This Veterans Day, Mike Drop Monday honors those who have served with an inspiring look into the family legacies, personal journeys, and lasting impact of military service. Hosted by Ronny Morgan, Vice President of Branch 11 Chicago and proud U.S. Air Force veteran, this episode brings together an incredible panel of veterans whose stories span generations and branches of the Armed Forces.

Guests include:

• Kevin Gottlieb – President of Branch 79, Seattle. From youthful missteps to finding purpose and discipline in the U.S. Army, Kevin shares how military life transformed his path and character.
  

• Yolanda Cavett – Recording Secretary of Branch 11, Chicago. Growing up uncertain of her future, Yolanda followed in her brother’s footsteps into the U.S. Navy, where she discovered confidence and direction during four “magical” years of service.
  

• Kevin Pedziewiatr (KP) – Branch 825. With a family history of service dating back to the Civil War, KP discusses the deep-rooted sense of duty that led him to 15 years in the Army, including a tour in Africa.
  

• Dawn Ahnen – Trustee of Branch 715 and WAOLC State President. A proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran continuing her family’s tradition of service through leadership and advocacy.
  

• Erin Daugherty – Branch 70, San Diego. Coast Guard veteran who found her calling in rescuing others from surf and storm, embodying the spirit of service and protection.

  
  

Whether you’re a veteran, a postal employee, or simply someone who wants to hear powerful stories of service and resilience—this episode is a tribute to the courage, discipline, and dedication that define America’s veterans.

Veterans planning for retirement can “buy back” their military time to receive retirement credit for service performed after December 31, 1956. Eligible veterans (honorably discharged and converted to career status in the Postal Service) can apply to have their military service counted toward civilian retirement:

• FERS employees: 3% of basic military pay
  

• CSRS employees: 7% of basic military pay
  

• Under USERRA (1994), this credit is a protected right. There’s a two-year, interest-free grace period, so it’s best to apply early to avoid additional interest.
  

How to Apply:

1. Request your military earnings:
   

• Complete Form RI 20-97 (Request for Estimated Earnings During Military Service) at www.opm.gov/forms and attach your DD-214.
  

• Send to the address on the form or visit www.dfas.mil.
  

2. Apply for Service Credit:
   

• Complete Form SF 3108 (Application to Make Service Credit Payment)—available from HRSSC (877-477-3273, Option 5).
  

• Mail completed forms and estimated earnings to: HRSSC, PO Box 970400, Greensboro, NC 27497-0400.
  

• Payments can be made as a lump sum or through payroll deductions.
  

• All deposits must be completed before retirement to receive credited time.
  

Additional Resources: Join the NALC Veterans Group at nalc.org/community-service/nalc-veterans for guidance on veterans’ rights, benefits, and USPS-specific programs such as Wounded Warriors Leave and Veterans’ Preference.

For assistance, contact HR or OPM at 888-767-6738.