We’re keeping the Christmas spirit alive, by sharing incredible letters written by service members deployed long ago. The letters come to us from Andrew Carroll, Founder of The Center for American War Letters, who has archived and preserved over 200K letters- some dating back to the Revolutionary War. We discussed several pieces from the collection, including; a letter from an Army nurse, expressing her condolences to the family of a soldier she cared for at the end of the war, and who didn’t pass from combat injuries, but rather from influenza. Like the era we experienced during the global pandemic in 2020, the letter shows an empathy and compassion we wish we could see more often today. Carroll also shares letters from the Pacific during WWII, a snow covered Germany during WWII, and a Christmas themed letter that offers an inspiring look at post WWII Europe. Together, these letters portray how previous generations beautifully captured the human spirit in a writing style that sounds like classic Hemmingway. Check out more of these incredible letters or preserve your own famliy mementos, see Chapman University's Center for American War Letters here: https://www.chapman.edu/research/institutes-and-centers/cawl/index.aspx Contact CBS Eye on Veterans Host, Phil Briggs phil@connectingvets.com Follow on X @philbriggsVet @EyeOnVeterans @connectingvets

It’s a week after the thrilling 125th Army-Navy Game, but even after the game, we still love hearing stories from our fellow Soldiers and Sailors.   During our time on USAA’s Media Row, we had fascinating conversations with military vets and senior military leaders. We start with Maj. General Brett Sylvia, Commanding General of the Army’s mighty 101st Airborne (Air Assault). He shared some history from this legendary unit and offered a glimpse at the lethal capability they're bringing into the future. We also had a good time talking with Army Special Forces veteran, football player and filmmaker Nate Boyer. He discussed his "late bloomer" path to the Army and football, and how his organization “Merging Vets and Players” brings vets together with former NFL athletes. He was joined by American Legion, Executive Director of Government Affairs Director and Marine Corps veteran Mario Marquez. who shared how The American Legion is not your grandfathers pub, but remains an awesome organization for veterans from every generation. We wrap our time on Media Row, with two vets and Senior Executives from the Army Navy Game's proud sponsor, USAA. Former Army Major Rob Braggs shared how service has become a family tradition and former Navy Captain Bill White shares some of his favorite military memories, including how we actually served on the same ship back in the 90s. Plus how USAA offers services that can truly help our nation’s veterans live their best life. For more on the Screaming Eagles of 101st Airborne (Air Assault): https://www.army.mil/101stAirborne   For more on a great organization for veterans, check out The American Legion: https://www.legion.org/   See Special Forces vet Nate Boyer’s organization MVP, a collaboration with FOX Sports’ Jay Glazer here: https://vetsandplayers.org/   Follow Nate @NateBoyer37   Contact CBS Eye on Veterans Host, Phil Briggs phil@connectingvets.com Follow on X @philbriggsVet @EyeOnVeterans @connectingvets

On this episode we talk with best-selling veteran authors about their fascinating books. We start with a brand-new release, “We Defy: The Lost Chapters of Special Forces History” from Special Forces veteran, journalist and author Jack Murphy, who takes a deep dive into historical events that have never been written about before. Murphy describes his interviews with veterans who conducted ops you'll never read about in the history books ... like the time a team parachuted into position with a nuclear bomb in a backpack! Get “We Defy: The Lost Chapters of Special Forces History” here: https://www.amazon.com/We-Defy-Chapters-Special-History-ebook/dp/B0DCGC1N1N We also revisit our conversation with covert DoD Task Force and Special Operations veteran Adam Gamal, who authored “The Unit: My Life Fighting Terrorists as One of America's Most Secret Military Operatives”. (See Eye on Veterans March 29 episode). This personal memoir recounts his time on the military’s most covert unit … a team so classified that even its actual name cannot be released. Comprised of elite Special Operations soldiers, deep cover Intelligence assets and others with unique skills, The Unit, offers us a rare glimpse at what it takes to fight terrorists around the world.  Get “The Unit: My Life Fighting Terrorists as One of America's Most Secret Military Operatives” here: https://www.amazon.com/Unit-Inside-Americas-Secret-Military-ebook/dp/B09Y457JN5 Finally, we talk with Brad Taylor, a former commander of the Army’s elite team Delta Force. Now a best-selling, action-adventure novelist, he describes his latest book “Dead Man’s Hand”. Although this story of a pending nuclear attack by Russia is fictional, Taylor’s exceptional writing fuses together historical events, insight into Putin's regime and terror groups that really exist in today’s modern world. Get “Dead Man’s Hand” here: https://www.amazon.com/Dead-Mans-Hand-Logan-Novel-ebook/dp/B0C2Q5TJB2 Contact CBS Eye on Veterans, Host, Phil Briggs phil@connectingvets.com Follow on X: @philbriggsVet @EyeOnVeterans @connectingvets  

This is the story of Army veteran and former Apache helicopter pilot Kevin Byrne, and his unstoppable mission to fight Multiple Sclerosis (MS).   Initially diagnosed while leading a squadron in Korea, he has since become a staunch supporter of his fellow MS patients and the National MS Society, through his non-profit organization “Never Stop Never Quit”. Through his website he offers books, blogs, recipes other ways people living with MS can still thrive. As this holiday season serves as a reminder that we should always give more than we receive, consider making a contribution to Never Stop Never Quit .com and support all those living with MS. More about MS: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that damages the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord:  Symptoms MS can cause a wide range of symptoms, including vision loss, pain, fatigue, impaired coordination, numbness, tingling, weakness, and difficulty with mobility. Symptoms can vary from person to person and can change over time.  Causes MS occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells in the central nervous system. This damage to the protective coating of nerve cells, called demyelination, can lead to paralysis.  Treatment There is no cure for MS, but medications and physical therapy can help manage symptoms and slow disease progression. Early treatment can lead to better outcomes.  Prognosis Most people with MS have a normal life expectancy, however end up dealing with degrading physical abilities and chronic symptoms over time . Learn more about Never Stop, Never Quit and Donate here: https://neverstopneverquit.com/ To reach CBS Eye on Veterans Host, Phil Briggs phil@connectingvets.com Follow on social: @philbriggsVet @EyeOnVeterans

Marines are once again helping make Christmas wishes come true through the annual “Toys for Tots” gift donation campaign . We spoke with (Ret.) Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant Simon Hebert about this awesome program. Herbert has unique experience as a Louisiana native who came from humble roots, and was once a recipient of gifts from Toys for Tots.  Today he enjoys being able to give back and continues the tradition near Quantico, VA. We also hear about the powerful ways Navy Federal Credit Union is giving back from Brandi Gomez, Navy Federal Assistant Manager, Corporate Social Responsibility and a Marine Corps spouse. To make a donation at NFCU locations or support online, check out: https://www.navyfederal.org/campaigns/branch-ops/toys-for-tots.html To reach CBS Eye on Veterans Host, Phil Briggs phil@connectingvets.com Follow on social: @philbriggsVet @EyeOnVeterans

Thanksgiving gatherings and football games have us in the mood for food! So, we’re serving up the story of Army veteran Andrew Arbogast, who went from flying combat missions to building Arbo’s Cheese Dip into a national success.  We start with some epic memories from inside the Apache cockpit- the world’s most advanced attack helicopter. Arbogast also recalls enjoying care packages filled with meats and cheeses on a Forward Operating Base in Afghanistan, and how those moments eventually inspired him to take a chance on creating a business. He also explains how Bunker Labs, veteran business development programs, played a pivotal role in the explosive growth of Arbo’s Cheese Dip. He shares how they provided the training and connections he needed to expand his home-based business into a cheese dip brand that’s now available nationwide! Plus, we hear about his appearance at the 2023 CMA Awards, and his encounter with Country superstar Jelly Roll.   Find Arbo's Cheese Dip at a retailer near you: https://www.arboscheesedip.com/ Are you a veteran looking to start a business? Check out the programs from Syracuse University’s D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families (IVMF) and Bunker Labs: https://bunkerlabs.org/   To reach CBS Eye on Veterans Host, Phil Briggs phil@connectingvets.com Follow on social: @philbriggsVet @EyeOnVeterans

We talk with Army combat veteran, and former Special Forces Public Affairs specialist, Aaron Knowles about “Shred the Stress” an organization he founded to bring the therapeutic benefits of the “Onewheel” electric skateboard, to veterans everywhere.  We begin by tracking his days in Iraq and the events that nearly cost him his life. After surviving IED explosions and multiple life-changing moments, Knowles shared his transition from heavy vehicle operator to managing public affairs for units within the Special Operations community. But the joy of sharing our warfighter’s stories, was complicated by his own war wounds. Knowles reveals the after-effects of traumatic brain injuries and describes living with PTSD. After trying to manage his mental health with the usual recommendations, he discovered an alternative tool that delivered powerful results- the Onewheel, electric skateboard. Knowles described how surfing the earth on this unique board made him stoked in ways medication could not. Realizing his immediate improvement, he founded a riding group for all veterans, “Shred the Stress”. Now based in Brooklyn, NY. we learn more about the group, its future, and how veterans across the country can get involved. For more, check out Shred the Stress: https://www.shredthestress.org/   Discover the Onewheel here: https://onewheel.com/ For more military news and veteran stories see Connecting Vets here: https://www.audacy.com/connectingvets Connect with CBS Eye on Veterans, Host, Phil Briggs phil@connectingvets.com Follow: @philbriggsVet @connectingvets

Former Navy SEAL Marcus Capone and his wife Amber share their emotional story about how a medically assisted Ibogaine treatment session saved their family, and this combat veteran’s life. We begin by looking at how life as a Navy SEAL “breacher” and explosives expert, left Marcus with what seemed like untreatable PTSD and brain injuries. We learn how Marcus, once full of life and drive, was quickly slipping into the depression and anger often associated with these injuries. While war fighters receive the initial impact of combat related injuries, they are not the only ones who suffer. Amber Capone describes how life after Marcus’ SEAL days, became extremely difficult for her and their children, threatening their marriage and overall family mental health. Facing their breaking point, Marcus and Amber took one last chance on psychedelic therapy. Marcus shares vivid details from his medically assisted Ibogaine session. We hear how the experience differs from the stereo-typical “psychedelic trip” and how he confronted the dark images buried deep beneath the surface. Our interview tracks life after the Ibogaine session too. From their heartfelt reunion to the many ways, they recognize the true healing that came from this complex and mysterious psychedelic compound.   We also look at the non-profit foundation they founded, Vets Exploring Treatment Solutions (VETS) which has helped over one thousand veterans gain access to psychedelic therapy, develops world class research and works to move VA, DoD and Congress to implement this therapy for veterans.  And, we conclude with a most surprising discovery- the incredible connection between psychedelic therapy and God. For more on VETS grants for veterans to access psychedelic therapy, new research and advocacy check out: https://vetsolutions.org/ For more military news and veteran stories check out Connecting Vets: https://www.audacy.com/connectingvets Connect with CBS Eye on Veterans, Host, Phil Briggs phil@connectingvets.com Follow: @philbriggsVet @connectingvets

How the Purple Heart Foundation gives veterans the type of assistance they need most

Navy Hospital Corpsman are revered among the infantry as the medics who rush into combat to treat the wounded. However not all Navy Corpsman pursue a career in healthcare or the medical field after their military service. Navy Corpsman veteran Vaughn Sullenberger went from serving with Marines to serving all veterans as a Mortgage Loan Manager for Navy Federal Credit Union. He shares the specific steps he took that led to his post military success. But like qualifying for a loan, making a successful transition relies on several factors. Sullenberger offers a detailed look at many of these factors and gives an easy to follow, multi-step plan for financial and personal success. His journey proves that like the Marine Corps, his career and his love for the veteran community is Semper Fi. For more on how Navy Federal Credit Union can help with banking, business, home loans, investing for retirement, or even your next career, check out: https://www.navyfederal.org/ Check out Connecting Vets for more military news and veteran stories: https://www.audacy.com/connectingvets Connect with CBS Eye on Veterans, Host, Phil Briggs phil@connectingvets.com Follow: @philbriggsVet @connectingvets

Many Americans just assume vets always vote for the candidate who talks toughest about national defense, or offers strong positions on policies related to terrorism. While in some cases that may be true, the biggest question this year is still quite simple- Do vets favor Trump or Harris? A recent survey of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) members, offers an interesting glimpse at where this group stands, just days before the election. IAVA, CEO, and Army veteran Allison Jaslow reveals the survey results and shares how the survey breaks across categories like gender. The survey also tells a unique story about IAVA members, who are younger than other veteran groups, and after their service in Iraq/Afghanistan have often done the heaviest lifting during the Global War on Terrorism. More from IAVA here: https://iava.org/ Check out Connecting Vets for more military news and veteran stories: https://www.audacy.com/connectingvets Connect with CBS Eye on Veterans, Host, Phil Briggs phil@connectingvets.com Follow: @philbriggsVet @connectingvets

We’re taking a deep look into one of the most the significant elections of our lifetime with the nonpartisan, veteran-led group, “Vet the Vote” who recently recruited over 163K vets to volunteer at election sites nationwide.  Army veteran, VTV Deputy Director Loren Westerfield and Navy helicopter pilot veteran, Julie Hendricks share the impact veterans make while serving at election sites. And as social media explodes (again) with; allegations of voter fraud, social users posting evidence through short video clips with minimal context and a rising sense of skepticism, we take a detailed look at their personal experiences serving as poll workers. Plus we hear what they kind of safeguards and methods they witnessed. Ultimately, we seek to answer one of the biggest questions today, “Are these elections safe, accurate and reliable?” Our veteran guests deliver fascinating and powerful answers. More on Vet The Vote, and how to serve as an election volunteer here: https://vetthe.vote/   Check out Connecting Vets for more military news and veteran stories: https://www.audacy.com/connectingvets Connect with CBS Eye on Veterans, Host, Phil Briggs phil@connectingvets.com Follow: @philbriggsVet @connectingvets

We talk with Army veteran, Infantry Officer and former West Point hockey player Matt Schachman, who works on a unique team of veterans (and partners with Special Operations backgrounds) to lead mid-level businesses to massive growth. It was a big departure from leading platoons in Iraq and Afghanistan, so we begin with the lessons he learned leading troops in combat. But more than the usual war stories- Schachman reflects on a pivotal moment with an Iraqi police chief, and how he learned a vital lesson in leadership from working with those who hold a drastically different world view. Schachman shares more about his transition from the military to investment banking and the advice he received about ways to operate “at the tip of spear” in finance. We also learn how Cold Bore Capital is able to effectively take companies from mid-level revenue to multi million dollar earnings through their expertise in capital investment, business management and mergers-acquisitions. For any veteran considering scaling their business, or a career in finance, Matt is great resource. Find out more about Cold Bore Capital here: https://coldborecapital.com/our-story/ Reach Matt Schachman here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-schachman-55719423/ Check out Connecting Vets for more military news and veteran stories: https://www.audacy.com/connectingvets Connect with CBS Eye on Veterans, Host, Phil Briggs phil@connectingvets.com Follow: @philbriggsVet @connectingvets

For many veterans, mental health challenges can appear after their service. So imagine if depression, anxiety or even diseases that result in cognitive decline could be detected from just the sound of our voice. And, all of this it could be easily accessed through your phone. Well, it’s happening- within the new, AI-powered, voice analysis app, Canary Speech. We talked about it's benefits for veterans with co-founder and acclaimed scientist Henry O’Connell. He described how together with Jeff Adams, a leader in speech and language technology, they combined expertise in neurology and speech technology (Henry at the National Institutes of Health, and Jeff leading Amazon Alexa’s speech AI team) to explore how this type of speech technology could be used in medicine. We took a deep dive into how Canary Speech works- analyzing the vocal tones far beneath the actual words we speak. And we learned how this app can serve as a useful tool to track our mental health. We even learned how the classic cartoon, “Winnie the Pooh” helped in the process of creating this innovative app. For more on the Canary Speech app and to try it yourself, check out: https://canaryspeech.com/   Contact Canary Speech co-founder Henry O’Connell here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/henryjoconnell/   For more veteran stories and military news check out: https://www.audacy.com/connectingvets   To reach CBS Eye on Veterans, Host, Phil Briggs phil@connectingvets.com Follow: @philbriggsVet @connectingvets

In the days (and weeks) since Hurricane Helene ravaged western North Carolina, veterans serving with Team Rubicon moved into action.   We spoke with Army paratrooper veteran, Drew Hanna, who described what he witnessed and his team’s mission to restore the Veteran’s Restoration Quarters, a transitional housing facility that assists veterans in need. Hanna also offered a behind the scenes look at how volunteers live while deployed to disaster areas and he spoke about other relief organizations that help make their work possible. While the road to recovery may take the entire next year, the veterans with Team Rubicon will not stop until the job is done. And with "no turning back", Team Rubicon lives up to the famous Roman tale, from which they get their name. Follow their stories, discover volunteer opportunities and donate to Team Rubicon here:  https://teamrubiconusa.org/ Find more veteran news and updates from Connecting Vets here: https://www.audacy.com/connectingvets   Contact CBS Eye on Veterans, Host, Phil Briggs phil@connectingvets.com Follow Eye on Veterans on social: @philbriggsVet @connectingvets 

This week we’re highlighting veteran-led disaster relief groups currently working to help those devastated by two recent hurricanes.  In the hours prior to Hurricane Milton crushing Florida’s Gulf Coast, we spoke with Special Operations veteran and former Intelligence Officer Bryan Stern, Founder of Grey Bull Rescue Foundation. Over the past 2 weeks, he and his team at Grey Bull have helped rescue disaster victims from Florida to NC. Beyond the recent hurricanes, he and his military veteran team have conducted dangerous ops to save Americans stuck in war zones like, Lebanon, Haiti and Russia. We heard vivid details about some of these missions, and how his team is uniquely qualified to execute them in ways the US government is not. We also hear his eye-opening take on the recent divisive, disaster relief stories, which claim the government is actively disrupting rescue efforts for political gain. (Spoiler alert: He's not a fan of conspiracy theorists or whiners!) For information and to donate, follow Grey Bull Rescue Foundation on social media and online here: https://greybullrescue.org/ Find more veteran news and updates from Connecting Vets here: https://www.audacy.com/connectingvets   Contact CBS Eye on Veterans, Host, Phil Briggs phil@connectingvets.com Follow Eye on Veterans on social: @philbriggsVet @connectingvets 

Today we’re talking with Army veteran, entrepreneur Trace Miller, about his revolutionary fast food franchise "Konala Protein Bowls and Salads". We’ll hear how it combines incredibly healthy food with the traditional drive thru, which is a staple of the American diet … yet slowly poisons us. Trace’s inspiration for using whole foods as a cure for disease was not born in the gym. Food was an essential part of how he defeated Lennox-Gastaut epilepsy as a child.  His toddler days were filled with seizures, even having to wear a helmet for protection against his bodies violent reaction to a parasite. American doctors offered no hope. Desperate for a cure, his family traveled outside the US for a rare treatment. However it came with a lifelong commitment to a pure and healthy diet. Trace describes the journey through his teenage years, which eventually led him to operating missile systems in the Army. Ironically, his time in the Army would inspire him to pursue personal passions like; scuba diving, stock investing and eventually business ownership. Miller describes how he (and his wife Jammie) initially founded a food truck and bar. But they had even bigger dreams. So building on their life experiences, they designed an alternative to unhealthy fast food franchises …, and Konala Protein Bowls and Salads was born. Hear how soon Konala will be coming to a town near you. Check out the fresh menu and franchise opportunities with Konala Protein Bowls and Salads here: https://konala.com/   To reach CBS Eye on Veterans, Host, Phil Briggs phil@connectingvets.com Follow @philbriggsVet @connectingvets

Retired Lt Colonel Rob Schroder has gone from flying Harrier jets in combat to founding the hi-tech solutions company, SteerBridge. Their work supports everything from projects that modernize VA systems to designing data driven solutions for our nation’s defense and other major clients. Over the years SteerBridge has relied on exceptional talent, including former Baltimore Raven’s offensive lineman, Jason Thomas, now a Project Manager and leads their Veteran Affairs. Throughout this interview we discuss; Schroder's experiences flying Harrier jets in combat, how he managed his own transition after military service and how he used his experiences to build a thriving company that has successfully designed solutions to VA problems which directly benefit our veterans. Baltimore Raven offensive lineman Jason Thomas shows how the veteran transition is quite similar to those of elite NFL players. From head injuries to finding a new purpose, Thomas talks about his experiences both on the and off the field. (Fun Facts too! We hear about legendary Ravens like Ray Lewis and Ed Reed, and get a look behind the curtain at life as an NFL player.) For more information on SteerBridge and veteran career opportunities, check out: https://www.steerbridge.com/about-us#company-snapshot Link up with former Baltimore Raven Jason Thomas here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-thomas6565/ Reach CBS Eye on Veterans host Phil Briggs phil@connectingvets.com Follow on X @philbriggsVet @connectingvets

Today we’re talking with Marine Corps combat veteran and award winning truck driver, Jesus Davila about National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, Sept 15 thru 21st. During our conversation Jesus shared what the industry is like, stories from the road including delivery of one of the nation’s most important trees, and we hear how the trucking industry is a perfect fit for veterans. But long before Jesus joined the trucking industry, he was a Marine in Iraq … and he explained how being in a truck was not always the safest place to be. However, after leaving the military, Jesus decided to get his CDL and follow a family tradition of driving trucks. Davila shared his experiences; from getting his license to what it's like being behind the wheel on some of the busiest highways in America. He also describes some incredible moments like; delivery the nation's Christmas Tree and meeting President Biden. He also explains programs from the American Trucking Associations, which offer an affordable pathway to getting a career in this essential industry. See more about USMC veteran Jesus Davila here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesus-davila-907627239 Find out how to get a great career in trucking through the American Trucking Associations' Workforce Heroes Program: https://www.trucking.org/workforce-heroes Contact: CBS Eye on Veterans Host, Phil Briggs phil@connectingvets.com

Whether it's about Walz or Vance, Infantry vs. Admin, the current political climate is charged with toxic rhetoric. Social media has erupted with veterans dismissing the National Guard service of Democratic Vice-Presidential candidate Tim Walz, while others are claiming that Republican VP candidate Sen JD Vance was merely a photographer while he served in Iraq. The effect of this politically inspired mud slinging divides a community who would normally have each other’s back. So, we turn to Retired US Army Col. Kenneth Allard, a former West Point professor and Dean of the National War College for some perspective. We begin our conversation with Allard’s memories of his days leading troops in war torn Kosovo. Allard then dives into some poignant analysis; How The National Guard has been misused since 9/11, How most media critics (of either VP candidate) have never even served in the military, and why veterans slamming each other over combat experience only weakens our nation and demoralizes many who have served. In this politically neutral conversation, Colonel Allard frequently offers sage advice for all Americans, ... and especially for those who have served. Check out Retired US Army Colonel Ken Allard's column, and his recent article "The Most Wretched Veepstakes" here: https://www.mikehuckabee.com/latest-news?id=A67FB09C-773C-4BDF-9A9D-C7C952822C23 Contact: Phil Briggs, Host, CBS Eye on Veterans phil@connectingvets.com Follow: @philbriggsVet @connectingvets

The events surrounding the US withdrawal from Afghanistan in August '21 (and our overall strategy) have had a huge impact on the veteran community, both physically and mentally. So, this week we’re sharing the words of our most insightful guests. We begin with Army veteran and DoD Intelligence Contractor Pete Turner. His interview was both an analysis of the situation he witnessed, and an indictment of the DoD’s failed strategy. This is easily one of our favorite interviews and one listeners will remember for a long time.  Next we examine the bonds made with Afghans with USMC (Ret.) Maj. Tom Schueman and discuss his book, “Always Faithful: A Story of the War in Afghanistan, the Fall of Kabul, and the Unshakable Bond Between a Marine and an Interpreter”. It’s the story of his interpreter Zak, and his harrowing escape before the country fell back into the hands of the Taliban. Finally Army paratrooper and combat veteran William Yeske’s talks about his book, “Damn the Valley: 1st Platoon, 82nd Airborne in the Arghandab River Valley” which was one of the deadliest areas of operation. He recalls the harshness of war, but also shared a touching moment of validation he received after the book was published. More from Army veteran, Intelligence Expert Pete Turner: "Why our plan in Afghanistan failed" https://www.audacy.com/podcast/eye-on-veterans-10fe9/episodes/why-our-plan-failed-in-afghanistan-af213 Pete Turner's podcast "The Break it Down Show" https://www.breakitdownshow.com/ Maj. Tom Schueman's book, “Always Faithful: A Story of the War in Afghanistan, the Fall of Kabul, and the Unshakable Bond Between a Marine and an Interpreter” https://www.harpercollins.com/products/always-faithful-thomas-schuemanzainullah-zaki?variant=40966079086626 Army combat veteran Willaim Yeske's book "Damn the Valley: 1st Platoon, Bravo Company, 2/508 PIR, 82nd Airborne in the Arghandab River Valley Afghanistan" https://www.amazon.com/Damn-Valley-Airborne-Arghandab-Afghanistan/dp/1636243657 CBS Eye on Veterans Phil Briggs, Host phil@connectingvets.com

Today we’re talking about the bright future of Navy veteran Jason Stucky, thanks to his decision to pursue business ownership and open a Color Me Mine pottery painting franchise in the suburbs of Chicago.  We begin with the story of his time in the Navy. As an “AZ” Aircraft Maintenance Administration Specialist aboard the carrier USS Kitty Hawk (CV-63), Jason was responsible for the readiness of combat aircraft and the lives of the pilots.  He was on a path to a stellar future, until it was ended by the “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” policy during the Clinton Administration, which ultimately ruined promising careers for many talented, gay Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines.  Jason went on to have a successful career transition (for a time he worked in PetCo's corporate office) but after taking some out to focus on home life, opportunity came knocking. He describes how painting with his kids led him to a "Color Me Mine" pottery painting studio and it re-ignited his passion for pottery. (Something he was initially introduced to while on a military base.)  Jason describes his trajectory from working in the pottery studio, to making the decision to purchase it from the corporate owner. He also shares how they were able to use a ROBS (Roll over as Business Start Up) to convert their existing 401K into the capital needed to purchase the business. Jason offers encouragement for veterans considering opening their own franchise business and shares how he has no regrets. For more on Jason Stucky and Color Me Mine pottery painting studios: https://www.colormemine.com/ Contact: Phil Briggs, Host, CBS Eye on Veterans phil@connectingvets.com Follow: @philbriggsVet @connectingvets

Today we’re hearing from two combat veterans and Purple Heart recipients about how the Purple Heart Foundation stepped up and helped them with financial assistance when they needed it most. After deployments to Kosovo and Iraq, Army veteran Michael Lipari was wounded in Afghanistan. He offers a vivid look at life during combat, how our military mishandled PTSD, and how the Purple Heart Foundation helped him through the storms he faced long after his service. Marine Corps Master Gunnery Sgt. John Nash was wounded in Beirut Lebanon in 1983 during the time period when the US embassy was attacked by terrorists, and many of his fellow Marines were killed. He describes that deployment and how decades later, it was the Purple Heart Foundation that came to his rescue with financial assistance.  PHF, CEO, Steven Ruckman ends with an overview of the veteran services they offer and how they deliver when the government does not.  Find out more about Purple Heart Foundation programs or make your donation here: https://purpleheartfoundation.org/ Contact: Phil Briggs, CBS Eye on Veterans Host and Navy veteran phil@connectingvets.com Follow @philbriggsvet @connectingvets

As we enter the Dog Days of Summer, it’s only appropriate that we highlight a veteran support organization that connects veterans and children with autism with amazing service dogs. Brandon Butler, CEO of Retrieving Freedom describes their service dog training and placement program.  To demonstrate the huge impact these amazing dogs make, Air Force veteran and Chaplain, (Ret.) Lt. Colonel Patrick Genseal, shares his emotional story of the trauma he experienced while deployed in Iraq. He offers a detailed account of what it's like to minister to troops during the hell of combat, and the emotional scars he carried during the years that followed. However his invisible wounds were eventually healed by his beloved service dog, "June" and Col. Genseal shares the miraculous abilities she has. Brandon Butler, Retrieving Freedom CEO, expands on how their elite service dogs are fully accredited and shares the ripple effect that occurs helping both the veteran owner and their extended family. He also describes how their specialized training make them ideal for children with autism. Learn more or donate to Retrieving Freedom's here: https://www.retrievingfreedom.org/ Contact CBS Eye on Veterans, Host and Navy veteran, Phil Briggs phil@connectingvets.com Follow @philbriggsvet @connectingvets

Air Force veteran and successful entrepreneur Jessie Tait founded "Enspra" a national company specializing in environmental testing, commercial cleaning auditing and consumer pet product testing. Her inspiration to develop more effective cleaning methods for large public spaces came after she contracted a bacterial infection from her seat, during a flight to Florida.  Shortly afterward, the country locked down due to the global pandemic. Tait began experimenting with Ozone generators to kill contaminants in the air and on surfaces. She describes how she initially did her research work for free, testing new methods on police and fire departments vehicles and a fleet of city buses in Pittsburgh, PA. After her experiments proved effective, Enspra was born and soon experienced rapid growth. Tait describes how she eventually pivoted her focus to ensuring major public spaces like airports and commercial buildings were cleaned well enough to prevent major public health problems. She also shared her expansion into pet product testing, after shopping for a high-tech litter box for her cats.  See more about Enspra here: https://www.enspra.com/ Connect with CBS Eye on Veterans, Host, Phil Briggs phil@connectingvets.com Follow @philbriggsvet @connectingvets