BTM226 - Terry Kraft - USS Midway Museum and PsychArmor

Show SummaryOn today’s episode, feature a conversation with Rear Admiral Terry Kraft, US Navy, Retired. Terry is the President and CEO of the USS Midway Museum, the longest-serving aircraft carrier int eh 20th Century that is now a museum in San Diego. Terry also serves on the board of directors for PsychArmor, and we talk about both of those roles in our conversation.  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 GuestRetired RADM Terry B. Kraft’s military service spanned a remarkable 34-year Navy career highlighted by unparalleled leadership across diverse domains. As the son of a Navy captain, he graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1981 and earned his designation as a Naval Flight Officer in 1982. His academic achievements include a master’s degree in political science from Auburn University, a fellowship at Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government, and graduation from the Navy Nuclear Power Program. Throughout his military service, RADM Kraft excelled in operational and strategic roles. He commanded aviation squadrons, ships, and a carrier strike group. As Executive Officer of the USS Theodore Roosevelt, he contributed to major operations including Desert Storm, Iraqi Freedom, and Enduring Freedom. His pivotal shore assignments included roles with VA-128, the Air Command and Staff College, U.S. Pacific Command, and the Chief of Naval Operations staff. His leadership in Maritime Aviation, Unmanned Aerial Systems, and Intelligence and Surveillance capabilities reflects his strategic vision and innovative approach. Additionally, he commanded the Navy Warfare Development Command and U.S. Naval Forces Japan, where he spearheaded critical initiatives to advance naval operations.After retiring from the Navy, Terry continued to demonstrate exceptional leadership in the private sector. From 2015 to 2023, he held senior management roles at General Atomics, driving technological and strategic advancements. Now, as President and CEO of the USS Midway Museum, he combines a commitment to preserving naval history with a passion for public education—values closely aligned with PsychArmor’s mission. Terry and his wife, a fellow Navy veteran, reside in San Diego, where they enjoy attending music concerts and spending time with their children sailing around San Diego Bay. Links Mentioned During the EpisodeUSS Midway Museum WebsiteTerry’s Bio on PsychArmorPsychArmor Resource of the WeekThis week’s PsychArmor Resource of the Week is the PsychArmor Course, the Basics of Military Culture. Understand key values, customs, and experiences unique to service members and veterans through stories from six American service members. Perfect for employers, healthcare providers, and anyone working with military-connected individuals. You can find the resource here:  https://learn.psycharmor.org/courses/military-culture-series Episode Partner: Are you an organization that engages with or supports the military affiliated community? Would you like to partner with an engaged and dynamic audience of like-minded professionals? Reach out to Inquire about Partnership Opportunities Contact Us and Join Us on Social Media Email PsychArmorPsychArmor on TwitterPsychArmor on FacebookPsychArmor on YouTubePsychArmor on LinkedInPsychArmor on InstagramTheme MusicOur theme music Don’t Kill the Messenger was written and performed by Navy Veteran Jerry Maniscalco, in cooperation with Operation Encore, a non profit committed to supporting singer/songwriter and musicians across the military and Veteran communities.Producer and Host Duane France is a retired Army Noncommissioned Officer, combat veteran, and clinical mental health counselor for service members, veterans, and their families.  You can find more about the work that he is doing at www.veteranmentalhealth.com