Lansing, Michigan's very own Keegan Jones takes us by the hand and leads us through the captivating twists and turns of her life, from a dance-loving tomboy to a valiant member of the United States Army. Her story proves that the metamorphosis of the human spirit is as profound as it is unpredictable, a narrative rich with the laughter of childhood, the rigor of military discipline, and the triumphs of personal tenacity. As Keegan unveils the dynamics of her upbringing, her brother's influence, and a vibrant social life that jostled with the demands of education, you'll find yourself rooting for her at every turn.The heart of this episode pulses strongly with the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood forged in the crucible of military service. From the moment Keegan swaps her dancing shoes for army boots, it's a journey of raw transformation. With Keegan as our guide, we venture into the camaraderie of basic training, the intensity of her progression within an EOD company, and the cherished friendships that blossom amidst the most challenging circumstances. Her candid reflections on military romance, the emotional oscillations of assignments from Alaska's snowy blankets to Afghanistan's sandy frontlines, and the valor found in both service and vulnerability, offer a compelling testament to resilience.Our journey with Keegan concludes as she shares the delicate dance of reintegrating into civilian life, a period replete with both tender family moments and formidable challenges. The levity of a botched first pitch at a baseball game juxtaposes the gravity of navigating post-military existence, while the empowering message she embodies shines a guiding light for women in the military and beyond. Keegan's story is not merely an account of her army days; it's a beacon of encouragement, urging us all to chase our dreams with unfaltering courage and to embrace the richness of our own unfolding stories.

Terrence McMillan's story is one that stitches together a tapestry of family, service, and personal growth. From his earliest memories within the walls of a military family to the disciplined ranks of the U.S. Marine Corps, his narrative captures the essence of a life dedicated to serving beyond self. Throughout the episode, Terrence's vivid recollections bring us closer to the intricate relationships and pivotal moments that shaped his journey—from the humorous mishaps of a safety course to the emotional triumph of delivering his child.As we sit down with Terrence, we uncover the layered experiences of his life, marked by leadership lessons, unexpected adventures in Japan, and the challenges of balancing military duties with fatherhood. His candid accounts of the highs and lows encountered during his enlistment and beyond resonate with a profound honesty that speaks to the heart of resilience. The tales of a surprise marriage in San Diego, the joy of a gender reveal with twins, and the arduous recovery from a medical separation from the Marines all underscore the unpredictable nature of a life lived in service.Navigating the transition to civilian life and grappling with PTSD, Terrence's story doesn't shy away from the complex tapestry of mental health challenges that many veterans face. His openness about the therapeutic process and the balance between logic and emotion offer a raw look at the importance of seeking support and the strenuous yet therapeutic journey towards healing. Join us as we share in the poignant and powerful lessons gleaned from Terrence's extraordinary life—a testament to the enduring human spirit.

Embark on an intimate exploration of one veteran's compelling voyage from the snow-tipped landscapes of Wisconsin to the vast expanse of the sea. Jenna Carlton's narrative, etched with the hues of triumph and the shadows of adversity, unfolds in this episode, where she shares her evolution from a small-town rebel to a decorated US Navy veteran. Her accounts of life on a naval ship resonate with the harmony of friendship and the dissonance of darker experiences, crafting a multi-faceted portrait of military life that is as raw as it is real.This conversation travels through the complexities of identity, as Jenna discusses the personal battles faced during boot camp, the profound impact of sexual assault, and the challenging road to healing and resilience. As she candidly voices her struggles with body image and the silent agony that followed her trauma, a story of human tenacity emerges—a tale that turns the page from victimhood to advocacy, laying bare the stark realities that service members wrestle with beyond the uniform.Witness Jenna's metamorphosis from sailor to sobriety advocate and passionate veteran ally. Her life, interwoven with the responsibilities of motherhood, education, and the relentless pursuit of creating a supportive community for her fellow veterans, is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability. Through her journey, we're reminded of the enduring spirit of those who serve and the importance of embracing the entirety of one's story—as a beacon of hope, a catalyst for change, and a bridge to the future.

Embark on a heartfelt odyssey with Russell Norcross, a retired United States Air Force veteran whose story reads like a mosaic of life lessons and adventures spanning continents. As he walks us through the rich tapestry of his experiences, from the high school baseball fields of Michigan to the historical sands of Baghdad, Russell shares the moments that defined him. His journey paints a vivid picture of the early days of computing in the military, the camaraderie of life in uniform, and the intimate cross-cultural exchanges that only a life dedicated to service can provide.Throughout our time with Russell, we traverse the globe, from the nostalgic tales of driving a Chevy Cavalier on the autobahns of Germany to the family bonds strengthened in the tropical climes of Okinawa. His narrative doesn't shy away from the realities of military life, addressing the complexities of deployments and the intricate dance of managing family life amidst the call of duty. Russell's insights offer a behind-the-scenes look at the nurturing support systems within the military community that buoy soldiers and their loved ones through the challenges they face.As we bid farewell to Russell, his reflections resonate with a wisdom only earned through a lifetime of service. He talks about the transformative nature of his career, the importance of teamwork, and the profound personal growth that accompanies such an extraordinary path. His story isn't just a chronicle of a career; it's a legacy of dedication that continues to inspire long after the uniform is retired. Join us in celebrating the indelible mark left by Russell Norcross and countless others like him, who've woven their dedication into the fabric of our nation.

As the oldest boy in a bustling family of six, Robert "Bob" Elliott's tale is one of mischief, leadership, and the seeds of service planted in the heartland of Central Illinois. Step back in time with us as Bob paints a vivid picture of a bygone era filled with outdoor adventures, school shenanigans, and the traditional family values that laid the groundwork for his future in the National Guard. His memories are a testament to the formative influence of youth, hinting at the commitment and leadership that would define his dual roles in law enforcement and military service.Embarking on a career that threads through the fabric of community and country, Bob reveals the intricate dance of balancing a law enforcement career with the demands of the National Guard in the 90s. Activation for natural disasters, overseas deployments, and raising a young family—our conversation with Bob traverses these multifaceted experiences that shaped not only his life but also those of his loved ones. With humor and poignancy, he shares the realities of service and its ripple effects on family dynamics, offering an inside look at the societal perceptions of his dual professions and the nuances of law enforcement titles across different states.We round off our journey with Bob as he reflects on the emotional toll of military deployment, the logistics of leaving family behind, and the complexities of coming home. Learn how he leveraged the GI Bill to further his education and how penning a memoir became a cathartic endeavor, fostering healing and preserving history. Bob's insights into the importance of veterans sharing their stories, supported by platforms that celebrate their legacy, emphasize the unbreakable bonds formed through service. His experience exemplifies the lasting camaraderie among soldiers and the profound commitment to family and fellow service members, leaving a legacy that will inspire for generations to come.

When Keith Terstriep walked into our studio, ready to unfold the map of his life—from a modest childhood in Davenport, Iowa, to the battlefields overseas and back to civilian life—it was clear we were in for an extraordinary tale. His narrative, a blend of heartache and humor, resilience and transformation, promises to grip your heart and compel you to reflect on your journey through life's battlefields. The echoes of his laughter and the solemnity in his voice as he shared his story will reverberate long after our conversation.Join us as Keith takes us through the chapters of his life, beginning with the early years where family bonds and a passion for baseball set the foundation for the man he would become. The contrast between those carefree days and the challenges that led him to enlist in the military are as stark as they are stirring. As he recounts the rigors of basic training and the pride of infantry graduation, you'll be right there with him, feeling the weight of the rucksack and the significance of the blue infantry cord pinned by his father, creating a bond beyond words.But Keith's story doesn't pause at the pride of military accomplishments; it delves into the raw and real experiences of deployment—close calls that could've rewritten his story, the camaraderie that defines life in a unit, and the humor that sometimes is the only way to cope with the reality of war. As he unpacks the complexity of returning home, the struggle to adapt, and the quest to find a new purpose, you'll find inspiration in his resilience. Keith Terstriep's journey is a compelling reminder of the indomitable human spirit and the hope that persists through life's most tumultuous chapters.

As the leaves of memory unfurl, today's conversation transports us to the heart of one man's life journey. My guest, Larry Vedder, a United States Army Reserve veteran and the man I'm proud to call my father, opens up about the tapestry of his early years, military service, and the profound influence of faith. Together, we walk through the streets of 1960s Detroit, where Larry's adolescence was framed by the specter of the Vietnam War and the personal crossroads at the draft age of 19. His candid recollections of choosing the Army Reserves—a decision intertwining duty with a strategic avoidance of the front lines—paint a vivid picture of a period marked by global unrest yet grounded in the hope for a safer future.Through Larry's eyes, we gain an intimate glimpse into the world of basic training where camaraderie blooms amidst the harsh rigors of military life. His stories of drill sergeants, desert wildlife dangers, and the unshakeable bond formed with his fellow reservists underscore the resilience and adaptability that come with wearing the uniform. From a life-changing car accident to the challenges and unexpected kindnesses within the Army, Larry's narrative is one of perseverance and the lasting friendships that transcend the years of service. In these shared memories, the spirit of an era comes alive, offering a personal perspective on a time when every young man's path was shadowed by the draft.Wrapping up our journey, Larry sheds light on the transition back to civilian life, where his military experience and steadfast faith guided his choices. We learn about the roads taken post-discharge, from a long-standing career with the city of Livonia to the simple yet profound joys discovered as a school bus driver. As Larry shares his reflections on Christianity's role in his life and the unique nature of the Vietnam War, his words carry a deep-seated hope for listeners to find solace and strength in their beliefs. His story is a testament to the enduring impacts of military service and the personal resolve that shapes a life's journey. Join us for this soul-stirring episode, where history meets the human heart in a father's legacy.

Have you ever wondered what four decades of military service can teach a person about life, leadership, and overcoming adversity? Retired Lieutenant Colonel Greg Cooper, affectionately known as Coop, offers an enlightening perspective on these topics and so much more. With a story that spans from a tough upbringing in Lansing to the disciplined ranks of the U.S. Marine Corps and Army National Guard, Coop's journey is nothing short of remarkable. He candidly recounts the influences that shaped him, including the powerful presence of his grandmother and the life-altering decision to enlist at just 17 years old without a high school diploma.Throughout our conversation with Coop, we traverse the varied landscapes of his military career, unearthing poignant anecdotes and invaluable lessons learned along the way. He speaks openly about transitions and challenges within the service, the importance of faith, and the strong bonds forged with fellow service members—bonds that helped him navigate the complexities of military leadership and personal growth. His experiences range from the lighthearted memories of proposing to his wife on live television to the sobering responsibilities of casualty notifications and honoring fallen soldiers.As we wrap up this profound dialogue, Coop's reflections on leadership, mentorship, and the delicate balance of service and family life resonate deeply. He emphasizes the significance of a solid support system, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the mentors and family members who stood by him. This episode is rich with life lessons and leadership insights, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the human side of military service and the resilience required to endure and succeed. Join us for an episode that promises to enlighten and inspire, as Coop shares wisdom only gleaned from a lifetime of dedication to serving one's country.

As the first snowflakes of winter dust the Michigan landscape, we're reminded of the indomitable spirit of men like George Lantz. Born against this very backdrop in 1930, his life's story unfolds for us—a testament to resilience, hard work, and the bounties of nature. Step back in time with George's vivid recollections: from his youth on a family farm, with close calls amidst livestock and crops, to the youthful pastimes of hunting and trapping. We trace his path from a grain elevator worker to the front lines of the Korean War, capturing the essence of an era that forged the mettle of a generation.War's stark realities have a way of etching themselves into memory, and George's tenure as a soldier in Korea is no exception. His narrative takes us through the bone-chilling winters and rugged terrains, where his duties as a radio operator and driver were punctuated by artillery fire and the ever-present threat of the unknown. The intimacy of his recollections reveals what it truly means to step into the boots of a soldier, from the heaviness of replacing a fallen unit to the makeshift bunkers that became home. Experience the profound gravity of his wartime stories, a moving chronicle that bears witness to the bravery of those who stood sentinel in South Korea's mountains.Woven through the fabric of George's story is a thread of faith, a source of strength that sustained him, even when faced with the less-than-palatable realities of military rations. Laugh and commiserate with his journal entry aboard a ship—where dried eggs and flavorless oatmeal were the norm, but the joy of fresh bread could lift spirits. In the retelling of days burdened by kitchen duties and sleepless nights in brightly lit quarters, we're reminded of the camaraderie and unspoken understanding shared by those who've worn the uniform. George Lantz's journey is more than a mere recounting; it's a living, breathing history lesson, an inspiration echoing through the years.

Ever faced a crossroads that completely rerouted the trajectory of your life? Major Ryan Reynolds shares his compelling narrative, where a high school athlete from Lennon, Michigan, becomes an esteemed military officer. Raised in a family where service ran deep, Ryan's candid conversation peels back the layers of his upbringing—the influence of a father employed at General Motors, a mother caring for others in a convalescent center, and a sister whose own retirement from the military marks the family's enduring legacy. We explore his transition from the sports fields of Durand Area High School to the disciplined ranks of the Army and National Guard, uncovering the resilience and resolve that propelled him forward.This heart-to-heart with Major Ryan doesn't shy away from the road less traveled, revealing the pivotal moment a college expulsion for a youthful indiscretion set him on an unexpected journey. The aspirations of a college education and a youth ministry career came to a halt, leaving Ryan to navigate the uncharted waters of his future. He opens up about embracing the military path, not just as a necessity, but as a proud continuation of his family's tradition. Join us as we traverse the intricate interplay of Ryan's personal challenges and the echoing call of duty that shaped his story—a tale that might just inspire you to reexamine the compass guiding your own life decisions.

Every life has its own unique cadence, a rhythm composed of trials, triumphs, and turning points. Master Sergeant Lon Richardson's melody is one of tradition and transformation—a symphony of service that echoes the legacy of his Navy veteran grandfather. Settle in as we trace Lon's journey from the tranquil shores of Lake Huron to the peaks of personal growth in Guantanamo Bay, threading through the memories of childhood, the complexities of family, and the lure of military life that shaped his destiny.The National Guard's call to duty sings a tune of camaraderie and challenge, and through Lon's experiences, we're given a backstage pass to this world. His narrative crescendos as we recount tales of artillery training, the vibrant life at Guantanamo Bay, and the eventual return to civilian rhythms. But the story doesn't end there; Lon's heartfelt dedication to mentoring recruits paints a vivid picture of the loyalty and leadership that define his role as a recruiter—where the impact of his guidance resonates long after the uniform is folded away.As we approach the final notes of Lon's service, he shares a reflective composition on the values that have carried him through his career: protection, freedom, and mentorship. His insights on cultural diversity and the bonds formed within the military community underscore a lifetime of lessons learned. Join us as we celebrate this inspiring tale of a man whose life has been a testament to service, and whose next chapter promises to support fellow veterans with the same passion that has marked his illustrious career.

Discover the extraordinary path of Ann Marie Colombo, whose story weaves through the tapestry of Detroit's working-class neighborhoods to the disciplined ranks of the United States Marine Corps. Ann Marie takes us on a nostalgic stroll through her formative years, influenced by a father whose bravery as a firefighter set the stage for her own legacy of service. As we chat, she unfolds the chapters of her life with a poise that only someone who has experienced the transformative power of the military can possess. From high school math whiz to Marine, her tale is as much about personal determination as it is a tribute to the mentors and pivotal moments that guided her course.Step into the boots of a Marine recruit alongside Ann Marie, where the grit of basic training forges unbreakable bonds and shapes futures. Her vivid accounts of the demanding drills, the laughter that punctuated the exhaustion, and the friendships molded in the crucible of shared challenges provide an insider's perspective on shaping a Marine. Ann Marie doesn't hold back on the details, from the Chicken ala King MREs that became a surprising comfort to the peculiarities of life in a military tent. With humor and candor, she shares the rollercoaster of emotions upon returning home, the scenic drives across America, and the life-altering joy of motherhood post-deployment.We continue to march with Ann Marie as she transitions from active duty to a civilian career with Lake Trust Credit Union, all without losing her connection to the Marine Corps League. As Judge Advocate, her mission now includes advocating for veterans, presiding over Color Guard Funerals, and championing new member recruitment. Through her eyes, we see the challenges younger veterans face balancing service with personal ambitions, and the critical importance of giving back to a community that has given so much. Ann Marie's journey is not simply one of honor and duty; it embodies the enduring spirit of service that extends far beyond the uniform.

From the modest roots of Clare, Michigan, to the esteemed ranks of the United States Marine Corps, Larry Gulick's story is one of dedication and transformative experiences. Our conversation with Larry, a 21-year veteran, journeys through his compelling life narrative, unraveling the threads from his small-town childhood, the driving forces behind his enlistment, to the profound moments that shaped his military tenure. Peering into the life of a Marine, this episode traverses through intense training, overseas deployments, and the bonds forged in the crucible of service, as Larry candidly recounts the humor intertwined with the sacrifices made in the name of duty.Navigating the complexities of military life, we set sail on Larry's deployments, from the shores of Guantanamo Bay to the bustling streets of New Orleans, the vibrant life in Japan, and the strategic maneuvers through the Suez Canal post-9/11. His memories offer a panoramic view of a Marine's world, filled with cultural shocks, the embrace of foreign customs, and the harsh realities of missing life's milestones back home. As Larry shares the poignant juxtaposition of the celebration of crossing the equator with the Shellback ceremony and the solemnity of family events missed, listeners gain a rare glimpse into the personal costs that accompany the pride of serving one's country.Recounting the transition to civilian life, Larry sheds light on the guidance he offers fellow veterans and his impactful journey in cybersecurity. His story doesn't conclude with the lowering of the uniform; instead, it carries forward through his mentorship with American Corporate Partners and his altruistic involvement in community initiatives such as Toys for Tots. By tuning in, you'll uncover the unyielding spirit of a Marine who continues to serve and inspire, exemplifying the lifelong commitment of veterans to uplift each other and their communities long after their military chapters have ended.

Embark on an evocative trek through the life of Ray Rayl, whose roots in Michigan's soil were just the beginning of a journey that would take him across oceans and back. Our latest episode paints a portrait of a man whose adolescence was filled with the rigors of sports and study, and who made the consequential choice to join the US Marine Corps immediately following high school. His narrative unfolds, revealing the discipline of military training, the camaraderie of service, and the color of life on the vibrant streets of Bangkok during his overseas assignment.As Ray reflects on his post-service voyages through various career paths, we're invited to sit shotgun in his treasured Buick convertible, cruising towards a retirement that was as much a new beginning as it was an epilogue to his diverse vocations. His chronicles don't just highlight a personal history but impart wisdom about the value of seizing opportunities and the transformative power of education. These shared experiences offer a beacon for veterans and civilians alike, navigating through their own life's pursuits.The episode is not just a recap of Ray's accomplishments—it's a mosaic of family influence, personal growth, and the enduring spirit of service. We explore the proud paths of his descendants, the wit and determination that propelled his own career, and the anecdotes of a life that has been rich with both challenges and triumphs. Join us for this intimate conversation with a man whose service to his country is matched only by his commitment to living a life of purpose and continuous learning.

Imagine stepping into a time machine, not to explore the distant future, but to journey through the past of an extraordinary individual. Gary Dunn's tale of transformation from a Detroit teenager to a seasoned Marine unfolds before us, transporting listeners across pivotal moments in American history. Born in 1949 to a family with a rich military heritage, Gary's life was a whirlwind of football games, Catholic school discipline, and early independence that saw him fending for himself by the age of 16. His candid narration reveals the raw realities of an era marked by radical changes and the allure of the Marines during the Vietnam War period.Gary's recounting of the demanding days at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego is as immersive as it is enlightening. The trials faced within those barracks walls, from grueling drills to the hardships of racial tension, offer a window into the soul-building journey of a soldier. Through Gary's eyes, we witness the evolution of a young man challenged not just by the physical demands of boot camp, but also by the mental rigors required to emerge as a Marine ready for the uncertainties of Vietnam.Transitioning from the jungles of combat to the corridors of finance, Gary's post-war life in Kansas City is a testament to the adaptability of the human spirit. His service continues, though, as he fosters leadership and community through his involvement with the Marine Corps League. Gary's dedication shines through in his work with Toys for Tots and mentorship within veteran groups, embodying the ethos of giving back. His story is not just one of survival and success, but a powerful message on the enduring impact of mentorship and the importance of recognizing the achievements of those who follow. Join us for a journey through the life of a man who has navigated the battlefield of war and the equally challenging, yet rewarding, mission of service to others.

From the nostalgic streets of Plymouth, Michigan to the rigorous training grounds of Fort Leonard Wood, our latest guest, Chris Vedder – a former Michigan Army National Guard member turned Army ROTC instructor – escorts us through a life steeped in military tradition and personal growth. In a rich recounting that commences with childhood dreams kindled by war films and familial legacy, Chris's journey underscores a destiny seemingly written in the stars. We navigate his adolescence, where sportsmanship and the seismic events of 9/11 carved his path toward service and reflect on the profound mindset shifts required as new generations join the ranks without the same historical touchstones.Transitioning from the home front to the frontlines, Chris opens up about the grit and grind of his military training, the culture shock within the Guard, and the intense buildup to his 2010 deployment to Afghanistan. The anecdotes from training days to the realities of a warzone offer an intimate glimpse into the soldier's life, from the camaraderie of drills to the unvarnished truth of managing a detention facility in a conflict-ridden land. These stories provide more than just a window into military life; they reveal the resilience and adaptability that define our men and women in uniform.At the heart of our conversation lies the transformative power of mentorship and the life lessons imparted by figures like Sergeant Major Folsom. Chris shares how the trials of recruitment – whether on the streets of Pontiac or within the halls of Eastern Michigan University – have been shaped by the pandemic, personal connections, and the indelible impact one can have on another's trajectory. His account is a tribute to perseverance, the importance of striving for excellence, and the enduring influence a mentor can wield in shaping the futures of those who will one day lead. Join us for an episode that doesn't just tell a story – it honors the legacy of those who serve and inspires with its heartfelt wisdom.

When you hang up your uniform for the last time after two decades of military service, you're not just retiring a piece of clothing; you're transitioning an entire way of life. That's something Joel Burkhart, a soon-to-be retired member of the Michigan Army National Guard, knows all too well. We're honored to have Joel share his intimate journey from a young farm boy inspired by his veteran grandfather, through the life-altering aftermath of 9/11, to the pivotal steps leading him into retirement at an early age. His narrative is not just about the ranks he climbed but the lives he touched, the mentors who shaped him, and the delicate balance he struck between duty and family.Join us as we navigate the complexities of military life through Joel's eyes, gaining insight into the Active Guard Reserve program where he found his calling away from his part-time work at the Sheriff's Department. Joel's story is a map of resilience, marked with the milestones of personal growth and the challenges of being a recruiter in a post-9/11 world. Witness the growth of a man who accepted an unexpected deployment, managed the movement of detainees in Iraq, and returned to nurture the next generation of soldiers on the home front.Our conversation extends beyond the barracks, following Joel into his civilian transition, where the skills and adaptabilities of his military experience become his most valued assets. Joel doesn't just leave us with his story; he imparts wisdom on the importance of mentorship and adaptability in unfamiliar terrains, whether leading a team or starting anew. His tale is one of honor, change, and the courage to embrace a future undefined by the past but informed by its lessons. Witness the evolution of a soldier into a civilian, a leader into a mentor, as we explore the emotional march into a life after service with Joel Burkhart.

From the coal mines and coke ovens of Uniontown, Pennsylvania, to the dynamic landscapes of military life, Sergeant Major George Butch Davis's story isn't just gripping—it's a profound reflection on the resilience required to serve. In our latest episode, we sit with Davis as he unravels his life's tapestry, colored by experiences that range from drill sergeant duties to midnight deployments. He narrates the personal challenges that accompany a soldier's life, the gravity of leadership, and how family tradition and a deep-seated patriotism guided his footsteps through an ever-evolving military career.Embarking on a journey through history and personal growth, Davis provides a window into the fall of the Berlin Wall, the tactical shifts of the Gulf War, and the subsequent downsizing of the U.S. military. But there's more than just recounting events; it's about the individual tales that interweave to depict the larger narrative of America's military past. His insights on adapting to change—be it swapping active duty for the National Guard or transitioning to civilian life—highlight the adaptability of those who serve and the camaraderie that binds them together.Hear firsthand from a veteran who has not only witnessed but shaped history, and understand what it truly means to ascend through the ranks—from facing hostility upon returning home to the hero's welcome post-9/11. Davis's story is a salute to the dedication of soldiers and a reminder of the profound duty to bring every troop home safely. This episode isn't just a retelling; it's an homage to the spirit of the Army and those who don it as their second skin.

When the conversation turned to the military in the Kraft family hot tub, young Nick Kraft could hardly have known it would pave the way for a character-defining career. Join us as Nick recounts his transformation from a Detroit teenager to a revered serviceman, taking us through the trials and triumphs that have shaped his life in and out of uniform. From his early days, shaped by a deep love for hockey and a complex family dynamic, to the stirring narrative of his time as a military police officer in Iraq, Nick's story is a mosaic of resilience, camaraderie, and growth under pressure.Nick speaks candidly about the esprit de corps and the sobering reality of his role in establishing the Iraqi police force, bringing a human touch to the military narrative we're seldom privy to. His vivid descriptions transport us into the heart of patrolling Iraqi streets, sharing both the lighter moments of skits to lift spirits and the darker, more challenging times that tested his resolve. The episode paints a full picture of military life, including Nick's eventual transition back to civilian duties, juggling family responsibilities, and seeking fulfillment in a post-retirement career that offers autonomy away from the increasing politicization he experienced.Our guest doesn't shy away from discussing the often-overlooked emotional labor of military recruitment, and the push for self-worth through hard work in a world that frequently glamorizes shortcuts. As he approaches retirement, Nick's reflections offer insights into the life of a man who has worn many hats, and the dignity he finds in looking forward to new challenges, including a potential role in law enforcement. Nick's narrative is an authentic tribute to the profound impacts of military service—impacts that extend far beyond the battlefield and into the heart of what it means to serve.

When the echoes of military life reverberate through a family tree, it's impossible not to listen to the stories they tell. Our guest, Joe Gregory, is no stranger to this call, having been steeped in a military tradition stretching back to his father's service in the Korean War. Join us on a profound journey that stitches together duty, leadership, and personal sacrifice, as Joe takes us from his first steps into the barracks as an ammunition clerk to his final salute as a Command Sergeant Major. His story is more than a chronicle of military milestones; it's an intimate look at how service shapes a life, influencing everything from family ties to the bittersweet farewells at retirement.Exploring Joe's career is like tracing the veins of American military history—each deployment and duty station adds depth to our understanding of the armed forces' evolving landscape. Through his eyes, we venture into the sandstorms of Desert Storm, navigate the leadership challenges of a platoon in Guantanamo, and even touch the heartbreak of missing the birth of a child due to the call of duty. Joe's candid reflections on his ascent from E5 ammo team chief to the esteemed ranks of Command Sergeant Major offer a masterclass in resilience and adaptation. His tales of leading troops in both the searing heat of battle and the frosty tensions of politics are a testament to his steadfast spirit.As curtains close on a 38-year career, Joe's reflections on military service resonate with the wisdom of experience. Retirement through the sanctuary system, the transition to a civilian rhythm, and the simple yet fulfilling pleasures like golfing every day—Joe's narrative is a mosaic of moments that reveal the person behind the uniform. Whether you're a veteran, active service member, or simply an admirer of those who've donned the nation's cloth, this episode is an invitation to witness a life defined by dedication and love for country, while every challenge is met with courage, and every triumph is a shared victory.