Today on Tripwire, we’re having a fireside chat of sorts. OD and Staci catch up on life, share some personal reflections, and give well-deserved shoutouts to the incredible members of our veteran community. There’s laughter, a few tears, and a heartfelt reminder of the power of checking in on one another. Tune in to hear what’s next for our Naperville VFW and beyond—you won’t want to miss it!

In this episode, we sit down with Brittany, the manager of the DuPage County Veteran Assistance Commission (VAC), to discuss the vital work her team does to support local veterans. Brittany shares insights into the VAC’s mission, the key services they provide, and the biggest challenges facing veterans today. We explore how the commission helps veterans access benefits like healthcare, disability claims, and housing assistance, as well as the impact of their advocacy efforts. She also shares success stories, dispels common misconceptions about veteran support programs, and offers advice for veterans who may be hesitant to seek help. Finally, Brittany reflects on her personal journey in veteran services and the most rewarding aspects of her work. Tune in to learn more about how the VAC is making a difference in the lives of those who served.

Today on TripWire, Staci and I discuss "Veteran Brotherhood / Sisterhood Community"
We dive into related topics of the VFW's and American Legions, the evolution of the community in the digital age, mentorship, networking and the impact of the different generations of Veterans in America.
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We are excited for this Tripwire episode with this important discussion. Staci as a  Cherokee woman and veteran, believes the veteran identity should be a positive force in the DEI conversation, not a divisive one. Immigration and veteran status intersect in complicated ways, like with her friend—an 8-year Marine with undocumented parents—who, under new laws, could be deported despite his service. It's vital to stand in our truths, but also stay open-minded and willing to listen, respect, and learn from each other. Through empathy and understanding, we can honor the diverse experiences that shape our country.
https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/protecting-the-meaning-and-value-of-american-citizenship/


#DEI #Veterans #Immigration #RespectAndKindness

Wednesday the 29th of January, it's TripWire Time!!!
Today's episode is part 2 of 2. Staci and I interview Daniel Fornicola, US Army Veteran from a US Navy home. Listen in as we talk about his journey into the US Army and his time as a Paratrooper.
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Wednesday the 22nd of January,  it's TripWire Time!!!
Today's episode is part 1 of 2. Staci and I interview Daniel Fornicola, US Army Veteran from a US Navy home. Listen in as we talk about his journey into the US Army and his time as a Paratrooper. 
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It's TripWire Time. Today Staci and I are joined by US Navy Veteran, Josh Warner. Listen in as we discuss joining the military from Detroit, MI. Naval boot camp at Great Lakes, time at NAS Millington and Mediterranean Float. And his appointment as Jr. Vice Commander at the Naperville, IL VFW. 
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TripWire Wednesday!!!! Join us today as Jose Roberto Alaniz, Navy Veteran, Texas Native, and Coffee Master.
Owner of Third Day Coffee Seguin, and Master Roaster of Master Blaster Coffee. We will dive into his journey of life and the path that God has for each of us.
Get your TripWire On!!! Today at 4 pm Eastern.

It's TripWire Wednesday!!! Join Etaci and I as we welcome Tom Reichert to the show. We'll dive right into his struggle of the last couple years, Brain Cancer. This man's positive attitude for life is inspiring. From west suburb of Chicago to becoming an Army Aviator of an Apache Helicopter. His is a fantastic story!!!
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TripWire Time!!! Join us today as Staci and I interview the Charlie's Angels of Naperville, Illinois. United States Marine Corps Sisters,  Jennifer Sloan, Nadia Baran, and Rita Kollias. These ladies are leading from the front!!!
Listen in as we discuss the Marine Corps Birthday, Toys for Tots, and other projects they are involved in. 
4 pm Eastern Today!!! See you then!!!!