Combat Vet Vision

This podcast episode delves into the intricate and multifaceted experiences of veterans as they navigate their transitions from military to civilian life. Our discussion underscores the profound impact of camaraderie among veterans, emphasizing the critical role of community in providing support and understanding during these challenging transitions. We are joined by Jim Letner, a Vietnam War veteran, who shares poignant insights into his journey, including the psychological complexities associated with hyper-vigilance and the long-term effects of service-related experiences. As we address the issues of PTSD and the often-unseen struggles faced by veterans, we highlight the importance of seeking help and engaging with supportive networks. This episode serves as a vital reminder of the necessity for awareness and advocacy in the ongoing dialogue surrounding veteran care and support. The podcast delves into the intricate experiences of veterans as they navigate the complexities of life post-military service.

The discussion is enriched by the insights of Jim Letner, a Vietnam veteran and former radio host, who shares his personal journey from being drafted into the Army to serving as a radioman during significant military campaigns. This episode serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by veterans, including the societal stigma that often accompanies their return. Letner recounts the harsh realities of reintegrating into civilian life, highlighting the emotional and psychological toll that military service can have, particularly for those returning from combat zones like Vietnam. The conversation also addresses the pervasive issue of PTSD and the importance of community support, emphasizing how veterans can benefit from shared experiences and camaraderie as they seek to transition successfully into civilian roles.

Throughout the dialogue, there is a strong focus on the need for awareness and understanding of veterans' issues, particularly in relation to the Veterans Affairs system. Letner discusses the challenges veterans face when seeking assistance, often encountering bureaucratic obstacles that can hinder their access to necessary services. The podcast highlights the critical role of organizations like the Veterans Transition Resource Center (VTRC) in providing support, advocacy, and resources to veterans, fostering a sense of belonging and community. By sharing these stories, the podcast seeks to educate listeners on the sacrifices made by veterans and the ongoing struggles they face, ultimately fostering a deeper appreciation for their service and the complexities of their experiences in and out of uniform.

Takeaways:

• The podcast serves as a platform for veterans, supporters, and volunteers to share insights about their experiences and transitions after military service.
• The importance of camaraderie among veterans is emphasized as a critical aspect of their shared experiences and support systems.
• Guest Jim Letner discusses the challenges faced by Vietnam veterans, particularly in terms of public perception and the treatment upon returning home.
• Hyper vigilance is identified as a significant issue for veterans, impacting their daily lives and relationships after combat service.
• The Veterans Transition Resource Center (VTRC) aims to assist veterans by providing resources to navigate their post-service challenges, including benefits and community support.
• There is a call for increased awareness and education regarding veterans' issues, including PTSD and the long-term effects of service-related experiences.

Links referenced in this episode:

• vtrc.us

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• VA
• Veterans Transition Resource Center
• PTSD Foundation of America
• War Built Foundation
• We Care Foundation

The central focus of this podcast episode revolves around the profound experiences and insights of Master Sergeant Norm Becker, a distinguished United States Air Force veteran, who now serves as an assistant fire chief in Charleston, South Carolina. Throughout the discussion, we delve into Norm's extensive military career, his transition to civilian life, and his ongoing commitment to supporting fellow veterans, particularly regarding PTSD and suicide prevention initiatives. Norm shares his journey from active duty to his current role, highlighting the significant challenges faced during his transition and the vital resources available for veterans in need. Moreover, we explore the innovative programs Norm has developed to address mental health issues within the fire service community, underscoring the importance of collaboration and mentorship in fostering resilience among first responders. This episode serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of service and the critical need for comprehensive support systems for our veterans and first responders alike.

Takeaways:

• The podcast serves as a platform for combat veterans and their supporters to share their personal stories and experiences during their transition to civilian life.
• The conversation emphasizes the importance of mental health resources, particularly regarding PTSD and suicide prevention for veterans.
• Master Sergeant Norm Becker discusses his extensive experience in the Air Force and his ongoing commitment to supporting fellow veterans and first responders.
• The episode highlights the collaboration between various organizations to provide assistance and resources for veterans facing challenges in their lives.
• Norm Becker shares insights about his transition from military to civilian life, detailing the complexities he faced during this significant change.
• The discussion reveals the critical role that camaraderie plays in the recovery and support of veterans, showcasing how shared experiences can foster healing.

This episode of Combat Vet Vision features Kelly J. Galvin, a retired U.S. Army Captain with over 20 years of service, whose career spans both enlisted and officer roles across infantry, medical, and signal operations.

Kelly shares a powerful and uncommon military journey, rising through the ranks before graduating Officer Candidate School as the Distinguished Honor Graduate. After retiring, he was recalled to active duty and deployed to Iraq in 2009 during the surge, adding another chapter to an already extensive career of service.

His deployment experience became the foundation for his award-winning book PowerPoint Ranger: My Iraq War Logs, which has now been adapted into a screenplay recognized as a semi-finalist in the Chicago Script Awards 2026.

Today, Kelly’s mission is deeply personal - serving as a caregiver to his disabled veteran wife, Sandy, while continuing to contribute to the veteran community through storytelling, writing, and advocacy.

Resources for Veterans:

Veteran in Media & Entertainment – https://vmeconnect.org/

Community Veteran Justice Project – https://www.cvjp.org/

Los Angeles County Veteran Resource Partners – https://www.cvjp.org/resource-partners

Host:

Aaron Seibert

Retired U.S. Navy Chief | Combat Wounded Veteran (2006)

🔗 https://linktr.ee/aqseibert

Co-Host:

JB Brown

U.S. Coast Guard Veteran | Chef | Veteran Advocate

🔗 Veterans Transition Resource Center – https://vtrc.us/

🔗 ACF Chefs Las Vegas – https://acfchefslasvegas.org/get-to-know-chef-james-j-b-brown/

This episode of Combat Vet Vision features Marty Hagans, who served in the United States Coast Guard as an Aviation Maintenance Administrationman (AMAG).

Marty shares a deeply personal story tied to his father, Ben Hagans, a survivor of captivity during World War II. Now in his later years, Ben’s firsthand account has become a critical piece in one of the most important recovery efforts still ongoing from WWII.

At the center of this mission is the work of Asymmetric MIA Accounting Group (AMAG), an organization dedicated to locating and recovering missing American service members.

Their current focus includes four U.S. personnel who were executed by Japanese forces on Mindanao Island:

Host: Aaron Seibert

Retired U.S. Navy Chief | Combat Wounded Veteran (2006)

🔗 https://linktr.ee/aqseibert

Co-Host: JB Brown

U.S. Coast Guard Veteran | Chef | Veteran Advocate

In this episode of Combat Vet Vision, host Aaron Seibert and co-host JB Brown sit down with Jacob McMillin, a United States Marine Corps infantry veteran who completed two deployments to Iraq and two deployments to Afghanistan.

Jacob shares his journey through military service and the challenges that followed after transitioning out. Like many combat veterans, he faced the reality of redefining purpose while working through service-related experiences. Through that process, he found direction in staying connected to the veteran community and building a path forward.

Aaron - https://linktr.ee/aqseibert

In partnership with:

BColburn Coaching - https://bcolburn.com

Warrior Built Foundation - https://warriorbuilt.org

PTSD Foundation of America - https://ptsdusa.org

Recon Chief Inc. - https://reconchief.com

In this episode of Combat Vet Vision, we highlight a hands-on, purpose-driven event - the Veteran Guitar Build in partnership with American Patriot Music Project.

Held April 10th, 11th, and 12th at the Warrior Built Foundation facility in Lake Elsinore, California, this multi-day experience brought veterans together to participate in a unique form of music-based therapy. Through building guitars from the ground up, participants engaged in skill-building, teamwork, and meaningful connection.

American Patriot Music Project continues to lead the way in using music as a tool for healing, offering opportunities that go far beyond the instrument itself - creating space for growth, expression, and renewed purpose.

The event was supported by Recon Chief Incorporated, who documented the experience through photography, capturing key moments of engagement and transformation.

Also in attendance was Brian Colburn from SitchRadio.com, producer and manager of Combat Vet Vision, helping bring visibility to events like this and ensuring these stories reach a wider audience.

This episode reflects the power of collaboration across organizations and highlights how creative outlets like music can play a critical role in supporting veterans and first responders in their transition and recovery journeys.

Chief - 🔗 https://linktr.ee/aqseibert

American Patriot Music Project - https://americanpatriotmusic.org/home

In this episode of Combat Vet Vision, host Aaron Seibert and Co-host Chef J.B. Brown sits down with retired Navy Chief Brandon Lawson - a TOPGUN Air Intercept Controller, Master Training Specialist, and founder of NoblePhysiq. After 24 years of service and transitioning into civilian life, Brandon recognized a critical gap facing veterans - the loss of structure, discipline, and identity.

Now 100% disabled but mission-focused as ever, Brandon has built a system to help veterans reclaim control through fitness, mindset, and daily discipline. Through his coaching, his brand, and his book The Veterans Blueprint to Surviving Civilian Life, he is helping veterans not just survive - but operate at a higher level than ever before.

This conversation dives into identity, purpose, transition, and the power of structure after service.

📧 Email: [email protected]

🌐 Website: NoblePhysiq.com

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/noblephysiq

🏆 Entrepreneur of Impact Profile: https://entrepreneurofimpact.org/2026/brandon-lawson

📘 Book: The Veterans Blueprint to Surviving Civilian Life

Chief - https://linktr.ee/aqseibert

Warrior Built Foundation - https://warriorbuilt.org/

PTSD Foundation of America - https://ptsdusa.org/

Veterans Transition Resource Center. - https://vtrc.us/

Recon Chief Inc. - https://reconchief.com/

Tyler Burdick is a combat-wounded U.S. Navy veteran whose life changed forever on July 22, 2010, when an improvised explosive device severely injured both of his lower legs during deployment.

His story is not just about survival—it’s about transformation, purpose, and continuing to serve others long after the battlefield.

Warrior Built Foundation https://warriorbuilt.org/

PTSD Foundation of America https://ptsdusa.org/

Veterans Transition Resource Center https://vtrc.us/

Recon Chief Inc. https://reconchief.com/

Semper Fi & America’s Fund https://thefund.org/

Torn Warriors https://www.tornwarriors.org/

In this episode of Combat Vet Vision, we sit down with Army veteran Justin Meeks to talk about his service from 2009 to 2021, including deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan and his time supporting Special Operations Command. Justin shares insight into the realities of deployment, transition, and what it means to continue serving beyond the uniform.

LINKS

Warrior Built Foundation https://warriorbuilt.org/

PTSD Foundation of America https://ptsdusa.org/

Veterans Transition Resource Center https://vtrc.us/

Recon Chief Inc. https://reconchief.com/

In this episode of Combat Vet Vision, host Aaron Seibert and co-host JB Brown sit down with Paula J. Kemp, a U.S. Navy combat photographer who served during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.

Paula shares her journey from military service to becoming a national advocate for veterans affected by Military Sexual Trauma (MST). Speaking from lived experience and more than a decade of advocacy work, Paula discusses the challenges survivors often face when navigating systems designed to support them.

She also discusses her book, Unjustly Served: The Brutal Reality of Military Sexual Trauma, which brings attention to systemic failures while honoring the strength and resilience of survivors.

Warrior Built Foundation - https://warriorbuilt.org

PTSD Foundation of America - https://ptsdusa.org

Veterans Transition Resource Center - https://vtrc.vegas

Recon Chief Inc. - https://reconchief.com

Combat Vet Vision - https://linktr.ee/aqseibert