Oscar Mike Radio

In this special Thanksgiving episode of Oscar Mike Radio, I reflect on nearly 25 years of career milestones, personal growth, and the support I’ve received from veterans, family, and friends. Recorded in Boston, this heartfelt episode captures the true meaning of gratitude, resilience, and community.

I share my personal and professional journey. I want to share the moments that shaped me and the people who stood by me along the way. Throughout the episode, I  express deep appreciation for:

These reflections set the tone for a powerful, emotional Thanksgiving message.

Understanding that the holidays can be difficult for many, I wanted acknowledge those facing hardship during this season. He extends a special thank-you to:

Their service and dedication remain central to the mission and values of Oscar Mike Radio.

I encourage you all to take time to appreciate meaningful moments with family, friends, and their wider community. Thanksgiving is an opportunity to slow down and reconnect with what truly matters.

More than a holiday message, this episode celebrates the strength of community, the power of gratitude, and the importance of supporting one another, especially in challenging times. Whether you’re a veteran, a supporter, or simply someone looking for inspiration, this episode delivers heartfelt perspective and encouragement.

In this Thanksgiving episode of Oscar Mike Radio, I take a moment to reflect on almost 25 years of career milestones, personal growth, and the support I’ve received from so many incredible people, veterans, family, friends, and my amazing community.

Recording here in Boston, I can’t help but feel grateful for how far I’ve come and the people who have lifted me throughout my journey. Whether through shared stories, meaningful conversations, or moments of quiet reflection, these connections remind me of what truly matters.

Over the years, weightlifting has become more than just physical training — it’s a source of mental and emotional resilience. As I continue this journey, I’m reminded that strength isn’t just built in the gym, it comes from overcoming challenges, learning from failure, and pushing forward with purpose.

I’m especially grateful for my sons. They’ve been a constant source of inspiration, courage, and love. They remind me why staying strong every day matters.

Living in the United States reminds me daily of the freedoms we too often take for granted. I owe a deep debt of gratitude to our military personnel, veterans, and first responders. These are the brave men and women who keep our communities safe and uphold the values we hold dear.

As someone who has served and continues to advocate for veterans, I will always be thankful for their dedication and sacrifice.

I know that the holidays aren’t always easy. For some, this time of year can bring challenges or reminders of what’s missing. That’s why I believe it’s so important to reach out, to pick up the phone, share a meal, or simply listen.

Connection is powerful. A simple act of kindness can make all the difference. As I share this Thanksgiving message, I hope you take a moment to appreciate the people who make your life richer, just as I’m thankful for everyone who has supported me and Oscar Mike Radio.

In this episode of Oscar Mike Radio, I had the privilege of speaking with Marine Corps veteran and journalist Chas Henry, author of Fuji Fire. Together, we revisited the 1979 Camp Fuji fire in Japan, one of the most devastating peacetime disasters in Marine Corps history.

This tragedy, triggered by a powerful typhoon, claimed the lives of several Marines and left a lasting scar on those who survived. My conversation with Chas brought this painful yet important chapter of military history to light, ensuring that the courage and sacrifice of those Marines are never forgotten.

Chas took me through his in-depth investigative process behind Fuji Fire, uncovering the systemic failures that led to the disaster and exploring the leadership lessons that remain relevant today. His storytelling is both powerful and sobering, a reminder of how history can shape the standards and safety we uphold in the service today.

As we talked, it was clear that this story isn’t only about tragedy, it’s also about resilience, courage, and brotherhood, the very essence of the Marine Corps.

This conversation with Chas reminded me why preserving these stories is so important. The Marines who endured Camp Fuji displayed extraordinary strength in the face of chaos, showing true leadership and unity.

By revisiting this story, we honor not just those who were lost, but also those who carried on, the ones who rebuilt, learned, and continued to serve. It’s a testament to the eternal Semper Fidelis spirit.

To dive deeper into this powerful story, I encourage you to visit chashenry.com/fujifire to learn more about Chas Henry’s investigative work and his dedication to honoring Marine Corps history.

Thank you, Chas, for joining me and sharing your insights, and thank you to everyone who continues to remember and honor our brothers and sisters in arms.

Semper Fidelis.

In this episode of Oscar Mike Radio, I had the honor of speaking with Vladislav Shapiro, a Ukrainian veteran, mathematician, and proud U.S. immigrant. Vlad shared his remarkable life journey from growing up in Kyiv, serving as a movie projectionist in the Soviet military, to starting a new life in America.

As we spoke, I was genuinely inspired by his resilience and deep perspective on freedom, identity, and what it means to serve and rebuild after conflict.

Vlad opened up about the ongoing war in Ukraine, reflecting on how it has reshaped his homeland and challenged the global community. Our conversation dove into Russia’s imperial ambitions, the human cost of the invasion, and why U.S. support continues to be essential, not just militarily but also morally and culturally.

He reminded me that the fight for Ukraine is also a fight for democracy, sovereignty, and human dignity values that unite veterans and patriots everywhere.

Beyond his military and academic background, Vlad is the founder of the Ukrainian Cultural Initiative, a nonprofit that promotes Ukrainian art, music, and cultural awareness across the United States.

Through his organization, he’s building bridges between Ukrainians and Americans by showcasing the beauty, creativity, and resilience of his people. Vlad emphasized that supporting Ukraine isn’t just about the battlefield; it’s about preserving a culture that refuses to be silenced.

As Vlad shared, there are many ways to make an impact — whether through advocacy, awareness, or humanitarian aid. Every act of support helps sustain the spirit of Ukraine and the people who continue to persevere against overwhelming odds.

I want to personally thank Vlad for joining me and sharing his story, wisdom, and heart. His message is one of courage, hope, and unwavering determination.

Слава Україні — Glory to Ukraine.

In this episode, Travis sits down with Alexander Kobelev and Dr. Larry Poltavtsev to discuss how veterans can successfully transition into civilian careers in IT and cybersecurity. We explored the challenges many veterans face, the need for tailored education, and the innovative learning platform they’ve built. Learnix blends technical training, soft skills development, and real-world experience into an easy-to-use platform.

The conversation dives into the impact of AI, the importance of lifelong learning, and how military experience gives veterans a powerful edge in tech.

Whether you’re a veteran looking to upskill or someone interested in how technology empowers transition, this episode offers valuable insights and motivation to keep growing and learning. Learn more about the program at www.learnix.com.

Thank you, Larry and Alex, for joining me on Oscar Mike Radio.

As I said at the start of this show, The New England Center and Home for Veterans have had a profound impact on my life. At the time, it was the New England Shelter and Home for Veterans. I wasn’t homeless, but I needed something that said I had technical acumen, even though my Marine Corps MOS could only be done by a small percentage of people. I got a hand up when I needed it, and giving back to the New England Center and Home for Veterans seemed like a matter of course.

For this episode, I talked to Andrew “Andy” McCawley, CEO of the New England Center and Home for Veterans. We discussed the progress and ongoing challenges in addressing veteran homelessness, highlighting the center’s evolution from a shelter to a provider of comprehensive services supporting independent living.

Andy shared insights on prevention efforts, the importance of community support, and details about the 23rd Annual Leave No One Behind Gala, featuring NASA astronaut Captain Sunita Williams as keynote speaker.

My desire is that this conversation inspires you to learn more about the Center’s mission to assist veterans in overcoming complex challenges and achieving stability with dignity.

“Every Veteran in a Victory”.

See links below for information about the New England Center and Home for Veterans and the 23rd Annual Leave No One Behind Gala.

• https://nechv.org/

• https://nechv.org/wp-content/uploads/…

• https://one.bidpal.net/nechvgala25/we…

• https://www.linkedin.com/company/nechv

• https://www.instagram.com/nechv1989

I met Ben Buehler-Garcia because our shows were profiled by the Veterans Administration. Ben never served in the military.  I appreciated the challenge he faces in connecting with those who are active-duty military and those who are Veterans.

Ben feels that he has a duty to make sure the stories he tells gets to as many people as possible. This fuels this labor of love to do American Warrior Radio. I was a guest on his show (https://americanwarriorradio.com/2023/03/oscar-mike-radio/) and Ben’s curiosity about my story and what my transition experience was like came through when he talked with me.

I believe that people like Ben are great advocates for our military and Veterans. Even though they have no military experience, their love for America means they understand the sacrifices and challenges we face.

Thank you, Ben, for talking with me, I appreciate your work and I am looking forward to talking with you again.

You can go to https://americanwarriorradio.com/ to learn more about Ben and listen to podcasts.

Asack Real Estate

Reaper Detailing and Powerwashing

Semper Savage

Semper Savage is the official marinade and salad dressing for Oscar Mike Radio! Semper Savage is a Veteran Owned salad dressing and marinade company. Go to www.sempersavage.com and use “oscarmikeradio” at checkout for 10% off your order. Thank you for supporting a Veteran Owned Business.

Bottom Gun Coffee

The official coffee of Oscar Mike Radio is Bottom Gun Coffee. Submariners know their coffee so go to www.bottomguncoffee.com and use “OMR” at checkout for 10% off your order! Thank you for supporting a Veteran Owned Business

Caisson Shaving Company

The only shaving products I used on my face come from Travis Arnold’s company, Caisson Shaving Company. Travis is a Veteran and has created products that can be used anywhere. Use code “OMR10” for a 10% discount when you order

I enjoy talking to civilians on Oscar Mike Radio. It reminds me why I served and that there are people who love America. I got to talk with Andy Ross and his for America clear as the sky over his farm in Tennessee.

In some ways, Andy reminds me of a lot of us Veterans. He has reinvented himself several times.  From starting out doing hunting shows on TV, music production, and his company, American Rebel, Andy has a can-do spirit that will inspire you.

I listened to All American Heart, and I think you would agree that song represents America. Yes, we have our faults and flaws, but if you are an American with an American heart regardless of where you are then you know that this country is a great place to be.

Go to https://andyross.com/all-american-heart/ to listen to All American Heart and find out more about Andy!

Thank you, Andy, for talking with me. I hope to go bow hunting with you one day!

Oscar Mike Radio Sponsors

Asack Real Estate

Reaper Detailing and Powerwashing

Oscar Mike Radio Supporters!!!!

Semper Savage

Semper Savage is the official marinade and salad dressing for Oscar Mike Radio! Semper Savage is a Veteran Owned salad dressing and marinade company. Go to www.sempersavage.com and use “oscarmikeradio” at checkout for 10% off your order. Thank you for supporting a Veteran Owned Business.

Bottom Gun Coffee

The official coffee of Oscar Mike Radio is Bottom Gun Coffee. Submariners know their coffee so go to www.bottomguncoffee.com and use “OMR” at checkout for 10% off your order! Thank you for supporting a Veteran Owned Business

Caisson Shaving Company

The only shaving products I used on my face come from Travis Arnold’s company, Caisson Shaving Company. Travis is a Veteran and has created products that can be used anywhere. Use code “OMR10” for a 10% discount when you order

PFC Denisha Montgomery Smith died on August 8th, 2022, while deployed in Germany. The U.S. Army has maintained that Denisha’s death is a suicide, but her family and other people feel that is not the case.

As I learned more about what happened and talked to several people about the case, I realized that I didn’t really know Denisha. When Lindsey Knapp of Combat Sexual Assault and Amy Franck asked me to talk with Denisha’s aunt, Tomeka Light, I looked forward to learning more.

Tomeka Light served in the U.S. Army for 13 years. She is Denisha’s Aunt and was proud to see her niece serve her country. Denisha’s family has a legacy of military service and Tomeka was proud that Denisha was serving.

We talked about Denisha as a wife and mother and how joining the Army was to help make a better life for her family. All the Montgomery/Smith family wants is justice for Denisha.

You can help the Montgomery/Smith family by sharing this story to make sure Denisha is not forgotten.

Please help Denisha’s family by donating to the Go Fund Me in her name

https://www.gofundme.com/f/justice-for-pfc-denisha-smith

Thank you, Tomeka, for letting us all get to know Denisha.

#IAMDENISHAMONTGOMERYSMITH

#YOUAREDENISHAMONTGOMERYSMITH

#WEAREDENISHAMONTGOMERYSMITH

Veterans Administration – Public Service Announcement

View and cancel health care appointments, view claims and appeals status, upload documentation to VA, securely message your doctor, locate VA facilities, retrieve your vaccine records, access the Veterans Crisis Line, and more—right from your phone—with VA’s Health and Benefits mobile app. The app also makes it easy to prove your status as a Veteran so you can take advantage of available retailer discounts. Join nearly 700,000 users in the Veteran community who are accessing their benefits and services, safely and securely, wherever and whenever they need them: https://bit.ly/3O43Yoe

Oscar Mike Radio Sponsors

Asack Real Estate

Reaper Detailing and Powerwashing

Oscar Mike Radio Supporters!!!!

Semper Savage

Semper Savage is the official marinade and salad dressing for Oscar Mike Radio! Semper Savage is a Veteran Owned salad dressing and marinade company. Go to www.sempersavage.com and use “oscarmikeradio” at checkout for 10% off your order. Thank you for supporting a Veteran Owned Business.

Bottom Gun Coffee

The official coffee of Oscar Mike Radio is Bottom Gun Coffee. Submariners know their coffee so go to www.bottomguncoffee.com and use “OMR” at checkout for 10% off your order! Thank you for supporting a Veteran Owned Business

Caisson Shaving Company

The only shaving products I used on my face come from Travis Arnold’s company, Caisson Shaving Company. Travis is a Veteran and has created products that can be used anywhere. Use code “OMR10” for a 10% discount when you order

As I was talking with Spencer Emch for number 325, I became interested in Tactical 16 Publishing which published, “Time of Flight”. I reached out to Chris Schafer, who is the CEO of Tactical 16 Publishing and we started talking. I liked how the power of writing helped Chris through his journey after transitioning out of the military.

Chris Schafer spent over 25 years in the Army and saw a lot during his service that he worked to deal with on a day-to-day basis. Writing proved to be an effective way to heal from trauma, and Chris wants to share that with other Veterans.

It is an understatement to say there is a lot of work in getting a story written. Chris uses his experiences as a writer and leader to bring Veterans’ stories to life in a way that keeps the Veteran’s voice intact throughout the process. There are many stories and each one is a legacy of the service that Veterans rendered to their country.

Go to https://tactical16.com/ to learn more and get started on your writing journey. Thank you Chris for talking with me and giving me guidance.

Veterans Administration – Public Service Announcement
View and cancel health care appointments, view claims and appeals status, upload documentation to VA, securely message your doctor, locate VA facilities, retrieve your vaccine records, access the Veterans Crisis Line, and more—right from your phone—with VA’s Health and Benefits mobile app. The app also makes it easy to prove your status as a Veteran so you can take advantage of available retailer discounts. Join nearly 700,000 users in the Veteran community who are accessing their benefits and services, safely and securely, wherever and whenever they need them: https://bit.ly/3O43Yoe

Oscar Mike Radio Sponsors

Asack Real Estate

Reaper Detailing and Powerwashing

Oscar Mike Radio Supporters!!!!

Semper Savage

Semper Savage is the official marinade and salad dressing for Oscar Mike Radio! Semper Savage is a Veteran Owned salad dressing and marinade company. Go to www.sempersavage.com and use “oscarmikeradio” at checkout for 10% off your order. Thank you for supporting a Veteran Owned Business.

Bottom Gun Coffee

The official coffee of Oscar Mike Radio is Bottom Gun Coffee. Submariners know their coffee so go to www.bottomguncoffee.com and use “OMR” at checkout for 10% off your order! Thank you for supporting a Veteran Owned Business

Caisson Shaving Company

The only shaving products I used on my face come from Travis Arnold’s company, Caisson Shaving Company. Travis is a Veteran and has created products that can be used anywhere. Use code “OMR10” for a 10% discount when you order