Fuji Fire: Sifting Ashes of a Forgotten U.S. Marine Corps Tragedy
DAV Podcast
In this episode of the DAV podcast, host Matt Saintsing interviews Chas Henry, author of "Fuji Fire: Sifting Ashes of a Forgotten U.S. Marine Corps Tragedy." The discussion centers on the devastating fire at Camp Fuji, Japan, in 1979, which killed 13 Marines and injured 60 more. Henry, a Marine Corps veteran and had previously been stationed at the same camp, explains how his personal connection to the site and the shocking discovery that many Marines were unaware of the tragedy inspired him to write the book. He details the events of the fire, which was caused by a super typhoon that...
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Psychedelics at this year's National Convention
DAV Podcast
For years, traditional therapies have fallen short for veterans battling the invisible wounds of war: PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Now, there's a new path forward. Join us on this episode of the DAV Podcast as we dive into the groundbreaking world of psychedelic-assisted therapy. From this year's National Convention, Matt Saintsing hosts a panel exploring this innovative shift in mental healthcare. At DAV, we're not just supporting this research—we're actively advocating for it to bring hope and healing to those who have given so much.
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From Personal Battle to Public Cause: A Veteran's Cancer Journey and Advocacy
DAV Podcast
This DAV Podcast episode features veteran advocate Jeff Slotnick, a combat engineer whose military service led to an unexpected health battle: a stage four cancer diagnosis linked to environmental toxins from Middle East deployment and other service-related exposures. This must-listen interview delves into his cancer journey, highlighting the critical need for early detection and presumptive conditions under the PACT Act. Slotnick's powerful story is a call to action for veterans' health awareness, cancer screening, and policy change, transforming his personal battle into a public cause for...
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Her Service - the Civil War
DAV Podcast
Her Service - the Civil War, digs into the lives of two extraordinary Civil War figures: Dr. Mary Edwards Walker and Sarah Emma Edmonds. Dr. Walker, the U.S. Army's first female surgeon, bravely challenged societal norms by insisting on wearing practical "bloomers" instead of skirts, enduring ostracization and even a four-month imprisonment as a spy at Castle Thunder for crossing battle lines to treat all wounded. Meanwhile, Sarah Emma Edmonds, escaping an abusive home, adopted the male identity of Franklin Thompson to enlist, serving as a soldier, nurse, and even a spy, with her true gender...
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Whispers from Vietnam - The Nurses' Stories
DAV Podcast
In this compelling DAV Podcast episode, "Whispers from Vietnam The Nurses' Stories," we honor the often-overlooked service of women Vietnam veterans, predominantly nurses, who comprised 90% of female deployments to Southeast Asia. Join host Elizabeth DePompei as she speaks with Donna Koff, Linda Schwartz, and Diane Carlson Evans, who share powerful firsthand accounts of their Vietnam War experiences. This episode explores their motivations for enlisting, the harsh realities of wartime nursing, from treating severe casualties to navigating challenging living conditions and the unique struggles...
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The Bullet and The Breakthrough: Jarod Behee's Second Chance
DAV Podcast
Join Brian Buckwalter on the DAV Podcast for an incredible story of resilience and purpose as he speaks with Jarod Behee. Twenty years ago, an enemy sniper's bullet in Iraq nearly took Jarod's life. This episode goes beyond mere survival, exploring Jarod's remarkable journey of recovery and how he built a life of unwavering strength in community and dedicated service. From his challenging therapies to his vital role as Sergeant at Arms for DAV Chapter 12, Jarod's story is a powerful testament to the human spirit and a living example of how to live powerfully and purposefully, every...
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Conquering the C&P Exam Reducing Anxiety, Maximizing Your Claim
DAV Podcast
This DAV podcast episode, hosted by Jonathan Kaupanger with guests Matt Jahn and Steve Wolf, demystifies the crucial Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam for veterans seeking disability benefits. The discussion covers what a C&P exam is, its purpose, how to prepare, common pitfalls like downplaying symptoms, and veterans' rights during the exam. The hosts and guests also address common complaints about C&P exams, such as rushed assessments and unqualified examiners, emphasizing the importance of providing feedback and seeking assistance from organizations like DAV. Ultimately, the...
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Her Service - Revolutionary War
DAV Podcast
The "DAV Podcast: Her Service" dives into the largely untold stories of women's contributions during the American Revolutionary War. Host Jonathan Kaupanger, a self-proclaimed history "nerd," enthusiastically introduces listeners to Meg Bowersox, Manager of Gallery Interpretation at the Museum of the American Revolution. This episode highlights the lives of trailblazing figures like Deborah Sampson and Hannah Snell, who disguised themselves as men to enlist, exploring their motivations, challenges, and the societal context of their actions. Beyond these recognized veterans, the podcast also...
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Protecting progress, VA funding and the future of cancer care for veterans
DAV Podcast
In this episode of the DAV Podcast, host Brian Buckwalter speaks with Dr. Ben Park, Director of the Vanderbilt Ingram Cancer Center, about the critical state of cancer research and its direct impact on military veterans. Dr. Park highlights the groundbreaking progress in cancer treatment, including innovative cellular therapies performed at the Nashville VA Hospital, and expresses grave concerns over recent, unprecedented funding cuts. He emphasizes that these cuts not only jeopardize patient lives and the continuation of life-saving research but also hinder the training of future medical...
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Serving up success with Chef Robert Irvine
DAV Podcast
This DAV Podcast features an inspiring conversation with Chef Robert Irvine, a culinary maestro, television personality, author, and ardent advocate for veterans. Irvine shares his remarkable journey, from joining the Royal Navy at 15, to his rise as a celebrated chef who has cooked for royalty and heads of state. He discusses how his military service instilled in him invaluable leadership skills and a direct communication style that has propelled his diverse career, from cruise ship kitchens to founding successful food brands. Irvine also highlights his passion for giving back, particularly...
info_outlineFor years, traditional therapies have fallen short for veterans battling the invisible wounds of war: PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Now, there's a new path forward. Join us on this episode of the DAV Podcast as we dive into the groundbreaking world of psychedelic-assisted therapy. From this year's National Convention, Matt Saintsing hosts a panel exploring this innovative shift in mental healthcare. At DAV, we're not just supporting this research—we're actively advocating for it to bring hope and healing to those who have given so much.