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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

May is Mental Health Awareness month. If you are a proud veteran or service member who finds it difficult to reach out to others during life transitions, know that the VFW and veteran community is here for you. During this episode of the #StillServing podcast, Host Rob Couture reaches out, checks in, and starts the conversation about mental health and wellness. He speaks with the National Director for VA/DOD Mental Health Collaboration, a military evangelist and member of the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, and Ms. Veteran America 2019 2nd runner-up. They discuss the challenges veterans face, share useful resources and perspectives, and remind us of the many ways to connect so we don't have to go it alone. Doctor Chris Loftis talks about the new “1 Step Today” initiative that is part of the Make a Connection campaign. The honorable Rob Wilkins from the President's Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition, discusses wellness from the top of our head to the soles of our feet and how veterans can stay motivated and inspired. And, Ms. 2019 2RU Zoe Magnertta, from VFW Post #2245 shares her story of overcoming the challenges of transitioning into civilian life in our #StillServing Spotlight.   National Director for VA/DoD Mental Health Collaboration, Veterans Health Administration, Dr. Chris Loftis —   Chris describes how the 1 Step Today program helps veterans connect during Mental Health Month. [2:58] The Make the Connection website assists veterans in overcoming the stigma about mental wellness by helping them express what they are experiencing. [4:38] Mental wellness is important for all veterans, even those in non-combat positions. [9:41] What veterans should do if they want to reconnect with a supportive community. [12:12]   Member of the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, & Nutrition and Military Evangelist, Honorable Robert Wilkins —   Robert describes his role as a member of the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness, and Nutrition. [21:30] Slowly removing the COVID-19 and how to regain a high quality of life. [26:49] Participants of the Rolling Thunder motorcycle rally need to be fit because the ride takes its toll on a body. [30:44] Robert describes how his family stays mentally and physically fit. [32:25] No matter how proud you are, reaching out to others will be one of the best things to increase mental wellbeing. [37:09]   #StillServing — Ms. Veteran America 2019 2RU from VFW Post #2245, Zoe Magnetta —   Being on the cover of VFW magazine was an honor for Zoe. [44:36] Zoe spent 12 years in the Navy and helped others thrive during her service as a Drill Instructor. [48:05] As an Aviation Electronics Technician, Zoe served on an aircraft carrier during the Gulf War. [51:40] Zoe recalls the difficulty she experienced finding work after honorably discharging from the Navy. [56:15] The Ms. Veteran America competition and Final Salute focus on ending homelessness for women veterans. [1:02:10]     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 Make the Connection— 1 Step Today Health.GOV Ms. Veteran America Final Salute, Inc

12 Maj 20211h 15min

During this episode of the Still Serving Podcast, Host Rob Couture shares news and information you can use to get motivated and get healthy. Dr. Jane Kim is the Chief Consultant for Preventive Medicine for the National Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention at the Veterans Administration. She comes armed with all the information you need to know about the VA’s COVID-19 Vaccination Program. Executive Director and Founder of Team Red, White, & Blue, Mike Erwin, is joined by VFW Director of Programs, Lynn Rolf, to discuss the newly created partnership between the two organizations and how we veterans can use it to enhance our wellness efforts. Then, SEAC (Retired) John Wayne Troxell shares how his role as a fitness advocate, motivational speaker, consultant, and brand ambassador for multiple health and fitness organizations promotes healthy, nutritious initiatives. To wrap things up, Post Commander for VFW Post 7916, Jeff Lett, describes how his post became the #StillServing Post of the Month.   Chief Consultant for Preventative Medicine VA, Dr. Jane Kim —   What you need to know about the COVID-19 vaccination program at the VA. [2:25] Reactions and possible side effects from the vaccines. [6:02] Can fully vaccinated people transmit COVID-19 to friends or family? [9:32]   Founder Team Red, White, & Blue, Mike Erwin, and VFW’s Director of Programs, Lynn Rolf —   Why Mike created Team Red, White, & Blue. [15:54] Lynn reflects on his fitness journey and how the joint effort of the VFW and Team R, W, & B to help veterans stay healthy. [19:25] Physical, mental, and emotional accountability is a key factor in Team Red, White, and Blue’s program. [26:43] The benefits of the partnership between Team R, W, & B offers VFW members. [29:20] Marching orders is a simple way veterans can get moving toward better health. [31:23]   SEAC (Retired) John Wayne Troxell —   John designed the PME Hard program to be a foundation for resiliency for troops in harsh conditions. [36:42] The challenging, non-traditional motivation techniques John integrated into his PT routines. [43:48] Why nutrition is the most important way for veterans to be physically, mentally, and emotionally healthy. [48:31] John promotes “better for you” choices by partnering with private companies that provide military services. [53:14] Why physical fitness is vitally important to a healthy retirement. [1:04:27] John has two podcasts The Ron & John Show and Leader Talk. [1:10:46]   #StillServing Post Commander VFW Post 7916, Jeff Lett —   Jeff describes how he is #StillServing and how VFW Post 7916 thrives in the community. [1:17:36] Post 7916 was voted Post of the Month based on the good deeds done by its members. [1:23:13]     For more information or continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW 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 VA COVID-19 Vaccine Website Team Red, White, & Blue Website The Ron and John Show Podcast Leader Talk FB Live Podcast

28 Apr 20211h 30min

Spring means tax time and for many veterans and military members, our minds are on our finances. 2020 brought the coronavirus, economic impact payments, job transitions, and for some, unemployment. All of these things can complicate filing your taxes. And, if you are planning to become a new homeowner or move this season, a VA home loan is designed specifically with the needs of veterans in mind. During this episode of the Still Serving Podcast, Host Rob Couture speaks with IRS Spokesperson, Karen Connelly about the updates and information veterans need to know for filing 2020 taxes. And, from Veterans Lending Group, National Director, Brooke Villano, National Director of Education, Retired Force Master Chief, David Carter, and VA Home Loan Specialist, U.S. Army Ranger Veteran, Ron O’Ferrall join the show. The team offers helpful home buying tips, do’s and don’ts when considering mortgage financing, and common misconceptions about the VA home loan benefit.   IRS Spokesperson, Karen Connelly —   Changes in the Federal Tax Code for filing 2020 taxes. [4:13] Tax resources and assistance for veterans and military members. [6:35] Beware of scammers calling for your personal information. [10:00] Tips for filing: State taxes, changes in unemployment tax, and identity theft. [11:41] Tax Information for military retirees who received a deferment in 2020. [18:02] The quickest way to receive your income tax refund. [20:16]   Veterans Lending Group, Brooke Villano, David Carter, and Ron O’Ferrall   National Director Brooke Villano describes why the Veterans Lending Group was created, its purpose, and who it serves. [24:17] National Director of Education David Carter explains how his team disseminates information to veterans, service members, and their families. [26:43] VA Home Loan Specialist Ron O’Ferrall and Brooke describe the mission of the Veterans Lending Group. [29:55] Dispelling common myths of VA lending and best practices for making sound financial decisions. [37:21] David shares his personal journey of financing his home mortgage and working with the Veterans Lending Group. [44:57] Working with a VA Home Loan Specialist offers the best home buying experience for military families. [50:04] Ron shares fast facts about the benefits of VA home loans. [57:19] The Ron and John Show is the official podcast of Veterans Lending Group. [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 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 IRS — Free Tax Filing Where’s My Refund Military One Source — Miltax, Free Tax Services for Military Members Veterans Lending Group VA Home Loan Bootcamp Veterans Affairs The Ron and John Show Podcast

14 Apr 20211h 8min

Women were not legally permitted to be part of the military until the creation of the Army Nurse Corps in 1901. Since that time, women have been granted the right to vote and the right to serve in combat units. Today, women hold positions of rank, are decorated veterans, and continue to break glass ceilings. During this episode of The VFW Podcast, Host Rob Couture speaks with the newly appointed Press Secretary and Official Spokesperson for the Dept. of Veterans Affairs (VA) and former host of this podcast, Terrence Hayes about current initiatives and directives of the VA. In honor of Women’s History month, Rob speaks with the President of the Military Women’s Memorial in DC, Phyllis Wilson about HERstory, the facility, and upcoming events and exhibits. And, Melanie Foster describes her duties and goals as the first woman VFW Department Commander of Idaho.   Press Secretary and Official Spokesperson for Department of Veterans Affairs, Terrence Hayes —   Congratulations to Terrance for being newly appointed as Press Secretary for the Dept. of Veterans Affairs. [3:23]   Initiatives and directives of the Dept. of Veterans Affairs for 2021. [7:42]   Terrence received his COVID-19 vaccine and why you should too. [10:15]   President of Military Women’s Memorial, Phyllis Wilson   Phyllis stepped into her new role as President of the Military Women’s Memorial just before the onset of the pandemic. [18:10]   The Military Women’s Memorial is an architectural marvel and the gateway to Arlington Cemetery. [20:31]   Phyllis shares her journey as a proud woman in the military before women were widely accepted in combat units. [23:23]   The Color of Freedom exhibit and upcoming events at the Military Women’s Memorial [34:50]   Recapping the amazing accomplishments of women in the military. [42:47]   VFW Commander, Department of Idaho, Melanie Foster —   Melanie describes her position, her community, and her service in Iraq. [47:44]   In the process of being medically discharged, Melanie wanted to deploy for a second tour in Iraq. [50:51]   From her article in VFW magazine, Melanie recalls her harrowing, decades-long, medical journey. [52:51]   As the first woman Department Commander in Idaho, Melanie takes every opportunity to educate the community about female veterans. [56:59]   For more information or continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook VFW Unmet Needs Program Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Text “NEEDS” to 20222 to donate to the Unmet Needs Program Women’s Memorial Website Today’s VFW — Share Your #StillServing Story

31 Mars 20211h 6min

Many veterans continue to give service to our great nation long after their military service ends. Some volunteer for veterans’ causes, some support organizations such as the VFW financially, and some share their knowledge to enrich veteran’s lives. We acknowledge all the individuals who give back to the veteran community with time, love, and compassion. During this episode of The VFW Podcast, Host Terrence Hayes speaks with Cooking with a Veteran host and VFW life member, Dave Rogers. Dave describes his Facebook Live cooking show and what sparked him to make magic happen in the kitchen for veterans. Veterans Benefits Administration Education Service Executive Director Charmaine Bogue discusses widely-used GI Bill benefits and changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Army LTG (ret) Roger Schultz discusses the huge undertaking to design the National Museum of the U.S. Army and why it is imperative you visit when you are in the D.C. area. VFW Life Member, Dave Rogers —   Dave describes the struggles of isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic. [1:32] Cooking with a Veteran assists veterans with one of the major insecurities they face, food security. [3:43] Dave has always loved cooking but honed his skills during his military career. [6:40] Dave cooks some of his favorite dishes on his weekly show Cooking with a Veteran; available on Facebook Live and YouTube. [9:00] Dave shares an anecdote about his first cooking influences and experiences. [13:49] VBA Education Service Executive Director, Charmaine Bogue   The VA administers five educational benefits programs. [19:14] The impact of COVID-19 on student-veterans education benefits. [20:50] Charmaine describes how veterans can find out more about what GI Bill benefits apply to them and how they can utilize the benefits. [23:17] Disabled veterans and their families are also eligible for educational opportunities. [29:08]   Army LGT (ret), Roger Schultz —   General Schultz describes how the National Museum of the U.S. Army was financed. [35:21] The National Museum of the U.S. Army gives non-service members a chance to understand what it is like to serve in the ranks. [37:32] The exhibit hall and museum feature a tour of America’s history and the Army’s contribution to society. [41:43] The Army Medal of Honor Wall and Garden is a special place. [46:50]   For more information or continue the conversation, please visit: Veterans of Foreign Wars Website VFW Podcast Page @VFWHQ on Twitter VFW on Facebook VFW Unmet Needs Program Call 1-888-JOIN-VFW Text “NEEDS” to 20222 to donate to the Unmet Needs Program Cooking with a Veteran on Facebook GI Bill Information Army History

3 Mars 202153min