appointment to the Small Business Administration Advisory Committee on Veteran Business Affairs (ACVBA).   In 2022, Thrive Causemetics Inc. featured a "Melissa" Warm Sienna Sheer Strength Hydrating Lip Tint to honor her infinite impact on the community.   In 2023, she started Veteran.Events to provide event services to the veteran and military community. Outside of work, Melissa enjoys spending quality time with her husband, Jarrod, and daughter, Maya. In addition to being an avid genealogist, Melissa loves vacationing with her family—particularly trips that involve a beach.Her grandfather, a WWII Army Air Corps/Air Force Veteran who received the Bronze Star and Air Medal with Oak Leaf Clusters, served in the 509th Bomb Squad AC in the Eastern European Theater with 37 missions over Germany.Her husband is a retired Marine who served in combat in Desert Shield, Desert Storm, and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF).Links Mentioned in this Episode Women Veterans Alliance Web SitePsychArmor Resource of the WeekFor this week's PsychArmor resource of the week is the PsychArmor course, Women Veterans Series. This four-part video series dives into their history, triumphs, and unique challenges from the Revolutionary War to present day.  You ...

Highly Decorated Vietnam Veteran Shares 30 Years of Service: From Morocco to the Mafia | Conversations With a Chiropractor In this gripping episode of Conversations With a Chiropractor, Dr. Stephanie Wautier interviews Les Thatcher, a highly decorated Vietnam veteran with over 30 years of service. Les shares incredible stories from his military career, including surviving ambushes in Vietnam, earning a Bronze Star with three Oak Leaf Clusters, and working with the Green Berets. From life-saving missions involving the King of Morocco to encounters with the Mafia in Italy, Les' journey is one of bravery, resilience, and unforgettable experiences.

Bill “Tiger” Lyons enlisted in the Army Air Force within months of graduating high school in 1942. Although he had never learned to drive a car, he was trained to fly a P-51 Mustang, flying 63 combat missions over Europe with the 355th Fighter Group in 1944-1945, protecting U.S. bombers from German fighter planes. During his tour, he shot down two German fighters and damaged one of the most elusive and fast German Fighters of the war, the Messerschmidt ME-262 jet. As a Jewish soldier fighting in the skies over Nazi Europe, the consequences of being shot down were even greater than most. By the end of the war, Bill Lyons had been awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal with eight Oak Leaf Clusters, five European Theater of Operations Battle Stars and two Presidential Unit Citations. “SocialFlight Live!” is a live broadcast dedicated to supporting General Aviation pilots and enthusiasts during these challenging times. Register at SocialFlightLive.com to join the live broadcast every Tuesday evening at 8pm ET (be sure to join early because attendance is limited for the live broadcasts). Aspen Avionics www.aspenavionics.comAvidyne www.avidyne.com Continental Aerospace Technologies www.continental.aero EarthX Batteries www.earthxbatteries.com Lightspeed Aviation www.lightspeedaviation.com McFarlane Aviation www.mcfarlane-aviation.com Phillips 66 Lubricants https://phillips66lubricants.com/industries/aviation/ Tempest Aero www.tempestaero.com Titan Aircraft www.titanaircraft.com Trio Avionics www.trioavionics.com uAvionix www.uavionix.com Wipaire www.wipaire.com

Lt. Col, George Hardy (99 years old) is a remarkable individual and an American hero. His story, of joining the Army Air Corps in 1943 at the age of 17, eager to join the war in defense of our country, is one shared by many young warriors of the time. But what sets Col. Hardy's story apart is that, as a young African American man during the 1940s, his path to service and in particular to becoming a fighter pilot made him part of the historic group of young men known as the Tuskegee Airman. Col. Hardy flew 21 combat missions over Germany in 1945, escorting bombers to their targets. Following the war, he returned to Tuskegee to pay it forward and train new pilots. In 1948, he rejoined another war effort, flying B-29 bombers in 45 combat missions in the Korean War and continued to serve our country through the Vietman War, flying 70 missions at the controls of a C-119 gunship, protecting troops on the ground. Decorations: Dist. Flying Cross with Valor, Air Medal with 11 Oak Leaf Clusters and commendation medal with 1 oak leaf cluster. Although Col. Hardy did not feel well enough to join us at show time, his dear friend and colleague, Dr. Joi Spraggins, graciously volunteered to join us this evening for a discussion honoring Col. Hardy, and shedding light on this amazing man. “SocialFlight Live!” is a live broadcast dedicated to supporting General Aviation pilots and enthusiasts during these challenging times. Register at SocialFlightLive.com to join the live broadcast every Tuesday evening at 8pm ET (be sure to join early because attendance is limited for the live broadcasts). BROUGHT TO YOU Avidyne and the AMAZING IFD550/540/440 series of Navigators and the new Avidyne Vantage system that is literally going to revolutionize the panels of Cirrus aircraft. Avidyne www.avidyne.com Aspen Avionics www.aspenavionics.com Continental Aerospace Technologies www.continental.aero EarthX Batteries www.earthxbatteries.com Lightspeed Aviation www.lightspeedaviation.com McFarlane Aviation www.mcfarlane-aviation.com Tempest Aero www.tempestaero.com Titan Aircraft www.titanaircraft.com Trio Avionics www.trioavionics.com uAvionix www.uavionix.com Wipaire www.wipaire.com

Hey there, listeners! Have you ever wondered what it takes to shape the leaders of tomorrow? Or how a military school experience can impact a young man's life beyond just preparing him for armed service? Well, you're in for a treat with Episode 117 of the "Carlsbad: People, Purpose, and Impact" podcast!This time around, we sit down with an exceptional guest, Lieutenant Colonel Roland Miraco, commandant of cadets at the prestigious Army Navy Academy. Roland isn't just a decorated military veteran with tours in Iraq and Bosnia Herzegovina under his belt; he's also a proud alumnus of the academy and has been instrumental in nurturing the next generation of changemakers.In this episode, we'll dive into the academy's rich history, its mission to mold young men of character, and the diverse futures its cadets pursue—from Ivy League halls to innovative industries. Roland will share how the school's unique all-boys boarding model, small class sizes, and new programs like culinary arts and aviation are setting students up for success.But that's not all! Roland gets personal, sharing his own journey from cadet to commandant, and how his family is continuing the legacy. Plus, we'll bust some myths about military schools and hear heartwarming success stories of students who've thrived under the academy's guidance.Curious to learn more? Roland extends an invitation to explore the Army Navy Academy's offerings. Tune in to this insightful conversation and discover a community dedicated to excellence right here in Carlsbad. Don't forget to check out the academy's website or call the Admissions Department at 760-729-2385 for more info. Listen, learn, and be inspired—right here on "Carlsbad: People, Purpose, and Impact."Roland Miraco's Bio:Lieutenant Colonel Miraco graduated from Army and Navy Academy in 1990. After attending the Academy, he moved on to New Mexico Military Institute. He received his commission as a Second Lieutenant in the US Army.Roland served in the United States Army for 29 years. He was an Artillery Officer in Germany, Bosnia, and Fort Sill. He taught ROTC at the University of Southern California and was an Academic Chair at the Naval Postgraduate School. As an Information Operations Officer, Roland served with the Department of the Army Staff, and the Undersecretary of Defense for Special Operations and Low Intensity Conflict at the Pentagon, Division Staff at Fort Bliss, TX, and Branch Manager at Fort Knox, Kentucky. He also completed two tours in Iraq, from 2005-2006 and 2009-2010.He earned a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice from California State University Long Beach. His military education includes the Field Artillery Officer Basic and Advanced Courses, the Combined Arms Service Staff School, the Basic Cyber Planners Course, the Electronic Warfare Planners Course, the Military Deception Planners Course, and the US Army Command and General Staff College. Roland's awards and decorations include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Meritorious Service Medal with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Army Commendation Medal with 1 Oak Leaf Cluster, the Army Achievement Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal with three stars, the Office of the Secretary of Defense Staff Badge and the Army Staff Badge. He also earned the Joint Meritorious Unit Award with Oak Leaf Cluster and the Army Superior Unit Award with Oak Leaf Cluster. Did this episode have a special impact on you? Share how it impacted youCarlsbad Podcast Social Links:LinkedInInstagramFacebookXYouTubeSponsor: This show is sponsored and produced by DifMix Productions. To learn more about starting your own podcast, visit www.DifMix.com/podcasting

CHARIOTS IN THE SKYMEET THE AUTHOR Podcast: LIVE - Episode 151 - LARRY FREELANDOriginally Streamed LIVE Wednesday April 10,2024Featuring Military Historical Fiction Author Larry Freeland.ABOUT LARRY: Larry Freeland was born in Canton, Ohio and raised across this country. After graduating from college, Larry joined the U.S. Army and served one tour in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne Division as an Infantry Officer and a CH-47 helicopter pilot. He is the recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross with one Oak Leaf Cluster, the Air Medal, with 10 Oak Leaf Clusters, the Vietnam Service Medal with 3 Bronze Stars, the Bronze Star Medal, and various other military service medals. Larry is now retired and lives in North Georgia with his wife Linda, a retired teacher. They enjoy traveling together around the country, going on cruises, and visiting historic places in Europe. They are both fans of LeMans racing and drive their Corvette to some of the annual races held in the United States. They stay involved in various activities, most notably those associated with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and Veterans-related organizations.Links to watch or listen to all episodes at:https://indiebooksource.com/podcast

The Cognitive Crucible is a forum that presents different perspectives and emerging thought leadership related to the information environment. The opinions expressed by guests are their own, and do not necessarily reflect the views of or endorsement by the Information Professionals Association. During this episode, US Army COL John Agnello discusses the Army's pursuits related to Information Advantage. Our conversation traverses the meaning of Information Advantage, the functions of Information Advantage, how Information Advantage fits within the larger Information Environment, as well as related initiatives. One such initiative is the Theater Information Advantage Detachment (TIAD) concept which will be Army theater-level teams that influence and inform–especially during the competition continuum phase of operations. Research Question: John Agnello suggests an interested student examine ways to help commanders “see” the information dimension; take every piece of information, bring them together into a decision space which enables speed and accuracy. Resources: Cognitive Crucible Podcast Episodes Mentioned #24 John Davis on Modern Warfare, Teamwork, and Commercial Cognitive Security #125 Journey from conception through JP 3-04 #131 Brian Burbank on the Ghost Team, Transparent Battlefield Concepts and Multi-Domain Operations FM 3-0 Operations 3.0 (October 2022) Like War by Peter Singer Army of None: Autonomous Weapons and the Future of War by Paul Scharre Art of Invisibility: The World's Most Famous Hacker Teaches You How to Be Safe in the Age of Big Brother and Big Data by Kevin Mitnick Link to full show notes and resources Guest Bio:  Colonel John Agnello is a United States Army Cyber Branch officer currently stationed at the United States Army Cyber Center of Excellence (CoE), at Fort Gordon, GA, as the Director of the Army Program Office for Information Advantage, where he oversees the development and implementation of Information Advantage across elements of DOTMLPF-P for the CCoE. Prior to that assignment, COL Agnello was the Director of the Commander's Planning Group, where he was responsible for Public Affairs, Protocol, strategic engagements and planning on behalf of the Commanding General. Prior to his assignments to the Cyber CoE, COL Agnello was assigned to United States Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM), in Fort Meade, MD, as the Chief of the Development Branch in USCYBERCOM's Acquisition and Technology Directorate (J9), responsible for all offensive and defensive tool development as well as data science and data analytics. Prior to that, he was a Joint Cyber Operations Team Leader in USCYBERCOM; responsible for supporting Combatant Commanders' objectives include planning, coordinating, directing, and executing daily cyber missions through four separately focused cyber teams, in addition to maintaining infrastructure, training, capability development, mission execution, and support services.  Prior to his assignments at USCYBERCOM, COL Agnello was stationed in Wiesbaden, Germany as the Research & Development subject matter expert for the Defense Science and Technology Center – Europe, where he reviewed international technologies on behalf of the US DoD; followed by the Deputy Director of the Ground Intelligence Support Activity – East; where he was responsible for managing nine different networks at over 45 various locations throughout Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, and established the first Intelligence Support Cell for Defensive Cyberspace Operations in US Army Europe (USAREUR).  Prior to his cyber specific roles, COL Agnello was a Field Artillery Officer and spent nine years in the 3rd Infantry Division in roles including Sustainment Automation Systems Management Officer, Rear Detachment Commander, Company Commander, Assistant Operations Officer, Battalion Fire Direction Officer, and Division Fire Control Officer. Prior to his assignments at Fort Stewart, GA, COL Agnello was a Battalion Fire Direction Officer, and a Battery Executive Officer at Fort Sill, OK. John is a combat veteran of Operations Iraqi Freedom and New Dawn, and his various military decorations include the Bronze Star with one Oak Leaf Cluster, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, the Meritorious Service Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Army Commendation Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, the Joint Service Achievement Medal, the Army Achievement Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, the Combat Action Badge, and Basic Parachutist Badge. His military training includes the Joint Network Attack Course, Joint Computer Network Operational Planners Course, the Information Systems Management Course, and many more. About: The Information Professionals Association (IPA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to exploring the role of information activities, such as influence and cognitive security, within the national security sector and helping to bridge the divide between operations and research. Its goal is to increase interdisciplinary collaboration between scholars and practitioners and policymakers with an interest in this domain. For more information, please contact us at communications@information-professionals.org. Or, connect directly with The Cognitive Crucible podcast host, John Bicknell, on LinkedIn. Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, 1) IPA earns from qualifying purchases, 2) IPA gets commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

"Stop Trying to Win the War in Your Mind Just Do Your Job!" In his wildest dreams, Command Sergeant Major (CSM) Bradley P. Jones never thought he would make a career out of the military. Through the setbacks, the disappointments, and the trials, there were many life-changing moments, including the death of his first wife when he was 37 years old and had 3 young children.     Bradley P. Jones (Command Sergeant Major) enlisted in the United States Army in 1984 and served until 1988 as a ground control approach radar repairman. Upon completion of his initial enlistment and a break in service, he joined the Utah Army National Guard in 1993. His military awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal (3 Oak Leaf Clusters), Army Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal (2nd Award), Armed Forces Reserve Medal (with “M” Device), Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal (3 Oak Leaf Clusters), and the Master Aviation Crewmember badge.     In Bradley's civilian career, he works for the FAA as an Airway Transportation System Specialist (ATSS) in the Service Operations Center (SOC) of the Salt Lake Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC). In Bradley's interview, he shares his incredible story and what he learned in the military about leadership that we can apply to all areas of our lives.      

Larry Freeland is the author of historical fiction novels Chariots in the Sky and the Patriarch, the first part of the Legacy of Honor trilogy. Larry was born in Canton, Ohio. Since his father was an officer with the United States Air Force he grew up on many Air Force bases across this country. After graduating from High School at Ramey Air Force Base in Puerto Rico, he attended the University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida. He graduated in 1968 with a degree in mathematics and a concentration in finance. He joined the U.S. Army and served one tour in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne Division as an Infantry Officer and a CH-47 helicopter pilot. He is the recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross with one Oak Leaf Cluster, the Air Medal, with 10 Oak Leaf Clusters, the Bronze Star, and various other military service medals.Upon release from active duty in 1973, Larry returned to civilian life and pursued a career in the Financial Industry. During his professional career, he continued his education earning graduate degrees in Management and Banking. He worked for 29 years in the banking business with Trust Company of Georgia, Citizen and Southern Corporation, now Bank of America, and Wachovia, now Wells Fargo. After retiring from banking he worked as an independent financial consultant for 3 years in the Atlanta area and then worked as an instructor for 6 years with Lanier Technical College in their Management and Leadership Development Program.Larry is now retired and lives in North Georgia with his wife Linda, a retired school teacher. They stay involved in various activities, most notably those associated with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and Veterans related organizations. They also enjoy traveling together and spending as much time as possible with their two daughters, three grandsons, and two granddaughters.

Larry Freeland is the author of historical fiction novels Chariots in the Sky and the Patriarch, the first part of the Legacy of Honor trilogy. Larry was born in Canton, Ohio. Since his father was an officer with the United States Air Force he grew up on many Air Force bases across this country. After graduating from High School at Ramey Air Force Base in Puerto Rico, he attended the University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida. He graduated in 1968 with a degree in mathematics and a concentration in finance. He joined the U.S. Army and served one tour in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne Division as an Infantry Officer and a CH-47 helicopter pilot. He is the recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross with one Oak Leaf Cluster, the Air Medal, with 10 Oak Leaf Clusters, the Bronze Star, and various other military service medals.Upon release from active duty in 1973, Larry returned to civilian life and pursued a career in the Financial Industry. During his professional career, he continued his education earning graduate degrees in Management and Banking. He worked for 29 years in the banking business with Trust Company of Georgia, Citizen and Southern Corporation, now Bank of America, and Wachovia, now Wells Fargo. After retiring from banking he worked as an independent financial consultant for 3 years in the Atlanta area and then worked as an instructor for 6 years with Lanier Technical College in their Management and Leadership Development Program.Larry is now retired and lives in North Georgia with his wife Linda, a retired school teacher. They stay involved in various activities, most notably those associated with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and Veterans related organizations. They also enjoy traveling together and spending as much time as possible with their two daughters, three grandsons, and two granddaughters.

BG Deydre Teyhen received her Bachelor of Arts in Sports Science at Ohio Wesleyan University. She earned her master's degree in physical therapy from the U.S. Army-Baylor University, completed her Ph.D. in Biome- chanics from the University of Texas, and earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy from Baylor University. BG Teyhen graduated with honors as a distinguished graduate from the U.S. Army War College with a master's degree in Strategic Studies.Prior to assuming command of the Brooke Army Medical Center, BG Teyhen previously served as the Deputy Chief of Staff (Support, G-1/4/6) at the Office of the Surgeon General in Falls Church, Virginia. During the pandemic, she served as the Department of Defense Lead of Therapeutics for Operation Warp Speed at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and as the Commander for Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, the Department of Defense's largest biomedical research facility. She led infectious disease, brain, and behavioral health research efforts; including research to prevent, detect, and treat COVID-19. Previously, she commanded the U.S. Army Health Clinic Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. Her previous assignments include Assistant Chief of Staff, Public Health at the Office of the Army Surgeon General; Commander, Public Health Command Region-South; Deputy Director, Telemedicine and Advanced Technology Research Center at Fort Detrick, Md.; Associate Professor and Director of the Center for Physical Therapy Research for the U.S. Army Baylor University Doctoral Program in Physical Therapy on Fort Sam Houston, Texas; Officer-in-Charge of Task Force 10 Delta Med in Al Kut, Iraq; Chief of Musculoskeletal Care Center and Chief of Physical Therapy at Kimbrough Ambulatory Care Center, Fort Meade; Chief of Outpatient Physical Therapy at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, D.C.; Chief of Physical Therapy, 21st Combat Support Hospital in Tuzla, Bosnia; and Physical Therapist at (then) Carl R. Darnall Army Community Hospital at Fort Hood, Texas.BG Teyhen also serves as the 20th Chief, U.S. Army Medical Specialist Corps. She has spent her career focused on improving the delivery of healthcare, holistic health, and readiness (public health, musculoskeletal medicine, behavioral health, resiliency, imaging, and technology). Her research accomplishments include over 225 peer-reviewed publications, editorials, book chapters, and published abstracts; 120 presentations at conferences; and 150 invited lectures.BG Teyhen's key military awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit (four Oak Leaf Clusters), the Army Medical Department Order of Military Medical Merit (O2M3), the Surgeon General's “A” Proficiency Designator, and the U.S. Army War College Commandant's Award for Distinction in Research. Key civilian awards include Catherine Worthingham Fellow of the American Physical Therapy Association, Dissertation Award from the University of Texas, the American Physical Therapy Association, Margaret L. Moore Award for Outstanding New Academic Faculty Member, and inducted into the Kinesiology and Health Education Distinguished Alumna Hall of Honor, University of Texas.

This episode is Part Thirty-Seven of the epilogue for Stanley's letters, "Dearest Ones," that he wrote to his family throughout the Second World War.  It's late May, 1945.  The King & his guys have a three-day pass as they drive to Brussels.  Michael G. Sievers, the writer, producer and creator of "The Silver King's War" podcast series, reviews his father's war & writing as Stanley describes his return to France, day-to-day, and a serious lack of dill pickles. Contact us: thesilverkingswar@gmail.com Please review "The Silver King's War" on Apple Podcasts Share our hero, The Silver King, with family & friends Share "The Silver King's War" on social media Thank you for listening to our podcast

In this HCI Podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Bradley P. Jones about his book, Treading the Deep: Inspirational Lessons on Life and Leadership. Bradley P. Jones (Command Sergeant Major) enlisted in the United States Army in 1984 and served until 1988 as a ground control approach radar repairman. Upon completion of his initial enlistment and a break in service he joined the Utah Army National Guard in 1993. His military awards and decorations include: the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal (3 Oak Leaf Clusters), Army Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal (2nd Award), Armed Forces Reserve Medal (with “M” Device), Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal (3 Oak Leaf Clusters), and the Master Aviation Crewmember badge. His military education includes the Primary, Basic and Advanced Noncommissioned Officers Course, the United States Army Sergeant's Major Academy Non-resident course. In Bradley's civilian career he now works for the FAA as an Airway Transportation System Specialist (ATSS) in the Service Operations Center (SOC) of the Salt Lake Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC). He resides in Lehi, UT. Please consider supporting the podcast on Patreon and leaving a review wherever you listen to your podcasts! Check out FindLaw at FindLaw.com. Check out Shopify at www.shopify.com/hci. Check out the HCI Academy: Courses, Micro-Credentials, and Certificates to Upskill and Reskill for the Future of Work! Check out the LinkedIn Alchemizing Human Capital Newsletter. Check out Dr. Westover's book, The Future Leader. Check out Dr. Westover's book, 'Bluer than Indigo' Leadership. Check out Dr. Westover's book, The Alchemy of Truly Remarkable Leadership. Check out the latest issue of the Human Capital Leadership magazine. Each HCI Podcast episode (Program, ID No. 592296) has been approved for 0.50 HR (General) recertification credit hours toward aPHR™, aPHRi™, PHR®, PHRca®, SPHR®, GPHR®, PHRi™ and SPHRi™ recertification through HR Certification Institute® (HRCI®). Each HCI Podcast episode (Program ID: 24-DP529) has been approved for 0.50 HR (General) SHRM Professional Development Credits (PDCs) for SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCPHR recertification through SHRM, as part of the knowledge and competency programs related to the SHRM Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge™ (the SHRM BASK™). Human Capital Innovations has been pre-approved by the ATD Certification Institute to offer educational programs that can be used towards initial eligibility and recertification of the Certified Professional in Talent Development (CPTD) and Associate Professional in Talent Development (APTD) credentials. Each HCI Podcast episode qualifies for a maximum of 0.50 points. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

LTC (ret) Patricia Stoecker was commissioned Second Lieutenant on June 8, 1984, at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. She was assigned several units before being promoted to Captain. Her long-decorated career included command of the Headquarters Company of the 304th Military Police Battalion in Nashville, TN, Operations Officer for the 785th Military Police Battalion, United States Army Reserve Command at Ft. McPherson, Georgia in 1999 where she served as the Military Police Organizational Integrator, 220th Military Police Brigade (Combat Support) in Gaithersburg, MD where she served as the Brigade Operations Officer where she deployed with the unit in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom to Camp Doha, Kuwait in early 2003, stationed in the Provost Marshall's Office at the Headquarters for Combined Joint Task Force-7 at Camp Victory where she worked with the Iraqi Legal Aid Division of the newly established Iraqi Government ensuring their safety and access to all Iraqi Detainees, and moving to Army G-8 where she was responsible for the funding of some large scale military projects. Trish volunteered to deploy back to Kuwait to serve as the Liaison Officer for Army G-8 to Third Army, where she coordinated communications and information between the Pentagon and Theater Operations. As the Iraqi War drew to a close, she coordinated the movement of all Army equipment to Afghanistan, storage or destruction. Trish's decorations include the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal (with one Oak Leaf Cluster), the Army Commendation Medal (with four Oak Leaf Clusters), The Army Achievement Medal, the Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal, the National Defense Service Medal (2nd Award), the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, and The Army Staff Badge. She retired in March 2016 and now resides in Apollo Beach, FL with her Husband, Phil. Trish is now a Pure Romance Consultant, which is a 180-degree change from her previous career. She absolutely loves helping women and couples with their relationship and intimacy issues. Her home office has an extensive inventory of products, so there's no waiting to get your order. Plus, her in-home or virtual parties for women are SO MUCH FUN! You can schedule one with her, and she'll show you a demo of some of the best bath, body, and intimacy items available. Just talk with her about what you have in mind! Social Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/patricia.stoecker.44 Insta: https://www.instagram.com/prbytrishstoecker/ Website: https://pureromance.com/?pws=patriciastoecker

COL Douglas C. Dillard describes fighting in WWII as an Army parachute regiment sergeant during the Battle of the Bulge. He also discusses the cold, harsh environment they faced, and how he almost lost both of his legs because of it.  During the interview, Dillard describes an encounter he had with a captured German soldier: “We caught a German there in that field. And we were all really infuriated and I looked at the guy and he had a breast full of ribbons on this tunic. And I don't know why I did it and I still have them today, but I reached up and grabbed those ribbons and just ripped them off his uniform and stuck them in my pocket. And why I did it, I still don't know. But there was never any thought in my mind of shooting him. It's the furthest thought because we weren't raised that way. But in a rage of passion, in a firefight, then you would do it.” Dillard would later serve Korea and Vietnam, and retire in 1977 after earning the Distinguished Flying Cross, Legion of Merit (2 Oak Leaf Clusters), Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Bronze Star Medal (1 Oak Leaf Cluster), Air Medal (4 Oak Leaf Clusters), and the Army Commendation Medal (2 Oak Leaf Clusters). He was inducted into the Military Intelligence hall of fame in 1990.  He also wrote two books about his experiences, Operation Aviary, and Tiger Hunters.  You can learn more about COL Dillard here.

***LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PROGRAM HERE: https://socialwork.uky.edu/academics/msw/army-msw-program/ ***Lieutenant Colonel Teresa Murray is a native of Royal Palm Beach, Florida.  She graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York, in 2002 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Chemistry/Life Sciences. Upon graduation, she was commissioned as a Medical Service Corps officer and completed the AMEDD Officer Basic Course. Her first assignment was with the 32nd Medical Logistics Battalion (Forward) (Airborne) at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, as an operations officer. She was then assigned as the Forward Distribution Platoon Leader, Bravo Company, 32nd Medical Logistics Battalion (FWD)(ABN). Following this assignment, she was selected to be the Aide-de-Camp to the Commanding General, U.S. Army Medical Department Center and School and Fort Sam Houston, Texas.Following this assignment, she graduated as the Distinguished Honor Graduate of the Combined Logistics Captains Career Course at Fort Lee, Virginia, in 2006. She was then assigned as Brigade Medical Operations Officer for 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, at Fort Hood, Texas, and deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. While deployed, she took command of Charlie Company, 15th Brigade Support Battalion, and served as “Trauma 6” until she was selected for the inaugural class of the Army-Fayetteville State University Master of Social Work (MSW) Program.     Upon graduating from the MSW program in 2009, Lieutenant Colonel Murray completed the two-year Social Work Internship Program at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, and was subsequently assigned as Behavioral Health Officer for 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault). While assigned to “Strike,” she deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in 2014, serving in Jalalabad, Afghanistan. She was then assigned to Dwight D. Eisenhower Army Medical Center at Fort Gordon, Georgia, where she served as the Chief, Child and Family Behavioral Health Service; Chief, Community Behavioral Health Service; and the Director of Training, Social Work Internship Program. She was then selected for Long Term Health Education and Training to pursue her PhD in Social Work at The Catholic University of America, Washington, DC. Upon completion of her PhD in 2020, she served as the Executive Officer and Assistant Professor for the Army-University of Kentucky Master of Social Work Program for two years prior to assuming responsibility as the Program Director in July 2022. She also serves as Deputy 73A Consultant to the Surgeon General. Lieutenant Colonel Murray's military education includes Command and General Staff Officer Course, Airborne School, 82nd Airborne Division Jumpmaster Course, Family Advocacy Staff Training, and Combat Operational Stress Control Course. Her awards and decorations include Bronze Star with one Oak Leaf Cluster, Meritorious Service Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Commendation Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster, Army Achievement Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, Meritorious Unit Commendation with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Expert Field Medical Badge, Army Parachutist Badge, and German Parachutist Badge. She has also been awarded the “A” Proficiency Designator for outstanding leadership and professional expertise within her field.Lieutenant Colonel Murray is currently licensed as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of North Carolina and has been recognized as a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work. She is widowed and has two children: Lucas, 13, and Amelia, 9.  

Captain John C. Maitha enlisted for military service as a combat medic in 2002. He volunteered and was selected for service with the 75th Ranger Regiment and received follow on medical training at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. CPT Maitha served in 3d Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment as a platoon medic, company senior medic, and medical platoon sergeant where he deployed nine times in support of Operation Iraqi and Enduring Freedom. Additionally, he served on the 75th Ranger Regimental staff as the Medical Force Modernization NCO.    CPT Maitha earned a Bachelor and a Master of Science degrees in Physician Assistant Studies from the Interservice Physician Assistant Program in San Antonio, Texas, and then commissioned as an officer in 2016. He served as an Aeromedical Physician Assistant in 3rd Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment located at Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia. Then he was assessed and selected to serve as the 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment Physician Assistant where he deployed three times in support of Operation Freedom's Sentinel. He is currently the Field Craft Training Officer in Charge at the Combat Medic Specialist Training Program, Joint Base San Antonio, Texas.    CPT Maitha's military education includes the Senior Leader Course, Basic Officer Leader Course, Captains Career Course, Medical Management of Chemical and Biological Casualties, Medical Effects of Ionizing Radiation course, Army Flight Surgeon Course (Long), Tactical Combat Medicine Course, Jumpmaster School, Ranger School, Special Operations Combat Medic Course and Airborne School.   CPT Maitha's awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal with V device (2 Oak Leaf Clusters), Bronze Star Medal (2 Oak Leaf Clusters), Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal (2 Oak Leaf Clusters), Joint Service Commendation Medal, Ranger Tab, Combat Medical Badge, Expert Field Medical Badge, Army Basic Flight Surgeon Badge, Senior Parachutist Badge.He is happily married with four children.

Who do you look at as someone that has helped form who you are?  Well, other than my Dad and family, Col James Bowers comes to mind first for me. As a sophomore in high school I meet Col Bowers, he amazed me with his career and high expectations. I was a little surprised how I reacted when I heard the news of his passing.  Mad at myself for not staying in touch with him. However very grateful to have known him and learned from him.  RIP Col. Colonel (Airborne Ranger) James M. BowersU.S. Army RetiredJim Bowers, also known as "Ranger Jim" and "Cowboy Jim", was born in a coal mining camp named Cassville, in West Virginia on August 14, 1930. The Angels recruited Jim for their “Ranger Patrol” on October 1, 2022 at his home in Spring Harbor, Columbus, Georgia. He was 92.Jim was a strong and dedicated family man who was blessed with a sweet, beautiful and totally dedicated Army wife, Kathryn Gee Bowers, affectionately known as "Kacky". Jim and Kacky were married at Fort Riley, Kansas in 1956, and together they raised two exemplary sons, Jim Junior and Clarke.After graduating from the University of West Virginia where he received a regular Army commission from ROTC, Jim served thirty proud years on active duty and commanded at each level from Platoon through Brigade. He served with the 101st Airborne Division in Vietnam. He was immensely proud of his Airborne Wings and Ranger Tab, and his favorite and most rewarding assignment was Director of the Ranger Department from 1973-1977.During his military career Jim received many service awards to include the Silver Star, the Legion of Merit with two Oak Leaf Clusters, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Bronze Star Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Medal "V" with 24 Oak Leaf Clusters, the Army Commendation Medal with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters, the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Silver Star, the Ranger Tab, the Combat Infantryman Badge and Master Parachutist Badge. Jim also attended numerous military schools during his career to include the Army War College.Upon retiring from active duty, he taught JR ROTC at Hardaway High School in Columbus, Georgia for ten years and then moved to Florida in 1993. He returned to Columbus in 2006.In addition to his love for his family and country, Jim had a passion for the great outdoors and had a special adoration for animals. Some of his favorite hobbies were hunting, fishing, playing and hunting with his dogs, riding and driving his horses, water skiing and flying small airplanes.Jim is survived by his two sons James Bowers, Jr. of Henderson, Nevada and Clarke Bowers of Dawsonville, Georgia.Jim Junior and Clarke are planning a wonderful, uplifting Celebration of Life, for both Jim and their mother Kacky, which will be announced in the near future. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial contributions be made to Paws Humane, 4900 Milgen Road, P.O. Box 8964, Columbus, Georgia 31908. Online condolences may be made at www.vancebrooksfuneralhome.net.Support the show

Join Robert Child for a conversation with author and Vietnam veteran Larry Freeland. Larry joined the U.S. Army and served one tour in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne Division as an Infantry Officer and a CH-47 helicopter pilot. He is the recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross with one Oak Leaf Cluster, the Air Medal with 10 Oak Leaf Clusters, the Vietnam Service Medal with 3 Bronze Stars, the Bronze Star, and other military service medals. His latest book is called Chariots in the Sky: A Story About U.S. Army Assault Helicopter Pilots at War in Vietnam. Watch our new military history documentary, Weather and Warfare, FREE on Tubi the streaming service from Fox. LINK https://tubitv.com/movies/680635/weather-and-warfare-millennia-to-modern-time Sign up for our twice monthly email Newsletter SOCIAL: YouTube Twitter Facebook Website --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/robert-child/support

Larry Freehand joined the U.S. Army and served one tour in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne Division as an Infantry Officer and a CH-47 helicopter pilot. He is the recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross with one Oak Leaf Cluster, the Air Medal, with 10 Oak Leaf Clusters, the Bronze Star, and various other military service medals.

In this episode, Sgt. 1st Class Jake Braman sits down with Brig. Gen. Derek Lipson to learn more about our DCG-S and to get his thoughts on where the command is heading.Brigadier General Derek Neal Lipson was commissioned an infantry officer in 1990, following his graduation from Midland Lutheran College, in Fremont, Nebraska, where he received a bachelor's degree in Journalism. He completed the Special Forces Qualification Course in 1994.Brigadier General Lipson commanded at all levels within 20th Special Forces Group (Airborne), culminating as the Group Commander from 2015-2018. Non-combat deployments included Colombia, Bolivia and Grenada, and he responded to numerous natural disasters in the South East United States, to include Hurricane Katrina.Brigadier General Lipson has deployed multiple times, serving in Afghanistan in 2002, as the    Advanced Operations Base Tikrit Commander in Iraq from 2006-2007, the senior advisor to Iraqi Special Operations in 2008, Special Operations Task Force – North Commander in Iraq in 2010, senior advisor to the Afghan National Army Special Operations Command, 2nd Brigade in 2014 and as the Special Operations Command Forward – Central Africa Commander in 2016. Following Group Command, he served as the Team KSA Commander in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from 2018-2020.Before being named as the Deputy Commanding General Support, 1st Special Forces Command (Airborne), he served as the Deputy Commanding General U.S. Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center and School.  He has also served as a Special Assistant to the Director of the Army National Guard in Washington, D.C.Brigadier General Lipson is a graduate of the Infantry Officer Basic and Advanced Courses, Command and General Staff Officer Course, and the U.S. Army War College. He holds master's degrees in Adult and Continuing Education from Kansas State University and in Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College.His awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit with oak leaf cluster, Bronze Star with three oak leaf clusters, Defense Meritorious Service Medal and the Meritorious Service Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters. He has been awarded the Combat Infantryman, Military Free Fall Parachutist, and the Senior Parachutist badges.Brigadier General Lipson is married to the former Jennie Engelhaupt. They have two daughters and two grandchildren.

CSM Gerner shares his Army story, leadership lessons, and the most rewarding and challenging things about being a CSM. Command Sergeant Major Gerner enlisted in the U.S. Army from Burke, Virginia and graduated from Basic Combat Training at Fort Knox, KY and Advanced Individual Training in Military Occupational Specialty 25S- Satellite Communications Systems Operator/Maintainer, at Fort Gordon, GA in 1999.CSM Gerner has deployed to Africa as well as 5 combat deployments to Iraq and 8 combat deployments to Afghanistan. His previous assignments include, Team Chief & Node Leader, Alpha & Charlie Companies, 112th Signal Battalion (SPECIAL OPERATIONS) (AIRBORNE), Fort Bragg, NC; Signal Detachment Section Chief, Headquarters 75th Ranger Regiment, Fort Benning, GA; Platoon Sergeant & Operations NCO, Ranger Communications Company, 75th Ranger Special Troops Battalion, Fort Benning, GA; Echo Company First Sergeant & Rear Detachment First Sergeant, 1st Ranger Battalion, Hunter Army Airfield, GA; HHC First Sergeant & Operations Sergeant Major, 112th Signal Battalion (SPECIAL OPERATIONS) (AIRBORNE) Fort Bragg, NC; RS6 Sergeant Major, Headquarters, 75th Ranger Regiment, Fort Benning, GA; J6 Sergeant Major, Joint Task Force, Afghanistan; and Command Sergeant Major, 53rd Signal Battalion (SATELLITE CONTROL), Fort Carson, Colorado.CSM Gerner holds a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts from Excelsior College and is pursuing a Master of Science in Strategic Leadership from the University of Charleston. His military education includes the Basic Airborne Course, Air Assault Course, Primary Leadership Development Course, Advanced Airborne (Jumpmaster) Course, Basic Noncommissioned Officer Course, Ranger Orientation Program, 75th Ranger Regiment Pre-Ranger Course, U.S. Army Ranger School, Advanced Noncommissioned Officer Course, Pathfinder Course, Senior Enlisted Joint Professional Military Education, First Sergeant Course, Ranger Assessment and Selection Program 2, Army Force Management Course, Joint Special Operations Forces Senior Enlisted Academy (Class 23), Sergeant Major Course (Modified), the Battalion Pre-Command Course, the Battalion CSM Develop Program, and the Army Space Cadre Course.CSM Gerner's awards and decorations include the Bronze Star medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, Meritorious Service Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, Joint Service Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster and C device, Army Commendation Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters; the Joint Service Achievement Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Army Presidential Unit Citation, Meritorious Unit Citation with Oak Leaf Cluster, Army Good Conduct Medal (5th Award), the National Defense Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with 4 campaign stars, the Iraq Campaign Medal with 4 campaign stars, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the NCO Professional Development Ribbon with the numeral 5, the Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon with numeral 3, the NATO Service Medal, the Ranger Tab, the Combat Action Badge, the Pathfinder Badge, the Master Parachutist Badge, the Air Assault Badge, Army Basic Space Badge, the Driver/Mechanic's Badge, German, Italian, Venezuelan, and Royal Thai airborne wings, and he is a recipient of Regimental Signal Corps Association's Bronze Order of Mercury. MISSIONMission Statement: The 106th Signal Brigade directs and executes seamless communications and cyber readiness enabling mission command for our mission partners.Vision Statement: A trained, professional, and motivated team enabling mission command, protecting the network, and owning consequence management on the forefront of the Army's next generation network.Loading...

Day 24- Sisters in Service with Melissa Washington I have known Melissa for awhile now - maybe 3 years and since starting this podcast I knew I wanted her to be a guest on Sisters-in-Service. Listen in as we discuss, military service, veteran status for women, how the Women Veterans Alliance (WVA) started and her 3 tips for women leaving service. Melissa A. Washington, a Navy Veteran is the CEO and Founder of Women Veterans Alliance. She is a disabled veteran small business owner, speaker, entrepreneur, author, and award winner who is connecting women veterans across the nation. Melissa proudly served in the Navy and rather than shoulder the burden of a dual-service family, she decided to leave the military early to pursue a career while her husband spent 21 years on active duty in the United State Marine Corps. Melissa was laid off from her job in 2009 due to a failing economy, marking the beginning of a nearly two-year journey and career reinvention that allowed her to use her experience to help others In 2011, she started Melissa Washington, Inc. which offers consulting services to businesses and individuals using LinkedIn for researching, recruiting, job seeking and collaborating. Her journey, took a little detour for 4 years as she worked at LinkedIn, planning Global Corporate Meeting & Events. 2014 authored Get Back to Work: Smart & Savvy Real-World Strategies to Make Your Next Career Move. In 2015 she got women veterans together to meet at a local Mexican restaurant where Women Veterans Alliance started! Not long after, partnered with James R. Morrison Photography for the "What Does a Woman Veteran Look Like?" Portrait Project. In 2018 Melissa founded Women Veterans Giving, Inc. In 2019 became an Advisor to AVOW (American Veteran Organization of Women)magazine. In May 2020 she was featured in VAntage Point, the Official Blog of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, in an article titled, "Melissa Washington: Breaking Barriers". She has been featured in Sacramento Business Journal as well as other magazines and newspapers. Sought out speaker as well. Melissa is a go to person for media when it comes to women veterans. TV interviews on ABC, NBC, CBS, and Fox. Including a segment on the Dr. Phil Show and Lifetime Channel, The Balancing Act. Radio includes Sirius XM, KFBK AM1530, iHeart, national podcasts, AM1170 and more. Her husband of 25 years, Jarrod is a retired Marine who served in combat in Desert Shield, Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF). Melissa is the daughter of Bronze Star Army Vietnam War Veteran. Granddaughter of WWII Army Air Corp/Air Force Veteran 509th Bomb Squad AC who had 37 missions over Germany and received the Bronze Star & Air Medal with Oak Leaf Clusters. https://www.womenveteransalliance.org https://linktr.ee/sistersinservice --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/c4challenge/message

Join us as we speak with Larry Freeland, Larry was born in Canton, Ohio. Since his father was an officer with the United States Air Force he grew up on many Air Force bases across this country. After graduating from High School at Ramey Air Force Base in Puerto Rico, he attended the University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida. He graduated in 1968 with a degree in mathematics and a concentration in finance. He joined the U.S. Army and served one tour in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne Division as an Infantry Officer and a CH-47 helicopter pilot. He is the recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross with one Oak Leaf Cluster, the Air Medal, with 10 Oak Leaf Clusters, the Bronze Star, and various other military service medals. Upon release from active duty in 1973, Larry returned to civilian life and pursued a career in the Financial Industry. During his professional career, he continued his education earning graduate degrees in Management and Banking. He worked for 29 years in the banking business with Trust Company of Georgia, Citizen and Southern Corporation, now Bank of America, and Wachovia, now Wells Fargo. After retiring from banking he worked as an independent financial consultant for 3 years in the Atlanta area and then worked as an instructor for 6 years with Lanier Technical College in their Management and Leadership Development Program. Larry is now retired and lives in North Georgia with his wife Linda, a retired school teacher. They stay involved in various activities, most notably those associated with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and Veterans related organizations. They also enjoy traveling together and spending as much time as possible with their two daughters, three grandsons, and two granddaughters. Connect with Larry online and purchase his book at the link below: https://larryfreeland.com/ ******************* Your Host - Brad Richard Scars & Stripes Coffee: https://www.ss.coffee/bradrichard YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/y7uzojak Manat50 School: https://brad-s-school-4d92.thinkific.com Website: https://www.bradrichard.net --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/manat50/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/manat50/support

Larry Freeland was born in Canton, Ohio. Since his father was an officer with the United States Air Force he grew up on many Air Force bases across this country. After graduating from High School at Ramey Air Force Base in Puerto Rico, he attended the University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida. He graduated in 1968 with a degree in mathematics and a concentration in finance. He joined the U.S. Army and served one tour in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne Division as an Infantry Officer and a CH-47 helicopter pilot. He is the recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross with one Oak Leaf Cluster, the Air Medal, with 10 Oak Leaf Clusters, the Bronze Star, and various other military service medals. Upon release from active duty in 1973, Larry returned to civilian life and pursued a career in the Financial Industry. During his professional career, he continued his education earning graduate degrees in Management and Banking. He worked for 29 years in the banking business with Trust Company of Georgia, Citizen and Southern Corporation, now Bank of America, and Wachovia, now Wells Fargo. After retiring from banking he worked as an independent financial consultant for 3 years in the Atlanta area and then worked as an instructor for 6 years with Lanier Technical College in their Management and Leadership Development Program. http://larryfreeland.com/ --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/richard-lamonica/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/richard-lamonica/support

On this edition of the show,  Zach Clinton sat down with Lieutenant Colonel (Ret) Allen B. West at the National Religious Broadcasters Convention in Dallas, Texas.  Allen West is Christian constitutional conservative, combat veteran, and former Member of the US Congress. His life has been defined as one of service, sacrifice, and commitment to this Republic, the United States of America. He believes it will be conservative, free market policies, not politics that secures a sound economic future for Americans – with growth, opportunity and returning the promise of the American dream for this generation and those to come.      Allen West was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia in the same neighborhood where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once preached. He is the third of four generations of military servicemen, all combat veterans, in his family.West was commissioned through ROTC at the University of Tennessee as a Second Lieutenant (2LT) on July 31, 1982. He entered active duty service in the U.S. Army on November 1, 1983 at Fort Sill to attend the Field Artillery Officer Basic Course. He later attended airborne and jumpmaster training at Fort Benning. West's first assignment was as an airborne infantry company fire support team leader and battalion training officer in the 325th Airborne Battalion Combat Team. In 1987, he was promoted to Captain and attended the Field Artillery Officer Advanced Course.He was then assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, where he commanded Bravo Battery, 6th Field Artillery Regiment and was a Battalion Task Force fire support officer for 2d Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment. While with the 1st Infantry Division, he participated in Operations Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm.After redeployment from Kuwait, West served as an ROTC instructor at Kansas State University from 1991 to 1994. In January 1995, he was assigned to the 2nd Infantry Division Support Command as the Assistant Operations/Combat Plans Officer. During that time, West was promoted to Major and selected for attendance to the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College and graduated in 1997. Afterward, he became the Operations Officer of the 18th Field Artillery Brigade (Airborne), followed by assignment as the Executive Officer of the 1st Battalion (Air Assault), 377th Field Artillery Regiment. Upon completion of these positions, West was assigned to the II Marine Expeditionary Force in Camp Lejeune, and selected to serve as an Army exchange officer to this headquarters from 1999 to 2002.West's culminating assignment to his career was as Battalion Commander of the 2nd Battalion 20th Field Artillery, 4th Infantry Division. He assumed command of this unit on June 6, 2002. He deployed with his unit during the Iraq War in 2003 and continued to command his battalion until his retirement from the Army in 2004 after 22 years of honorable service in defense of the Republic.West's awards and decorations include the Bronze Star; Meritorious Service Medal (three Oak Leaf Clusters); Army Commendation Medal (three Oak Leaf Clusters, one Valor Device); Army Achievement Medal (two Oak Leaf Clusters); Valorous Unit Award; Air Assault Badge; and the Master Parachutist Badge.  Lt Col West proudly wears the Army Master Parachutist Badge, the Army Air Assault Badge, the Navy/Marine Corps Parachutist Insignia, the Italian Parachutist Wings, and the German Proficiency Badge, bronze award. West holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and two Masters, one from Kansas State University and another from the US Army Command and General Staff Officers College.West is an avid distance runner, a Master SCUBA diver, a motorcyclist, and in his spare time he enjoys cheering his beloved Tennessee Volunteers. He is married to Dr. Angela Graham-West, a financial adviser, and they have two daughters. 

Larry Freeland was born in Canton, Ohio.  Since his father was an officer with the United States Air Force he grew up on many Air Force bases across this country.   After graduating from High School at Ramey Air Force Base in Puerto Rico, he attended the University of South Florida in Tampa, Florida.  He graduated in 1968 with a degree in mathematics and a concentration in finance. He joined the U.S. Army and served one tour in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne Division as an Infantry Officer and a CH-47 helicopter pilot.  He is the recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross with one Oak Leaf Cluster, the Air Medal, with 10 Oak Leaf Clusters, the Bronze Star, and various other military service medals. Upon release from active duty in 1973, Larry returned to civilian life and pursued a career in the Financial Industry.  During his professional career, he continued his education earning graduate degrees in Management and Banking.  He worked for 29 years in the banking business with Trust Company of Georgia, Citizen and Southern Corporation, now Bank of America, and Wachovia, now Wells Fargo.  After retiring from banking he worked as an independent financial consultant for 3 years in the Atlanta area and then worked as an instructor for 6 years with Lanier Technical College in their Management and Leadership Development Program. Larry is now retired and lives in North Georgia with his wife Linda, a retired school teacher.  They stay involved in various activities, most notably those associated with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation and Veterans related organizations.  They also enjoy traveling together and spending as much time as possible with their two daughters, three grandsons, and two granddaughters. Larry's novel Chariots In The Sky is based on his experiences in Vietnam.

This week Doc Joslin sits down with Father Steven Rindahl, former Army Paratrooper and Rigger turned Chaplain who spearheads a Veteran’s therapy program called Warriors on the Way. We also visit our third coffee from Cactus Creek Gourmet Coffee roasters from North Carolina and review their "Campfire Jubilee" . Fr Rindahl Bio:Fr Steven G Rindahl joined the Army on the 8th of May 1985. Chaplain Rindahl began his Army career serving in the Service Company of the 12th Special Forces Group (Airborne), United States Army Reserve. He served as a parachute rigger both in the reserve and on active duty achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant. During this time, he completed his Bachelor of Arts in History. Chaplain Rindahl also served as an Army recruiter in the Dallas Recruiting Battalion where he was promoted to Sergeant First Class. After his ETS from active duty Chaplain Rindahl returned to the Army Reserve as a member of the 95th Training Division (IT), Grand Prairie, TX.While in the USAR, Chaplain Rindahl attended Chaplain Officer Basic Course, Ft Jackson, SC, and was placed in the Individual Ready Reserve. Upon completion of his Master of Divinity from Southwestern and his Master of Theology from Spurgeon’s College, London, England, Chaplain Rindahl returned to active duty with immediate assignment to the Black Knights of the 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division. While serving in the Army Chaplain Rindahl continued his education and completed an additional Master of Theology from Cranmer Theological House, and the Doctor of Ministry from the University of Chester with a research focus in Combat Trauma Ministry.Chaplain Rindahl’s awards include the Master Parachutist Badge, Air Assault Badge, Parachute Rigger’s Badge, Combat Action Badge, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Commendation Medal with three Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Achievement Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Good Conduct Medal with two Knots, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal, National Defense Medal with Bronze Service Star Device, Iraqi Campaign Medal with two Campaign Stars, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon with Numeral 3 Device, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, the Army Valorous Unit Award, and the Army Superior Unit Award. Chaplain Rindahl has also been awarded the Parachutist Badge from multiple foreign nations, and the Honduran Parachute Rigger Badge. Chaplain Rindahl was honored by the US Army Armor Branch when they declared him a Noble Patron of Armor and Cavalry. Chaplain Rindahl was presented a pair of Combat Cavalryman’s Spurs by the commander of the 1st Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment.www.bullets2beans.comwww.warriorsontheway.orgwww.stevenrindahl.comwww.cactuscreekcoffee.comCactus Creek Gourmet Coffee Roasters is a Veteran owned and operated, family run business in its 15th year of operation. Our goal is to be a one stop shop for coffee shop owners and to have all necessary supplies, equipment, and services available in one convenient location. We strive to offer every one of our customers outstanding service and the freshest roasted coffee.www.lifelinemediallc.combullets2beans@gmail.comwww.remedyalpine.org Bullets 2 Beans is a production of LifeLine Media, LLC; Eagle River, Alaska.

Don't miss the incredible conclusion to Walk Among Heroes' two-part interview with Mr. Floyd Blair! Mr. Blair served in the U.S. Army Air Corps as a P-47 Thunderbolt fighter pilot in the 404th Fighter Group, a primarily tactical unit consisting of forty-eight, P-47 airplanes. Mr. Blair arrived in Europe in April 1944, flew his first mission on May 1, 1944, and soon thereafter, flew two missions to provide ground support for invasion forces hitting Omaha and Utah Beach on D-Day, June 6, 1944. Following D-Day, Mr. Blair continued to provide ground support for armor and infantry forces as they moved across Europe. Mr. Blair participated in ALL of the major European battles including St. Lo, Falaise Gap, Operation Market Garden, Battle of the Bulge, and Rhine River crossing, to name a few. Mr. Blair received multiple decorations including the Air Medal with 15 Oak Leaf Clusters, Distinguished Flying Cross, and a Distinguished Unit Citation for action in Germany in September 1944. Recently, he was awarded the French Legion of Honor, France’s highest military award, for his actions to liberate France in 1944. Overall, Mr. Blair flew 100 combat missions, mostly low-level missions to support ground forces in-battle. Today, Mr. Blair resides in Ocala, Florida, Episode 18 consists of two parts. The first part (18A) will discuss Mr. Blair’s childhood, joining the military, and combat in Europe (D-Day through the end of the war). The second part (18B) will focus on additional combat stories, as well as other interesting parts of Mr. Blair’s life. We’ve never met a man who has experienced such vast combat experience. Mr. Blair has an incredible perspective on D-Day and so many other battles from World War II. He recently turned 100, and his mind is sharper than ever. We are honored to tell his story, and we hope you enjoy these words from an amazing man. From an amazing generation, the Greatest Generation!A special ‘thank you’ to Shreyas Ganesh for donating your time as sound engineer for this podcast.

We (Walk Among Heroes) are pleased to welcome Mr. Floyd Blair as our guest for episode 18. Mr. Blair served in the U.S. Army Air Corps as a P-47 Thunderbolt fighter pilot in the 404th Fighter Group, a primarily tactical unit consisting of forty-eight, P-47 airplanes. Mr. Blair arrived in Europe in April 1944, flew his first mission on May 1, 1944, and soon thereafter, flew two missions to provide ground support for invasion forces hitting Omaha and Utah Beach on D-Day, June 6, 1944. Following D-Day, Mr. Blair continued to provide ground support for armor and infantry forces as they moved across Europe. Mr. Blair participated in ALL of the major European battles including St. Lo, Falaise Gap, Operation Market Garden, Battle of the Bulge, and Rhine River crossing, to name a few. Mr. Blair received multiple decorations including the Air Medal with 15 Oak Leaf Clusters, Distinguished Flying Cross, and a Distinguished Unit Citation for action in Germany in September 1944. Recently, he was awarded the French Legion of Honor, France’s highest military award, for his actions to liberate France in 1944. Overall, Mr. Blair flew 100 combat missions, mostly low-level missions to support ground forces in-battle. Today, Mr. Blair resides in Ocala, Florida, Episode 18 consists of two parts. The first part (18A) will discuss Mr. Blair’s childhood, joining the military, and combat in Europe (D-Day through the end of the war). The second part (18B) will focus on additional combat stories, as well as other interesting parts of Mr. Blair’s life. We’ve never met a man who has experienced such vast combat experience. Mr. Blair has an incredible perspective on D-Day and so many other battles from World War II. He recently turned 100, and his mind is sharper than ever. We are honored to tell his story, and we hope you enjoy these words from an amazing man. From an amazing generation, the Greatest Generation! A special ‘thank you’ to Shreyas Ganesh for donating your time as sound engineer for this podcast.

Lieutenant General William G. Boykin, a native of North Carolina, was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the Infantry from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in 1971. His early assignments in conventional units included the 2nd Armored Division, the 101st Airborne Division, and as a company commander in the 24h Infantry Division (Mechanized). Special Operations assignments included positions as: A Platoon Leader and then the Company Executive Officer in 1st Battalion (Ranger) 75th Infantry, Fort Stewart, Georgia; Branch Chief at the Florida Ranger School, Eglin, Florida; and Director for Operations at the Joint Special Operations Command, Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Additionally, LTG Boykin has served a total of thirteen years in the Special Forces Operational Detachment - Delta, as a Detachment Commander, Staff Officer, Squadron Commander (twice), the Deputy Commander, and finally, as the Commander. In 1994, LTG Boykin was assigned to Washington, D.C. and the Pentagon as the Chief, Special Operations Division, Office of the Joint Chiefs of Staff followed by a posting to the Central Intelligence Agency as the Deputy Director of Special Activities and promotion to the rank of Brigadier General. Next, he was assigned to the Army Staff as the Deputy Director for Operations, Readiness, and Mobilization. In 1998, LTG Boykin was assigned to Fort Bragg, North Carolina as the Commanding General, United States Army Special Forces Command. In 2000, he was assigned as the Commanding General, United States Army John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center, Fort Bragg, North Carolina. In 2003, following the creation of the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence, LTG Boykin was assigned as the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Intelligence in charge of Intelligence and Warfighting Support. LTG Boykin earned a Bachelors of Science Degree from Virginia Tech University in education and a Masters Degree from Shippensburg University in Public Administration. He attended the Armed Forces Staff College and the Army War College. Some of LTG Boykin's badges include: the Master Parachutist Badge, the Ranger Tab, and the Special Forces Tab. LTG Boykin is a combat veteran who has participated in numerous operations; some of which include the Iranian Hostage Rescue Mission, Granada, Panama, and with Task Force Ranger in Mogadishu, Somalia. Some of LTG Boykin's awards include the Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal (with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters), Legion of Merit (with Oak Leaf Cluster), Bronze Star Medal, Air Medal, and the Purple Heart (with Oak Leaf Cluster). Recently, LTG Boykin was the Wheat Professor of Leadership Studies at Hampden- Sydney College in Farmville, Virginia. Currently, he is the Executive Vice President of Family Research Council. He is married to the former Ashley Steele of Darien, Connecticut, and they have five children between them. Get your copy of Never Surrender Boots on the Ground: You need to have a battle buddy! Someone you can confess your sins to, call at 2am, you would take into the dark alley, and someone you meet with once a week. www.meninthearena.org Men in the Arena Books and Swag Support the Podcast The online Men in the Arena forum  

Lieutenant Colonel (Ret) Allen B. West is a Christian constitutional conservative, combat veteran, and former member of the US Congress. His life has been defined as one of service, sacrifice, and commitment to this Republic, the United States of America. He believes it will be conservative, free-market policies — not politics — that secure a sound economic future for Americans – with growth, opportunity and returning the promise of the American dream for this generation and those to come. Allen West was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia in the same neighborhood where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once preached. He is the third of four generations of military servicemen, all combat veterans, in his family. West was commissioned through ROTC at the University of Tennessee as a Second Lieutenant (2LT) on July 31, 1982. He entered active duty service in the U.S. Army on November 1, 1983, at Fort Sill to attend the Field Artillery Officer Basic Course. He later attended airborne and jumpmaster training at Fort Benning. West’s first assignment was as an airborne infantry company fire support team leader and battalion training officer in the 325th Airborne Battalion Combat Team. In 1987, he was promoted to Captain and attended the Field Artillery Officer Advanced Course. He was then assigned to the 1st Infantry Division, where he commanded Bravo Battery, 6th Field Artillery Regiment and was a Battalion Task Force fire support officer for 2d Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment. While with the 1st Infantry Division, he participated in Operations Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. After redeployment from Kuwait, West served as an ROTC instructor at Kansas State University from 1991 to 1994. In January 1995, he was assigned to the 2nd Infantry Division Support Command as the Assistant Operations/Combat Plans Officer. During that time, West was promoted to Major and selected for attendance to the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College and graduated in 1997. Afterward, he became the Operations Officer of the 18th Field Artillery Brigade (Airborne), followed by assignment as the Executive Officer of the 1st Battalion (Air Assault), 377th Field Artillery Regiment. Upon completion of these positions, West was assigned to the II Marine Expeditionary Force in Camp Lejeune, and selected to serve as an Army exchange officer to this headquarters from 1999 to 2002. West’s culminating assignment to his career was as Battalion Commander of the 2d Battalion 20th Field Artillery, 4th Infantry Division. He assumed command of this unit on June 6, 2002. He deployed with his unit during the Iraq War in 2003 and continued to command his battalion until his retirement from the Army in 2004 after 22 years of honorable service in defense of the Republic. West’s awards and decorations include the Bronze Star; Meritorious Service Medal (three Oak Leaf Clusters); Army Commendation Medal (three Oak Leaf Clusters, one Valor Device); Army Achievement Medal (two Oak Leaf Clusters); Valorous Unit Award; Air Assault Badge; and the Master Parachutist Badge.  Lt Col West proudly wears the Army Master Parachutist Badge, the Army Air Assault Badge, the Navy/Marine Corps Parachutist Insignia, the Italian Parachutist Wings, and the German Proficiency Badge, bronze award. After his retirement from the Army in 2004, Allen taught high school in South Florida for a year before volunteering and deploying to Afghanistan as a civilian military adviser to the Afghan army, an assignment he finished in November 2007. In November of 2010, Allen was honored to continue his oath of service to his country when he was elected to the United States Congress, representing Florida’s 22nd District. As a member of the 112th Congress, West introduced seven major pieces of legislation, and was the original sponsor of H. R. 1246 which reduces costs at the Department of Defense, which passed unanimously (393-0), and signed into law by President Obama as part of the National Defense Authorization Act.  Congressman West voted for the Balanced Budget Amendment and voted for over 30 different bills designed to empower small businesses, reduce government barriers to job creation, boost American competitiveness, encourage entrepreneurship and growth, and maximize American energy production. West holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and two Masters, one from Kansas State University, and another from the US Army Command and General Staff Officers College. He is a Fox News Contributor, Director of the Booker T. Washington Initiative at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, Senior Fellow at the Media Research Center, contributing columnist for Townhall.com, and author of Guardian of the Republic: An American Ronin’s Journey to Family, Faith and Freedom. His second book, Hold Texas, Hold the Nation: Victory or Death, was released in the fall of 2018 from Brown Books Publishing Group. He is the former Executive Director of the National Center for Policy Analysis in Dallas, Texas. West is an avid distance runner, a Master SCUBA diver, a motorcyclist, and, in his spare time, he enjoys cheering his beloved Tennessee Volunteers. Lt. Col. West is a legacy life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, life member of the American Legion, life member of the Association of the United States Army and the Society of the First Infantry Division, Patriot Life Member (Benefactor) and Board of Directors member of the National Rifle Association. Lieutenant Colonel West is an inductee into the University of Tennessee Army ROTC Hall of Fame. He is on the Board of Advisors of Amegy Bank, Dallas Region. In 2016, Lt. Col. West was appointed by Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick to the Texas Sunset Advisory Commission. He is married to Dr. Angela Graham-West, a financial adviser, and they have two daughters, Aubrey, who recently graduated with her Masters from Southern Methodist University, now attending Physician Assistant school in West Virginia, and youngest daughter, Austen. Read more https://theoldschoolpatriot.com/about-allen-west/biography/

George E. Hardy in March 1943, at the age of 17, passed the written and physical examinations for the US Army Aviation Cadet program.  In July 1943 he was called to active duty and sent to Keesler Army Air Field, Biloxi, Mississippi, for basic training.  In September 1943 he was assigned to the 320th College Training Detachment at Tuskegee Institute in Alabama.  His group was scheduled to take college-level courses, at Tuskegee Institute, for a period of five months. This training was cut short in the beginning of December, as his group was transferred to Tuskegee Army Air Field (TAAF) for Aviation Cadet training, as part of Class 44-H.  In September 1944 he graduated as a single-engine pilot and was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. In November he was transferred to Walterboro AAF in South Carolina for combat flying training in P-47 aircraft.  This combat flying training was completed in early February 1945, and he was shipped overseas to Italy.  In Italy, he was assigned to the 99th Fighter Squadron, 332nd Fighter Group, where he flew 21 combat missions over Germany in P-51 aircraft.  Those missions were mainly high-altitude escort missions of heavy bombers, but many of the missions also included strafing of ground targets.  He returned from Italy in August 1945 and served at TAAF, until it closed in the summer of 1946.  In July 1946 he was transferred to Lockbourne AAF, Ohio where he was assigned to the 99th Fighter Squadron, flying P-47 aircraft. He was discharged from active duty in November 1946. He attended New York University, School of Engineering, in the Bronx, from September 1947 to May 1948. He was recalled to active duty at Lockbourne Air Force Base (LAFB), Ohio, in June 1948.  He was assigned to the 301st Fighter Squadron, 332nd Fighter Group, flying P-47 aircraft.  In September 1948 he was reassigned as a student in the Airborne Electronics Maintenance Officers Course at Keesler AFB, Mississippi.  The course of study covered radar and long-range navigational equipment on fighter and bomber aircraft.  He graduated in August 1949.  In July 1949 the USAF instituted racial integration and personnel at Lockbourne AFB were reassigned to Air Force bases worldwide.  After graduation in August 1949, he was transferred to the 19th Bomb Group (B-29 Aircraft) on the island of Guam. He was further assigned to the 28th Bomb Squadron as a maintenance officer. His primary job was supervising about 25 airmen in maintenance of electronic equipment on the assigned aircraft.  As a pilot he was also required to fly and was assigned as a copilot on a B-29 aircrew.  The Korean War started 25 June 1950, and the 19th Bomb Group was transferred to Kadena Air Base, Okinawa. He flew 45 combat missions over Korea in the B-29 aircraft. In March 1951 he returned to the states and was assigned to 6th Bomb Wing, at Walker AFB in New Mexico, as a maintenance officer. In June 1951 he was transferred to Lowry AFB, Denver, Colorado for seven months training as an Armament Systems maintenance officer, specifically on B-36 aircraft.  The B-36 aircraft was the largest aircraft in the Air Force, capable of intercontinental bombing missions without refueling.  The armament systems field included not only the electronic navigational and bombing systems but also included the retractable gun turrets and maintenance and loading of the bomb bays.  After the training at Lowry he was transferred back to Walker AFB and in December 1952 he was transferred to Carswell AFB, Ft Worth, Texas. He became part of the 42nd Bomb Wing (B-36 aircraft) and in March 1953 the wing was transferred to Limestone AFB, Maine. He served as a maintenance officer in the 42nd Armament and Electronics Maintenance Squadron (AEMS), until August 1955. In August 1955 he transferred to the United States Air Force Institute of Technology at Wright Patterson AFB, Dayton Ohio.  He entered the undergraduate engineering program and in August 1957, received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering. In September 1957 he was assigned to the 3rd AEMS, 3rd Bomb Wing (B- 57, Canberra aircraft) at Johnson Air Base, Japan.  He was soon assigned as Maintenance Supervisor, a position he held for almost 3 years. The 3rd Bomb Wing  areas of operations were in Japan, Korea and Okinawa. He became jet-qualified as a pilot and in 1959 he received the aerial rating of Command Pilot. In June 1960 he was promoted to the grade of Major. In November 1960 he transferred to Plattsburgh AFB, New York.  He was assigned as Squadron Commander of the 4108th AEMS, in the 4108th Air Refueling Wing (KC–97aircraft).  In the second half of 1962 his squadron held the 8th Air Force trophy for best AEMS squadron.  In November 1962 he was notified by the Air Force Institute of Technology of his eligibility to apply for a new graduate level systems engineering course specializing in reliability engineering.  He applied for the course and was reassigned, in January 1963, to the USAF Institute of Technology, at Wright Patterson AFB, Dayton Ohio.  In August 1964 he graduated with a Master of Science Degree in Systems Engineering - Reliability. In September 1964 he was assigned to the Electronic Systems Division of Air Force Systems Command, at  Hanscom  AFB, Massachusetts.  In 1965 he received his promotion to the grade of Lt. Col.  In August 1966 he was assigned as Chief of Engineering and Program Manager, for the Development, Installation and Cutover of the 490L Overseas AUTOVON (AUTOmatic VOice Network) Communications Switches, part of the Department of Defense first worldwide direct dial telephone system.  The AUTOVON services within the continental United States was provided by the various telephone companies.  With completion of the overseas switches, the Department of Defense and other government agencies would have almost worldwide, direct dial telephone access.  The initial sites in Europe, Panama and the Pacific were successfully cut over in 1969. At the end of 1969 he received notice of a flying assignment in Vietnam and was provided with refresher flight training as an AC-119K Gunship Aircraft Commander. He was assigned to the 18th Special Operations Squadron at Phan Rang Air Base in Vietnam in April 1970.  Although the squadron headquarters was at Phan Rang Air Base, the aircraft were located at two operating locations, one at Udorn Air Base, in Thailand, and the other at DaNang Air Base in Vietnam.  He was assigned as the Operating Location Commander at Udorn Air Base, Thailand through August 1970.  Missions were flown at night over northern Laos searching for truck traffic from North Vietnam.  In September 1970 he was transferred to DaNang Air Base in Vietnam as Operating Location Commander.  Missions were flown at night over central portions of Laos looking for truck traffic from North Vietnam.  He flew 70 combat missions before returning to the states in April 1971. In May of 1971 he  was assigned to the Inspector General's office at Air Force Systems Command,  Andrews AFB in Maryland.  He served in the IG's office until November 1971 when he retired with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. His decorations include the Distinguished Flying Cross with Valor, the Air Medal with eleven (11) Oak Leaf Clusters, and the Commendation Medal with one Oak Leaf Cluster.  

Lieutenant Colonel Orlowski’s 20-year Army career included assignments in the 1st Infantry Division in Vietnam, 5th Infantry Division (Mechanized), HQ United States Army Europe, HQ U.S. Continental Army Command and the Office of The Adjutant General of the Army. For his service in Vietnam, Colonel Orlowski was awarded the Purple Heart, Silver Star, Bronze Star for Valor with two Oak Leaf Clusters and Air Medal. His other awards include the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal and Army Commendation Medal. His public service includes co-founding Sailors Onboard 4 Soldiers, a non-profit corporation dedicated to teaching sailing to PTSD and other stress-related disorder sufferers. He is also the President and Chairman of the Board of the U.S. Army 1st Infantry Division Monuments Association. This non-profit organization oversees and, through an agreement with The American Battle Monuments Commission (Europe), pays for the annual maintenance of the 1st Division’s 11 WWI and WWII battle monuments in locations throughout Europe from Omaha Beach to Cheb in the Czech Republic.Lieutenant_Colonel_Thomas_J._Orlowski.mp3

Dick is a protégé of the famed Tuskegee Airmen and was mentored, trained, and commissioned under their tutelage. He is a graduate of the USAF Fighter Weapons School at Nellis AFB, NV and completed two tours in Southeast Asia with 446 combat missions. He also held key roles in advanced research, development, and testing of tactical fighter aircraft. Later he directed the testing and evaluation of other weapon systems for the Department of Defense and allied military programs. Dick held key staff positions and commanded a number of units in several major commands of the Air Force. His duty assignments included bases throughout the United States, Southeast Asia, Europe, North Africa, and the Persian Gulf. He is a Command Pilot with 4,000 flying hours in the F-4, F-15, F-16, OT-37, O-2, T-33, and several civilian aircraft. His military decorations include the Legion of Merit, Distinguished Flying Cross, Meritorious Service Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, and the Air Medal with 27 Oak Leaf Clusters. Dick retired from the United States Air Force March 1, 1989 after 26 years of distinguished service.