#15 Michael Hernandez - From Army Combat Medic to Texas VSO: Turning Pain Into Purpose

On this episode of World Changing Veterans podcast, we speak with Michael “Doc” Hernandez, a former Army combat medic who served with 1st Armored Division and later became a county Veteran Service Officer in Texas. Doc shares how although injuries and undiagnosed PTSD made his transition and medical retirement difficult, there were leaders around him that took the time to care and support his journey to healing. He also recounts advocating for his Vietnam-era grandfather and connecting with Hays County VSO Jude Prather, whose home visit ultimately helped secure his grandfather 100% benefits with nearly $53,000 in retroactive pay. Inspired, Doc pursued VSO work by utilizing the VA’s VR&E (Vocational Rehabilitation) program and is now the Director of Veteran Services for Williamson County. 00:00 Episode Setup01:16 Meet Doc02:36 Joining the Army04:08 Orders and Deployment05:48 Injuries and Medboard07:38 Rocky Transition10:32 Grandfather Benefits Win13:01 Becoming a VSO14:47 How Great VSOs Help18:11 Finding Benefits Help19:55 Mental Health Resources24:45 Education and Careers27:31 World Changing Veterans29:15 Contact and ClosingWays to connect:Williamson County Veteran Services: https://www.wilcotx.gov/785/Veteran-ServicesWorld Changing Veterans: If you would like to join the community, share your story on the podcast, or connect with us at World Changing Veterans, email us at [email protected] You can also connect with us at afteractioncollective.com or on social media: Instagram: wcveteransYouTube: WCVeteransLinkedIn: World Changing Veterans This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit worldchangingveterans.substack.com