The Lost Art Project: Veterans’ Voices

In the final installment of his remarkable story, 101-year-old WWII Air Force veteran Robert Weber reflects on the lessons learned from a lifetime of service, hard work, self-discipline, and family. He shares timeless advice for future generations, discusses the importance of financial responsibility and perseverance, and looks back on the accomplishments that have meant the most to him—including 76 years of marriage and five generations of family. Join us as we conclude this unforgettable conversation with a member of America's Greatest Generation whose wisdom is as inspiring as his service.

Join AJ and Jess for another live evening of laughs, stories, and conversations you won't find anywhere else. From military memories and updates on The Lost Art Project: Veterans' Voices. We also share exciting progress on our growing Veterans' Voices Research Portal, the new searchable archive that is making hundreds of veteran stories easier than ever to discover, while discussing the future of preserving military history one conversation at a time. Whether you're a veteran, currently serving, a military family member, or simply someone who enjoys good conversation and great company, pull up a chair and join us around the virtual campfire.

🔥 Tonight we celebrate an incredible milestone—Episode #700 of The Lost Art Project: Veterans' Voices! Join AJ, Jess, and Mark around the fire as they reflect on the journey to 700 episodes, share behind-the-scenes stories, favorite memories, and discuss what's next for the archive. More than 350 veterans have trusted us with preserving their stories, and this milestone belongs to every guest, listener, supporter, and volunteer who has made this mission possible. Grab a seat around the fire and help us celebrate 700 episodes of preserving voices and protecting legacies. We'll see you tonight! 🇺🇸🔥

Growing up in Gloucester, England, Matt Okuhara never imagined his military journey would take him from the British Army Reserve to deployment in Iraq, commissioning as an officer, and eventually working in the United Kingdom's Civil Nuclear Constabulary. In this episode, Matt shares what it's like to serve in the British military, explains the similarities and differences between the U.S. and British armed forces, and reflects on the leadership lessons he learned through combat, military service, and his transition into law enforcement. Don't miss this fascinating international perspective on service, leadership, and life after the military. Basra and Back: The Memoir of an Unlikely Infantryman in the Iraq War https://www.amazon.com/dp/1036129659?lv=shuf&channelId=500&plpRedirect=mhFallback

In Part 2 of his story, General James "Jim" Lukeman reflects on the leadership lessons that shaped his remarkable 40-year Marine Corps career. From deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan to serving alongside legendary Marine leaders like Generals James Mattis and James Conway, Jim shares stories of command, combat, and the importance of leading with humility and respect. He also offers timeless advice for the next generation of leaders and reflects on a lifetime of service to the Marine Corps. Don't miss the conclusion of this outstanding conversation with one of the Corps' most respected leaders.

Growing up as the son of a Marine who would retire as a Lieutenant General, Jim Lukeman experienced the Marine Corps long before he ever earned the title himself. After graduating from the University of Notre Dame and commissioning in 1980, what was supposed to be a four-year commitment turned into an incredible 40-year career. In Part 1, Jim shares stories from his childhood, ROTC, becoming a Marine officer, and his early assignments—including serving in Europe during Operation Desert Storm. Join us as we begin the remarkable journey of one of the Marine Corps' most respected leaders.

🔥 FireSide Chat with the Crew! 🔥 Join AJ, Mark, Vick, Jess, and Stevo for another night around the FireSide! The crew gets together for good conversation, plenty of laughs, stories, opinions, and probably a little friendly trash talking along the way. There’s no script and no telling where the conversation will go—that’s what makes the FireSide Chat what it is. Just veterans and friends getting together, talking about life, current events, military memories, and whatever else comes up. Grab a drink, pull up a chair, and join AJ, Mark, Vick, Jess, and Stevo for another great night with the crew! 🇺🇸 Preserving Voices. Protecting Legacies.

🇺🇸 Marine Veteran Jamar Jackson joined the Marine Corps during the Desert Storm era, looking for something more than the daily grind of working hard in Oakland. He wanted to build a better future for himself and stay away from the things that could have easily taken his life in a different direction. During his time in the Marine Corps, Jamar was fortunate to have incredible mentors and leaders who taught him lessons that would stay with him for life—the importance of saving, investing, taking calculated risks, and having the courage to try something new. Jamar took those lessons, combined them with the drive and determination he gained in the Marine Corps, and built an incredible story of success in the civilian world. As an entrepreneur, he explored opportunities ranging from real estate investments to computers before eventually finding his niche in the financial markets and becoming a successful stock market trader. But Jamar’s story isn’t only about personal success. Today, he is using what he has learned to help fellow veterans discover greater financial freedom. Through his nonprofit work and trading platform, he provides veterans interested in the stock market with an opportunity to watch and learn from trading in real time. He has also taken his commitment to serving veterans into the world of technology, developing an AI-powered app designed to provide veterans with additional guidance and support as they navigate the VA benefits process. From the streets of Oakland, to the Marine Corps, to entrepreneurship, investing, technology, and giving back to the veteran community—Jamar Jackson’s journey is a story of mentorship, determination, adaptability, and success. 🎙️ Don’t miss this incredible story of a Marine who took the lessons he learned in uniform and turned them into a mission to help others build a better future. Preserving Voices. Protecting Legacies.

🔥 FireSide Chat w/ the Crew! 🔥 Join AJ, Mark, Mike, Vick, Aaron, and Jess for another fun-filled FireSide Chat with the Crew! Tonight, the Crew talks about how everyone spent their Independence Day celebrations before taking the conversation across the Atlantic to share stories and experiences from their time in different European countries. 🇺🇸🌍 As always, the conversation goes in a few unexpected directions, the stories get better as the night goes on, and there are plenty of laughs along the way. Grab your favorite drink, pull up a chair, and hang out with the Crew for a relaxed night of stories, memories, friendly banter, and a whole lot of fun. Preserving Voices. Protecting Legacies.

Tune in for Part 2 of our Independence Day Celebration, packed with powerful stories, great conversation, and live music! 🇺🇸 Join us as we visit with 101-year-old World War II Air Force veteran Robert Weber, hear from The Crew and SteveO about what America and 250 years of independence mean to them, and sit down with Dave Munson, founder of Saddleback Leather Co., whose company has generously supported The Lost Art Project by donating one of its incredible Flight Bags to our quarterly fundraising raffle. We close out the celebration with a special musical performance by Marine veteran and San Antonio musician Lynnwood King. This episode brings together generations of service, sacrifice, patriotism, conversation, and music in celebration of America’s 250th Independence Day. 🇺🇸🎶 Preserving Voices. Protecting Legacies.

Tune in for Part 1 of our Independence Day Celebration, featuring a special performance by the Quantico Marine Band! 🇺🇸🎶 Watch as these talented Marine musicians take the stage aboard Marine Corps Base Quantico and deliver an incredible rock band performance for the Marines and families stationed there. It’s a celebration of service, family, freedom, and 250 years of American independence—Marine Corps style! Turn it up, celebrate America, and enjoy the show! 🇺🇸🎸🥁

Tune in for Army veteran Jim Whaley as he shares the incredible story of his 20-year Army career as a helicopter pilot and instructor pilot. Spending much of his military career overseas, Jim's service became a family journey, with two of his three children born while stationed abroad. Today, Jim continues his mission of service as the CEO of Mission Roll Call, a nonpartisan nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring the voices of veterans and their families are heard by policymakers through nationwide surveys, advocacy, and research. Mission Roll Call works to identify the issues veterans care about most—from healthcare and mental health to housing and quality of life—and uses that data to drive meaningful change. Don't miss this inspiring conversation as Jim reflects on his Army career, his transition from military service, and how he's continuing to make a difference for veterans across America through Mission Roll Call.

Join us tonight for another great FireSide Chat with AJ Cox, Mark O'Loughlin, Mike McNany, and Jess Kindelspire as they gather around to talk veterans, military history, current projects, and whatever conversations unfold along the way. From preserving the stories of America's veterans to sharing laughs, insights, and behind-the-scenes updates from The Lost Art Project: Veterans' Voices, you never know where the discussion will lead. Grab your favorite drink, join the conversation in the comments, and spend the evening with friends who are passionate about honoring those who served.   Preserving Voices. Protecting Legacies.

Tune in tonight for another FireSide Chat with AJ and the Crew as we welcome our special guests from FOCUS Marines Foundation w/ Jennifer Jefferson, Brian Jaffe, and Nick Popaditch! Founded by Marines for Marines, FOCUS Marines has been changing lives since 2010 through a unique seven-day program designed to help veterans navigate the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life. The program provides practical tools, mentorship, and ongoing support to help veterans facing issues such as anxiety, depression, isolation, relationship struggles, and loss of purpose—all at no cost to participants. To date, more than 1,160 veterans have completed the program and found a renewed sense of direction and purpose. Join us as we learn more about this incredible organization, hear how they're making a difference in the lives of veterans, and discuss the importance of veterans helping veterans. 🇺🇸 Preserving Voices. Protecting Legacies. Don't miss this inspiring conversation!   focusmarines.org

Army Veteran Ronald Kelly joined the Army as a combat engineer, but once he arrived in Vietnam, he quickly learned that war rarely goes according to plan. Assigned to security missions and other duties far beyond his primary job, Ronald experienced firsthand the realities of life in a combat zone. The war became deeply personal when his best friend was killed, leaving a lasting impact that he carried long after returning home. After his service, Ronald returned to Oklahoma, where he built a life beyond the battlefield while never forgetting the sacrifices made by those who served alongside him. In this powerful Veteran Story, Ronald reflects on duty, loss, resilience, and the lessons learned during one of America's most challenging conflicts. Preserve Honor. Inspire Future Generations. The Lost Art Project: Veterans' Voices – Preserving history one veteran story at a time.

Tune in for Part 2 of our conversation with World War II Army Air Forces veteran Robert Weber. After returning home from the war, Robert reunited with his sweetheart and set out to build a life through hard work and determination. Through dedication and an entrepreneurial spirit, he earned enough money to purchase a farm, where he found creative and innovative ways to make a living and provide for his family. Robert's story is a remarkable example of the resilience, resourcefulness, and work ethic that defined the Greatest Generation. This is an inspiring episode you won't want to miss. Preserving history one veteran story at a time. 🇺🇸🎙️

🔥 FireSide Chat with the Crew – Tonight Live! 🔥 Join us tonight for another exciting FireSide Chat with the Crew as AJ Cox, Mark O'Loughlin, Aaron Davis, Mike McNany, and Jess Kindelspire come together for an evening of conversation, camaraderie, and plenty of laughs. We'll be discussing current events affecting veterans, sharing stories and experiences, highlighting organizations making a difference in the veteran community, and covering a variety of topics that matter to those who have served. As always, the conversation is unscripted, interactive, and driven by the perspectives of our incredible panel. Whether you're a veteran, active-duty service member, family member, or supporter, pull up a chair and join us by the fire for a great discussion. Featuring: AJ Cox Mark O'Loughlin Aaron Davis Mike McNany Jess Kindelspire Preserving history one veteran story at a time. 🇺🇸🎙️🔥

Join us tonight as we welcome Steve Williams, host of the "Story Time with Stevo" Podcast, for an engaging conversation about storytelling, podcasting, life experiences, and the power of preserving personal histories. At The Lost Art Project: Veterans' Voices, we believe that every story matters. Tonight, Steve will share his journey as a podcaster, the inspiration behind Story Time with Stevo, memorable moments from his show, and why authentic conversations continue to connect people from all walks of life. As always, FireSide Chat w/ the Crew is a relaxed, interactive discussion where our audience can join the conversation, ask questions, and enjoy an evening of great stories and fellowship. Grab your favorite beverage, pull up a chair by the virtual campfire, and join us for an evening of conversation with Steve Williams from Story Time with Stevo. Preserving history one veteran story at a time.

Tune in as World War II veteran Robert Weber shares his incredible story of growing up during the Great Depression, where hard work, determination, and perseverance were lessons taught daily by his parents. Those lessons would shape the course of his life and prove that with dedication, he could accomplish anything he set his mind to. After joining the Army Air Forces, Robert was assigned as a gunner aboard a bomber aircraft during World War II. He flew combat missions from Saipan to Japan, and even into China, playing a role in one of the most significant conflicts in world history. Now, at 101 years old, Robert remains sharp as a tack and vividly recalls the experiences, challenges, and triumphs that defined his generation. From the hardships of the Depression to the dangers of wartime service, his story offers a remarkable firsthand account of a pivotal era in American history. Don't miss this incredible conversation as Robert shares his journey in his own words and reflects on a life of service, resilience, and determination. 101 years old. A member of America's Greatest Generation. A story you won't forget. Preserving Voices. Protecting Legacies.

William Donald Bradley joined the United States Air Force during a time of conflict and uncertainty. During his military service, he was assigned as a surgical assistant, a role he found both rewarding and meaningful as he helped care for others during their time of need. After leaving the Air Force, William embarked on a journey that took him from job to job and state to state, always searching for purpose and the next opportunity. Along the way, he faced challenges, uncertainty, and periods of confusion as he worked to find his place in the world. Eventually, that journey led him back to his faith. Through his commitment to the church, William found direction, purpose, and peace. His calling ultimately led him to serve as a minister and missionary, sharing his faith and helping others throughout Mexico and Africa. Join us as William shares his remarkable story of perseverance, faith, service, and personal transformation. From military service to ministry, his journey is a powerful reminder that even through life's challenges, it is possible to find comfort, purpose, and fulfillment. Don't miss this inspiring episode of The Lost Art Project: Veterans' Voices. Preserving Voices. Protecting Legacies.

Robert "Bob" Grubbs grew up in Arkansas during a time when the world was changing and the shadow of war loomed on the horizon. After completing his education, Bob began his military career as an Army Supply Officer and received orders to Berlin, Germany. After just one year in Berlin, Bob was reassigned to Vietnam. There, he spent a year serving alongside a South Vietnamese unit, experiencing firsthand the challenges and realities of war during one of the most significant conflicts in American history. Following his active-duty service, Bob continued serving in the Army Reserve while building a life at home. He completed his master's degree, got married, and embarked on a successful career as a geologist that took him around the world. From small-town Arkansas to Berlin, Vietnam, and beyond, Bob's journey is one of service, perseverance, education, and adventure. Don't miss this fascinating conversation as Robert "Bob" Grubbs shares his story in his own words on The Lost Art Project: Veterans' Voices. Preserving Voices. Protecting Legacies.

Tune in for May's episode of Jarhead Jabber! This month, the regular crew is back and joined by two special guests for a discussion you won't want to miss. We will be joined by Jim Breen, who has developed an exciting new program that will soon be utilized by the Marine Corps League. Jim will be on hand to give us all the details, explain how the program works, and discuss the benefits it will bring to League members. From preserving Marine Corps history to exploring new opportunities for the Marine Corps League, this episode is packed with great conversation, insight, and plenty of Jarhead-style discussion. Grab your favorite beverage, pull up a chair, and join AJ, Vick, Mike, Jess, and the rest of the crew for another outstanding episode of Jarhead Jabber. Preserving Voices. Protecting Legacies.

🔥 FIRESIDE CHAT WITH THE CREW 🔥 Join us for another episode of Fireside Chat with the Crew as AJ, Vick, Mike, and Jess gather around the virtual campfire for an evening of conversation, camaraderie, laughter, and real talk. From military service and veteran issues to current events, life experiences, leadership lessons, and the occasional sea story, you never know where the conversation will go—but you can count on it being authentic. This isn't an interview. It's not a scripted show. It's friends coming together to share perspectives, tell stories, and discuss the topics that matter most to veterans, military families, and everyday Americans. Pull up a chair and join the conversation as the crew tackles the serious, celebrates the funny, and keeps the tradition of storytelling alive. 🎙️ AJ Cox 🎙️ Vick 🎙️ Mike 🎙️ Jess 📅 Tonight 🔥 Fireside Chat with the Crew Because some of the best conversations happen around the fire. #FiresideChatWithTheCrew #TheLostArtProject #VeteransVoices #VeteranStories #MilitaryCommunity #Leadership #SeaStories #Podcast #Veterans #PreservingVoicesProtectingLegacies

FIRESIDE CHAT WITH THE CREW Tonight, we're honored to welcome Wayne Perego of American Veteran Tours to Fireside Chat with the Crew. American Veteran Tours is a veteran-focused nonprofit organization dedicated to providing veterans with unforgettable trips to Washington, D.C., at no cost to those who served. Through the generosity of volunteers, donors, and supporters, the organization helps veterans visit the memorials built in their honor, reconnect with fellow veterans, and experience the recognition and appreciation they have earned through their service. Wayne will join us to discuss the mission behind American Veteran Tours, the impact these trips have on veterans and their families, and the stories that continue to inspire him as he helps those who served our nation experience Washington, D.C. in a meaningful way. Join us as we talk about service after service, honoring our veterans, and the importance of ensuring that those who answered the call of duty are never forgotten. Tonight Fireside Chat with the Crew Special Guest: Wayne Perego American Veteran Tours Every veteran has a story. Tonight, we'll hear about a mission dedicated to honoring them. #TheLostArtProject #VeteransVoices #FiresideChatWithTheCrew #AmericanVeteranTours #VeteranStories <a href='https://www.facebook.com/watch/hashtag/preservingvoicesprotectinglegacies/?__cft__%5B0%5D=AZa5y2WFA4VqCFCmJ-nYRipSS7nOH3gF7

🔥 Fireside Chat with the Crew Update 🔥 There will not be a Fireside Chat with the Crew this Sunday, June 7. Instead, I will be spending the day celebrating a very special milestone—30 years of marriage with my wife, Karleen Cox. Over the years, we've experienced the challenges, sacrifices, adventures, and blessings that come with military life and family life. Reaching this milestone has given us an opportunity to reflect on the journey we've shared together and the lessons we've learned along the way. Because of that, when Fireside Chat with the Crew returns, we'll be discussing a topic that impacts so many veterans, service members, and military families: Marriage and the Military. We'll talk about the realities of military life, maintaining relationships through deployments and separations, the importance of communication, and some of the lessons we've learned during three decades together. Thank you for your continued support of Fireside Chat with the Crew. We look forward to seeing everyone at our next episode. Until then, take care of one another and spend some time with the people who matter most.

In Part 2 of Army veteran Scott Donaldson’s story, we continue the journey through his incredible 22-year Army career as he worked tirelessly to earn the respected title of Tank Master Gunner. After achieving this accomplishment, Scott went on to teach and mentor tank gunnery at nearly every level both inside and outside of the Army. His knowledge, leadership, and expertise helped shape countless tank crews and future armored leaders throughout his career. Scott would eventually finish his military service training and evaluating National Guard tank units throughout Washington and California, continuing to pass on the lessons and standards that defined his career. This is an incredible story of dedication, leadership, armored warfare excellence, and commitment to training the next generation. Don’t miss Part 2 of Scott Donaldson’s outstanding Army career.

In Part 1 of Army veteran Scott Donaldson’s story, Scott discusses how he realized he needed to make a change in his life before continuing down a troubled path. That decision ultimately led him into the United States Army and the beginning of an incredible military career. After joining the Army, Scott trained to become a tank driver, only to arrive at his first duty station and discover he would not even be performing the job he originally trained for. Fortunately for Scott, things quickly changed throughout his next several assignments, where he became heavily involved in armored operations and tank competitions. Scott eventually became part of the team that won the prestigious Canadian Army Trophy (CAT), the premier international NATO tank gunnery competition. Their victory marked the first time a team from the United States had ever won the competition, making it a historic achievement in Army armor history. Don’t miss Part 1 of Scott Donaldson’s incredible Army career filled with determination, leadership, armored warfare, and military history.

Marine veteran Tim Parkhurst joins the show to share his very unique story of service, determination, and perseverance. Growing up in a military family with a father who served as a Navy pilot and relatives spread across every branch of service, Tim spent much of his childhood moving from place to place and state to state. During his 10th-grade year, he made the decision to attend a Marine Academy high school, setting him on the path toward a future in the Marine Corps. After enlisting in the Marine Corps, Tim set his sights on becoming a Scout Sniper. While the road to achieving that goal came with several obstacles, he refused to give up and eventually accomplished his dream. Throughout his career, Tim would go on to serve successfully in multiple military occupations, adapting and overcoming challenges along the way to continue building an outstanding career in the Marine Corps. Don’t miss this incredible episode filled with determination, leadership, perseverance, and great stories from Tim’s journey through military service.

Tonight on FireSide Chat w/ the Crew (Jess Kindelspire, Mike McNany, Aaron Davis, Vick Ney, Mark O'Loughlin), we're gathering around the virtual campfire for another evening of conversation, camaraderie, and lessons learned through military service. As always, we'll discuss current events, life experiences, leadership, family, friendships, and the ways our time in uniform continues to influence us long after the military. Expect some laughs, a few sea stories, and honest conversations about the challenges and opportunities we face every day. We'll also be introducing an exciting new initiative from The Lost Art Project: Veterans' Voices—the Veterans' Voices Archive Network. For years, we've worked to preserve Veteran stories one interview at a time. Now we're taking the next step by creating a network of Historical Archivists who can help identify, record, and preserve Veteran stories in their own communities. We'll discuss why this initiative matters, what a Historical Archivist does, and how ordinary people can help ensure that the stories and lessons of our nation's Veterans are never lost. Tonight Chris Cambpell, the very first Lost Art Project Historical Archivist, starts his journey to documenting veterans stories.  If you've ever wondered how you can contribute to preserving military history, or if you've considered helping Veterans share their stories, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. So grab a cup of coffee, pull up a chair, and join the crew for another FireSide Chat where every story matters and every voice deserves to be heard.

A last minute change to the guests brings Cody Butcher United States Coast Guardsman who was instrumental in the Forward Operators Group, an amazing organization out there helping provide counseling and advise to active duty, veterans, and first responders. He joins the crew and discusses his organizations and then joins in on the discussions with the crew.  What happens when a group of Veterans sit around and discuss the lessons they learned during military service and how those lessons continue to impact their lives today? This week on FireSide Chat w/ the Crew, that's exactly what happened. The conversation focused on the traits and values developed through military service and how they continue to influence careers, family life, friendships, and everyday challenges long after the uniform comes off. From discipline and accountability to leadership, teamwork, and resilience, the crew shared personal experiences that demonstrated how these lessons extend far beyond military service. Each member brought a unique perspective to the discussion, highlighting moments where military training and experiences helped them navigate difficult situations in the workplace, strengthen relationships with family and friends, and maintain a sense of purpose in civilian life. The conversation also touched on the importance of adaptability, effective communication, and the camaraderie that Veterans carry with them throughout their lives. While the military may have brought these individuals together, the lessons learned continue to shape who they are today. The crew emphasized that many of these principles are universal and can benefit anyone, regardless of whether they have served in the armed forces. As always, the discussion included a few laughs, some memorable stories, and valuable insights that viewers can apply in their own lives. FireSide Chat w/ the Crew continues to provide a platform where Veterans can share their experiences, preserve their stories, and pass along lessons that remain relevant for future generations. Because some of life's greatest lessons aren't found in textbooks—they're learned through experience and shared through conversation.

We find ourselves at the end of Marine veteran First Sergeant John Crouch’s incredible journey. Throughout this series, John has taken us from his early days as a recruit — which he will be the first to tell you were far from perfect — through his time as a Drill Instructor and even “swinging with the wing” during his Marine Corps career. Now it’s time for the “Catch All” episode where John shares stories that may have been missed along the way and answers questions from AJ about his experiences, leadership lessons, and unforgettable moments throughout his service. This is a fun and fitting conclusion to an outstanding series full of humor, honesty, leadership, and Marine Corps history. Don’t miss the final episode featuring First Sergeant John Crouch, USMC.

John is wrapping up his legendary Drill Instructor stories and preparing to move on to the next chapter of his veteran story. This episode is filled with more of the hilarious, unforgettable moments that have made his series so entertaining from the beginning. With only one episode left after this—a final catch-all for any stories he may have forgotten—this is one of your last chances to hear the Drill Instructor stories that have kept everyone laughing and coming back for more. Don’t miss it.

John Camp is back for another episode packed with fun, chaos, and unforgettable stories. His experiences as a Marine Corps Drill Instructor are the kind of stories movies are made from—and honestly, there probably should be one about his hilarious exploits. From nonstop laughs to unbelievable moments, this episode delivers another great chapter in his veteran story. Don’t miss Episode 10.

Join us tonight for another great episode of FireSide Chat w/ the Crew. As always, expect plenty of laughs, honest conversations, and great camaraderie as the crew discusses everything from military stories and current events to leadership, veteran life, and whatever else comes up around the fire. These episodes continue to show why staying connected matters so much. No scripts, no filters — just real conversations with veterans and friends sharing experiences, humor, and perspectives that only this community can truly understand. Whether you tune in for the stories, the laughs, or the meaningful discussions, there is always something for everyone during FireSide Chat w/ the Crew. Grab a seat and join the conversation. You never know where the night will lead.

Join us for a special FireSide Chat featuring Marine veteran Tim Parkhurst from the. During this episode, Tim will discuss the mission and purpose of the Scout Sniper Heritage Foundation, the important work the organization is doing to preserve the history, legacy, and brotherhood of Marine Scout Snipers, and why these efforts are so important for future generations. The conversation will also cover how the foundation supports veterans, preserves historical artifacts and stories, and continues honoring the legacy of those who served in one of the most respected communities in the military. Most importantly, listeners will learn how they can help support the mission and get involved with the foundation’s ongoing efforts. This will be an informative and meaningful episode you will not want to miss. scoutsniper.org scoutsniperheritage.org

Robin DeLeon, Army Veteran, returns for his final episode. He continues sharing his experiences serving as a Doctor in the Army, facing challenges head-on and overcoming obstacles throughout his career. Robin is a great storyteller who brings both humor and honesty to his journey while sharing lessons on leadership, resilience, and perseverance that everyone can take something from. Don’t miss the final chapter of his veteran story.

John Crouch, Marine Veteran, continues sharing incredible stories from his time as a Drill Instructor—not only shaping recruits on the depot, but also training Naval Officers. These detailed, firsthand stories bring leadership, pressure, discipline, and humor to life in a way few people ever get to hear. Every episode pulls you deeper into the experience, and this next chapter is no different. Some of the best stories you’ll hear anywhere. Tune in and enjoy the next part of his veteran story.

Tune in for another great episode filled with laughs, camaraderie, and important information from the Marine Corps League. In this episode, we’ll discuss everything surrounding the Marine Corps League National Convention — the who, what, when, where, and how of one of the biggest gatherings of Marines and veterans from across the country. From convention events and activities to the friendships and memories that make these gatherings so special, we’ll cover it all while having a great time along the way. If you want good information, good people, and plenty of laughs, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

John’s back—and he’s not holding anything back. More raw, motivating Drill Instructor stories that didn’t make it into earlier episodes. The kind that put you right there in the moment and remind you what real leadership and pressure look like. This is Part 8—and it keeps getting better.

Another great week of FireSide Chat w/ the Crew is in the books. Every week these conversations continue to remind us why preserving stories and staying connected matters so much. From laughs and stories to serious discussions about service, leadership, life after the military, and the challenges veterans face, the crew continues to create a place where authenticity comes first. No scripts. No agendas. Just real conversations from people who have lived it. One of the best parts of FireSide Chat is that it feels like sitting around with old friends swapping stories, lessons learned, and plenty of humor along the way. Whether the topics are lighthearted or deeply personal, the conversations always come back to camaraderie and keeping the veteran community connected. Thank you to everyone who continues to tune in, support the mission, share the episodes, and contribute to preserving these important voices and experiences. This project continues to grow because of all of you. If you missed this week’s episode, be sure to catch the replay and stay tuned because we have more incredible guests, stories, and special events coming soon. The mission continues one story at a time.

Tune in for a fun-filled episode as the Marine Corps League Albert E. Schwab Detachment 857 takes part in the Rooster Days Parade and hosts their annual picnic celebration. This episode features great interviews conducted by Keith Wiesman, member of the Albert E. Schwab Detachment, capturing the camaraderie, laughter, and spirit that make events like these so special. From parade moments to picnic conversations, this episode highlights the strong bonds and traditions that continue to keep the veteran community connected. Don’t miss this fun and memorable episode.

Tune in as John Crouch shares his experiences training Naval officers and what it truly takes to shape future leaders. He walks through the process, offering insight into the expectations, challenges, and responsibilities that come with the role of a Drill Instructor in this unique environment. Through story after story, John brings his time to life—highlighting not only the discipline and structure required, but also the lighter moments and humor that come along the way with officer candidates. His perspective provides a deeper understanding of leadership, adaptability, and the impact an instructor can have on those preparing to serve. Don’t miss this engaging episode as John reflects on his time in Pensacola and the lasting impressions it left on both him and those he trained.

Marine Veteran Jerry Mullen returns to finish his story, picking up where his time in the Marine Corps came to an end and his next chapter began in law enforcement. After becoming a police officer, he soon received the call that would change everything—the opportunity to become an FBI agent. Ready for the challenge, Jerry stepped into a new level of service and responsibility. After completing training, he was assigned to Wisconsin, where he went on to build an incredible career with the FBI. In this episode, Jerry shares stories from his life after the Corps, offering insight into the transition, the challenges, and the experiences that shaped him along the way. It’s a powerful continuation of his journey and a look at what service can become beyond the uniform.

After completing his second tour as a Drill Instructor, John Crouch returned to the fleet once again, but this time his stay was short. With a continued passion for the drill field, he was ready to step back into the role for a third time. However, that path wasn’t in the cards, and instead he was given a new opportunity—serving as a Drill Instructor for Navy officer training. In this episode, John shares how this unexpected assignment turned into something he truly enjoyed. From the differences in training officers compared to enlisted recruits, to the unique challenges and rewards that came with the role, he brings his experiences to life through story after story. This chapter highlights adaptability, leadership, and the ability to embrace new opportunities while continuing to make an impact.

Fireside Chat – Weekly Discussion Join us for our weekly Fireside Chat—an open and honest conversation focused on leadership, transition, and the real-life experiences that shape who we are. Each week, we bring together veterans, leaders, and members of the community to talk through challenges, share lessons learned, and stay connected through meaningful dialogue. There’s no script—just real conversations with real people. Whether you’re continuing your journey after service, looking for perspective, or just want to be part of a community that understands, this is a place for you.

Fireside Chat – Weekly Discussion Join us for our weekly Fireside Chat—an open and honest conversation focused on leadership, transition, and the real-life experiences that shape who we are. Each week, we bring together veterans, leaders, and members of the community to talk through challenges, share lessons learned, and stay connected through meaningful dialogue. There’s no script—just real conversations with real people. Whether you’re continuing your journey after service, looking for perspective, or just want to be part of a community that understands, this is a place for you. Everyone has a story. Every voice matters.

In this episode, we find John Crouch wrapping up his time as a Drill Instructor and transitioning back to the fleet, where he returns to serve with the Air Wing. Now a Staff Non-Commissioned Officer, John steps into new leadership roles, leading in different capacities and continuing to grow as a Marine. It’s here that he truly begins to flourish, applying the lessons he learned on the drill field in a whole new environment. Before long, John realizes the impact he can make and makes the decision to return to the drill field for a second tour. He shares what led him back, along with the differences between his first and second time as a Drill Instructor. This chapter of his journey highlights growth, leadership, and the drive to continue challenging himself while shaping the next generation of Marines.

Jerry Mullen, Marine Veteran, began his journey through JROTC before earning his commission and stepping into the next chapter of his military career. In this episode, he shares his story from college to commissioning, offering insight into the path that shaped him as a leader. Presented with an incredible opportunity, Jerry went on to become a pilot—but not just any pilot. He earned his place as a helicopter pilot, where he excelled and steadily rose through the ranks. His journey is one of perseverance, discipline, and determination, showing what can happen when you commit to the process and refuse to quit. This is an incredible story of grit and seeing things through to the end, serving as a powerful example for anyone facing challenges and needing the motivation to keep moving forward.

Tune in as Navy Veteran Bill Barowsky shares his journey through military service and beyond. Starting his career in Great Lakes, he soon discovered his role as a Damage Controlman, learning the skills that would shape his time in the Navy. During a WestPAC deployment, he experienced both the highs of life at sea and the challenges that come with injury, testing his resilience along the way. Continuing his service in the reserves, Bill found himself stepping into a completely different role as a Corpsman, gaining a new perspective on care, responsibility, and adaptability. Outside of the military, his work in civilian firefighting further reinforced the importance of responding to trauma and helping others in critical moments. These experiences ultimately led him to discover the powerful impact horses can have in healing, inspiring his work with Horses for Heroes. This is a story of growth, transition, and purpose—one you won’t want to miss.

🔥 Fireside Chat Episode Description In this episode, we sit down for a relaxed and authentic fireside chat, diving into real stories, meaningful experiences, and honest conversation. With no scripts and no filters, this discussion brings forward personal insights, lessons learned, and perspectives that connect us all. Whether we’re reflecting on past challenges, sharing moments of growth, or exploring what lies ahead, this episode is all about genuine dialogue and human connection. Pull up a chair, settle in, and join us by the fire for a conversation that’s as engaging as it is inspiring.