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On episode ten of Untold Valor, we’re joined by Captain Ricardo Byrdsong. Captain Byrdsong served in the Navy for over three decades, and he shares his story with us, touching on some of the challenges he faced during and after his military service.We delve into several topics in this episode, including the hidden challenges of being deployed, the importance of military benefits, and the challenge of retiring early from the military due to health issues. Captain Byrdsong also discusses mental health and the value of veterans supporting one another. Throughout the episode, he shares his personal experiences, including his battle with multiple sclerosis and the benefits of making mental health a priority, stressing that asking for help is never a sign of weakness.Join us as we explore the life of Captain Ricardo Byrdsong and gain insights into the challenges that many veterans face.Highlights of this episode: 1:12 - Ricardo’s background. 2:45 - The toughest part of being deployed was missing important milestones back home. 4:10 - Ricardo reflects on the blessing of having military medical benefits and his battle with multiple sclerosis. 7:00 - A story to tell. “I got the help I needed. When I needed it. Even though I didn’t think I needed it.” 10:10 - Ricardo says one of the keys to getting help is not being afraid to ask for it. More About Ricardo Byrdsong:Captain Ricardo Byrdsong is a retired Naval officer who enlisted in the Navy in June 1986. He received an NROTC scholarship to Auburn University, where he earned a Business Administration degree with an emphasis in Economics. After completing Supply Corps Basic School in August 1992, he served as Disbursing/Sales Officer and Assistant Supply Officer aboard USS PETERSON DD 969 until May 1995. He then served as Food Service Officer and Stock Control/Customer Service Officer at the Naval Construction Battalion Center in Gulfport, MS from 1995 to 1997.Captain Byrdsong later served as Supply Officer onboard USS CARNEY DDG 64 and as Aviation Support Division Officer & Assistant Supply Officer at Naval Air Station Jacksonville. In 2003, he received a Masters of Business Administration specializing in Acquisitions and Contract Management from the Naval Postgraduate School. He also served at Commander U.S Pacific Fleet staff, Joint Contracting Command Iraq/Afghanistan, Naval Air Systems Command, and the Joint Strike Fighter Program Office.Captain Byrdsong retired from active duty in 2019 and is now a full-time Executive/Leadership coach. He is married to Sonja Yvette Beachem, and they have four children. Resources: Voice & Vision: https://voiceandvisioninc.org/ CompeerCORPS: https://voiceandvisioninc.org/compeercorps/ Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/ or call 877-222-8387 (Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-8 p.m. EST) To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://www.dmva.pa.gov/veteransaffairs/Documents/Outreach-and-Reintegration/countyprint.pdf To view more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://www.pa.gov/guides/veterans/ Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans' Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

Welcome to episode nine of Untold Valor. In this episode, we’ll be hearing from Army veteran Jonathan Bittner. Jonathan spent significant time deployed to the war in Afghanistan where he witnessed a wide array of difficult circumstances. Listen to this episode to hear about one of Jonathan’s unique bodyguarding assignments and how he processed the trauma of combat and losing friends in battle. Don’t miss an important part of the episode where Jonathan talks about the additional traumas many veterans experience even long after returning home, and how his journey through counseling and overcoming PTSD have influenced his personal and professional paths to this day. Highlights: Jonathan shares a little about his Army service, including serving as bodyguard for a chaplain while deployed in Afghanistan. (1:35) “Somebody is here one minute. Breathing, laughing, crying… And a couple of seconds later they’re gone.” Jonathan dealt with the loss of close friends and experienced other traumas while deployed. (4:40) “I thought I came back perfectly normal.” Learn about Jonathan’s mental health journey and his battle with PTSD and other challenges. (7:54) So where did John’s recovery lead him in his personal and professional life? (14:20) More about Jonathan: After getting out of the army in 2013, Jonathan began helping Veterans in various capacities.  He served in leadership positions locally and at the state level with the PA Veterans of Foreign Wars including serving as the District Commander for Montgomery County.  Jonathan volunteered for Operation Ward 57 as the backup to their Crisis Hotline. In 2018, he joined the Voice and Vision, Inc. Board of Directors representing veterans and their needs.  He later became the Director of CompeerCORPS at Voice and Vision where he outreached to Veterans, led support groups, and developed CompeerCORPS Veteran to Veteran friendship matches.Jonathan is a therapist who specializes in trauma and works with Veterans, First Responders, and their families. He is one of the founders of Chestnut Hill Therapy Collective. Jonathan has a Master’s in Clinical and Counseling Psychology and is a Combat Veteran from the war in Afghanistan, which help him to serve Veterans with skill and understanding. He is also working on his Doctorate of Psychology to become a Clinical Psychologist so he can be of further assistance to Veterans. Jonathan sits on a Community Advisory Board through the University of Pennsylvania’s, Perelman School of Medicine, where their goal is to bring together researchers, clinicians, and persons with lived experience to improve the care of civilians, Veterans, and active-duty Service Memb Resources: Voice & Vision: https://voiceandvisioninc.org/ CompeerCORPS: https://voiceandvisioninc.org/compeercorps/ Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/ or call 877-222-8387 (Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-8 p.m. EST) To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://www.dmva.pa.gov/veteransaffairs/Documents/Outreach-and-Reintegration/countyprint.pdf To view more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://www.pa.gov/guides/veterans/ Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans' Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

Welcome to episode eight of Untold Valor. In this episode, we’re joined by Donald “Tate” Carter, who served in the Air Force from 1988-1992 as a Production control specialist in Civil Engineering classification. As a very active and athletic young man, Donald was shocked when he was diagnosed with asthma and high blood pressure in 1991. In this episode, Donald opens up about how these physical conditions impacted his time in service and beyond, and the emotional toll these challenges have taken on his life.   Stay tuned as Donald shares his story and how he has kept a positive outlook on life, despite his military career not going as planned.  Highlights of this episode: Getting to know Donald Carter and the surprising truth behind the nickname “Tate.” (0:49) The unexpected health issues that Donald experienced at twenty years old. (2:10) The doctor that opened Donald’s eyes to how his physical conditions were impacting his mental health and social life (5:05) How counseling, faith and fellowship have impacted and shaped Donald’s life (10:53) More about Donald Carter (AKA, Tate): Tate was born in Philadelphia on September 8, 1968. He served in the United States Air Force from September 14,1988 to September 14,1992 as a Production Control Specialist in Civil Engineering classification. After leaving the Air Force, Tate used his strength in sales to acquire a job at Foot Locker with the goal to become a manager, and he did. He then became a Retail Manager. In 2010 he started his own business called Fast Lane Courier Service, which he still operates today. He also works at Arete Agency as a sports and entertainment agent.  As an agent, Tate helps young athletes pursue goals to play basketball and assists them to reach those goals through various opportunities both at home and overseas. He also works with young entertainers helping them pursue singing or other similar goals. Tate believes we were put on this earth to help people, so helping young people pursue their goals and dreams is very enjoyable and rewarding. When Tate was at Foot Locker, he met his lovely wife Syreeta who was a very good friend for many years before they married in 2015. Tate is a family man - he loves spending time with his family and holding family meetings, which helps everyone grow and communicate. He also loves to play sports, golf, and support his hometown teams. Tate is an active member of Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church in Philadelphia under Pastor Alyn E. Waller. He believes every success he has had in his life is based on his belief and faith in God. Resources: Voice & Vision: https://voiceandvisioninc.org/ CompeerCORPS: https://voiceandvisioninc.org/compeercorps/ Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/ or call 877-222-8387 (Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-8 p.m. EST) To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://www.dmva.pa.gov/veteransaffairs/Documents/Outreach-and-Reintegration/countyprint.pdf To view more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://www.pa.gov/guides/veterans/ Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans' Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

On episode seven of Untold Valor, we’re joined by Commander Jermaine Wilson, a retired Navy Supply Corps Officer with more than 20 years of dedicated service. For Commander Wilson, serving in the military is essentially a family tradition. In fact, his father and all three of his siblings are Navy veterans with more than 90 years of service between the five of them. During our conversation, Commander Wilson shares some of the most impactful moments from his time in the Navy. He touches on the topics of respect, race, the importance of family support, and more. Tune in for some engaging and insightful stories from Commander Wilson’s family’s almost century of service on this episode of Untold Valor.Episode Highlights: Serving in the military is essentially a family tradition for Jermaine. (1:00) Jermaine received great support early in his service during a traumatic event. (3:20) Jermaine’s family had a lot of varying experiences in the military. He reflects on these experiences across the different generations and what it was like to be a black officer when it was still a bit of a rarity. (10:55) More About Jermaine Wilson:Commander Wilson is a native of Franklinton, Louisiana. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Southern University and A & M College in December 1993. Condensed Career Timeline...- Obtained his commission into the US Navy Reserve through the Direct Commission Officer program in July 1999. Certified as a Supply Corps Officer in Feb 2002.- 2006: Mobilized and served as the Assistant Supply Officer for Camp Lemonier in Djibouti, Africa.- 2010: Became Commanding Officer for NSA Bahrain DET D in Little Rock, AR.- Mobilized to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba and served as Joint Task Force Guantanamo Bay Transportation Officer.- Administration Officer for U.S. Naval Forces Japan Headquarter Reserve Unit from Dec 2017 to June 2020.CDR Wilson has been awarded two Meritorious Service Medals, one Joint Service Commendation Medal, four Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals and one Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.There is a rich Navy tradition in CDR Wilson’s immediate family. His father and all three of his siblings are Navy veterans who served for a total of 70 years. Upon CDR Wilson’s retirement on July 1, 2020, he added another 21 years of dedicated Navy service to his family history for a total of over 90 years.CDR Wilson and his wife, Tonia Morrow Wilson, have been married for 26 years and are the proud parents of their 11-year-old son, Jakob. They reside in Fulshear, TX which is approximately 35 miles west of Houston, TX.Subscribe on Resources: Voice & Vision: https://voiceandvisioninc.org/ CompeerCORPS: https://voiceandvisioninc.org/compeercorps/ Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/ or call 877-222-8387 (Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-8 p.m. EST) To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://www.dmva.pa.gov/veteransaffairs/Documents/Outreach-and-Reintegration/countyprint.pdf To view more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://www.pa.gov/guides/veterans/ Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans' Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

Welcome to episode six of Untold Valor, where we have the privilege of sitting down with John Sheaffer, a veteran of the Army’s 82nd Airborne and formerly Delaware County’s Director of Military and Veterans Affairs. Through his own experiences, John is able to provide clear examples of the difficulties that military veterans often face when attempting to readjust to civilian life after serving in combat.  Despite grappling with his own mental health, John finds solace in assisting others, and he commends the crucial role that non-profit organizations play in providing support for veterans where traditional methods fall short. And for veterans who may be going through tough times, John has a message of strength and hope that you won't want to miss.  Join us as we delve into John's story and uncover the realities of life after military service. Highlights of this episode: John’s background, including his unique experience of being deployed during September 11th. (1:16) During service and after service have some unique cultural differences when it comes to mental health and seeking help. (3:15) John: “I never knew how to fix myself, but I always had a knack for helping others.” (6:02) Trying to understand the gaps in care for veterans and the important role certain non-profits play to help veterans. (8:00)  John’s message for other veterans who might be dealing with hard times. (15:44) About our guest: JOHN SHEAFFER served as an infantry Paratrooper in the United States Army’s 82nd Airborne Division. He served in Afghanistan in the early days of the Global War on Terror (2002-2003). Upon exiting active duty, John went on to build several businesses and author a variety of books on topics including Strength and Conditioning, Combatives, Personal Development, and Entrepreneurship. John has done extensive work with Veterans in both the government and non-profit sectors, and currently advises businesses of all sizes on Leadership and lessons learned in service and on the battlefield. John lives in Delaware County Pennsylvania with his two sons and his German Shepherd.  Resources: Voice & Vision: https://voiceandvisioninc.org/ CompeerCORPS: https://voiceandvisioninc.org/compeercorps/ Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/ or call 877-222-8387 (Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-8 p.m. EST) To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://www.dmva.pa.gov/veteransaffairs/Documents/Outreach-and-Reintegration/countyprint.pdf To view more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://www.pa.gov/guides/veterans/ Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans' Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

In this episode of Untold Valor, Darryl Howell, a former Surface Warfare Officer in the Navy, talks about mental health stigmas in the military, the importance of mentorship, and how personal relationships can help overcome destructive behaviors. With 30 years of service in the Navy, Darryl reflects on the challenges faced by soldiers, including being away from family for extended periods and the impact it has on mental health. As a leader, he recalls the difficulty of seeing his sailors struggle with various pressures and offers advice to service members and veterans facing similar struggles. Darryl also discusses recent efforts in the Navy to reduce mental health stigmas and improve outcomes for sailors. This episode offers a unique perspective from a decorated veteran who is committed to helping others in need. Don't miss out on this compelling discussion. Highlights of this episode: Details about Darryl’s experience in the Navy. (1:01) The challenges of being away from your family for extended periods of time. (3:10) How care for mental health has improved throughout the Navy in recent years. (5:45) Overcoming the stigma of seeking mental health care in the military. (8:01) Advice to service members and veterans who might be struggling with their mental health. (11:00) About Darryl: CAPT Darryl Howell is a retired United States Navy officer who served as a Surface Warfare Officer. He attended Auburn University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering. After completing the ROTC program, he was commissioned as an Ensign in the Navy and served on several vessels, including USS Mount Whitney (LCC-20) and USS Mobile Bay (CG-53). In 1999, he left active duty and joined the Naval Reserve, where he served in various roles, including as an Instructor in Navy Leadership and Ethics Command. He was recalled to active duty twice, in 2007 and 2014. CAPT Howell is now the Chief Operating Officer for the Powell Consulting Group and is a Principal Engineer supporting the Office of Assistant Secretary of Defense for Research & Engineering. He is a graduate of Johns Hopkins University with a master's degree in Systems Engineering. CAPT Howell has received numerous decorations, including two Legion of Merit awards and five Navy Commendation Medals. Resources: Voice & Vision: https://voiceandvisioninc.org/ CompeerCORPS: https://voiceandvisioninc.org/compeercorps/ Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/ or call 877-222-8387 (Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-8 p.m. EST) To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://www.dmva.pa.gov/veteransaffairs/Documents/Outreach-and-Reintegration/countyprint.pdf To view more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://www.pa.gov/guides/veterans/ Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans' Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

In this episode of Untold Valor, we’re honored to have Reverend Benjamin Nelson as our guest. Reverend Ben, who regularly hosts the podcast with Marc, shares with us his experience in the Navy and the Marines. He opens up about his struggles with alcohol and drug abuse and tells us how he turned his life around. Join us for this great story of triumph and for a reminder that no matter how dark things may seem, there's always a path back to the light. Highlights of this episode:  How Reverend Ben ended up in the Navy and the Marines and why alcohol became a problem in his life. (1:07)  “There were days I didn’t want to wake up.” Rev. Ben details how he went down the rabbit hole of drug abuse. (6:40)  As bad as life had gotten, Rev. Ben saw how much worse things could get if he didn’t fix his life’s direction. “I thought I had a cocaine problem. I didn’t know I had a ‘me’ problem.” (7:40)  The role faith has played in his recovery. (8:38)  A story of triumph... Rev. Ben is now a faith leader, a community leader, and working on his master’s degree to boot. (10:00)  No matter the darkness you’ve faced, there’s a path back to the light. (11:19) More about Reverend Ben: Benjamin was born and raised in the Cobbs Creek section of southwest Philadelphia. His grandparents raised him with two older siblings. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served as a Hospital Corpsman (medic) attached to a Marine Corps combat unit during the ongoing middle east conflict (Desert Storm).  Ben was also deployed on a contingency mission in Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean Territory and deployed to Okinawa, Japan, for mountain training in the rugged terrain of the Northern Training area in Okinawa. He also was attached to Fox Company 2nd Battalion, 2nd Marine division in Camp Lejeune North Carlina. He worked in insurance for several years as a successful retail sales manager.  Benjamin also worked in a men’s shelter for several years and has various experiences with mental health and addiction recovery and support.    Benjamin, who goes by Ben, has endured some adversities in his life, including a cancer diagnosis. However, he overcame this as he strived to find God’s purpose for his life.  Following a new path, Ben received his associate degree in Biblical science at Lancaster Bible College while battling cancer.  He obtained a bachelor’s degree in human services in 2019 and is on track to graduate with a master’s degree in counseling in 2024.  Reverend Ben is the Assistant Pastor and Outreach Coordinator of Philadelphia Baptist Church, providing outreach and a food cupboard assisting 150-200 families weekly in W Resources: Voice & Vision: https://voiceandvisioninc.org/ CompeerCORPS: https://voiceandvisioninc.org/compeercorps/ Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/ or call 877-222-8387 (Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-8 p.m. EST) To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://www.dmva.pa.gov/veteransaffairs/Documents/Outreach-and-Reintegration/countyprint.pdf To view more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://www.pa.gov/guides/veterans/ Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans' Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

On episode three of Voice & Vision’s podcast, Untold Valor, we’ll hear again from Roy Remone, the volunteer coordinator with CompeerCORPs, an organization that connects veterans with other veterans in recovery. In this episode, we’ll delve into the background of CompeerCORPS, how it works, and its importance in helping veterans overcome their struggles. Roy explains his role in identifying particular veterans in need who often get overlooked and the importance of the program in providing a support system for them. Roy also details the message he relays to veterans and the importance of finding matching interests between veterans who are connected through the program. CompeerCORPS aims to connect veterans with similar interests, providing a platform for them to share their experiences, build relationships, and find a sense of purpose. From social events to volunteer work and outdoor activities, CompeerCORPS also provides a wide range of activities to help veterans connect with each other and find new hobbies or interests.Tune in to this episode to learn more about CompeerCORPS, its impact on the veteran community, and the opportunities it offers to those in need. Join us today to learn about these things: ·      Background about CompeerCORPS. (1:05) ·      Roy’s job is to find veterans who aren’t “seen on the streets” and might be fighting their struggles alone. (2:55) ·      Roy describes the message he relays to veterans as he tells them about the CompeerCORPS program. He also details why it’s so important to find matching interests between veterans who get connected through the program. (4:33) ·      Examples of the kinds of activities and events CompeerCORPS organizes and the opportunities available for veterans to take advantage of. (7:07) A little more about Roy’s story: Honorable Discharge SH-4 US Navy Reserves 11/80 to 5/86 Active duty 3 years 1/81 to 1/84. Severed aboard AS-18 USS Orion home port in La Maddalena Sardinia Italy 1981-1983, AE-32 USS Flint home port in Concord California 1983-1984, FF 1054 USS Gray home port Oakland California 1984-1986 Served as a Ship Serviceman in S-3 Division. Shipboard Barber school San Diego California 1983 before reporting to AE-32. Received 2 Battle “E” ribbons and a sea service ribbon. Member of Woodworkers union in San Francisco California 1980 – 2006 as a Cabinet Maker. Retired July 2006. Moved to Pennsylvania in September 2006. Went to rehab for self-medicating with alcohol 11/2009 at Pittsburgh VA Aspen Wall Campus for their 22 day program and then to Butler VA for long term program. By God's grace it has been 13 years without any use of mind-altering substances. Started the CompeerCORPS program in Resources: Voice & Vision: https://voiceandvisioninc.org/ CompeerCORPS: https://voiceandvisioninc.org/compeercorps/ Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/ or call 877-222-8387 (Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-8 p.m. EST) To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://www.dmva.pa.gov/veteransaffairs/Documents/Outreach-and-Reintegration/countyprint.pdf To view more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://www.pa.gov/guides/veterans/ Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans' Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

Welcome to episode two of Voice & Vision’s podcast, Untold Valor, where we’re thrilled to have Roy Remone share his personal story of struggle, survival and eventual triumph into a life of leadership and service. In this episode, Roy recounts his journey from facing a difficult decision of either joining the military or going to jail as a young man, to overcoming traumas and addictions, and eventually becoming a valuable asset in the mission to helping other veterans in need. Roy describes the traumas he faced during his military experience and how it led him to self-medicate to deal with his issues. Despite years of struggling and not receiving proper help, Roy persevered. Roy explains how he began the rehab and recovery process, and how difficult it was to start the journey toward physical and mental health. Today, Roy is a valuable leader in CompeerCORPS, fostering hope and offering supportive help to other veterans in need. He is a shining example of what it means to overcome adversity and use those experiences to help others. Tune in to this episode to hear more about Roy's story and how he is making a difference in the lives of veterans through his work with CompeerCORPS. More details about this episode: Military or jail? Why Roy faced that choice as a young man… (1:06) Roy details some of the traumas he faced during his military experience. (2:22) Many years passed without Roy receiving proper help and it led him to self-medicate in order to deal with his issues. (2:59) “I’m going to disappear.” Roy remembers his suicide attempt and continued troubles before he finally found the help he needed. (4:45) 6’5’’ and 147 pounds. “I was sick”. Roy explains what it was like to begin the rehab and recovery process. (8:45) After overcoming many roadblocks to recovery, Roy eventually took on leadership roles within CompeerCORPS to provide help, hope and support to other veterans in need. (12:30) A little more about Roy’s story: Honorable Discharge SH-4 US Navy Reserves 11/80 to 5/86 Active duty 3 years 1/81 to 1/84. Severed aboard AS-18 USS Orion home port in La Maddalena Sardinia Italy 1981-1983, AE-32 USS Flint home port in Concord California 1983-1984, FF 1054 USS Gray home port Oakland California 1984-1986 Served as a Ship Serviceman in S-3 Division. Shipboard Barber school San Diego California 1983 before reporting to AE-32. Received 2 Battle “E” ribbons and a sea service ribbon. Member of Woodworkers union in San Francisco California 1980 – 2006 as a Cabinet Maker. Retired July 2006. Moved to Pennsylvania in September 2006. Went to rehab for self-medicating with alcohol 11/2009 at Pittsburgh VA Aspen Wall Campus Resources: Voice & Vision: https://voiceandvisioninc.org/ CompeerCORPS: https://voiceandvisioninc.org/compeercorps/ Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/ or call 877-222-8387 (Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-8 p.m. EST) To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://www.dmva.pa.gov/veteransaffairs/Documents/Outreach-and-Reintegration/countyprint.pdf To view more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://www.pa.gov/guides/veterans/ Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans' Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

On the first installment of Voice & Vision’s podcast, Untold Valor, CEO Valerie Melroy will teach you about the organization’s origin, how it led to the founding of CompeerCORPS and a mission to specifically help veterans in the community. Valerie is joined by co-host Marc Killian and the Director of Compeer and CompeerCORPS, Olga Kobb. Olga describes how their program is designed for veterans to help each other and you’ll also learn why we chose the name Untold Valor for the podcast. We hope you find this episode’s information helpful as we set the stage for some great interviews to come on future episodes. Join us today to learn about these things: ·      Valerie shares details about Voice & Vision’s origin as they also celebrate their 25th anniversary. She highlights how the peer-to-peer element is at the heart of the organization’s success. (1:50) ·      What kinds of stories are you going to hear on Untold Valor? (7:25) ·      Olga describes the structure of CompeerCORPS and how the matching service unlocks great stories of veterans helping veterans. (12:32) ·      Olga sets the table for what veterans can expect on the show or in any interaction with CompeerCORPS. (15:40) ·      What’s behind the name? The crew details how the podcast became “Untold Valor”. (19:00) Resources: Voice & Vision: https://voiceandvisioninc.org/ CompeerCORPS: https://voiceandvisioninc.org/compeercorps/ Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/ or call 877-222-8387 (Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-8 p.m. EST) To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://www.dmva.pa.gov/veteransaffairs/Documents/Outreach-and-Reintegration/countyprint.pdf To view more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://www.pa.gov/guides/veterans/ Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans' Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

A quick introduction to the Untold Valor Podcast by Voice & Vision. Hosted by Valerie Melroy, CEO of Voice & Vision, and Olga Kobb, Director of Compeer and CompeerCORPS at Voice & Vision. Resources: Voice & Vision: https://voiceandvisioninc.org/ CompeerCORPS: https://voiceandvisioninc.org/compeercorps/ Information on how to apply for VA Healthcare Benefits from anywhere in the USA: https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/ or call 877-222-8387 (Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-8 p.m. EST) To apply for veteran’s benefits and find resources in Pennsylvania veterans need to contact their County Office of Veterans Affairs as listed in this document: https://www.dmva.pa.gov/veteransaffairs/Documents/Outreach-and-Reintegration/countyprint.pdf To view more about PA’s resources for veterans: https://www.pa.gov/guides/veterans/ Financial support for Untold Valor is provided by a Veterans' Trust Fund grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.