Regiment of the Cross | Veteran Podcast on Faith and Service

On May 22, 1968, 17 Marines were killed near Con Thien, South Vietnam. Among them was 1st Lt. Victor David Westphall, USMC.For most families, such a loss would remain a private burden. For Dr. Victor and Jeanne Westphall, grief became a mission.What began as a tribute to their son and the Marines who died beside him eventually became the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Peace & Brotherhood Chapel in Angel Fire, New Mexico—a place dedicated to remembrance, reflection, healing, and hope.In this episode of Regiment of the Cross, I am joined by Walter Westphall, David's brother and co-founder of the Memorial, along with Chuck Hasford, a longtime friend of Dr. "Doc" Westphall and witness to the Memorial's growth over the past four decades.Together we discuss David's story, the battle near Con Thien, the vision that inspired the Memorial, the addition of the iconic UH-1 Huey helicopter, the annual Run for the Wall pilgrimage, and why veterans and families from across America continue to find healing in Angel Fire.This is more than the story of a memorial.It is a story of sacrifice, family, brotherhood, and the enduring power of hope.🇺🇸 If you enjoy content honoring veterans, military history, faith, and service, please like, subscribe, and share.visit the memorial webpage https://www.vietnamveteransmemorial.org/#VietnamWar #VietnamVeterans #USMC #MarineCorps #GoldStarFamily #AngelFire #Veterans #MilitaryHistory #RunForTheWall #Huey #UH1 #PeaceAndBrotherhood #NeverForget #RegimentOfTheCross

In December 1944, a 19-year-old American soldier wrote home from France.He asked about family.Mentioned seeing Niagara Falls.Complained that France was “too wet and muddy.”And wished everyone a Merry Christmas.Days later, he was dead.PFC Eloy Aldaz Montes of Hondo, New Mexico was killed in action by artillery fire on January 5, 1945 while serving with the 70th Infantry Division, 275th Infantry Regiment, Company G.This is not just a World War II history episode.This is family history.Eloy was my grandmother Ola’s baby brother. My father, only about six years old at the time, remembered Eloy leaving—and remembered hearing he had been killed.More than 400,000 Americans died in World War II.Approximately 73,000 American service members still remain buried overseas in Europe.Eloy came home.But only after nearly four years.In September 1948, his body was returned to New Mexico, where full military honors were rendered at Santa Fe National Cemetery.Using Eloy’s final wartime letter, family memory, and a powerful newspaper tribute titled A Soldier’s Return, this episode remembers one forgotten young soldier—and the countless others whose stories are fading into history.If your family has a story like this, preserve it.Because remembrance is its own form of honor.#WWII #WorldWarII #GreatestGeneration #MilitaryHistory #WWIIHistory #GoldStarFamily #VeteranStories #ArmyHistory #ForgottenHeroes #NewMexicoHistory #AmericanHistory #Catholic #FaithAndService #RegimentOfTheCross

Beef prices are rising while ranchers struggle—and most Americans don’t understand what’s really happening.In this episode of Regiment of the Cross, I sit down with Michael Thomas, Director of the Catholic Land Movement, to discuss the consolidation of the beef industry, the challenges facing family farms, and why more families are looking for a different way forward.We explore how modern systems have created disconnection—from land, from community, and even from purpose—and why movements like the Catholic Land Movement are gaining traction across the country.This conversation goes beyond agriculture. It’s about faith, family, and reclaiming a way of life rooted in responsibility, ownership, and community.Topics Covered:Why beef prices are high but ranchers are strugglingThe impact of consolidation in agricultureWhat the Catholic Land Movement is and how it worksWhy families are returning to the landHow veterans and families are finding purpose through farming and homesteadingIf you’ve ever felt like something is missing in modern life, this conversation may resonate with you.#FamilyFarms #FaithAndWork #CatholicLife #Homesteading #Veterans

Father William Doyle, S.J., was a Jesuit priest and military chaplain who courageously served soldiers on the front lines of the First World War.Known for his deep devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, fearless ministry in the trenches, and tireless care for wounded soldiers, Father Doyle repeatedly risked his life to bring the sacraments to men facing death on the battlefield.During the brutal fighting of 1917, Father Doyle entered no man’s land to minister to wounded soldiers and was killed in the act of charity — giving his life in service to others.In this episode of Regiment of the Cross, we explore the life, faith, sacrifice, and legacy of the Irish priest many believe should be remembered among the great military chaplains of history. https://williedoyle.org/🎙 Full episode now available on Regiment of the Cross.#FatherWilliamDoyle #Catholic #WWI #MilitaryHistory #Chaplain #Faith #CatholicPodcast #Veterans #History #Sacrifice #RegimentoftheCross #ChristianHistory #IrishHistory #Jesuit

Every year, thousands of pilgrims walk miles through the desert to reach a small adobe church in northern New Mexico—El Santuario de Chimayó.Known as the “Lourdes of America,” this sacred place has drawn the faithful for generations seeking healing, repentance, and hope. Inside, a small room holds what many believe to be miraculous earth—taken in faith by those carrying burdens they cannot bear alone.In this episode of Regiment of the Cross, we explore the history, the pilgrimage, and the deeper question:What are people really carrying when they walk to Chimayó?#Catholic #Faith #Pilgrimage #Chimayo #Healing #Veterans #RegimentoftheCross

We spend a lot of time talking about how we prepare our service members for war.We don’t spend enough time talking about how we help them heal afterward.Through Warriors to Lourdes, wounded veterans travel to Lourdes, France seeking something many struggle to find back home — peace.This pilgrimage is about more than the individual.When a veteran carries unseen wounds, their family carries them too.Programs like this remind us that healing is not just possible — it’s necessary.

Every year, wounded American warriors travel to Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes in Lourdes, France seeking something the battlefield could not give — healing.In this episode of Regiment of the Cross, we explore the powerful mission of Warriors to Lourdes, a pilgrimage that brings injured veterans and active-duty service members face-to-face with faith, brotherhood, and hope.For many who carry the invisible wounds of war — PTSD, moral injury, and loss of purpose — Lourdes becomes more than a destination. It becomes a turning point.This conversation dives into:• What Warriors to Lourdes is and why it exists• Why Lourdes has been a place of healing for over a century• The International Military Pilgrimage and global brotherhood• How faith helps heal the wounds of combat• Real transformation stories from wounded warriorsHosted by a Retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel, Regiment of the Cross is a podcast for veterans, military, first responders, and their families — those seeking meaning, structure, and brotherhood after service.👉 If this message resonates with you, subscribe and join the Regiment. #Veterans #WarriorsToLourdes #Catholic #MilitaryFaith #VeteranHealing #FaithAndService #Lourdes #ChristianVeterans #MilitaryPodcast

A powerful story of forgiveness and compassion in the face of death.TakeawaysForgiveness in the face of adversityThe power of compassion and graceChapters00:00 The Act of Forgiveness and Compassion

Before preparing to serve his country, Roman Carbajal chose to walk one of the most ancient pilgrimages in the world — the Camino de Santiago.For centuries, pilgrims have traveled this historic route across Spain searching for faith, purpose, and transformation. At just 18 years old and preparing to enter ROTC, Roman set out on this journey to challenge himself physically, spiritually, and mentally.In this episode of Regiment of the Cross, Roman shares what it was like to walk the Camino, the struggles he faced along the way, the beauty of Spain, and the spiritual lessons he discovered during the pilgrimage.We discuss:• What the Camino de Santiago is• The physical and spiritual challenges of the journey• Faith, prayer, and attending Mass along the Camino• What cross Roman carried during his pilgrimage• How the Camino prepared him for leadership and serviceSometimes the road that prepares a man for service begins with a pilgrimage.

Roman Carbajal discusses his journey of seeking spiritual growth and personal development through physical challenges and the transformative experience of the Camino.TakeawaysSeeking growth through challengesIsolation and reliance on spiritualityChapters00:00 Seeking Spiritual Growth

his episode reflects on the profound impact of The Passion of the Christ and how it shaped my understanding of Holy Week and the sacrifice of Christ. For many Christians, the film brought the reality of the Crucifixion into sharp focus and deepened the spiritual meaning of Easter.I share personal reflections on how the film influenced my faith and how it continues to serve as a powerful meditation during Holy Week.The conversation also explores leadership and pastoral care in the military, including the recent policy encouraging military chaplains to minimize visible rank. While rank is an important part of military structure, the intent behind this policy is to make chaplains more approachable—especially for young soldiers who may feel intimidated seeking help from a senior officer.This Holy Week reflection ties together faith, sacrifice, and service, examining how the message of the Cross continues to resonate in the lives of soldiers, veterans, and anyone searching for meaning during the most sacred week of the Christian calendar.

What happens when military veterans return home and feel called to the land?In this episode of Regiment of the Cross, we explore Armed to Farm, a nationally recognized training program that helps military veterans transition into careers in agriculture. Created by the National Center for Appropriate Technology, this program provides hands-on instruction, mentorship, and resources to help veterans build sustainable farms, ranches, and agricultural businesses.For many veterans, farming becomes more than a job — it becomes a path toward purpose, healing, and community.We discuss how the program works, what veterans can expect from the training, and how agriculture is helping former service members reconnect with the land while building a new mission after military service.Whether you're a veteran considering agriculture, a supporter of veteran programs, or simply curious about the powerful connection between faith, service, and the land, this conversation will inspire you.If you're a veteran interested in agriculture, this episode may open a door you didn't know existed.Learn more about the program here:https://www.armedtofarm.orgTopics Covered• Transitioning from military service to farming• The mission and structure of the Armed to Farm program• Veteran agriculture training opportunities• Building community through farming• Agriculture as a path to healing and purposeAbout Regiment of the CrossRegiment of the Cross is a podcast dedicated to veterans, first responders, and their families — sharing stories of faith, resilience, service, and purpose after the uniform.You are not alone.Subscribe for more conversations with veterans, leaders, and people living a mission-driven life.Tags / SEO Keywordsveteran farmingarmed to farmveterans in agriculturemilitary transitionveteran agriculture programsustainable farming veteransfarmer veteran coalitionregenerative agricultureveteran homesteadingmilitary to farming

In this episode of Regiment of the Cross, we explore the extraordinary life of Fr. Emil Kapaun, the Catholic priest and U.S. Army chaplain whose courage, faith, and sacrifice inspired soldiers during the Korean War.Fr. Kapaun served on the battlefield alongside American troops, risking his life to rescue wounded soldiers under enemy fire. Even after being captured and held as a prisoner of war, he continued to minister to fellow soldiers—leading them in prayer, caring for the sick, and encouraging them to hold onto hope.From confronting enemy soldiers while rescuing the wounded, to celebrating Easter in a bombed-out church, to encouraging fellow POWs to forgive their captors, Fr. Kapaun’s witness remains one of the most powerful examples of faith and pastoral courage in military history.His heroic actions ultimately led to him being awarded the Medal of Honor for valor.This episode reflects on the life, legacy, and spiritual strength of a priest who truly lived out the Gospel under the most difficult circumstances.Fr. Kapaun’s story reminds us that faith, courage, and charity can endure even in the darkest moments of war.Key Topics Covered• The life and military service of Fr. Emil Kapaun• Ministry to soldiers during the Korean War• Heroic battlefield rescues under enemy fire• Faith and prayer among prisoners of war• The story behind his Medal of HonorAbout Regiment of the CrossRegiment of the Cross is a podcast dedicated to veterans, active-duty military, first responders, and their families. We explore stories of faith, resilience, and the spiritual battles faced by those who serve.#FrKapaun#MedalOfHonor#KoreanWar#MilitaryHistory

What happens after the mission ends?In this episode of Regiment of the Cross, we sit down with Air Force veteran Evart Outlaw to discuss the powerful connection between military service, mentorship, and agriculture.After leaving the military, many veterans struggle to find a new sense of mission. Organizations across the country are working to change that by helping veterans transition into farming, ranching, and land stewardship.Evart shares his journey from military service into the agricultural community and explains how mentorship programs are helping veterans build meaningful careers on the land.We discuss the importance of hands-on training, the role of mentorship in rebuilding purpose after service, and how organizations like theFarmer Veteran Coalition andAmerican Farmland Trustare supporting veterans across the country.The conversation also highlights a growing concern: America is losing thousands of acres of farmland every day to development, and preserving working land has become a national priority.For many veterans, agriculture offers something deeply familiar — responsibility, discipline, and a mission that serves others.Sometimes the path to healing isn’t found in stepping away from responsibility……it’s found in being entrusted with life again.Topics discussed in this episode• Transitioning from military service to agriculture• The role of mentorship for veterans entering farming• Hands-on training and why veterans learn well through experience• Farmland conservation and the loss of American farmland• How farming restores purpose and community for veterans

You Don’t Call Yourself a Grunt… You Earn It. The conversation delves into the significance of the title 'the grand Padre' as a term of endearment and its association with the Marines. It explores the deeper meaning of the title and its representation of camaraderie and belonging within the military community.TakeawaysThe title 'the grand Padre' holds deep significance as a term of endearment and symbolizes camaraderie and belonging within the military community.Earning the title 'the grand Padre' signifies being part of the military community, getting dirty on the battle lines, and sharing the same experiences as the Marines.Chapters00:00 The Significance of 'the Grand Padre' Title

From Battlefield to Barnyard | Veterans Finding Purpose in FarmingThe conversation explores the transition of veterans from the military into ranching, highlighting the high risk populations in farming and the importance of organic farming. It also discusses the challenges and resources available to veterans in this transition.TakeawaysVeterans transitioning into ranchingHigh risk populations in farmingImportance of organic farmingChapters00:00 Veterans Transitioning into Ranching

The conversation begins with a reflection on the iconic scene from Apocalypse Now and the pride and honor associated with serving in the CAV.TakeawaysIconic scene from Apocalypse NowPride and honor in serving with the CAVChapters00:00 Pride and Honor in Serving with the CAV

The conversation begins with a tribute to Robert Duvall, highlighting his military service and iconic film roles. It then transitions to an analysis of a movie trailer, focusing on specific scenes and their significance. The discussion concludes with reflections on the diversity and unity within the military.TakeawaysHonoring Robert Duvall's legacyReflections on military serviceChapters00:00 Honoring Robert Duvall07:31 Diversity in the Military

The conversation delves into the speaker's deep sense of honor and pride in serving with the First CAV, expressing a profound love for the experience and the memories associated with it.TakeawaysDeep sense of honor and pride in serving with the First CAVProfound love for the experience and the memories associated with itChapters00:00 Honored Service with the First CAV

From Infantryman to Chicken Farmer | Veteran Transition, Agriculture, Faith, Military PodcastJaime Barraza discusses the impact of the Army on his work discipline and attributes much of his success to the values instilled in him by the Army.TakeawaysArmy instilled work disciplineChapters00:00 The Impact of the Army

The Grunt Padre: Fr. Vincent Capodanno, Medal of Honor Catholic Chaplain Who Died with His MarinesThe conversation delves into the heroic actions of Father Capodanno and the tragic loss that followed. It highlights the bravery and selflessness of Father Capodanno in the face of danger and the impact of his actions on those around him. He is also being considered for Sainthood in the Catholic ChurchTakeawaysHeroism in the face of dangerImpact of selfless actionsChapters00:00 Tragic Loss of Father Capodano

Father Vincent Capodanno's heroic actions in the face of danger and sacrifice for others. Died while a serving wounded Marines in Vietnam. We would later be award the Medal of Honor for his actions under fireTakeawaysSelfless sacrificeCourage under fireChapters00:00 The Heroic Sacrifice

The conversation highlights the importance of creating an inclusive community for veterans and finding purpose and service within the American Legion. It emphasizes the diverse population, ages, and levels of service, providing a place for veterans to find their heartbeat and serve.TakeawaysInclusive community for veteransFinding purpose and serviceChapters00:00 Creating an Inclusive Community for Veterans

The conversation explores the transition from military service to civilian life and the support provided to veterans during this process.TakeawaysTransitioning from military service to civilian lifeSupporting veterans in their transitionChapters00:00 Transitioning from Military Service to Civilian Life

Healing the Warrior | How Faith and Chiropractic Care Help Veterans RecoverThe conversation covers Dr. Brian Long's military background, experiences on the carrier, common injuries in the military, transition to chiropractic, impact of stress on the body, veterans' health, coping strategies for first responders, benefits of chiropractic care, and promoting health and resilience for veterans and first responders.TakeawaysChiropractic benefits for veteransImpact of stress on the bodyMental health challenges for first respondersChapters00:00 Promoting Health and Resilience for Veterans and First Responders