Story Behind the Stone

How do you build a memorial for a war that’s still shaping lives?

Michael “Rod” Rodriguez, CEO of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation, shares his deeply personal mission to create a memorial on the National Mall in Washington D.C. honoring generations of service and sacrifice.

From 21 years in uniform to spearheading a project of national healing, Rod’s story is one of resilience, community, and remembrance.

🌟 Hear about the four guiding tenets — Honor. Heal. Empower. Unite. — and why this memorial is about so much more than stone and steel.
📍 Learn more about the GWOT Memorial Foundation and find ways to support: https://www.gwotmemorialfoundation.org
 🎧 Listen on Apple, Spotify, and Wreaths Across America Radio.

Content Note: This episode contains discussions about suicide, loss, and mental health challenges. You are not alone. Help is available. If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available:

United States – Call or text 988, or chat via 988lifeline.org (Veterans press 1).
Canada – Call or text 988, or visit 988.ca for support in English and French.
United Kingdom – Call Samaritans at 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org.
Ireland – Call Samaritans at 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org.
Australia – Call Lifeline at 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au for 24/7 support.
New Zealand – Call or text 1737 (free, 24/7) to talk with a trained counselor, or visit 1737.org.nz.
Netherlands – Call 113 or 0800-0113 (free, 24/7) or visit 113.nl.
France – Call 3114 (free, 24/7) or visit 3114.fr.
Norway – Call Mental Health Helpline at 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit mentalhelse.no.
 

Traditional cremation leaves behind more than memories — it leaves behind toxic, fossil-like remains.

This week we sit down with Amanda Kelly, co-founder of AWAKE, to talk about the quiet revolution in cremation — one rooted in science, soil, and sustainability.

🌱 Learn about:

The rise of cremation: 60%+ in the U.S. (up from 3% in 1960!)

Why traditional ashes don’t biodegrade

The why behind AWAKE’s soil science

What veterans and families are asking for in green burials

What happens when faith meets the frontlines?

In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, we sit down with Patricia Cecil, Specialist Curator of Faith, Religion, and WWI at the National WWI Museum and Memorial in Kansas City. Patricia takes us behind the scenes of Sacred Service, an extraordinary exhibit that uncovers how chaplains became unlikely healers, helpers, and mental health champions during the Great War.

From 3D scans of rare artifacts to stories of sacrifice and courage, this conversation will change how you think about faith, war, and remembrance.

✨ What you'll learn:

• How chaplains supported soldiers’ mental health long before PTSD had a name
• The power of small acts of compassion in unimaginable circumstances
• How technology like 3D scanning is helping preserve and share history globally

In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, host Matthew Cudmore sits down with France Q. Hoang—Army Ranger, former White House Counsel, Special Assistant to the President, and co-founder of AI-powered platform BoodleBox.

Born in Saigon in 1973, France and his family were airlifted from Vietnam in 1975 as the city fell, beginning a journey that shaped a life of extraordinary service, leadership, and innovation. From graduating in the top 1% at West Point to serving in Bosnia and Afghanistan, and later helping lead evacuations during the fall of Kabul, France shares powerful reflections on sacrifice, legacy, and the parallels between past and present refugee crises.

They also discuss his work with the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and his passion for preparing future generations to navigate an AI-enabled world.

If you're curious about leadership, resilience, and the power of technology to preserve memory and inspire service, this episode is a must-watch.

In this conversation, Matthew Cudmore and Ryan Mullens speak with Lee Collins, Chief of Staff at Pacific Historic Parks, about the organization's mission to preserve and honor the history of World War II and the sacrifices made by veterans. Lee shares his personal journey from military service to his current role, emphasizing the importance of community engagement, education, and volunteerism in preserving history. He recounts poignant stories of courage and sacrifice, highlighting the values that define the military and the need for continued support to ensure these stories are told for future generations.

Takeaways

• Pacific Historic Parks is dedicated to preserving World War II history
• Lee Collins emphasizes the importance of community and volunteerism
• Military service provides valuable experiences and leadership skills
• Engaging youth in history is crucial for future generations
• The organization relies on donations and support for preservation efforts
• Lee's personal journey reflects a deep commitment to service
• The military today is more educated than ever before
• Community events foster strong connections between military and civilians
• Honoring sacrifices is a core mission of Pacific Historic Parks
• Future goals include raising funds for educational programs and preservation

In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, host Matthew Cudmore speaks with Gillian Nye, Forest Memorials Manager at Better Place Forests. Better Place Forests is a nonprofit operating nine memorial forests across the United States. They discuss the unique concept of memorial forests, where individuals can have their ashes placed in nature, creating a lasting tribute. Gillian shares her personal journey into this meaningful work, the experiences of families visiting the forests, and the special ceremonies held for veterans. The conversation highlights the healing power of nature, the importance of honoring loved ones, and the future vision for Better Place Forests as a nonprofit organization.

takeaways
Better Place Forests offers a unique way to memorialize loved ones in nature.
The experience of visiting a memorial forest is often filled with peace and gratitude.
Gillian's background in storytelling and herbalism enhances her role at Better Place Forests.
Nature provides a healing space for families dealing with grief.
Veterans' ceremonies in the forest combine nature with military honors.
Families often feel a strong connection to the trees they choose for memorials.
The process of selecting a tree is deeply personal and meaningful.
Gillian emphasizes the importance of compassion and empathy in her work.
The organization aims to bring more people to nature, especially those with limited access.

In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore engage with Terri-Anne Simmonds, Head of Digital at the Australian War Memorial. They explore the significance of the memorial, its multifaceted role as a museum, memorial, and archive, and the personal connections Australians have with their military history. The conversation delves into the Places of Pride project, commemorative practices like Anzac Day, and the impact of modern conflicts on remembrance. Terri-Anne shares her passion for digital technology in enhancing commemoration and discusses future developments at the memorial, inviting listeners to engage with the stories and history it preserves.

Takeaways

• The Australian War Memorial is located in Canberra, the national capital of Australia.
• It serves as a museum, memorial, and archive to help Australians understand the meaning and impact of war.
• The memorial is a significant site for commemoration and reflection for Australians.
• Personal connections to military history are profound, with many Australians having family members who served.
• The Places of Pride project aims to document and showcase war memorials across Australia.
• Anzac Day is a key moment for Australians to reflect on their military history and honor service members.
• Digital technology plays a crucial role in reaching new audiences and enhancing the commemoration experience.
• The expansion of the memorial aims to include stories from modern conflicts and provide context for visitors.
• Terryann Simmons emphasizes the importance of personal stories in understanding the impact of war.
• Future developments at the memorial will enhance visitor experiences and showcase more of Australia's military history.

CEO of the Royal Canadian Air Force Foundation Jeremy Diamond discusses his journey into the field of history and commemoration, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and personal narratives in engaging the public with Canadian history. He highlights the role of the RCAF Foundation in connecting generations through shared stories and innovative digital approaches to education. The conversation also touches on the future aspirations of the foundation, focusing on inspiring youth and ensuring the legacy of veterans is preserved.

In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, host Matthew Cudmore speaks with Amy Osborn, the Executive Director of the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial and Museum. They discuss Amy's journey to the memorial, the unique features of the memorial, the impact of educational programs on youth, and the emotional rewards of working with veterans. Amy shares stories of the docents, the process of adding names to the memorial wall, and the future plans for expansion and support from the community. The conversation highlights the importance of honoring veterans and preserving their legacy for future generations.

takeaways

• Amy Osborn transitioned from banking to leading the memorial.
• The memorial is unique and dedicated to New Jersey veterans.
• Educational programs engage over 15,000 students annually.
• The emotional impact of working with veterans is profound.
• Docents share personal stories that enhance visitor experiences.
• New names are still being added to the memorial wall.
• Community support is crucial for the memorial's future.
• Legislative efforts are underway for expansion funding.
• The memorial serves as a place of peace for veterans.
• Artifacts from veterans are essential for preserving history.

In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore speak with William (Bill) Butler, the Acting President of the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio. Bill shares his extensive military background and discusses the museum's mission to honor veterans and elevate their stories. The conversation explores the challenges veterans face during their transition to civilian life, the importance of community engagement, and the various programs the museum offers to support mental health and wellness. Bill highlights the significance of storytelling and education in connecting younger generations with veterans, as well as the museum's innovative design and its role in fostering intergenerational empathy. The episode concludes with inspiring stories of resilience and a look at the museum's future plans.

A Legacy Lives On

The National Veterans Memorial and Museum began with a vision from the late Senator John Glenn (1921-2016), Colonel, USMC (Retired), who understood the pressing need to honor the legacy of the courageous men and women who answered the call.

https://nationalvmm.org/

takeaways

• Bill Butler served 27 years in the Army.
• The museum aims to honor all veterans and elevate their stories.
• Stereotypes about veterans often misrepresent their experiences.
• Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging.
• The museum offers programs addressing PTSD and mental health.
• Community engagement is a key focus of the museum's mission.
• Educational initiatives connect youth with veterans' stories.
• The museum's design symbolizes healing and connection.
• Intergenerational interactions foster empathy and understanding.
• Resilience stories inspire hope and connection among veterans.