One For The Record Books

In this episode of #StillServing: The VFW Podcast, host Rob Couture welcomes back co-host Brittany Dymond Murray in a new virtual capacity and is joined by VFW Washington Office staff to discuss a range of critical veteran issues. The team recaps a meaningful Memorial Day weekend, including wreath-laying ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. They honor the legacy of past VFW National Commanders interred at Arlington and reflect on the significance of National Commander Al Lipphardt’s personal connection to the Vietnam War. The episode dives into the ongoing legislative fight for the Major Richard Star Act, a bipartisan effort aimed at fixing the unjust offset between DoD retirement pay and VA disability compensation for medically retired combat-injured veterans. Brittany passionately explains the history, misconceptions, and urgent need for action, emphasizing that the VFW has been leading advocacy efforts since the bill’s inception. The conversation also highlights recent developments around fraudulent claims, warning veterans about the dangers of working with unaccredited Claim Sharks. Lastly, the hosts celebrate a new memorandum between DoD and VA, which promises a more seamless transition to care for service members which is a long-overdue step toward closing critical gaps in support.

6 Kesä 1h 25min

In this episode of #StillServing: The VFW Podcast, host Rob Couture catches up with his fellow directors of the VFW Washington Office after an almost two-month-long hiatus.  Featured Guests: • Ryan Gallucci – Assistant Adjutant General & Executive Director, VFW Washington Office • Mike Figlioli – Director, VFW National Veterans Service • Kristina Keenan – Director, VFW National Legislative Service Episode Highlights: Ryan shares his recent health issues and his travels overseas while accompanying VFW senior leadership visiting troops and international partners. Kristina discusses the success of the Washington Conference, her recent promotion as the new VFW legislative director, and the current legislation she and her team are advocating for. Mike talks about the $14.6 billion that VFW service officers have recouped for veterans they have assisted in the VA claims process. He also discusses some of the latest online tools available to veterans in claiming their earned benefits. Rob tells of his travels to Southeast Asia, visiting Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) sites in Thailand and Vietnam. He also recounts a heartfelt story of a recent journey with his siblings on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of his father's plane crash at Fort Hood, Texas. Lastly, Rob gives a status update about his co-host, Brittany Dymond Murray.    Join us for powerful discussions, firsthand insights, and a commitment to ensuring veterans receive the care and support they deserve. The VFW is always #StillServing. For more information or to continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook @VFWSTILLSERVING on YouTube @RobCoutureVFW on Facebook Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Text “NEEDS” to 20222 to donate to the Unmet Needs Program. Today’s VFW — Share Your #StillServing Story Sports Clips Help A Hero — Text HERO to 71777 to donate online

24 Huhti 53min

In this episode of #StillServing: The VFW Podcast, host Rob Couture and co-host Brittany Dymond Murray speak with VFW Commander-in-Chief Al Lipphardt and Chief of Staff Jeff Carroll about the organization's ongoing efforts to support veterans. Lipphardt shares his military background, how he joined the VFW, and his leadership philosophy which is centered on integrity, responsibility, and military values. The discussion highlights the VFW’s advocacy work, including their upcoming Washington Conference, where Lipphardt will testify before Congress on key veteran issues such as healthcare, VA funding, and disaster response efforts. He emphasizes the importance of VFW members actively engaging in leadership and advocacy, ensuring veterans’ voices are heard at all levels of government.

28 Helmi 1h 22min

In this latest episode of #StillServing, host Rob Couture explores the VFW’s advocacy efforts, highlighting key issues affecting veterans and service members. From Congressional testimonies to veterans' healthcare access overseas, this episode sheds light on how the VFW continues to fight for those who served. Featured Guests: • Nancy Springer – Associate Director, National Legislative Service • Ryan Gallucci – Assistant Adjutant General & Executive Director, VFW Washington Office • Brittany Dymond Murray – Associate Director, VFW Communications & Public Affairs Episode Highlights: 6:55 – Congressional Testimonies: VA Fiduciary Rules & Community Care Issues​ 14:00 – VFW Delegation’s Visit to U.S. Troops in Europe​ 34:48 – Associate Director Nancy Springer’s Road to the VFW Washington Office 1:12:30 – VA Secretary Nominee Doug Collins’ Confirmation Hearing​ Join us for powerful discussions, firsthand insights, and a commitment to ensuring veterans receive the care and support they deserve. The VFW is always #StillServing. For more information or to continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook @VFWSTILLSERVING on YouTube @RobCoutureVFW on Facebook Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Text “NEEDS” to 20222 to donate to the Unmet Needs Program. Today’s VFW — Share Your #StillServing Story Sports Clips Help A Hero — Text HERO to 71777 to donate online

7 Helmi 1h 25min

In this latest episode of #StillServing, host Rob Couture dives into critical discussions about the VFW's advocacy efforts and achievements, joined by an insightful panel of guests. From legislative wins to empowering student veterans, this episode highlights how the VFW continues to make an impact for veterans nationwide. Featured Guests: Kristina Keenan – Deputy Director, National Legislative Service Joe Grassi – Associate Director, National Legislative Service Brittany Dymond Murray – Associate Director, VFW Communications & Public Affairs Episode Highlights: [10:38] Legislative Wins: Celebrating the passage of the Dole Act and its enhancements to veteran caregiver programs, along with the groundbreaking Not Just a Number Act, aimed at improving suicide prevention efforts through data-driven insights. [26:22] Success at SVA’s NatCon: The VFW’s presence at the Student Veterans of America convention led to over 200 new members joining the organization. [29:57] Action Corps Weekly: Joe Grassi discusses the powerful information included in the Action Corps Weekly newsletter. [55:45] The Power of Advocacy: Insights into the VFW’s role in championing vital legislation and fostering collaboration among veteran service organizations to improve veterans’ quality of life. Discussion of the upcoming VFW Washington Conference in March. Join us for engaging stories, impactful conversations, and inspiring advocacy updates — because the VFW is always #StillServing. For more information or to continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook @VFWSTILLSERVING on YouTube @RobCoutureVFW on Facebook Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Text “NEEDS” to 20222 to donate to the Unmet Needs Program. Today’s VFW — Share Your #StillServing Story Sports Clips Help A Hero — Text HERO to 71777 to donate online

10 Tammi 1h 7min

In the second episode following the podcast’s return, this hour is packed with compelling topics from an engaging panel of guests. In this holiday-themed episode, our host Rob Couture and guests explore the VFW’s record-setting achievements in securing benefits for veterans, reflect on Pearl Harbor Day events, deliver a sharp critique of a controversial article on veterans’ benefits, and wrap up with a spirited discussion about the upcoming Army-Navy game. Featured Guests: Mike Figlioli – Director, VFW National Veterans Service Patrick Murray – Director, VFW National Legislative Service Brittany Dymond Murray – Associate Director, VFW Communications & Public Affairs Episode Highlights:   [3:42] Celebrating a milestone year: $14.6 billion in benefits were secured for veterans in the last fiscal year, surpassing the previous record of $13 billion.        [12:30] An in-depth look at the VFW’s participation in Pearl Harbor Day commemorations.        [15:40] Opening of a new Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) office at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, providing vital resources for transitioning service members.        [21:51] Patrick Murray's passionate response to The Economist article, "American Veterans Are Now Receiving Absurdly Generous Benefits," defending the importance of veterans' programs and setting the record straight.       [40:54] Highlights of the annual Army-Navy football game, its cherished traditions, and the camaraderie it fosters. Join us for thoughtful conversations, powerful stories, and a touch of humor—because we’re always #StillServing. For more information or to continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook @VFWSTILLSERVING on YouTube @RobCoutureVFW on Facebook VFW Unmet Needs Program Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Text “NEEDS” to 20222 to donate to the Unmet Needs Program. Today’s VFW — Share Your #StillServing Story Sports Clips Help A Hero — Text HERO to 71777 to donate online

13 Joulu 202450min

#StillServing: The VFW Podcast returns by popular demand! With a fresh studio setup and a revamped format, it’s still packed with the engaging conversations you know and love. In this special pre-Thanksgiving episode, host Rob Couture welcomes key voices from the VFW Washington Office to reflect on Thanksgiving traditions while deployed overseas, unpack the significance of the Elizabeth Dole Act, explore presidential transitions, and dive into fun topics like the Army-Navy game uniforms and more. Featured Guests: Ryan Gallucci – Executive Director, VFW Washington Office Patrick Murray – Director, VFW National Legislative Service Brittany Dymond Murray – Associate Director, VFW Communications & Public Affairs Episode Highlights: [2:44] Thanksgiving reflections: What it’s like to spend the holidays while deployed. [15:00] Understanding the Senator Elizabeth Dole Act and its impact on VA healthcare. [40:35] Presidents of the U.S: Transitioning between administrations, a discussion of new cabinet picks and the process. [56:47] Army-Navy game uniforms and debating the coolest thing the Army has ever done. Join us for thoughtful discussions, heartfelt stories, and a touch of humor—because we’re always #StillServing.   For more information or to continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook @VFWSTILLSERVING on YouTube @RobCoutureVFW on Facebook VFW Unmet Needs Program Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Text “NEEDS” to 20222 to donate to the Unmet Needs Program. Today’s VFW — Share Your #StillServing Story Sports Clips Help A Hero — Text HERO to 71777 to donate online

27 Marras 20241h 5min