Are you curious about the incredible people behind the care packages sent to deployed service members? Well, those thoughtful packages likely came from the amazing Blue Star Mothers! Nike Roach and Jesse Almanza sat down with the Charlotte Chapter of Blue Star Mothers President Fostoria Pierson and other members to learn about their inspiring mission to support our service members and veterans. The passion and dedication of this organization are truly remarkable - they never forget their commitment to our troops, veterans, and the families of our nation's heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice. Join us as we discover the heartwarming ways in which Blue Star Mothers make a difference every single day.

Most of us already know companies like USAA, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, and Wendy’s were founded by veterans.  What you may not know is the name of the equally important veteran-owned businesses that are closer to you than you think. It may be you or the person that fixed your car, computer or helped you with that annoying speeding ticket. In this episode of the KNOW ZONE, Nike Roach and Jesse Almanza talked about the often overlooked veteran-owned business. Did you know that there are many advantages to working with one or even starting a veteran-owned business? There are goodies as being put ahead of the line for government contracts, getting special provisions when needing to purchase supplies, hiring, and even borrowing money. We invite you to join us and if you are a business owner, please send us an IM via Facebook to our group and we will invite you on if we have time to share a bit about yourself and your business. PLEASE INVITE other Veterans Here 

To follow up or just want further information? Join our FB group at Gulf War Era Veterans or reach out to us on our website at Gulf War Veterans Coffee

 Thoughts of suicide are not new to the veteran community. In fact, one study indicated that on average somewhere between 17-22 veterans take their life each day. That statistic did not sit well with our guest. On this episode of the KNOW ZONE Nike Roach and Jesse Almanza talk with Marine and former Platoon Sergeant Chris Kirwan. Chris served in Afghanistan but after finding out two good friends committed suicide Chris started a project called Hump for The 22. This project was small at the time but later it partnered with a nonprofit called Irreverent Warrior to host healthy walks that use humor and comradery. Whether you served in WWII, The Gulf War Era, or serving active duty now, chances are good there’s a walk within driving distance this weekend. Join us as we learn how Chris and many dedicated veterans help bring the number of us committing suicide down in a fun, safe, and healthy community.  

To follow up or just want further information? Join our FB group at Gulf War Era Veterans or reach out to us on our website at Gulf War Veterans Coffee

What happens when the job you signed up for becomes obsolete? What were some high and low points in your military career? What happens when a loved one is diagnosed with a debilitating disease and you are the primary caregiver and a disabled veteran yourself? In this Episode of the KNOW ZONE, Nike Roach talks with retired US Navy Petty Officer First Class Princess Bacote-Brown. In this two-part series, Princess shares what its like to have been in uniform and what happened when she found out that her spouse may not live past 5 years and would probably never get better. Join us and listen to this story of hardship and overcoming adversity.

To follow up or just want further information? Join our FB group at Gulf War Era Veterans or reach out to us on our website at Gulf War Veterans Coffee

Have you ever struggled to build a strong network of people that will support you on your next mission at home or at your new position? Do you find it hard to have fun when you meet new people? Would you like to learn how to meet amazing people from all walks of life and have a lasting relationship with them? On this episode of the Gulf War Era Veteran-Know Zone Nike Roach talks with Retired USAF Col. and COO of Concise Networking Solutions Michael Black. According to Michael, he is about 1-degree of separation from just about anyone. He makes it his business to make sure people know how to communicate and connect on a deeper level. This know-how has taken him to major commands on active duty including serving as Deputy Commander and Commander of White House Communication serving in the George W. Bush and Barack Obama administrations. Since retirement from active duty, Michael has been a C-level executive serving the need of those that work with government agencies and private sector enterprises. He is a husband, father and spends time each day taking care of his health. We invite you to sit a spell and let Michal share his 5 Fs and more.

Need to connect with us? Go to https://gulfwarveteranscoffee.com/ or join us on FB @GulfWarEraVeteran.

Do you know who represents you in the 117 Congress? Do know how this impacts your life as a veteran or the family of a veteran. Did you know that only one in every six members is a veteran? In this episode of the KNOW ZONE, Nike Roach, Jesse Almanza and special guest Andy Hernandez from the Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune , talk about why this recent congress may need your help. It's not about politics...It's about public service. Join us. If you would like to join our community go to our Gulf War Era Veteran FB group or join our mailing list go Gulf War Veterans Coffee

Have you ever thought about death? What about what will happen to you after you take your last breath. Chances are if you are part of a faith community you have an answer. However what happens up to that point? How do you can you prepare yourself and your family for the next chapter in your life. If you are like many veterans unless you are up in age these questions often get overlooked. However today Nike Roach and Jesse Almanza talk about ways to get your mind focused on that last mission. It can be scary but it can also be quite fun if you can be ready.

Did you know that many veterans are silently in our lives every day? Many are business leaders, parents, teachers, and yes even the forgotten. Today we talk with Nurse, Desert Storm Combat Veteran, and Executive Director of Combat Female Veteran Families United (CFVFU) Sandra Robinson about an often overlooked part of the veteran population. These veterans often go back into their civilian life with very few knowing their contribution to the preservation of freedom until years down the road. With Sandra's help, we hope to expose the reasons behind the tragedy. If you believe you have one of the silent warriors in your family, we hope this will inspire you