In Part II of this gripping two-part series, Operation Onward continues the conversation with Scott Gatto — Marine Combat Veteran and founder of Reunite The Fight.

After surviving the brutal Battle of Fallujah, Scott faced a different kind of war: the transition out of the Marine Corps and back into civilian life. In this episode, Scott opens up about the identity crisis, emotional toll, and isolation many Veterans experience after service, and how those dark moments eventually led him to launch a nonprofit to bring Veterans back together.

This episode is a message of hope, community, and healing for any Veteran struggling with what comes after the uniform.

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Topics Covered in This Episode:

• Leaving the Marine Corps: the emotional aftermath

• Struggles with identity, purpose, and PTSD

• How Veterans often feel forgotten or lost after service

• The founding of Reunite The Fight and the mission behind it

• Tangible resources and advice for transitioning Veterans

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Resources & Links:

• Reunite The Fight: https://www.reunitethefight.org

• REE Medical – VA Disability Support: https://referrals.reemedical.com/l/OOpodcast

(Use referral code: OOPodcast)

• Operation Onward Episodes: Subscribe and watch more real stories of resilience, transition, and Veteran success

In this inspiring episode of Operation Onward, we sit down with Alyssa Michelle — known online as Little Fit Patriot — a former U.S. Army officer, competitive bodybuilder, single mom, and founder of LFP Creative. Alyssa opens up about her journey from a small town in New York to serving in the 82nd Airborne Division, navigating the challenges of motherhood in uniform, and facing the difficult decision to leave the military.

In this powerful episode of Operation Onward, we sit down with Scott DeLuzio, a U.S. Army combat Veteran and Gold Star brother whose story will move and inspire you. While serving in Afghanistan, Scott and his brother were both deployed when tragedy struck — a moment that would change his life forever. Scott shares his raw and personal journey through grief, PTSD, and healing, while keeping his brother’s legacy alive through his book, Surviving Son. This is more than just a veteran interview — it’s a conversation about sacrifice, service, mental health, and how veterans can find purpose after the military. Whether you’re a veteran, military family member, or supporter of those who served, this episode speaks to the heart of the veteran experience and the strength it takes to carry on.

Resources & Links:

Get Scott’s book Surviving Son: https://survivingsonbook.com/

Drive On Podcast with Scott DeLuzio: https://driveonpodcast.com/product/su... and / @peterattiamd

Learn about REE Medical veteran services: https://referrals.reemedical.com/l/OO...

Referral Code: OOPodcast

For more Operation Onward episodes, check out Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and our YouTube channel.

Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more real stories from veterans and service members.

Presented by REE Medical, Operation Onward is your companion for navigating life after military service. 

Hosted by Retd. USCG Veteran, Nick (Nicholas Todd), and Veteran Outreach Specialist, Nic (Nicola Wales-Wong), this podcast explores the triumphs, challenges, and stories that define the journey beyond the uniform. 

Each episode, your hosts connect with fellow Veterans, experts, and community leaders to discuss what matters most after service. Through open, honest conversations, they share practical resources and meaningful experiences that resonate with the military community. 

Discover inspiring tales of resilience, learn about essential tools and benefits resources, and connect with a community that shares your mission: moving forward—together. 

Tune in and take your next steps with us. 

Listen wherever you get your podcasts. 

Check out the resources and topics discussed in this episode below:

The Boot Campaign - https://bootcampaign.org/

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

The Shepherd Center - https://www.shepherd.org/programs/outpatient/care-for-us-service-members

VETS | Veteran's Exploring Treatment Solutions - https://vetsolutions.org/

The Mission Within - https://missionwithin.org/

The Battle For Marjah Documentary - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2pj28j3py5k

How To Change Your Mind Documentary - https://www.netflix.com/title/80229847