Militarily Speaking

In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Bonnie Wallace, Senior Vice President at Wells Fargo Foundation. Bonnie dives deep into her role leading financial health philanthropy and community impact, outlines the Foundation's major focus areas, such as financial health, housing affordability, small business growth, and sustainability. Bonnie also shares invaluable insights on the impactful programs aimed at veterans, military families, and women entrepreneurs.

“Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military lifestyle and all the things that makes the military community who they are.

The episode begins with a warm introduction of Bonnie Wallace, a leading figure in financial health philanthropy within one of the U.S.'s largest corporate foundations. She explains the historical significance of Wells Fargo, tracing its roots back to 1852.

Bonnie emphasizes the foundation's commitment to supporting military veterans and their families, highlighting its intrinsic corporate relationship to Wells Fargo's success. The foundation's funding, sourced from Wells Fargo's revenues, focuses on making strategic impacts in financial health, small business growth, housing access, affordability, and climate sustainability.

Throughout the episode, Bonnie details how the foundation selects its focal areas. The goal is to address widespread challenges by centralizing resources on societal issues where Wells Fargo can make the greatest impact. The foundation's focus includes supporting access to affordable housing, fostering small business growth in underserved communities, improving financial health, and championing sustainability initiatives.

Housing access, for instance, is a critical area, as many cities cite affordable housing as their primary challenge. Similarly, the foundation aims to bridge gaps in capital access for historically marginalized communities in small business sectors, an essential step for financial inclusion and economic empowerment.

One of the standout segments centers on defining financial health. Bonnie differentiates financial health from mere financial literacy or capability, describing it as the convergence of knowledge, access, resources, and the ability to plan for the future. True financial health means having the security to withstand economic shocks and plan for long-term goals, ultimately granting individuals freedom of choice.

Bonnie also highlights the Wells Fargo Foundation's commitment to supporting women in entrepreneurship. She cites the Connect to More program that provides women entrepreneurs with mentorship and resources to grow their businesses. Such efforts underscore the foundation's dedication to fostering small business leadership among women, including military spouses who face unique challenges due to frequent relocations.

The discussion touches on the success of the Veterans Benefits Banking Program, an initiative to ensure veterans have access to safe, affordable banking services. This collaborative effort has significantly increased the number of veterans with bank accounts, thereby securing their benefits and enhancing their financial well-being.

Reflecting on her journey, Bonnie shares how her transition from revenue-focused roles to philanthropy was a deliberate choice driven by her desire to make a meaningful impact. Her passion for building community resilience through financial empowerment is evident in every initiative discussed.

Wells Fargo is committed to providing support for service members and their families.

The Wells Fargo Foundation plays a pivotal role in supporting communities at multiple levels. Whether through advancing financial health, empowering small businesses, or fostering sustainable initiatives, the foundation continues to underscore its commitment to impactful community giving.

Jodi introduces the Military Minute segment of the show, beginning by closing out last episode’s Military Minute.

●     Last episode’s Military Minute: What is John Denver’s original last name?

●     Answer: Deutschendorf

●     This week’s Military Minute question: What are the names of the two founders, and in what year was Wells Fargo founded? And what is the enduring symbol for Wells Fargo?

●     Watch for Facebook and Instagram posts about this episode.

●     Answer with the correct answer and you plus a charity of your choice can each win $50.

●     After a winning selection, Military Minute participants are eligible for another selection after 12 months.

Tom closes the episode by asking listeners to go to www.afbank.com and subscribe to the show, as well as leave a rating and comment on your favorite podcast platform such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Join us to hear how to better navigate your finances, military life, and the crossroads of the two.

Visit www.afbank.com

In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Chris Joyce, a Marine Corps veteran and the Program Director for Huts for Vets, a nonprofit organization offering therapeutic wilderness experiences for veterans. He shares his personal journey, the impactful programs, and how Huts for Vets supports veterans in transitioning to civilian life, and highlights the unique healing journey that veterans undergo in nature.

“Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military lifestyle and all the things that makes the military community who they are.

Founded in 2013 by journalist Paul Anderson, Huts for Vets provides U.S. veterans and active-duty service members with therapeutic experiences at no cost. Based in Aspen, Colorado, the organization uses the wilderness to help veterans adjust to civilian life by equipping them with tools to enhance their mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional health.

Chris Joyce elaborates on how Huts for Vets centers its program around the natural beauty of the White River National Forest. Participants engage in a five-day program, three of which are spent in the backcountry using the 10th Mountain Division Hut Association huts. These retreats offer veterans a chance to disconnect from their daily stresses and reconnect with nature, aiding in holistic healing.

The program features a curriculum of readings relating to nature and service, fostering group discussions that allow veterans to dive into deep conversation. Complementing these discussions are yoga, qigong, nutritious meals, and structured solo time for introspection and relaxation.

Huts for Vets serves a unique blend of veterans, offering trips specifically tailored for men, women, and coed groups. Typically, each trip hosts 10-12 participants, a size optimal for fostering open dialogue and camaraderie. The organization also includes a mental health professional as part of the trip staff, providing additional support as needed.

The nonprofit heavily relies on sponsorships and donations from partners and sponsors. With a growing number of veterans expressing interest in their programs, Huts for Vets hosts around six trips yearly during the summer months but faces more applicants than they can accommodate, highlighting the increasing demand for such valuable programs.

Participants like "Justin," an Army veteran who overcame devastating injuries to regain basic skills, embody the transformative impact of Huts for Vets programs. His story of perseverance, courage, and resilience resonates with the mission to provide veterans with a renewed sense of purpose and community.

Looking ahead, Huts for Vets aims to integrate family units into their programs, recognizing the dynamic challenges that military life poses to families. By expanding their offerings to include spouses, the organization hopes to strengthen family bonds and promote healing together.

As an organization dedicated to the well-being of veterans, Huts for Vets stands as a beacon of healing and hope, leveraging the unique, restorative power of nature. For veterans interested in participating, and for potential sponsors looking to contribute, more information is available at hutsforvets.org.

Jodi introduces the Military Minute segment of the show, beginning by closing out last episode’s Military Minute.

●     Last episode’s Military Minute: What is the percentage of clients who come for a first session that return for further treatment?

●     Answer: 97%

●     This week’s Military Minute question: What is John Denver’s original last name?

●     Watch for Facebook and Instagram posts about this episode.

●     Answer with the correct answer and you plus a charity of your choice can each win $50.

●     After a winning selection, Military Minute participants are eligible for another selection after 12 months.

Tom closes the episode by asking listeners to go to www.afbank.com and subscribe to the show, as well as leave a rating and comment on your favorite podcast platform such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Join us to hear how to better navigate your finances, military life, and the crossroads of the two.

Visit www.afbank.com

In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Dan Kaepernik, CEO of The Headstrong Project, a nonprofit that offers free, confidential mental health care to veterans. Learn about the Headstrong Project's mission to help veterans overcome trauma, its unique approach with speed to care, and the impressive results they've achieved. Dan also shares insights on mental health challenges within the military community, the importance of cultural competence among therapists, and strategies to support veterans and their families.

“Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military lifestyle and all the things that makes the military community who they are.

In today's world, the importance of mental health care cannot be overstated. For veterans, access to effective and timely mental health services can be a critical component of their reintegration into civilian life. The Headstrong Project is at the forefront of this movement, providing veterans with the resources and support they need to tackle mental health challenges head-on.

The Headstrong Project was founded with a clear mission: to heal the hidden wounds of war. This incredible initiative offers comprehensive mental health care, specifically tailored to the needs of veterans. By focusing on treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and related conditions, the organization helps veterans regain control of their lives.

One of the great strengths of the Headstrong Project is its emphasis on accessibility. The organization knows that many veterans face obstacles when seeking mental health care, ranging from stigma to logistical challenges. In response, Headstrong has simplified the process for veterans to get the help they need without the red tape. Importantly, the services offered are completely confidential, allowing veterans to engage with therapy without fear of judgment or breach of privacy.

The mental health landscape is constantly evolving, and the Headstrong Project stays on the cutting edge by collaborating with some of the nation’s top clinicians. Utilizing evidence-based treatments, the organization provides therapy options that have been shown to produce significant, positive outcomes. This dedication to using proven methods ensures that veterans receive the highest quality care.

Beyond individual therapy, Headstrong fosters a community of support. By connecting veterans with a network that understands their unique experiences, Headstrong creates an environment of empathy and empowerment. This community-driven approach is crucial in helping veterans feel supported as they navigate their paths to recovery.

The work being done by the Headstrong Project is truly transformative. By providing veterans with the mental health resources they need, this organization is not just changing lives—it's saving them. We encourage anyone interested in learning more or supporting this vital cause to visit their website and become part of the solution for America's veterans.

Jodi introduces the Military Minute segment of the show, beginning by closing out last episode’s Military Minute.

●     Last episode’s Military Minute: What is the name of the university and the mascot for the university where court graduated with a bachelor in science?

●     Answer: Virginia Tech Hokies

●     This week’s Military Minute question: What is the percentage of clients who come for a first session that return for further treatment?

●     Watch for Facebook and Instagram posts about this episode.

●     Answer with the correct answer and you plus a charity of your choice can each win $50.

●     After a winning selection, Military Minute participants are eligible for another selection after 12 months.

Tom closes the episode by asking listeners to go to www.afbank.com and subscribe to the show, as well as leave a rating and comment on your favorite podcast platform such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Join us to hear how to better navigate your finances, military life, and the crossroads of the two.

Visit www.afbank.com

In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Court Ogilvie, the Chief Operating Officer of the National Military Family Association (NMFA) to explore the organization’s advocacy for military families, spouse employment programs, and the impact of Operation Purple Camp.

“Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military lifestyle and all the things that makes the military community who they are.

The National Military Family Association, established in 1969, stands as the voice for military families, working tirelessly to enhance their quality of life. With roots in advocacy, NMFA was founded by military spouses who were determined to address inequities affecting widowed military families during the Vietnam War. Today, their mission has expanded to include various programs that support military spouses, children, and the overall well-being of military families.

During the episode, Court speaks passionately about NMFA’s various initiatives:

1. Spouse Scholarships and Employment Support: NMFA provides scholarships designed to help military spouses further their careers, acquire certifications, and gain clinical practice. As military spouses face an unemployment rate of 21%, Court emphasizes the importance of creating employment opportunities and addressing underemployment.
2. Operation Purple Camps: These week-long sleepaway camps offer military children a chance to connect, share experiences, and enjoy a much-needed break from the responsibilities they often undertake due to a parent’s deployment. The camps also provide a supportive community for parents.
3. Holistic Support for Families: NMFA takes a comprehensive approach by addressing diverse needs such as childcare, financial security, and education. They aim to fill the programming gaps and provide continuous support throughout the military life journey.

Court highlights key challenges currently facing military families:

• Teen Well-being: With nearly 50% of military teens experiencing struggles, NMFA is committed to addressing mental health and support needs.
• Financial Security: Advocating for policy changes like pay raises and full base housing allowances are essential measures, according to NMFA.
• Food Insecurity: As Court emphasizes, the issue of food insecurity ties deeply into financial challenges, underscoring the interconnectedness of these issues.

Throughout the conversation, the importance of military community and advocacy remains a central theme. Court’s personal stories—from military camps to his own experiences as a military kid—reveal the indelible impact NMFA has on fortifying the lives of those who serve. With a focus on collaboration and empowerment, NMFA is dedicated to making a tangible difference in the lives of military families.

Listeners can learn more by visiting NMFA’s website at militaryfamily.org to learn more, support, or engage with the organization. As Court aptly puts it, "Together we're stronger." This episode serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and unity that define military families and the organizations that support them.

Jodi introduces the Military Minute segment of the show, beginning by closing out last episode’s Military Minute.

●     Last episode’s Military Minute: In what year did the military ball originate?

●     Answer: 1895

●     This week’s Military Minute question: What is the name of the university and the mascot for the university where court graduated with a bachelor in science?

●     Watch for Facebook and Instagram posts about this episode.

●     Answer with the correct answer and you plus a charity of your choice can each win $50.

●     After a winning selection, Military Minute participants are eligible for another selection after 12 months.

Tom closes the episode by asking listeners to go to www.afbank.com and subscribe to the show, as well as leave a rating and comment on your favorite podcast platform such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Join us to hear how to better navigate your finances, military life, and the crossroads of the two.

Visit www.afbank.com

In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Yvonne Coombes, CEO, and co-founder of Operation Deploy Your Dress (ODYD), to discover the inspiring journey of how a simple dress swap at Fort Bliss turned into a national movement providing over 25,000 free formal gowns to military families. Learn about their 15th store opening at Fort Leavenworth, overcoming challenges of lacking permanent locations, and the dedication of volunteers. Yvonne shares insights on the role of community support, and the morale-boosting impact on military families.

“Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military lifestyle and all the things that makes the military community who they are.

The seeds of Operation Deploy Your Dress were sown in December 2015 at Fort Bliss, Texas. What began as a casual conversation among military spouses quickly evolved into a transformative project. Initially planned as a two-day dress swap for unit spouses attending military balls, the initiative gathered unexpected momentum. The community's overwhelming support exceeded expectations, with a modest goal of 200 dresses rapidly expanding to a staggering 3,000.

Yvonne recalls the serendipitous moment when the Garrison Commander offered a vacated gift shop as a space to house the growing collection of dresses. This pivotal moment set the foundation for what would become a global movement, highlighting the community's eagerness to support military families.

Operation Deploy Your Dress is more than just about dresses; it’s about fostering military community and empowerment. From its inception, ODYD has worked to eliminate the stigma of receiving a free dress. The organization prides itself on inclusivity, offering formal attire to everyone from E1 spouses to four-star general spouses, with no rank restrictions.

Moreover, ODYD provides military spouses with invaluable skills through volunteering. Running a dress shop demands inventory management, team leadership, and organizational skills, all of which are transferable to other professional opportunities. Many volunteers have leveraged their experience to secure employment, demonstrating the initiative's broader impact beyond the distribution of dresses.

As ODYD expands its reach, it navigates various challenges, from securing financial resources to navigating compliance in multiple states. Despite these hurdles, the organization perseveres, continually seeking new partners and exploring prospects to extend their support to additional military installations, including those of the Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps.

The joy of witnessing lives transform keeps the ODYD team motivated. Yvonne shares a touching story of a new military spouse who, unable to afford a dress, stumbled upon an ODYD event and found a gown. The experience was a turning point, fostering connections and a sense of belonging within the military community.

With eyes set on future expansions, Yvonne remains tight-lipped about potential new sites (much to Tom's curiosity). However, the call for support is clear. The organization continuously invites more people to join the mission, whether through financial contributions, volunteering, or simply spreading the word.

Do you have formal wear hanging in your closet, just waiting for a second life? Consider donating to Operation Deploy Your Dress! Visit their website at OperationDeployYourDress.org to learn how you can contribute, either by sending dresses directly or by getting involved in other meaningful ways.

Jodi introduces the Military Minute segment of the show, beginning by closing out last episode’s Military Minute.

●     Last episode’s Military Minute: What is the name of the structure that was built in the Pennsylvania field to commemorate the passengers on Flight 93?

●     Answer: Tower of Voices

●     This week’s Military Minute question: In what year did the military ball originate?

●     Watch for Facebook and Instagram posts about this episode.

●     Answer with the correct answer and you plus a charity of your choice can each win $50.

●     After a winning selection, Military Minute participants are eligible for another selection after 12 months.

Tom closes the episode by asking listeners to go to www.afbank.com and subscribe to the show, as well as leave a rating and comment on your favorite podcast platform such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Join us to hear how to better navigate your finances, military life, and the crossroads of the two.

Visit www.afbank.com

In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Brigadier General, USA Retired, Tom Landwermeyer, the President and CEO of Homes For Our Troops (HFOT). This nonprofit organization has the noble mission of building specially adapted custom homes for the most severely injured post-9/11 veterans, helping them to rebuild their lives. As HFOT celebrates its 20th anniversary and its 400th home milestone, Tom shares insights into the organization's journey and aspirations.

“Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military lifestyle and all the things that makes the military community who they are.

Homes For Our Troops has been fulfilling its mission since 2004. HFOT doesn’t merely provide houses—each home is specially adapted to meet the individual needs of veterans, offering them greater independence. These homes are donated, mortgage-free, to veterans, providing a stable foundation for them to rebuild their lives.

One of the unique aspects of HFOT is its veteran-centric approach. Veterans are given the choice of where they want to live, allowing them to choose communities where they can thrive. Since starting to build, HFOT has created an incredible impact across 45 states, working on its next 65 projects. The organization diligently tracks outcomes, noting that post-move-in, veterans’ employment rates double, spousal employment rates quadruple, and family stress levels decrease significantly.

Engaging the community is essential for the ongoing success of HFOT. The organization benefits from substantial individual donations, community fundraisers, and corporate partnerships. As Tom notes, about 90 cents of every dollar goes directly into the program, ensuring that donations make a significant impact. Corporate partners provide essential support, from furnishing homes to organizing special fundraising events.

HFOT homes feature numerous adaptations to accommodate veterans with severe injuries. Notable adaptations include wider doorways and hallways, roll-under sinks, and pull-down shelving units, among others. The organization is committed to continuously improving these features based on veteran feedback, ensuring the homes adapt to the evolving needs of the community it serves.

Awareness and involvement are crucial for HFOT’s continued success. Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word, every contribution helps. HFOT seeks to maintain low overhead costs, channeling most resources directly into its mission. With a strong network of supporters and a firm commitment to its values—commitment, accountability, respect, excellence, and service—HFOT aims to expand its reach and effectiveness even further.

For more information on how you can support or get involved with Homes For Our Troops, visit their website at hfotusa.org. Let’s continue to build a future where those who have sacrificed the most can live in comfort and dignity.

Jodi introduces the Military Minute segment of the show, beginning by closing out last episode’s Military Minute.

●     Last episode’s Military Minute: What is the range from low to high of possible credit scores?

●     Answer: 300-850

●     This week’s Military Minute question: What is the name of the structure that was built in the Pennsylvania field to commemorate the passengers on Flight 93?

●     Watch for Facebook and Instagram posts about this episode.

●     Answer with the correct answer and you plus a charity of your choice can each win $50.

●     After a winning selection, Military Minute participants are eligible for another selection after 12 months.

Tom closes the episode by asking listeners to go to www.afbank.com and subscribe to the show, as well as leave a rating and comment on your favorite podcast platform such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Join us to hear how to better navigate your finances, military life, and the crossroads of the two.

Visit www.afbank.com

In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Bruce McClary, Senior Vice President of Media Relations and Membership at the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC), a prestigious organization dedicated to helping individuals manage their finances, build credit, and achieve their financial goals. Together they discuss the complexities of financial well-being, and dive deep into the current state of financial stress for military families and veterans.

“Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military lifestyle and all the things that makes the military community who they are.

Founded in 1951, NFCC is a cornerstone in the world of financial counseling. Bruce McClary explained their mission - promoting financial education and well-being. With a network of nonprofit agencies across all U.S. states and territories, NFCC offers a broad spectrum of services including credit counseling, debt management programs, homebuyer education, and financial coaching for small business owners.

Whether you are struggling with debt, looking to build credit, or simply seeking advice on managing your finances, the NFCC offers a range of services tailored to your needs. Bruce emphasized the importance of accessible financial services by mentioning that these services can be reached via NFCC.org.

Bruce delved into the NFCC’s Financial Stress Forecast and Debt Score, tools designed to gauge and predict consumer financial pressures. Over the past three years, the debt score has surged by 66.8%, indicating a sharp rise in financial stress. The current score sits on the cusp of Stage 6, "tightening the belt," implicating serious financial adjustments for many households.

Bruce explained that consumers are increasingly relying on credit to manage their expenses, leading to a ‘brick wall scenario’ where debt becomes unmanageable. The Financial Stress Forecast helps predict such crises, enabling timely intervention and assistance.

Financial challenges significantly affect military families. The NFCC has observed through its partnerships and surveys, including a Harris Poll, that financial uncertainty and strain are rampant among service members.

Military families often turn to non-traditional financial services like payday loans and cryptocurrency. Gig work is also common, with many military households supplementing income through side jobs. Financial discord is another prevalent issue, exacerbated by deployments and PCS moves which make it difficult for spouses to maintain consistent employment.

Bruce offered sage advice: proactive steps in seeking financial counseling can mitigate the impacts of financial stress, especially in military households where debt issues can affect security clearances and career advancement.

One of the standout features of the NFCC is its personalized approach to financial counseling. Bruce emphasized the importance of creating customized financial plans that address each individual's unique circumstances. The NFCC's experienced counselors work closely with clients to develop strategies that are practical and achievable, ensuring long-term financial stability.

In addition to personal counseling, the NFCC provides a wealth of educational resources and tools. Their user-friendly website is designed to help consumers navigate complex financial issues. From budgeting guides to debt reduction strategies, the NFCC equips individuals with the knowledge they need to make informed financial decisions.

Bruce highlighted the user-friendly website NFCC.org, which provides tools, educational resources, and direct connections to certified counselors ready to assist.

For more detailed information and to connect with a financial counselor, visit the National Foundation for Credit Counseling's website.

Jodi introduces the Military Minute segment of the show, beginning by closing out last episode’s Military Minute.

●     Last episode’s Military Minute: In what city was Wounded Warrior Project founded?

●     Answer: Roanoke

●     This week’s Military Minute question: What is the range from low to high of possible credit scores?

●     Watch for Facebook and Instagram posts about this episode.

●     Answer with the correct answer and you plus a charity of your choice can each win $50.

●     After a winning selection, Military Minute participants are eligible for another selection after 12 months.

Tom closes the episode by asking listeners to go to www.afbank.com and subscribe to the show, as well as leave a rating and comment on your favorite podcast platform such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Join us to hear how to better navigate your finances, military life, and the crossroads of the two.

Visit www.afbank.com

In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Tonya Oxendine, a spokesperson for the Wounded Warrior Project. Tanya shares her poignant story of joining the U.S. Army to escape a difficult childhood, enduring harassment during her nearly 30-year military career, and facing severe PTSD after her deployment in Afghanistan. She discusses the crucial support she received from the Wounded Warrior Project, which helped her reclaim her life. Tanya's perseverance and commitment now drive her to empower other veterans through physical fitness and mental health advocacy.

“Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military lifestyle and all the things that makes the military community who they are.

Tonya Oxendine, who joined the United States Army shortly after high school to escape a traumatic past, shared the struggles and triumphs of her nearly 30-year military career. Amidst the challenges of harassment and emotional turmoil, she found solace and strength through the Wounded Warrior Project after facing the breaking point during her last deployment in Afghanistan in 2012.

Tonya's recount of nearly driving off a bridge due to the overwhelming pressures of PTSD, depression, and anxiety is poignant. It was her love for her sons, Nuke and Bam, that turned her car around and led her to seek help at Fort Belvoir’s mental health center. This vital step began her healing journey. Her involvement with the Wounded Warrior Project's Talk Program and Warrior Care Network significantly improved her mental health, providing essential support and restoring hope.

Tonya’s involvement with the Wounded Warrior Project is multifaceted. Programs such as Carry Forward, a 5K walk/run event, and Project Odyssey, a mental health retreat, are just a few examples of how the organization supports veterans. These events and programs foster community, resilience, and physical and emotional well-being. Each program is meticulously tailored to the unique needs of veterans, ensuring no one feels left behind.

Tonya's passion for helping other veterans is evident in her stories. Her role as a spokesperson has her traveling the world, sharing her journey, advocating for mental health, and breaking the stigma around seeking help. Wounded Warrior Project’s holistic approach to healing encompasses more than just physical recovery; it supports mental, emotional, and social well-being.

The Wounded Warrior Project was born from a simple act of kindness by John Malia and his friends, who delivered the first set of backpacks filled with toiletries and clothes to wounded soldiers at Walter Reed Medical Center. This grassroots effort evolved into an organization that has now served nearly 270,000 veterans and their families, providing a broad range of support services.

For anyone interested in supporting the Wounded Warrior Project, the organization’s website offers various ways to get involved. Whether through donations, volunteering, or participating in events, there are numerous opportunities to make a meaningful contribution. Additionally, veterans interested in sharing their stories and joining the advocacy efforts can find clear steps to get involved.

Jodi introduces the Military Minute segment of the show, beginning by closing out last episode’s Military Minute.

●     Last episode’s Military Minute: What was the original name for Philadelphia?

●     Answer: Shackamaxon

●     This week’s Military Minute question: In what city was Wounded Warrior Project founded?

●     Watch for Facebook and Instagram posts about this episode.

●     Answer with the correct answer and you plus a charity of your choice can each win $50.

●     After a winning selection, Military Minute participants are eligible for another selection after 12 months.

Tom closes the episode by asking listeners to go to www.afbank.com and subscribe to the show, as well as leave a rating and comment on your favorite podcast platform such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Join us to hear how to better navigate your finances, military life, and the crossroads of the two.

Visit www.afbank.com

In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi sit down with Dana Spain, the president of Veterans Villages, to discuss the organization’s mission to provide safe, respectful, and independent housing for veterans transitioning out of homelessness. She also discusses the essential difference between temporary and permanent housing solutions for veterans and highlights the pressing need for supportive services.

“Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military lifestyle and all the things that makes military community who they are.

We — with guests like you — will help the military community not only navigate their finances but also military life. We chat about both good and bad financial practices and provide some insight along the way. We’ll share strategies to help people get ahead, discuss military benefits that members should take advantage of, and more – all working towards the goal of helping people become more financially independent.

On the show, we’ll also preview and talk about how to take advantage of military specific services, such as loans and mortgages, and help members prepare for important milestones such as PCS moves and the transition to civilian life. Finally, at the end of every episode, we have a bit of fun with our Military Minute. That guessing-game segment features military history, hobbies, a bit of pop culture. Correct guesses by listeners could result in a donation to charity of individual’s choice.

In this episode of “Militarily Speaking,” Tom and Jodi are joined by Craig Du Mez, President and Founder of the Grateful Nation Project, to discuss how the project honors U.S. military service members who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom, and brings to light the importance of remembering and sharing these hero stories to instill patriotism and gratitude among school students and the general public.

“Militarily Speaking” is a podcast produced by Armed Forces Bank that is dedicated to the military lifestyle and all the things that makes the military community who they are.

Tom kicks off the episode by introducing the guest of honor, Craig Du Mez. Jodi provides a warm welcome, sharing some background on Craig and the Grateful Nation Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to gathering, preserving, and sharing stories of fallen heroes. They create hero cards and online biographies for U.S. military service members who lost their lives while serving from the Revolutionary War to present day.

Craig explains the mission of the Grateful Nation Project: to ensure that stories of sacrifice are never forgotten. He shares personal anecdotes and the motivation behind the initiative, including how the project began as a simple idea to hand out hero cards during Memorial Day parades and evolved into a comprehensive program involving both cards and detailed online biographies.

Craig shares a touching interaction with a relative of Daniel Hawk, the first soldier killed in the Civil War. This cousin, living in the UK, reached out and expressed pride in their ancestor's service. Such anecdotes underscore the project's profound impact not only on American families but also families abroad.

Jodi brings up the innovative ways schools are incorporating the hero cards and narratives into their curricula. Craig mentions that the Grateful Nation Project offers flexible implementation strategies for schools. From simple one-off events to more integrated lessons involving research projects and presentations, schools can tailor the project to fit their educational needs.

Feedback from teachers highlights the program's effectiveness. One teacher noted how their students were so engaged they didn't want to leave for lunch. This demonstrates the project's ability to make history personal and relatable for students, transforming abstract historical events into human stories of bravery and sacrifice.

Craig sheds light on the critical role of donations, explaining how contributions are used to print and distribute hero cards, cover research costs, and support outreach efforts. He also encourages listeners to volunteer by engaging local schools and veterans' organizations, underscoring the need for community involvement to expand the project's reach.

Craig discusses a concerning survey indicating a sharp decline in patriotism among younger generations. He attributes this to the diminished direct connection many Americans have with the military. By introducing real-life hero stories into schools, the Grateful Nation Project aims to rekindle a sense of patriotism and gratitude for the freedoms we often take for granted.

Craig ends by highlighting the importance of honoring the fallen and ensuring their sacrifices are remembered. By educating the younger generation and fostering a sense of gratitude, the Grateful Nation Project hopes to create a truly grateful nation where the memories of fallen heroes are preserved and cherished.

To learn more about the Grateful Nation Project and how you can support its mission, visit gratefulnation.us or herocards.us. Your contributions can make a significant difference in preserving the legacies of America's heroes.

Jodi introduces the Military Minute segment of the show, beginning by closing out last episode’s Military Minute.

●     Last episode’s Military Minute: Who was the founder of the American Red Cross and in what year did that take place?

●     Answer: Clara Barton in 1881

●     This week’s Military Minute question: Who said the following after being captured by the British Army, “I only regret that I have but one life to give for my country.”

●     Watch for Facebook and Instagram posts about this episode.

●     Answer with the correct answer and you plus a charity of your choice can each win $50.

●     After a winning selection, Military Minute participants are eligible for another selection after 12 months.

Tom closes the episode by asking listeners to go to www.afbank.com and subscribe to the show, as well as leave a rating and comment on your favorite podcast platform such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify.

Join us to hear how to better navigate your finances, military life, and the crossroads of the two.

Visit www.afbank.com