Operation Insight

Join us on Operation Insight for our special 100th episode commemorating the 25th Anniversary of 9/11 with Krista Salvatore!   (00:00) 100th Episode Prelude (03:33) Disclaimer (04:34) Introduction (24:23) Arriving in New York City (28:49) September 11th & The World Trade Center (1:02:13) The Next Day & the Aftermath (1:20:39) Flags of Valor (1:26:57) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Colonel Paul G. Dixon of the U.S. Army & Army Reserve!   In this episode, our guest traces his journey from a restless youth who had skipping school down to a science to his formative time in Basic Training at Fort Knox. Then, it was on to being assigned as an Armor Officer, and an unexpected turn towards Psychological Operations and multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Listeners will hear personal family history, memorable moments that shaped Dixon’s leadership, and the practical lessons he learned as a company and battalion commander. He explains PSYOPs, the ethics of truth versus disinformation, and how his teams supported units like the 101st Airborne during major operations. Paul shares firsthand stories from combat — narrow escapes, working with local populations, and how faith and divine intervention from God spurred crucial decisions that ultimately saved lives. He also speaks candidly about traumatic brain injury symptoms, the difficulties of navigating medical care within the military, and the emotional toll of burying wartime experiences. This episode also explores life after the service: Dixon’s civilian career in risk management, his unexpected retreat into beekeeping, volunteer work as a court‑appointed special advocate (CASA) for children in the foster care system, and how he channels his veteran identity into mentoring, listening, and spiritual leadership for coworkers and community members. Expect a candid, reflective interview that mixes tactical details with broader themes — leadership under pressure, the responsibility of veterans when sharing stories, faith, healing, and practical advice for anyone seeking to understand modern deployments and veteran reintegration.   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:30) Introduction (27:51) Joining the Army: From "Stripes" to "Sir" (44:36) Tanking & Training (49:22) Creating a Strong Foundation (58:10) West Point (1:01:17) PSYOPs: Truth vs. Disinformation (1:09:39) Deployment Planning & Prep (1:15:27) The Deployment (1:26:48) Homefront: Family, Communication & Reintegration (1:31:32) "Turn Around...Now": Keeping the Faith in Combat (1:41:21) Lessons in Leadership (1:49:04) Injuries, Hospitalization & Isolation (2:01:36) A Veteran's Societal Responsibility & Safeguarding Mental Health (2:15:24) Court Appointed Special Advocate (2:22:39) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Specialist Shanna Hughes-Collins of the Illinois Army National Guard!   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:30) Introduction (50:40) Desert Shield/Desert Storm (1:05:21) The Miraculous Story of the Dog & the Boy (1:15:42) Part II (2:08:38) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Commander Bob May of the U.S. Navy!   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:30) Introduction (39:46) Nuclear “Delivery” (47:24) Part II (1:16:24) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Lieutenant Colonel Fred Wellman of the U.S. Army and Army Reserve!   The Primary Election in the Great State of Missouri is scheduled for Tuesday, August 4th. While this program remains committed to neutrality and will never officially endorse a candidate, we do wish to present our audience with a special individual who just so happens to be running for Missouri's 2nd Congressional District. Lieutenant Colonel Fred Wellman (Ret.) is an affable and vibrant individual who cares deeply about the people of his home state and the issues they are facing. Through unimaginable personal loss and struggles, Fred has kept his chipper and can-do attitude. His motto is "I'm not done yet," and that is a mantra he has lived by through the tragic death of his first wife to the decision to jump head-first back into active duty service after the 9/11 terror attacks. Fred is a man of action with the gift for gab. The conversation with Fred was fun, lively, and maybe just a little bit off-color, but that's why we love him! Fred spoke frankly about his time in the Army and his fight with PTSD, all while maintaining his good-natured demeanor. While the thrust of his interview was focused on his many years of military service and his leadership as a service member, space is given for a discussion of his candidacy. We are honored to present his story to you.   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:30) Introduction (40:45) Desert Shield/Desert Storm (51:46) Part II (1:20:52) Fred the Candidate (1:38:09) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Colonel Sam Digirolamo of the U.S. Air Force & Missouri Air National Guard!   In April of 2023, back when the museum was still named "The St. Charles County Veterans Museum", a special Vietnam Veterans Remembrance Day was hosted. The keynote speaker for that event was none other than Colonel Sam Digirolamo, USAF (Ret.). Sam was plain and frank about his time as an F-100 Super Sabre pilot in Vietnam back then and he is even more so now. Sam dutifully represents those who cannot or will not share their own stories and he represents them well!   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:30) Introduction (29:54) Part II (51:37) Vietnam (1:28:41) Solo Flight Home (1:37:35) Thailand (1:46:14) Part III (2:16:29) Going Back to 'Nam (2:26:16) Reflections (2:30:31) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we celebrate Independence Day with World War II veteran Tom Lacey of the U.S. Army!   When our founding fathers signed and ratified the Declaration of Independence on July 4th, 1776, they made a bold stance against tyranny and oppression. They asserted, "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness." As we celebrate our Independence Day on Saturday, July 4th, 2026, we must recognize the sacrifices made by previous generations that have allowed us to keep those "unalienable Rights." One such generation is aptly named "The Greatest Generation," and Corporal Tom Lacey stands amongst its ranks. Tom answered the call when the world was at war a second time and did so as a "Happy Warrior". He was willing to risk his life and join the global effort against the Axis Powers because it was the right thing to do. According to the National WWII Museum, over sixteen million Americans served during World War II, but only one percent of that population remains with us today. It is truly an honor to share the story of Tom Lacey and add his voice to the annals of history!   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:30) Introduction (43:28) Arriving to the Front Line & the Battle of the Bulge (58:57) Part II (1:27:05) Life After the War (1:51:57) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we celebrate our nation's semiquincentennial (250th Birthday) by hosting Missouri State Representative and Navy veteran Terri Violet!   As we celebrate 250 years of our nation's independence, we honor a connection to the very beginning of the American story and the leaders shaping its future today. Rep. Violet’s life is a masterclass in servant leadership, and her ties to the American fabric run deeper than most! She is a direct descendant of George Soule, one of the original passengers aboard the Mayflower and a signer of the Mayflower Compact in 1620! In this episode, we explore an unbroken legacy of service spanning over four centuries. Tune in as we discuss: A Lineage of Liberty: Terri traces her family history back to the literal foundational dock of America, and explains how that legacy inspires her work today. From the Crew to the Capitol: How Terri's time serving in the U.S. Navy instilled a mission-first, people-focused approach to representing Missouri’s 104th District. Servant Leadership in 2026: What America's 250th anniversary means to a veteran and legislator who has dedicated her life to defending and upholding our nation's ideals.   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:30) Introduction (42:35) Part II (53:52) Ralph & The St. Charles County Veterans Museum (1:08:02) Terri's Top Priorities (1:20:58) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Sergeant First Class Cheryl Rowland of the U.S. Army and Army Reserve!   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:30) Introduction (55:54) Building a Family & the Toll of PTSD (1:09:13) Part II (1:50:12) The NCOA (1:56:25) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Master Sergeant Kathy Nix of the U.S. Air Force & Air National Guard!   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:30) Introduction (38:54) Part II (56:21) Don't Ask, Don't Tell (1:16:03) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Petty Officer First Class Ken Carey of the U.S. Navy!   From a horse farm in Leonard, Michigan to the thunder of carrier flight decks, Ken’s story is precise, human, and unforgettable. We begin with family: great-uncles on the WWI battlefields, brothers and cousins in WWII and Korea, and a father who returned with a piece of shrapnel and a story that would become the moral compass for a son. Ken remembers the night his father recounted how a fellow soldier leapt on a grenade—the image of that sacrifice became the lesson that would follow Ken into boot camp, into leadership, and back home for a lifetime of service. Ken walks us through the moment that changed everything: a young man from Kansas and Michigan walking into a Navy recruiting office, dreaming of college and wrestling fields, only to be chosen by the Navy for aviation ordnance. What sounds mechanical—loading, testing, and safeguarding weapons—becomes a study in responsibility. Ken’s vivid accounts take you under the flight deck: safety wiring by headlamp, the hush of nighttime launches, and the trust between ordnancemen and pilots. He explains how a single shim on an F-14 pylon and a hunch saved a squadron from being grounded—and won him credibility. The episode moves like a patrol: tales from Miramar’s classrooms, Point Mugu’s experimental squadrons, the roller-coaster seas aboard the USS Eisenhower, and the unexpected leadership tests that turned a young man into a mentor and instructor. Along the way, Ken shares the funny and human moments—a butcher knife mishap that got him banned from the kitchen, the rivalry between branches of service on a missile range, and the strange economy of base housing and VW bugs that stitch a military family together. But this is not only a technical memoir. Ken also tells the intimate story of faith discovered amid deployments: how conversations, a stubborn curiosity about scripture, and the warmth of community led him and his wife to join the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He reflects on leadership the way he taught ordnance crews—don’t ask of others what you won’t do yourself—and on the most elemental truth of all: service is about sacrifice, and every veteran carries a story worth hearing. Across decades Ken’s legacy ripples—sons who served in the Navy and Army, a family forged by shared duty, and a veteran who now volunteers to keep those stories alive. This episode threads technical detail and human tenderness into a single narrative: the cost of service, the strength of community, and the reward of passing the torch.   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:30) Introduction (17:14) Ken’s Father & a Powerful Lesson on Respect (23:24) Family & a Legacy of Service (29:21) The Aviation Ordnanceman (45:50) Ken’s Long Road to Joining the Navy (1:03:00) Father & Son (1:07:56) Part II (1:22:17) Point Mugu & the USS Eisenhower (1:46:28) Keeping Up with the Cary’s (1:53:28) Learning Leadership (1:58:58) Career Delights & Disappointments (2:15:19) Ken’s Faith Journey (2:26:04) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Airman First Class Cynthia McCrea of the U.S. Air Force Reserve and founder of Veteran Women of Influence!   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:30) Introduction (41:21) Part II (1:13:40) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Sergeant Teegan LeClair of the U.S. Army! (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:30) Introduction (52:07) Part II (1:27:26) SALUTE (1:31:40) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Lieutenant Colonel Jim Craig of the U.S. Army!   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:30) Introduction (1:16:16) Waking Up to 9/11 in Hawaii (1:25:16) Part II (1:58:47) Blue Collar Colonels (2:06:28) The UMSL Veterans Center (2:17:30) “The Veterans Left Behind” & the Issue of Military Discharges (2:25:34) The GWOT Memorial (2:39:16) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host veteran couple, Paul & Sue McCool of the U.S. Air Force!   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:30) Introduction (37:13) Vietnam & Maintaining Airmanship (1:01:40) Meeting Each Other (1:04:44) Life Together Begins (1:18:51) Finding Other Veterans (1:35:11) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host veteran couple, Nick & Carrie Schwartzkopf of the U.S. Navy!   They met by chance on a base, but their lives read like two converging novels of America — one threaded through mission fields and chapels, the other forged in the streets of Detroit. Nick and Carrie Schwartzkopf discuss their extraordinary shared life: a Marine who asked to be sent to Vietnam, and a Detroit girl who escaped riots and hardship to become a trailblazing aviation mechanic in the Navy. Together they trace the arc of service, survival, and the stubborn, personal courage that kept them going. Nick’s quiet intellect and knack for electronics paired surprisingly well with Carrie’s street-smarts and mechanical instinct. The episode captures the moment when two people from very different worlds find an unlikely home on the flight deck and in each other’s company. Listen as we travel from the trauma of the 1967 Detroit riots and a young woman’s yearning for structure, to the frustrations of a military veteran turned civilian. You’ll hear candid recollections of the small, human details — the smell of jet fuel, the heaviness of an instructor’s hand, the makeshift rituals on an aircraft carrier, the invitation to a commandeered Christmas party that quietly became the first step toward marriage. These scenes are threaded with humor, humility, and moments of painful honesty. The episode also follows them into later chapters: long Navy careers, the strain of deployments, re-enlistment decisions driven by both duty and practicalities, and the transition to Boeing where the wonder of aviation takes on a new dimension. Interwoven throughout is the enduring theme of service — not just to country but to family and community — culminating in Carrie’s work to create a safe support group for veterans, first responders, and others seeking a listening ear. What makes this interview resonate is its unvarnished truth: lives marked by brokenness and redemption, and decisions made by small interventions — a commander’s nod, a recruiter’s open door, a friend’s matchmaking — that redirect destinies. By the end, you feel the weight of 43 years of marriage and three decades of service as more than statistics; they are the weathered, loving texture that composes a life well-lived and still in motion.   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:30) Introduction (38:03) Carrie’s Personal Journey (54:33) Nick’s Journey as a Marine (1:14:39) Meeting Each Other (1:40:48) Shenanigans on the Sea (1:47:05) Matchmaking & Matrimony (2:08:34) Desert Shield (2:27:01) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Charley Wright (Founder), Matt Wilson (President), and Steve Siress (Coordinator) of LifeWaters!   The goal of LifeWaters has always been to provide training and scuba opportunities while trying to decrease the cost of training and travel for people with disabilities. Life with a disability is expensive, no matter how great your insurance or VA coverage. LW understands that.  We want to give people affordable opportunities to participate in LifeWaters’ experiences. LifeWaters isn't just about diving. The social return on investment reaches far beyond one individual, going into the family and community of the adaptive diver by providing hope and strength for a better tomorrow. It is about giving people with disabilities a chance to expand the possibilities of their life, creating moments of pain-free living, and long- term camaraderie with others. https://www.lifewaters.org/contact-us.html   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:30) Introduction (1:18:20) Part II (1:46:27) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Sergeant John Lawrence & Sally Haywood, Co-coordinators of Team River Runner St. Louis!   This episode traces how a national adaptive paddling program founded at Walter Reed has grown into a life-changing community for veterans across the St. Louis region. Through stories that move from the vulnerability of the pool to the exhilaration of whitewater, listeners learn how simple acts — handing someone a paddle, carrying a kayak, or sharing a lunch — can rebuild purpose, belonging, and joy. Hear Sally’s powerful account of helping a veteran reclaim freedom after amputation, and John’s personal journey from active duty to healing on the river. Together, they describe the program’s structure, the ‘crawl-walk-run’ training approach, the specialized adaptive equipment, and the chapter’s award-winning outreach that makes paddling accessible and free for veterans and families. You’ll also learn why Team River Runner focuses on safety, inclusiveness, and long-term recovery. Whether you’re a veteran searching for community, a volunteer with time to give, or someone who wants to support the mission, this episode invites you out onto the water. Discover the surprising therapeutic benefits of buoyancy, the power of shared vulnerability, and how challenging yourself can redefine what’s possible.   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:30) Introduction (6:54) Sally's Story (19:20) John's Story (36:38) Joining TRR & Discovering Wellness on the Water (43:38) Combating Isolation in the Veteran Population (47:09) Part II (1:01:47) Partners & Programs (1:08:25) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Gold Star Father Mark Schmitz, whose son, Lance Corporal Jared Schmitz, was killed in the Abbey Gate Bombing on August 26th, 2021.   Monday, May 25th, marks this year's Memorial Day. Americans all across this great nation will commemorate loved ones lost in service to our country and honor their sacrifices. This Memorial Day, we remember one such hero: LCpl Jared Schmitz. Gold Star Father Mark Schmitz shares the story of his son, from memories of Jared as a boy to his time as a Marine. Lastly, Mark explains how he fights every day to keep the memory and spirit of the Fallen 13 of Abbey Gate alive through his foundation, The Freedom 13! So, this episode is dedicated to their enduring memory, their selfless service, and their ultimate sacrifice in the final days of a twenty-year war.   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:30) Introduction (42:14) Jared's Legacy (46:56) Becoming a Gold Star Father & Jared's Spirit (1:08:11) The Gold Star Families Roundtable (1:20:38) The Freedom 13 & Healing Camps (1:35:35) Reflection & Remembrances (1:43:47) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Airman First Class Art Minor of the U.S. Air Force!   For as much time as Art spent in and around airports, one might think he would seek out a career in Aviation. In fact, Art did decide to join the Air Force, perhaps as a way to finally realize that dream. But no. In fact, Art would have even less to do with Aviation as an Airman than he had as a civilian. Despite that, Art made the most out of his military career, except for the part about getting out three days early, but you can learn more about that from this episode! Years after exiting the military and starting a family in St. Louis, Art sought belonging. So, he joined the Korean War Veterans Association as a non-Korean War veteran. So, how does that work? Art will explain it all as well as provide a detailed explanation of what caused that conflict and the ramifications of it. You see, Art is a bit of a storyteller, as evidenced by his fascinating oral history of the St. Louis metropolitan area and his legendary status as a volunteer at the Mid America Veterans Museum. In this episode, Art laments having the feeling that he didn't do enough during his Air Force service. Art discusses the awkwardness of being a member of an association for a war in which he didn't fight. Yet, it all comes together in the end for Art when his unwavering commitment to keeping stories of veterans alive becomes as clear as the wild blue yonder.   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:30) Introduction (1:14:13) Life After the Air Force (1:24:40) Korean War Veterans Association (1:36:42) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Master Sergeant Rebecca Tallman of the U.S. Air Force and Traveling Executive Director of the Veterans Community Project!   In this episode, Rebecca guides us through the places that formed her: El Sobrante and San Pablo, a childhood threaded with family military service and the sudden loss of a beloved brother, and the poor choices that drove a young woman to seek belonging. That need for acceptance was the seed that later blossomed into service, discipline, and a fierce determination to belong to something better. We follow Rebecca into basic training and tech school where she learned to be the unseen guardian of aircraft — the communications and navigation systems. Her career arcs across Travis, Rammstein, Mildenhall, and March AFB, filled with moments that alternate between the mundane grit of aircraft maintenance and surreal brushes with history: rodeo nights in European arenas, protocol duty arranging visits for VIPs, and the gut‑wrenching weight of loss while stationed stateside. Rebecca also shares the private cost of public service: a marriage shattered by violence, a cousin imprisoned after a tragedy that affected an entire community, and the hidden burden of guilt and PTSD carried for years. She describes the subtle, institutional forms of bias — the sexism that limits opportunities, the pressure to keep mental health silent for fear of losing one’s role — and the turning points that forced her to reckon with identity beyond rank: mother, daughter, survivor, and eventually nonprofit leader. That leadership takes center stage when Rebecca describes finding the Veterans Community Project. What began as an image of a tiny red house rolling through a home show became a calling: a village of purpose‑built tiny homes, an outreach center, and a model of “housing with dignity” that stitches veterans back into their families and neighborhoods. Hear how a former maintenance supervisor became a hands‑on community builder — driving volunteers, coordinating logistics, and standing in the dirt as neighborhoods reawaken. Her narrative draws lines between policy, program, and the simple, transformative act of giving a veteran a new mattress, a plate, and a porch where a family reunion can finally happen. Rebecca’s work in the Jeff-Vander-Lou neighborhood is a testament to how one person’s relentless compassion can resurrect a forgotten block: how tiny homes and an outreach hub reunite families and reduce homelessness. Listeners will meet the veterans who have moved in, the volunteers who raised walls, and the neighbors who reclaim a sense of place — and they’ll hear directly how every contribution of time, talent, and/or dollars changes a life.   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:30) Introduction (42:02) Personal Loss & Aftermath (57:58) Rodeo Life & 9/11 (1:14:26) Discrimination & Sexism (1:24:33) Wing Protocol (1:32:19) Part II (1:45:23) Disappointments & Transitions (2:03:46) Veterans Community Project (VCP) (2:17:50) Tiny Homes, Outreach & Impact (2:28:20) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Sergeant First Class Diane Cole Phipps of the U.S. Army! In this episode, SFC Diane Cole Phipps takes us on a journey through family, service, and a career that sat at the intersection of history and humanity. Born and raised in St. Louis with a Southern family legacy, Diane’s story begins amid motorcycles, hard work, and a household where the rules were clear: you earned what you received. She grew up watching a self-taught mechanic father provide for a big family and a determined mother who demanded discipline and achievement. That upbringing shaped Diane’s grit, her respect for duty, and her unflinching work ethic. In 1974, at just seventeen years old, Diane began working at the National Personnel Records Center—only a year after the catastrophic fire that destroyed millions of military files. Diane’s reverence for the files she handled transformed into a mission: these weren’t just folders, they were people. As she sifted through charred, waterlogged, and missing records, Diane became a “special searcher,” conducting what she calls detective work to reunite veterans and families with the stories locked in their files. Her careful hands pulled the service file of Alex Haley, helped verify names for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and pieced together fragments of lives that many thought were lost to the flames. Diane’s family history—four brothers and a sister woven into military life—adds another layer to the episode. From brothers drafted into Vietnam to a household grappling with civil rights-era fears of government, Diane’s life explores how trust and duty evolve across generations. She later navigated the military herself, choosing dual status as both an Army Reservist and a civilian government employee to protect her livelihood and continue serving during an uncertain reduction-in-force era. This episode blends history with Diane's personal life: the 1973 NPRC fire and the surge of genealogy interest ignited by Roots; the stubborn pride of a father who never learned to read but could beat any engine into submission; a mother who insisted on success and stability. Through Diane’s voice, we hear archival work as sacred stewardship—an act of empathy that honors the quiet sacrifices of service members and preserves their memory for future generations.   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:30) Introduction (53:12) Part II (1:18:23) Iraq Deployment (1:27:44) Burn Pits & Multiple Myeloma (1:34:44) American Legion Post #404 (1:42:36) The Honor Flight & Legacy (1:59:33) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Specialist Phil Wight of the U.S. Army!   While you're here, check out Phil's upcoming event: Boots & Bling! Enjoy a night of cars, casino games, fashion, and country music! This great event will take place on Wednesday, April 29th, from 6-10PM at the Piazza Messina in Cottleville, Missouri. Purchase your ticket at www.STLTopRides.com/Tickets   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:30) Introduction (43:10) Bud Haedike (49:25) Gunner (54:52) The VA & Reaching Out for Help (1:09:09) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Staff Sergeant Tom Bommarito of the U.S. Army!   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:30) Introduction (38:21) Vietnam Preparation & Deployment (49:24) SFC Douglas ”Woody” Woodward (54:32) Two Purple Hearts & Mortar Fire (1:06:35) The Futility of War & Honoring the ”Unwritten Contract” (1:15:35) No Rest & No Recuperation (1:20:36) "Welcome Home" (1:28:32) "It Didn't Smell Like Anything, and That Was Good" (1:36:04) The American Veteran (1:43:41) Closing            

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Sergeant First Class Sheldon Hartsfield of the U.S. Marine Corps & the Missouri National Guard!   Collins Horton and Tai Shan's Live Performance of "Just What We Do" as featured by Songs for Heroes: https://youtu.be/nxru5MHTBRk?si=5Y_w3LBluT8SN26t   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:30) Introduction (42:52) Training for Anything & Extraction Ops (50:21) Attica! Attica! (53:32) Admiral Pugh & Career Advancement (1:03:06) Moving to St. Louis & Entering the Marine Corps Retirement Home (1:11:28) The Welcome Home & Reconciling the Past (1:19:37) Uncle Jack (1:23:26) The Cost of War & Honoring Veterans (1:32:22) "Last Promise Kept" (1:36:04) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Captain Mike Lavin of the U.S. Army!   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:30) Introduction (35:40) Once a Scout, Always a Scout (38:52) Vietnam & the 515th Transportation Company (1:07:47) Part II (1:12:16) "Born on the Fourth of July" & PTSD (1:18:48) The Westminster Seven & Returing to 'Nam (1:24:45) The Veteran Experience (1:34:04) Mike's Dog Tags (1:43:27) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we welcome Sergeant Brandon Eichholz of the U.S. Army, founder and owner of Sky Soldier Dog Training!   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:31) Introduction (49:41) 173rd Airborne Brigade & the Sky Soldiers (1:18:34) Part II (1:27:15) COVID (1:37:49) Sky Soldier Dog Training (1:44:21) Closing

Operation Insight is proud to support The Freedom 13 organization and its upcoming Salute Our Troops Gala Night! WHAT: This special event includes a full-plated dinner, entertainment, a keynote address by former Green Beret veteran Adam Smith, and an unforgettable night! WHEN: Friday, February 27th (two days after Jared's birthday) from 6-11 PM WHERE: The Foundry Art Centre in St. Charles, Missouri Tickets are on sale NOW, and sponsorship opportunities are available at www.TheFreedom13.org Support this organization's mission and help provide veterans and first responders with the care and attention they deserve!

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Sergeant William "Sif" Sifford of the U.S. Army!   "You have the spirit that will make this country the greatest the sun has ever shone upon." When Harry S. Truman said those words, he spoke from experience. Raised on a humble Missouri farm and born with poor vision, not much was expected of Harry's future. Yet, the farmboy from Independence would go on to serve in World War I and win favor as an effective leader and officer. Several decades later, Harry would have the massive responsibility and weight of the U.S. Presidency thrust upon him. He offered that inspirational quote to the organizers of a brand-new veterans club created to assist and support fellow veterans. Less than three years after a summit held in Kansas City led to the formation of The American Veterans of World War II, President Truman solidified his support for the group by granting it a federal charter. Thus, AMVETS was born merely two years after the end of World War II. A year later, President Truman issued an Executive Order abolishing segregation in the nation's Armed Forces. Later, Truman would cite AMVET's "color-blind" policy as inspiration for his decision. This proud legacy continues today, especially in Missouri, which boasts one of the most active branches of the entire AMVETS organization.   Another Missourian doing great things not only for AMVETS, but for his city, his state, and his country is William "Sif" Sifford. A Gulf War veteran and Purple Heart recipient, Sif dedicates much of his time helping others and serving his community. When Sif was younger, he didn't see much opportunity for himself outside of joining the military, and his parents agreed. Soon, it became clear how fitting a choice that was. Sif flourished in the Army and took on extra responsibility with ease. After the injury (for which he was awarded the Purple Heart) forced an early exit, Sif found other avenues through which to serve. Much of his civilian career was dedicated to the Missouri Department of Corrections, meeting people where they were, and that mission continues today! In fact, that is what being an AMVETS Rider is all about. Every year, Sif and his fellow riders participate in the famed Run for the Wall, the largest and longest organized cross-country motorcycle event in the world. Their journey takes them through the crossroads of America that sometimes seem forgotten, but those communities come to life when the riders arrive. This entire endeavor helps to remind folks of our heroes who were killed or wounded in action, those who are still missing in action, and those who suffered as prisoners of war. Sergeant Sifford is one of many veterans who ride for those who can't and someone who remembers those history tried to forget.   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:31) Introduction (42:18) Family (51:19) Part II (1:07:56) AMVETS & Run for the Wall (1:18:35) Vietnam Veterans Memorial & The Wall That Heals (1:24:09) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host First Lieutenant Repps Hudson of the U.S. Army!   “In order to write about life, first you must live it.” Ernest Hemingway knew that from experience, one could say, life experience. While others drew inspiration from silence and solitude, Hemingway dwelt in the catastrophic and chaotic pulse of the front lines, literally. His swashbuckling ways began as a volunteer Red Cross ambulance driver during World War I. It wasn’t long before he was wounded by mortar fire whilst carrying a wounded soldier to safety. Later, during the Spanish Civil War, he braved the shelling of Madrid to report on the struggle against fascism. It was World War II, however, that truly cemented his status as a legendary—if reckless—figure of the battlefield. Hemingway’s daring acts during the Allied Forces' advance deep into Nazi territory could eclipse the cinematic nature of his own novels. Whether it was documenting the first waves of the D-Day invasion, personally aiding the French Resistance in the pursuit to liberate Paris, or earning the Bronze Star for his exemplary service as a wartime correspondent, Hemingway sought adventure. One might say he sought the story.   First Lieutenant Repps Hudson of Carrollton, Missouri, was much the same way: “I wanted to have the adventure. I wanted to have something to talk about. It never occurred to me to do anything less than that.” 1LT Hudson was born to a World War I veteran who, as a product of the nineteenth century, was stoic and taciturn, whereas Repps loved dialogue, discussion, and storytelling. A divide between father and son would develop and complicate their relationship. Soon, Repps took comfort in the works of Ayn Rand and Romantic Realism literature, which fueled Repps’ desire to become the hero of his own epic. Vietnam would soon present Repps with that opportunity. Ultimately, no article or novel could prepare 1LT Hudson for what he would experience during the war and even after. Please enjoy the story of Repps Hudson as told by the man himself!   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:31) Introduction (39:49) Feeling Terrified & Ten Feet Tall in Vietnam (47:54) Soldiers Lost & Forgiveness Found (56:37) The Futility & Tragedy of War (1:06:57) Going Back (1:17:38) The Wall (1:28:10) Father & Son (1:31:28) Veterans History Project & Reflections of a Soldier (1:37:45) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Captains Kim & Dakota, co-founders of the Reveille & Retreat Project and co-hosts of Dog Tag Diaries!   It's June 11th, 2001, and millions of Americans are tuning in for NBC's newest reality television show. Coupled with overly dramatic music and a montage of contestants attempting seemingly death-defying stunts, the narration begins, "Imagine a world where your greatest fears become reality...this is Fear Factor!" After the show's host, Joe Rogan, rattled off a disclaimer, the show began with contestant introductions, the last of whom was a woman named Sonia, who explained she never expected to be on the show before saying, "Now, I'm gonna see what I can do!" About five minutes later, in the inaugural episode, Sonia was gone. She was the first to be eliminated after failing to jump from one moving tractor-trailer to another. Joe Rogan gave Sonia a pat on the back and sent her home. But that was television, not reality.   In reality, women don't have to "imagine a world where your greatest fears become reality," because they're living it on a daily basis. Female service members, specifically, encounter abuse, discrimination, and ridicule every day from their male counterparts when all they want to do is serve their country, bravely and honorably. Captains Kim Liszka and Dakota Olson-Harris are examples of such American heroes. Both have stood watch and stood tall in the face of adversity, extending their service beyond the uniform through their creation of the Reveille & Retreat Project. Additionally, they founded the Dog Tag Diaries podcast, a space in which military women can "tell their stories and speak their truths" while also "raising awareness about military trauma...and fostering a supportive community where women can find strength and inspiration in each other's stories."   In the first episode of our fifth season, hosts Jason and Ethan are incredibly honored to be joined by Kim and Dakota, two patriots who speak candidly and vulnerably about service and struggles. Their stories matter; female veterans' stories matter; and we are proud to highlight the important work being done by the Reveille & Retreat Project team, who expertly craft healing journeys for women in need. Happy New Year to our audience, and please enjoy this episode!   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:01) Opening Theme (01:31) Introduction (49:01) The Dog Tag Diaries (1:00:25) Reveille & Retreat Project (1:07:38) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we welcome Lieutenant Colonel Mike Vincent of the U.S. Marine Corps!   After leading a heartfelt rendition of "Happy Birthday" sung to Jesus Christ, Gunnery Sergeant Hartman announces to his Marine Corps recruits, "Today is Christmas!" During this scene in the oft-cited and critically acclaimed film Full Metal Jacket, the Senior Drill Instructor says things not normally included in a yuletide message, such as, "You can give your heart to Jesus, but your ass belongs to the Corps!" So, in the spirit of Christmas and having missed our opportunity to properly wish the Marines a "Happy 250th Birthday," Operation Insight is proud to present LtCol Michael E. Vincent! Mike is a man who wears his heart on his sleeve and embodies the motto "For God, Country, and the Corps!" After twenty years of service and a couple of badly-timed deployment announcements, Mike and his family returned to St. Charles County. Not only that, but Mike returned to his former place of employment, his father-in-law's HVAC company, while simultaneously pursuing his passion for personal coaching. Mike is also on a mission to convert his beloved Marine Corps from believing in a definition of resilience that relies heavily upon the idea of American bravado. Despite its lukewarm reception in the series of Rocky Balboa films, Rocky III actually provides a clear picture of the type of resilience for which LtCol Vincent advocates. In one scene, Apollo Creed, Rocky's rival-turned-friend, coaches him before the film's pivotal fight: "If you stand toe-to-toe with this chump, he'll kill you. He's just a man, Rock, so be more man than him! Eye Of the Tiger!" As crazy as it might sound, the Marine Corps and America's fighting forces have something to learn from that mindset. Mike argues that mental agility and adaptation are more important than rock-solid sturdiness and toughness when defining resilience. That is the type of mindset Mike strove to maintain as a Marine, and it's the same one he hopes will save lives today. President Reagan is quoted as saying, "Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference in this world. Marines don't have that problem." Veterans like Mike make our community and our country better and stronger. It is an honor to celebrate this year’s end and commemorate our season finale with LtCol Vincent’s deeply moving and motivating interview!   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:22) Opening Theme (01:41) Introduction (24:00) Remembrances of 9/11 (31:04) OCS & Choosing to Stay (36:16) Durable Skills (39:32) An Okie in Oki & Deploying (54:41) Twentynine Palms: No Beach Days but Some of the Best Days (1:02:29) Combat Zone HVAC & Logistics in No Man's Land (1:19:37) DLI & Managing Stress in Cali (1:31:16) Reflections, Resilience & Rocky (1:50:58) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Private First Class Walter "Wally" Mayer!   As the sun sets this evening, Jewish people across the globe will begin celebrating Hanukkah. Despite its status as a "minor" holiday on the Jewish calendar, it has become one of the most widely recognized Jewish traditions. This is likely due to the use of the Menorah and the lighting of its eight candles. The act of lighting a candle each night during the dead of winter represents the miraculous flame that remained lit in a Jewish temple for eight straight days despite the shortage of oil.   Eight years after our guest Walter "Wally" Mayer was born into a German-Jewish family, an evil, tyrannical man would complete his usurpation of power and declare that der Vaterland had become das Dritte Reich...the Third Reich. The plight of Nazism would soon cascade upon neighboring countries, and a second World War would ensue. Miraculously, Wally and his family were about to escape before becoming victims of the Shoah...the Holocaust. As the family fled by train, Wally's father, a World War I veteran, tossed his military medals out the window and began to cry. Wally has never forgotten what his father said next: "We're never coming back."   The Mayer family eventually immigrated to the United States and found their way to St. Louis, Missouri. Shortly after finishing school, Wally was drafted into the Army and served in both Hawaii and the Pacific Theater during World War II. To put it lightly, Wally has experienced his fair share of hardships, and then some, but it is with humility, humor, and tremendous honesty that he reflects back on his life. We present this episode in honor of the millions of innocent lives lost during the Holocaust. We honor the memory of the Jewish men, women, and children forced into concentration camps and forced to stare death in the face. We are inspired by the numerous anecdotes of Jewish prisoners risking their lives to secretly celebrate Hanukkah. They courageously held to their faith and demonstrated that, despite the unimaginable darkness that surrounded them, their spirit and Jewish identity could not be extinguished.   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:22) Introduction (31:51) Secrets & Sun in Hawaii (35:07) Entering the Pacific Theater (39:28) Post-WWII (48:29) Antisemitism (49:33) Family (51:38) Sharing Laughs (53:44) Reflecting & Imparting Wisdom (59:11) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Lieutenant Commander William "Trey" Warren of the U.S. Navy!   There's a poignant scene in Top Gun: Maverick in which Tom Cruise's iconic character meets with his rival-turned-friend Iceman, played by Val Kilmer. During the scene, Iceman (now an Admiral and technically Maverick's superior) instructs him, "It's time to let go." The context for that advice revolves around the death of Maverick's former backseater, "Goose," for which Maverick feels responsible. While Lieutenant Commander Trey Warren fantasizes that he is young enough for the Top Gun sequel to have been his inspiration for joining the Navy, that timeline doesn't quite add up! It is, however, still fitting for a connection to be made. Just as Maverick had to "let go" in order to teach his TOPGUN students to become elite fighter pilots, Trey learned how to let go of his ego in order to free his mind of all the pain he had caused and experienced. And overcoming one's ego is no small task, especially for a Naval fighter pilot and TOPGUN graduate. In fact, as Trey explains, it's hard to resist developing an oversized ego or a God complex once you strap into a multi-million-dollar flying killing machine. On this eighty-fourth anniversary of the Attack on Pearl Harbor, Trey not only presents his story of service, but also that of his grandfather, who was there on that infamous day. Trey's paternal grandfather, William Kenneth Warren, would continue his service in the Pacific Theater, where he even became an honorary Marine for several weeks during the Battle of Guadalcanal. Trey drew inspiration from him, as well as an uncle who returned from the Vietnam War with seemingly no signs of what they called "Vietnam Syndrome," or so the family thought. Later, after his own service ended, Trey began to recognize the extent of moral injuries incurred through combat. Now, Trey is speaking out and opening up about his struggles with post-traumatic stress and the uncommon (sometimes controversial) methods he has used to regain peace in his life. We are so grateful to Songs4Soldiers for highlighting Trey's heartbreaking and inspiring story this past fall and to Ambio Life Sciences for the care and support they provide to our American heroes!   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:22) Opening Theme (01:48) Introduction (40:02) TOPGUN: The Navy Fighter Weapons School (50:26) Top 3 Close Calls (1:14:25) Part II (1:51:02) Getting Out & Getting Help (2:12:18) Trey's Ibogaine Journey (2:34:40) The God Molecule & Rediscovering Love (2:54:00) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Corporal Dorothy Mae "Rusty" Marlen, veteran of the Women's Army Corps!   In the spirit of Thanksgiving and family togetherness, we introduce you to Dorothy Mae "Rusty" Marlen, Ethan's great aunt. For as long as Ethan can remember, Rusty has been the life of the party and one of his absolute favorite relatives. To think that if it wasn't for a box of donuts in a bar, Rusty would have never met Eddie Grover Marlen, and eventually joined the family. Whereas Eddie was a single dad of two boys hailing from the sleepy railroad town of Dupo, IL, Rusty was the second-born daughter of a Scottish immigrant who settled in the Rocky Mountain State and maybe not so secretly had hoped for a son. In her characteristically effervescant style, Rusty shares her story of joining the Women's Army Corps and becoming a WAC!   By the time Rusty saw recruiting posters with phrases such as "Are you a girl with a Star-spangled heart," "This is my war too," and "Speed them back, join the WAC," the Women's Army Corps (previously known as the Women's Auxiliary Corps) hadn't even reached its tenth anniversary. Established in 1942, its formation marked the first large-scale, formally structured mobilization of women into the U.S. Army. Women had served their country long before that, but in unofficial and specialized roles, such as civilian nurses, laundresses, and cooks in the Revolutionary War. During World War I, the Army Signal Corps enlisted hundreds of bilingual American women, nicknamed the "Hello Girls," to operate switchboards near the front lines in France, and the Navy enlisted over 11,000 women as "Yeomanettes" to fill important clerical and support positions. Although largely uncredited, these foundational efforts demonstrated the immense value of female personnel in the armed forces. Then, with the onset of World War II, American lawmakers recognized the need to free up male soldiers for combat roles. While limited to non-combat support roles, the work and service of those within the WAC's ranks were essential to the war effort and victory. Beyond the war, patriotic American women like CPL Marlen helped to pave the way for future female servicemembers. Please enjoy this family reunion of sorts and all the fun that accompanies a conversation with the one and only Rusty Marlen!   https://www.awfdn.org/ https://www.nationalww2museum.org/war/articles/womens-army-corps-wac-world-war-ii   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:22) Introduction (37:40) Barry Manilow (40:00) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Major Herb Silva of the U.S. Marine Corps, founder of Smiles for Veterans!   Fifty years. That's how long it has been since the end of America's involvement in the Vietnam War. A conflict that began as a "police action" would eventually receive several monikers, one of which was the "Helicopter War." In fact, in the Spring of 1975, that's exactly how it all ended for American troops. Operation Frequent Wind was a last-ditch effort to evacuate the remaining American citizens, foreign diplomats, and thousands of South Vietnamese refugees. Never before had the United States military relied so heavily upon helicopters and the "rotorheads" that piloted them. One of those pilots was a Marine named Herb Silva. Son of a WWII artillery officer and younger brother to an Army nurse, Herb would eventually retire as a Major, but not before making the most of his time in the Corps. In fact, the Major-turned-Doctor makes the most out of just about everything he does. From working as a professional soccer referee to building a successful dental practice that remains in the family, Herb has always sought to help those around him. There is no clearer indication of that than Dr. Silva's founding of and involvement in Smiles for Veterans, a program that provides dentures and related dental care free of charge to local veterans. As a result, dental students at A.T. Still University continue to benefit from Herb's instruction and leadership. Not only are veterans getting their smiles back, but they are also rediscovering their self-confidence. It is certainly ironic that the Cobra gunship pilot whose callsign was "Scarface" has built a legacy as a community leader who perfects people's smiles.   If you would like to learn even more about Herb and his story of service, we encourage you to give a listen to his episode on The Open Source STL's "We Salute" program with Host Dick Ulett: https://opensourcestl.com/we-salute-1   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:22) Introduction (35:54) Family Influence (56:03) John Chafee Story (57:33) Welcome Home & Reflecting on Pilot Career (01:11:59) Soccer Referee (01:21:17) Smiles for Veterans (01:27:52) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Captain Jim Pettit, Operations Director of the Greater St. Louis Honor Flight,  and Captain Joel Eisenstein, a recent Honor Flight participant!   Before Veterans Day, there was Armistice Day. Before that, there was "The War to End All Wars." And yet, less than a quarter of a century later, humanity would be embroiled in yet another global conflict. One that would result in more casualties than ever before. While Memorial Day honors those who gave their lives in service to our nation, Veterans Day more broadly celebrates the men and women who bravely joined the uniformed services. Duty and sacrifice are precious commodities in our society, and they are in high demand in our military. It's easy for restaurants, coffee shops, and retail stores to offer free or discounted items on Veterans Day, and those gestures certainly don't go unappreciated by the veteran community. But for anyone who dares to think freedom is free or easily accessible, we encourage you to listen to the stories shared by our guests and reconsider just how you observe Veterans Day this year.   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:22) Opening Theme (01:47) Introduction (20:34) Stories of Service (42:59) Reflections of Service (50:10) The Honor Flight & The Welcome Home (1:00:58) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Councilwoman Linda Ragsdale of O'Fallon, Missouri!   Gold Star Families go through a lot. While they may not attend Basic Training or feel the mixture of terror and thrill when heading into a combat zone, they do know suffering. They know the stomach-churning anxiety of waiting for details about their loved one's well-being. They know the desperation of being left in the dark and praying for updates. They know all about those emotions. But there's one thing they don't know in those moments. There's one thing they cannot know until it's too late. And that's the fact that they have become a Gold Star Family. Being a Gold Star family member is complicated. You are proud of the dedication and service of your loved one, while also feeling angry, devastated, and indignant. You love your country, but you hate that death took your kin in the name of it. These emotions were felt and are still felt to some degree by Linda Ragsdale and her family. Linda now serves as a councilwoman for O'Fallon's 5th Ward, but before she was born, her Uncle Joe died while serving in Vietnam. Even though Linda never met Uncle Joe, she knows him. In fact, she knows him quite well. Thanks to his legacy as a fun-loving, jovial man, Uncle Joe lives on in family stories. Conversely, stories of service are not always easy to relate, as evidenced by Linda's father's reluctance to share his. Here at the Mid America Veterans Museum, our motto is, "Every veteran has a story," and that's true, but it doesn't mean that story will always be told. We are so grateful to Councilwoman Ragsdale as she shares the story of her heroic Uncle Joe and educates us as to why it's ok that some veterans may never fully share theirs.   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:22) Introduction (17:15) Uncle Joe's Story (33:39) Finding Closure (36:40) Part II (44:27) A Patriot's Heart (47:15) Closing (50:12) Remembrance Gala Ad

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Staff Sergeant Chris Munro of the U.S. Army, Army Reserve, and Missouri Army National Guard!   "Where'd you go to high school?" "Cubs or Cardinals?" "Panera or Bread Co.?" These are questions for which every good St. Louisan has an at-the-ready answer. Then there's, "What was it like being a Combat Medic?" Well, that's much more complicated. St. Louis native Chris Munro has his own take on that query, but we recommend buckling in for his answer! SSG Munro has spent nearly half his life in uniform, and that's not even counting his years as a diehard Boy Scout. As an X-ray Technician, Munro possessed the expertise and knowledge necessary to perform as a Medic, and he did both on numerous occasions. It is with humor, grace, and intellect that SSG Munro recounts his time in the Army Reserve and National Guard from 1997 to 2016. We'll see if that's the case when he returns to share his experience as an All-American Paratrooper! In all seriousness, Munro is an individual who takes great pride in his work and consistently gives of himself to the benefit of his fellow Soldiers. He is an individual who sought out the opportunity to deploy to Iraq and didn't hesitate when given the option to remain there for an additional deployment. He is a proponent of common sense and knows it takes a village to achieve success. While Munro does not provide a definitive answer on Provel's legitimacy as cheese, he does offer clarity on the "strangeness and weirdness" of the Army Combat Medic and so much more!   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:19) Opening Theme (01:49) Introduction (38:07) Deployment Ramp-up & Arrival (47:10) MACE Test (01:00:18) Storytime (1:25:04) PTSD & the Medic Mentality (01:56:23) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Captain Garvis Pollard, Jr. of the U.S. Army!   "It's not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters." For much of his life, Garvis Pollard, Jr., had no choice but to abide by that tenet of Stoicism. In fact, living that motto began very early for Garvis. Born in 1944, he entered a world ravaged by World War II, and his first full year of life would coincide with what would ultimately be the deadliest year in that global conflict. While too young to realize it at the time, the Second World War and its far-reaching consequences would shape much of his future. Though his father and grandfathers never served, Garvis made a conscious decision to answer the call as the Vietnam War was ramping up. That choice, however, led to another event he couldn't control. In the fall of 1967, a fresh-faced Lieutenant Pollard arrived in Saigon only a few months before the start of the Tet Offensive. By the end of 1968, no other year would result in as many casualties, due primarily to that controversial military campaign. Despite being raised on a secluded farm in Arkansas, CPT Pollard seemingly couldn't escape the history happening around him, whether it was his father's recollections of managing a POW camp full of Nazi soldiers or the personal proximity to the societal aftershocks caused by the Little Rock Nine. Garvis credits events like those for his lifelong love of history and his relentless reckoning with it. He offers a clear-eyed and candid take on his eighteen months of service in Vietnam and the war as a whole. It is no surprise, then, that nowadays CPT Pollard spends his time teaching visitors to our museum the importance of understanding our history, what our forefathers did in the face of adversity, and how we can harness the power to do the same.   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:19) Opening Theme (01:48) Introduction (32:55) Fort Devens & Other East Coast Adventures (44:33) Vietnam (1:00:01) Dissecting the War (1:14:26) Welcome Home (1:17:22) Forts Holabird & Huachuca (1:25:18) Life After the Army (1:32:06) Closing (1:40:18) Remembrance Gala Ad

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Chief Petty Officer Chuck Robinson of the U.S. Navy!   If Chuck's first year as a Sailor was any indication of what lay ahead, then he would have known just how unordinary his thirteen years of service would be. Whether it was a hurricane, ironically causing the perfect storm that allowed Chuck to be present for his first child's birth, or the fact that he had to fight his way through bureaucracy while suffering from a mysterious brain tumor. Amongst the highs and lows, CPO Robinson found purpose in complexity. Finding steady ground in uncertain times was something with which he was all too familiar. Chuck's own father, Charlie Robinson, Jr., a Navy veteran himself, succumbed to his inner demons in 2013, leaving Chuck devastated and without his hero. Only a few months later, he would achieve the coveted rank of Chief Petty Officer, a momentous occasion he had hoped his father would see. Chuck remembers his father as an expert storyteller and a man who radiated love, traits Chuck clearly inherited. With grace and the utmost respect, Chuck continues to honor the memory of fellow Chief Petty Officers Don McFaul and Sean Sullivan. Chuck is a steward of their memories and takes that responsibility seriously. Despite a disappointing and abrupt end to his own Navy career, he speaks of his service with great pride and appreciation for all that he learned.   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:22) Opening Theme (01:49) Introduction (44:02) Recruiting (55:16) E Komo Mai, Hawaii! (01:07:51) The Struggle for Care (01:29:24) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Petty Officer Second Class Don Luney and Dr. Julie Smith of Re-Emerge!   After a decade of service in the Navy, PO2 Luney's story was not that different from other veterans. He suffered from chronic joint pain and debilitating migraines. Beyond that, Don was eager to rediscover the camaraderie he had enjoyed as a Sailor. Ultimately, Don just wanted to feel better! The VA's proposed solutions didn't work for Don until they eventually suggested something else to him. That something else was Re-Emerge! Their mission of providing full-body fitness training to veterans (absolutely free of charge, by the way) was exactly what Don was seeking.   Similarly, Julie Smith was in search of something. Her identity as an athlete ended with her collegiate career, but she didn't want to give up her passion for health and fitness. That was especially true after her mother tragically succumbed to melanoma. "I wish I would have known how to take care of myself when it mattered," is what Julie's cancer-stricken mother uttered in an especially vulnerable moment. After her mother's passing, Julie took that hurt and that grief and transformed it into action! Now, Julie serves as a physical therapist, a health coach, and even a self-help and wellness podcast host with her friend Dr. Angela "Ang" Bleecher! For Julie, the advocacy and emphasis on a healthy mind, body, and spirit is what led her to Re-Emerge!   Operation Insight is proud to help promote the mission and purpose of Re-Emerge! If you are a disabled veteran in need of a personalized fitness, mental health, and nutrition program, you are encouraged to reach out to the awesome folks at Re-Emerge (https://www.re-emerge.org/). Additionally, you are cordially invited to sign up for their upcoming golf tournament fundraiser (https://manager.gallusgolf.com/Register/68257/re-emerge-golf-tournament). The team scramble formatted tournament will take place on Monday, October 20th, at the Fort Woods Golf Course in Troy, MO. They hope to see you there! Remember, the world needs you, and you deserve to live your life to the fullest! (00:00) Disclaimer (01:22) Opening Theme (01:52) Introduction (24:42) Part II (48:07) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Master Sergeant Leonor Branch of the U.S. Air Force, founder of Sisters in Service of Greater St. Louis!   "At the end of the day, we can endure much more than we think we can." Those are the words of renowned Latina artist Frida Kahlo, but they very much apply to Leonor Branch. During her time in the Air Force, MSgt Branch was the living embodiment of "Al mal tiempo, buena cara!" Through hardships like discrimination early in her career, all the way to suffering a severe physical setback before Recruiting School, Leonor held herself to a higher standard. Leonor knew she not only represented herself in adversity but also her entire family and her Latina identity. As a result, she achieved success. No one could doubt Leonor's commitment to excellence and service, whether as an administrator or a top recruiter. Then, when Leonor recognized it was time to transition from Master Sergeant back to Mother, she gracefully retired. Even after leaving the military, Leonor knew her mission wasn't over. Soon, she founded Sisters in Service of Greater St. Louis. This organization empowers and supports women veterans in their transition to civilian life through mentorship. Women veterans can connect with others, heal their spiritual and psychological wounds, and learn not only to survive but thrive!   Applications for the inaugural Pivot with Purpose cohort are now closed. The next cohort will open in the Spring of 2026. Stay connected with Sisters in Service via their social media pages! https://www.facebook.com/SisServe/ https://www.instagram.com/sis_nonprofit https://www.linkedin.com/company/sisters-in-service-greater-st-louis/ If you would like to support Sisters in Service, you can donate here: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/VUDE8VFBRUNAA   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:22) Opening Theme (01:54) Introduction (32:55) Part II (56:41) Healing Oneself & Empowering Others (01:04:55) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Specialist Dustin Row of the U.S. Army, founder of Songs4Soldiers!   Much is asked of America's youth in times of war. As written by author Brandt Legg, “War is a place where young people who don’t know each other, and don’t hate each other, [are commanded to] kill each other…” Rather than dwell on the callousness of combat, Dustin has transformed his compassion for fellow veterans into real, tangible results. Through Songs4Soldiers, Dustin and his dedicated team have enriched the lives of numerous combat veterans and their families by offering direct assistance, both financially and otherwise. St. Louis, the Metro East, and the broader region are better for it. Without a doubt, the SPC Row who deployed to wartorn Iraq in 2004 was very different from the SPC Row who returned home. Two things, however, remained the same: his love of music and that inner voice beckoning him to serve others. As Dustin has said, "That one year in Iraq has shaped every single thing I do, for the positive." Operation Insight is honored to share Dustin's story and help to promote the awesome work of Songs4Soldiers!   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:23) Opening Theme (01:51) Introduction (30:06) The Good Friday Ambush (58:57) Part II (01:21:54) Songs4Soliders (01:44:43) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Senior Master Sergeant Stevie Riley!   Although SMSgt Riley had a tendency to ask herself, "Can a woman do that?", by all accounts, she already knew the answer. With each new assignment or duty, Stevie succeeded but did so in unconventional ways. When tasked with demonstrating how to command a flight crew's attention during a briefing, she transformed into a burlesque dancer. While deployed to Saudi Arabia and undergoing a bombardment, SMSgt Riley provided her unit with calmness and serenity by lighting her holy candles and sharing her Rosary. Not to mention, Mother L'Ecuyer's House of Wayward Fighter Pilots! SMSgt Riley was well-liked and well-respected. Stevie never backed down from standing up for herself and her fellow Airwomen. More often than not, she had Wingmen to back her up and show support as well.   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:22) Opening Theme (01:50) Introduction (23:08) Sobriety (26:32) Family (31:39) Part II (53:05) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Specialist Jim Manahan of the U.S. Army and Navy Reserve!   우정 ("wu-juhng") is a meaningful word to Jim Manahan, especially when he was serving as a Korean linguist in the Army. Friendship, that's what SPC Manahan enjoyed most during his service. A close second to that was his love of learning! Jim was exposed to the world outside of his middle-class Irish Catholic neighborhood very early in life. Before his father became a war hero, Sergeant Charles Manahan had witnessed a day that would go on to "live in infamy," the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor. Two of Jim's older brothers would go on to serve as Marines in Vietnam. It was during that time that Jim wrote letters to his oldest brother, Chuck, his hero. Little did Jim know that in less than a decade, he would be sent overseas, although SPC Manahan's deployment wasn't to the jungles of Southeast Asia. No, he would be sent to South Korea, not far from the Demilitarized Zone, more commonly known as the DMZ.   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:22) Opening Theme (01:54) Introduction (35:54) Voice Interception & South Korea (43:58) Operation Paul Bunyan (51:10) Part II (01:02:37) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Sergeant Helyn Kevrick, otherwise known as "Sarge"!   Towards the end of World War I, Opha May Johnson enlisted to become the first female Marine in 1918. Then, in 1943, with World War II raging on, the Marine Corps Women's Reserve was established, and by war's end, over 23,000 female Marines had served their country. In 1948, women were finally given the right to serve in active duty status, whether a war was on or not. And in 1955, two women attended the Marine Corps Drill Instructor School for the very first time! Helen, or "Helyn" as she prefers it, was part of that pioneering duo. And "Sarge" is still just as gung-ho now as she was then. Her love for The Corps and Semper Fi has remained steadfast and true.   When considering the military, Helyn's first inspiration was her Uncle Bud, who served in the Coast Guard and took Helyn under his wing during her tumultuous childhood. Soon, inspiration turned into determination! Helyn didn't let a recruiting poster seeking "A Few Good Men" deter her from joining the Marines. Soon, she found herself on Parris Island being barked at by someone she didn't expect, a female Marine Drill Instructor. Within two years, Helyn wouldn't be on the receiving end of commands; she'd be giving them as "Sarge"!   www.usmcu.edu/Research/Marine-Corps-History-Division/People/Women-in-the-Marine-Corps/   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:21) Introduction (19:42) Military Career (33:07) Once a Marine, Always a Marine (43:26) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we celebrate Independence Day with World War II veterans and brothers, Dan and Edgar Krattli of the U.S. Navy!   When our founding fathers signed and ratified the Declaration of Independence on July 4th, 1776, they made a bold stance against tyranny and oppression. They asserted, "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness." As we celebrate our Independence Day on Friday, July 4th, 2025, we should recognize the sacrifices made by previous generations that have allowed us to keep those "unalienable Rights." One such generation is aptly named "The Greatest Generation," and PO2s Dan and Edgar Krattli are amongst its ranks. Along with their brother Bob, they answered the call when the world was at war a second time. They were willing to risk their lives and join the global effort against the Axis Powers because it was the right thing to do. According to the National WWII Museum, over sixteen million Americans served during World War II, but only one percent of that population remains with us today. It is truly an honor to share the story of the Krattli brothers and add their voices to the annals of history!   (00:00) Disclaimer (01:22) Opening Theme (01:52) Introduction (31:01) After WWII (41:30) Closing

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Sergeant First Class Johnathon McDaris of the U.S. Army!   Destiny is a big concept, and Johnathon McDaris thought he had it figured out. Spoiler alert: he didn't! And how could he? No one could have predicted the highs and lows SFC McDaris would experience from joining the National Guard in 1999 to medically retiring in 2015; from learning of the 9/11 attacks while in Basic Training to being televised while raiding the compound of Saddam Hussein's monstrous sons. But there was one person in SFC McDaris' life who had enough insight to know the soldier's life wasn't going to be easy, but it would certainly be worth it. That person was 1SG Ted McDaris, Johnathon's Purple Heart-recipient father. Looking back now, Johnathon can see a divine hand guiding many of his actions and the circumstances in which he found himself. Throughout it all, much like his father and grandfather did before him, Johnathon served with dedication, resilience, and a strong sense of self. As Johnathon says, "That's what McDaris men do." (00:00) Disclaimer (01:22) Opening Theme (01:50) Introduction (41:08) Part II (1:02:04) Becoming a Recruiter (1:14:47) Full Circle Moments (1:18:30) Taking a Knee (1:25:20) Closing   "What It Felt Like", written by SFC Johnathon McDaris (Ret.) In 2006, I was blown up by an IED. It was made of five 155mm artillery shells—something most people won’t have a frame of reference for. So when I try to explain what it felt like, I have to reach for comparisons that still fall short. Imagine a car crash happening in less than a blink—no brakes, no warning, just impact. But instead of metal crunching metal, the air itself turns solid and hits you all at once. You don’t hear the explosion as much as you feel it, like your whole body got struck by a thunderclap. Your bones rattle. Your lungs forget how to breathe. And for a few seconds, the world becomes a vacuum of noise and light. It’s not just the blast, either. The heat scorches. The shrapnel doesn’t care what it hits—it’s just spinning death. Every tiny piece of gravel, every bolt, every splinter of metal in the vicinity becomes a bullet. It’s like standing in the middle of a tornado made of knives. Then comes the silence. Not peace—silence. Your ears ring like someone struck a tuning fork inside your skull. Your brain struggles to keep up. You might not feel pain right away. You might not even realize what just happened. But something deep inside you knows that your life just changed. I carry that day with me, not just in scars or surgeries, but in the way I see the world. And while I wouldn’t wish it on anyone, I do wish people could understand that when a blast like that goes off, it doesn’t just destroy what's around it. It reaches into you and leaves fingerprints on the parts of your life that people can’t see.

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Chief Petty Officer Kara Jo "KJ" Park of the U.S. Coast Guard!   As a child, she watched as they patrolled the Mississippi River during St. Louis' VP Fair. As a young adult and fresh recruit, she sailed the seas and circumnavigated the globe on a cutter. While in the Coast Guard, KJ Park accomplished nautical feats even some Sailors can't fathom. Throughout KJ's service, she proved herself to be one helluva Puddle Pirate. In fact, she is one helluva resilient individual. From overcoming stubborn stereotypes to standing her ground in the last branch of service to fully integrate women, KJ persevered. Yet, despite her dedication to Semper Paratus, KJ was not protected when her life was in danger on U.S. soil. While enduring the hardships of an abusive relationship, KJ was misled, poorly advised, and ultimately had to navigate a broken system alone. However, KJ doesn't define her career by the setbacks and tribulations she experienced. No, she doesn't take the path of anger and regret. Instead, KJ bravely sets a course that encompasses both the good and the bad, the anguish and the awe-inspiring aspects of life as a Coastie.   (00:00) Disclaimer (1:22) Introduction (33:43) Patrolling Domestic Waters (42:55) Part II (1:32:18) Closing   If you or someone you love is suffering from domestic abuse or intimate partner violence, you are encouraged to visit the links below for help and resources! https://www.militaryonesource.mil/relationships/prevent-violence-abuse/domestic-abuse-help/ https://www.socialwork.va.gov/IPV/VETERANS_PARTNERS/WhatCanIDo/Index.asp https://www.thehotline.org/here-for-you/