Veterans Day: Influential Leaders on How to Express Gratitude During COVID-19

Only 1% of the United States population serves in the military. Veterans Day, November 11th, is a day designated for Americans to recognize and honor the men and women of the military who served our great nation. It is a time to say thank you to those who protect our freedoms. Expressing gratitude for those who sacrificed many years of their lives in service is an impactful way to amplify awareness, strengthen communities, and show appreciation.

During this episode of The VFW Podcast, Host Terrence Hayes chats with three friends, mentors, and leaders whom he served with during his time in the military. He speaks with Marine Corps Sergeant Major (retired) Bryan Battaglia, the second Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Air Force Chief Master Sergeant (retired) Denise Jelinski-Hall, former Senior Enlisted Advisor to the National Guard Bureau, and Army Command Sergeant Major (retired) Patrick Alston, former Senior Enlisted Leader of the U.S. Strategic Command, about Veterans Day, the impact our men and women have made on our nation, and what Americans can do to say, "Thank You" during this period of social distancing.

Marine Corps Sergeant Major (Retired), Bryan Battaglia —

• What Veterans Day means to Bryan. [3:08]

• Bryan highlights Veterans who have impacted his military career and personal life. [7:33]

• The pinnacle of Bryan's career was sharing American influence with the British Royal Marines. [11:05]

• Suggestions for how Americans can honor and recognize Veterans during COVID-19. [13:25]

Air Force Chief Master Sergeant (Retired), Denise Jelinski-Hall —

• Denise shares what inspired her to join the U.S. Air Force and her first leadership opportunity. [20:05]

• Influential leaders and commanders who made a difference in Denise's military career and personal life. [23:26]

• Denise recalls her first days as a Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Hawaii National Guard. [27:51]

• After retiring, Denise wrote her first book, From the Prairie to the Pentagon, and became involved with the United Through Reading program. [43:01]

Army Command Sergeant Major (Retired), Patrick Alston —

• Patrick shares the origin story of Veterans Day and what it means to him. [37:50]

• Americans can use social media to say "Thank You" to Veterans during the COVID-19 pandemic. [41:15]

• Patrick describes the Veterans who were instrumental to his successful military career. [44:49]

For more information or continue the conversation, please visit:

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