Director's Cut

ntinue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook @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 Sport Clips VFW Help A Hero Scholarship Afghan Resettlement Initiative — Welcome.us Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Centennial Memorial Cohen Veterans Network

27 Okt 20211h 8min

This past September 29th, the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States celebrated its 122nd birthday. As one of the nation’s oldest combat veterans service organizations, the VFW has been unwavering in its devotion to serving those who served. Whether it’s fighting for health care, education, or disability compensation — No One Does More For Veterans than the VFW. More than 100 Service Officers attended an eight-day training session put on by VFW’s National Veteran Service. During this episode of the #StillServing podcast, Host Rob Couture speaks to Junior Vice Commander for the VFW, Duane Sarmiento, about how important this training is to the VFW in continuing our legacy of helping veterans. Deputy Director of National Veteran Service, Gregg Orto, breaks down the fundamentals of VA Claim eligibility and filing and an interview with the Defense Commissary Agency discussing commissary benefits veterans are entitled to even after leaving service.   Duane Sarmiento, Junior Vice Commander-in-Chief, VFW —   Duane shares his opinion of the Service Officer training based on his many years of service as Director of Veterans’ Affairs in NJ. [2:56]   Taking care of veterans is paramount because only eight percent of Americans serve in the military to protect the nation’s freedoms. [5:04]   Duane’s military service includes the Navy and the Navy Reserves. [11:19]   Joining the VFW was a rite of passage and his continued membership is a significant part of his life, explains Duane. [14:15]   Duane is the first person of color to be a VFW National Officer. [19:39]   Gregg Orto, Deputy Director, National Veterans Service —   Gregg shares the story of his transition from active duty to working through his pre-disposition claims. [27:28]   Gregg defines processes, timelines, and recommendations to use when being discharged from military service. [29:13]   Sgt. Maj. Michael Saucedo, U.S.M.C., Senior Enlisted Advisor & Deborah Harris, Dietician and Health and Wellness Program Manager, Defense Commissary Agency —   Michael and Deborah describe how and why they arrived in the Defense Commissary Agency. [39:28]   The commissary offers service members and retirees scientifically-backed nutritional food. [42:44]   Veterans are now allowed to access the commissary benefit. [45:29]   New initiatives by the commissary include the Come Back to Savings campaign and home delivery services. [51:49]   The various payment options available at commissaries and final thoughts on DeCA. [1:01:05] For more information or continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook @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 Sport Clips VFW Help A Hero Scholarship Afghan Resettlement Initiative — Welcome.us

6 Okt 20211h 8min

If you are a veteran enrolled in college for this fall semester, you are more than likely knee-deep in classes by now. If you took advantage of the Post-9/11 GI Bill you're probably not worried about the debt. But, scholarships can go a long way to help you reach educational goals when benefits don't quite get you there. Since 2013, the generous folks at Sport Clips Haircuts have helped raise millions of dollars for the VFW's Sport Clips Help A Hero scholarship. With that in mind, Rob took the #StillServing podcast on the road and traveled to San Antonio, Texas, for this year's Sport Clips Haircuts annual National Huddle convention. During this episode of the #StillServing podcast, Host Rob Couture speaks with Sport Clips Chairman and Founder, and VFW life-member Mr. Gordon Logan to hear about how he went from being a C-130 pilot during the Vietnam war to the head of one of the most innovative franchises in North America. He also speaks with influencers within the Sport Clip system and with a mutual partner of both the VFW and Sport Clips, president and founder of Dream Flights, Mr. Darryl Fisher to learn about what his charity does to give the experience of a lifetime to our most senior veterans.   Gordon Logan, Chairman, and Founder, Sport Clips Haircuts —   Mr. Logan shares his inspiration for developing Sport Clips and how the organization goes the extra mile to give men and boys the style and service they deserve. [3:20]   How Sport Clips helps the VFW with the Help A Hero Scholarship program. [6:34]   Being an Air Force veteran himself, Mr. Logan wanted to do something to say thank you to veterans for helping to keep America safe. [10:23]   Amanda Palm, Corporate Communications Manager, Sport Clips Haircuts —   Amanda describes the purpose of the Sport Clips Haircuts Huddle. [13:53]   Amanda highlights some of the fundraising efforts for the Help A Hero campaign that comes from Sport Clips clients and franchisees. [15:32]   On Veterans Day, Sport Clips is offering free haircuts to active duty military personnel in addition to their fundraising efforts. [20:57]   Joe Klimek, Navy veteran and Area Developer, Sport Clips Houston —   Joe shares his 5-year military service story. [23:15]   How military service can translate into future civil career opportunities at Sport Clips for veterans. [24:50]   Joe explains how leadership skills learned in the military are the same leadership skills needed to run a Sport Clips store. [28:00]   Ted McMurdo, Team Leader, Sport Clips Colorado —   Ted describes his passion for fundraising and supporting the military through his 17 Sport Clips stores and golf events. [31:34]   Teams in Colorado Springs look forward to free haircuts for veterans on Veterans Day. [35:39]   Darryl Fisher, President, and Founder, Dream Flights —   Mr. Fisher describes how Dream Flights came into existence and how it serves elderly veterans. [39:15]   The entire fleet of Dream Flights is all World War 2 era planes that still serve America in a multitude of significant ways. [43:20]   Mr. Fisher shares a story of a 99-year-old World War 2 veteran who took his final flight. [45:50]   The relationship between Dream Flights and Sport Clips was developed out of a similar mission to help veterans. [47:30] For more information or continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook @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 VFW Help A Hero Scholarship Sport Clips Afghan Resettlement Initiative — Welcome.us Dream Flights

22 Sep 202154min

ant is a present reminder that this pandemic is not quite over. Nevertheless, we must press on with life and continue to get after business even if we've got to make adjustments in the way we do things. The VFW's 2021 National Convention is proof that our organization can and will make things happen. During this episode of the #StillServing podcast, Host Rob Couture speaks with the three leaders guiding the VFW through this time of transition. First, he speaks to the Adjutant General of the VFW, Kevin Jones, to learn about the tough decisions and hard work that brought about this year's business-only convention. Then the VFW's outgoing Commander-In-Chief Hal Roesch looks back at this year in the chair, and finally he introduces us to the VFW's incoming Commander-In-Chief, Fritz Mihelcic to understand his priorities and vision for this next year.   Kevin Jones, VFW Adjutant General — Kevin shares his Air Force service story. [2:47] Looking back at the 2020s VFW virtual convention and ahead to the 2021s business-only convention. [5:55] Kevin gives an audible tour of the logistics and safety protocols of the VFW convention. [14:33] The VFW gave everything they had during the difficult time during COVID. [19:53]   Hal Roesch, Outgoing Commander-in-Chief, VFW — In the Air Force, Hal was part of the most successful US military campaign, Desert Shield/Desert Storm. [24:05] How Hal became a member of the VFW during his active-duty service. [29:24] The fellowship and benefit of a VFW membership at the Post level. [33:35] A pandemic, the end of a war, and racial strife, how Hal led the VFW during the difficult days. [39:58] What veterans and community members need to keep in mind during the political process. [45:42] Hal speaks his final comments for the VFW organization. [54:49]   Fritz Mihelcic, VFW Commander-In-Chief— Born in Germany, Fritz started his service story in the National Guard because he is proud to serve this country. [1:00:31] The future of the VFW is to make the world a better place for all military generations. [1:05:47] Fritz traveled physically and virtually to perform as much member outreach as possible as Vice Commander during 2020. [1:12:24] How to leverage social media to tell the VFW story. [1:16:05] To break the cycle of PTSD, a service dog named Mama is Fritz’s partner. [1:25:31] The time is now to focus on veterans’ service and legislation. [1:32:44]   For more information or continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook @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 VFW Action Corps

3 Aug 20211h 36min

Veterans are a unique breed of individuals. They are the only demographic in the nation tied together by the oaths they take to the country and the values they hold instilled in them from the moment they step off that bus at boot camp. As they continue through life, the values, like duty and selfless service, continue to drive many of them to not walk past problems in their communities. When they see a need they step up to meet it. It's just who they are. During this episode of the #StillServing podcast, Host Rob Couture speaks with Pat Murray, Director of the VFW's National Legislative Service who talks about the work his team does with Congress on behalf of veterans’ rights. Then, Ryan Gallucci, Director of the National Veterans Service discusses what National Veteran Service is and how VA accredited VFW service officers help veterans and their families get the benefits they are due. And, Bob Jackson, Director of Operations at the VFW Washington office tells us about some of the history of the VFW Memorial Building and its unique role as the silent Sentinel on Capitol Hill.   Pat Murray, Director, VFW National Legislative Service —   Pat shares his Marine Corps service story and how, today, he helps veterans with disability, employment, and education issues. [3:03]   The National Legislative Service works face-to-face with Congress as the public voice of VFW on Capitol Hill. [8:08]   Pat describes the process of how veterans’ interests are introduced to Congress, how the issues are resolved, and partner organizations. [11:57]   Current topics being addressed include Toxic Exposure Benefits. [21:50]   How to sign up for the VFW Action Corps and how to support veterans. [28:27]   Ryan Gallucci, Director, National Veterans Service —   Ryan shares his Army service story and how he came to advocate for veterans as Director of the National Veterans Service. [33:55]   The National Veterans Service trains a global network of accredited advocates and represents 500,000-plus veterans for free. [43:02]   Certain consulting groups not affiliated with the VA have taken advantage of newly transitioning veterans. [51:38]   The importance of paying it forward by joining the VFW. [59:44]   Bob Jackson, Director of Operations, VFW Memorial Building —   Bob recalls his service story, which started in 1976. [1:05:38]   A virtual tour of the majestic VFW Memorial Building, which has a rich history of service to the country. [1:11:14]   The VFW is the only service organization that ensures the U.S. Government keeps its promise to all service members. [1:28:48]   For more information or continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook @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 VFW Action Corps

21 Juli 20211h 33min

Veterans are a unique breed of individuals. They are the only demographic in the nation tied together by the oaths they take to the country and the values they hold instilled in them from the moment they step off that bus at boot camp. As they continue through life, the values, like duty and selfless service, continue to drive many of them to not walk past problems in their communities. When they see a need they step up to meet it. It's just who they are.   During this episode of the #StillServing podcast, Host Rob Couture speaks with Lt. Gen. (USMC, Ret.) James Laster, the President, and CEO of the Marine Toys For Tots Foundation who details the charity's history and the great work it does both past and present. Director of VFW Programs Lynn Rolf and VFW Foundation Administrator Richard Potter team up to talk about the VFW’s Unmet Needs Program and the partnership with Burger King Franchisees. And, Craig DeOld, Commander of the Boston Police VFW Post #1018 talks about how his post became June’s Post of the Month in the #StillServing Spotlight.   Lt. Gen. (USMC, Ret.) James Laster, the President & CEO of the Marine Toys For Tots Foundation —   Originally from Dallas, James served 39 years in the Marine Corps. [3:08] James describes his transformation from Chief of Staff to becoming the president and CEO of Marine Toys for Tots. [4:52] In 1948, Toys for Tots became an official activity of the U.S. Marine Corps and the mission of the Marine Corps Reserves. [6:57] From start to finish, Toys for Tots relies on the generosity of the American people and 26,000 volunteers. [12:27] Since 2006, the Toys for Tots Literacy program has successfully distributed 44 million books to impoverished children. [15:27] The process of identifying and supporting the less fortunate of the American population and how VFW posts can assist the effort. [21:28]   Director of VFW Programs, Lynn Rolf & VFW Foundation Administrator, Richard Potter —   Lynn describes how the Unmet Needs program has helped over 11,000 veterans with financial assistance. [28:36] Since 2007, franchisees have donated over 6.5 million to the Unmet Needs program. [32:25] Lynn and Rich share Unmet Needs success stories. [35:58] How listeners can help or get involved and how veterans can apply for the program. [41:38]   Craig DeOld, Commander, #StillServing Boston Police VFW Post #1018 —   Craig describes his military service story. [52:55] Boston Police VFW Post #1018 has a unique history. [56:27] During the pandemic, Post #1018 stepped up to become a collection point to assist the redistribution of PPE and as a vaccination station. [58:58] Craig shares recent triumphs and future plans for #StillServing Post of the month #1018. [1:07:43]   For more information or continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook @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 Toys for Tots Foundation Good 360 Foundation

7 Juli 20211h 13min

Camaraderie comes in many forms, from combat deployment to live-fire ranges, or field exercises. To ruck marches to morning PT sessions and back-to-back hour-long death by Powerpoint mandatory annual training. Service members almost always had a battle buddy there soldiering through it together. But, civilian life is much different and for some of us, the loneliness and lack of connectivity with others make even the most mundane aspects of life sometimes hard to bear. That is why there are many on this side of the DD-214 who have dedicated themselves to walking side-by-side with veterans through thick and thin, ready to encourage and help bring restoration to our warrior spirit. We speak with three men who have dedicated themselves to that cause today. During this episode of the #StillServing podcast, Host Rob Couture speaks with Stuart Taylor, President & CEO of the Allied Forces Foundation who describes the challenging, yet rewarding events his charity puts on for veterans from both sides of the pond. Ken Faulk, Founder and Chairman of the Bouldercrest Foundation, talks about his retreat setting in Northern Virginia and how it's helping veterans and their families cope with past traumas and feel whole again. And extreme sports enthusiasts and veterans advocate Ricky Falls shares his passion for bringing awareness to the plight of homeless veterans by way of a long-distance cycling trip.   Stuart Taylor, President & CEO, Allied Forces Foundation —   Stuart shares his deep military roots which span multiple countries and multiple centuries. [4:11] The Allied Forces Foundation is driven to support wounded or injured warriors in events that foster communication and rehabilitation. [12:00] A Cateran Yomp and the upcoming Appalachian Yomp is a heroic, restorative event that blends personal experiences with marching and traditions. [17:18] How to register to participate or volunteer for the Appalachian Yomp on the Allied Forces Foundation website. [34:30]   Ken Falke, Founder & Chairman of the Boulder Crest Foundation —   Ken pursued a military career as a Ceremonial Guard and EOD after playing professional hockey. [45:01] After selling A-T Solutions, Ken began to assist the families of wounded EOD personnel and the project morphed into the Boulder Crest Foundation. [51:21] Boulder Crest works in alignment with a posttraumatic growth program to build confidence. [1:00:06] Ken shares a story of Admiral James Stockdale and how he reinstated hope to returned POWs. [1:03:24] The Appalachian Yomp begins at the Boulder Crest retreat center and goes to Harper’s Ferry. [1:09:30]   Ricky Folse, Extreme Sports Enthusiast, and Homeless Veterans Advocate—   Ricky assists homeless veterans by raising awareness during a long-distance biking trip that ends in our nation’s capital. [1:15:23] In an upcoming fight, Ricky is working with the promoter to have the fight of the night trophy named to honor a WW2 veteran. [1:25:32] To donate to Ricky’s Veterans Day century ride to help homeless veterans visit Ricky Fit on Facebook. [1:29:13]   For more information or continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook @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 Allied Forces Foundation Boulder Crest Foundation Rick Fit on Facebook

23 Juni 20211h 33min

Memorial Day is a time to reflect, honor, and commemorate our nation’s sons and daughters who laid down their lives in defense of all of us and our way of life. It is time to remember who they were and their selfless service to the United States of America, who flag-draped their coffins as one final embrace from the country they loved as they were laid to their final rest. Let us remember their sacrifice and find a way to commemorate them this weekend. During this episode of the #StillServing podcast, Host Rob Couture speaks with Arlington National Cemetery’s Director of Operations, Dr. Gerald Lowe. Dr. Lowe discusses the historic resting place close to the heart of our nation’s capital. Danny Devine, Executive Director of the National Cemetery Administration Office of Engagement and Memorial Innovation, shares the many ways of memorializing service members that are made available by the VA. And Director of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, Kelly McKeague, describes the efforts his organization makes every day to bring all of our military’s fallen sons and daughters home.   Dr. Gerald Lowe, Director of Operations, Arlington National Cemetery (ANC) — Arlington National Cemetery is taking measures to re-open to the public based on Federal guidelines and CDC recommendations. [4:53] A summary of the special events taking place at Arlington National Cemetery for Memorial Day, 2021. [8:21] What Arlington National Cemetery is doing to commemorate the centennial of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. [12:21]   Danny Devine, Executive Director of the Office of Engagement and Memorial Innovation, National Cemetery Administration (NCA) — Veterans make up 75% of the people who lovingly care for National Cemeteries. [19:47] The differences between National Cemeteries and State Veterans Cemeteries are few. [22:39] Headstones, markers, and medallions are just a few of the burial benefits available to the families of our nation’s veterans. [24:57] Protocols of National Cemeteries for Memorial Day. [27:13] The Veterans Legacy Memorial is an online resource that includes a page for each of the veterans laid to rest in National Cemeteries. [29:14] Additional resources for remembering and memorializing service members. [34:23]   Kelly McKeague, Director, Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA) — The dignified manner in which remains are repatriated and honored by the Department of Defense. [40:57] The history of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency. [44:44] Kelly describes the diverse roles the agency must have to complete its mission. [47:56] The bilateral, diplomatic negotiations the VA has with other countries to repatriate remains goes above and beyond common negotiations. [51:09] A call to action to return wartime artifacts acquired in other countries. [56:13]   For more information or continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook @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 Arlington National Cemetery Website Arlington National Cemetery on Facebook ANC Explorer App Veterans Legacy Memorial National Cemetery on Facebook

26 Maj 20211h 4min