The post Military Spouse Appreciation Month and Minnesota National Guard Youth Camp appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

This week on Minnesota Military Radio, host Doug Wortham sits down with leaders from the American Legion to discuss Veteran support, advocacy, leadership, and the organization’s ongoing impact at the national and local levels.

Guests include:

• Dan Wiley – National Commander, The American Legion
• Linda Dvorak – Commander, American Legion Department of Minnesota

Listeners will hear about the American Legion’s four pillars — Veterans Affairs & Rehabilitation, National Security, Americanism, and Children & Youth — and how Legion posts across Minnesota and the nation serve as cornerstones in their communities. The conversation also explores key initiatives including the Legion’s Be The One campaign to reduce Veteran suicide, legislative advocacy on behalf of disabled Veterans, and programs that provide direct assistance to Veterans and their families.

The episode also highlights:

• The American Legion’s role in Veteran disability claims and advocacy
• Efforts to reduce the stigma around mental health
• Support for Veterans through Minnesota’s Fund 85
• Preparing for America’s 250th anniversary
• Why Legion membership matters for strengthening Veterans’ voices

Listen to the show:

The post Inside the American Legion: Veteran Support, Advocacy, and Leadership appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

The post Every Minute Matters: Stroke Awareness and Prevention at the Minneapolis VA appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

The post MDVA Update: Veteran Care Programs and Veterans Day on the Hill appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

This week on Minnesota Military Radio, we honor the extraordinary legacy of Medal of Honor recipient Captain Willibald “Bill” Bianchi, a New Ulm native whose courage during World War II exemplified valor above and beyond the call of duty. Wounded multiple times while leading an assault against enemy positions during the Battle of Bataan, Captain Bianchi refused medical treatment and continued fighting—actions that saved countless lives and earned our nation’s highest military honor. Joining us in the studio are his niece and nephew, Susan Marti and Steve Marti, who share powerful family stories, personal memories, and the emotional journey of bringing their uncle home more than 80 years after his death.

We also highlight the Think Great Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting military spouses through education scholarships and recognizing the sacrifices made on the homefront. Erik Therwanger, founder of the Think Great Foundation, and board member Kathie Boe join the program to discuss the foundation’s mission and impact.

Rounding out the show, we check in with the Minnesota Patriot Guard as Craig Ugland shares insight into the organization’s ongoing mission to honor fallen service members, veterans, and their families with dignity, respect, and unwavering support across Minnesota.

The post Honoring a Medal of Honor Hero and Supporting Minnesota’s Military Community appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

In this weeks episode of Minnesota Military Radio, host retired Command Sergeant Major Doug Wortham highlights two powerful ways Minnesotans are supporting Veterans and service members.

Featured Guests:

• LTC Dustin Snare, Managing Director of Government Services at Starkey
• Jenni Hargraves, Executive Director of Starkey Cares
• Erin Betlock, Volunteer Services Coordinator at the Minneapolis State Veterans Home

Starkey Recognized as a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Company

Starkey, the only American-owned hearing technology company based in Eden Prairie, was named a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Company in November 2025.
LTC Dustin Snare discusses how Starkey provides cutting-edge hearing aids and advanced hearing protection to the VA and Department of Defense. These modern devices feature noise reduction, directionality, waterproofing, and Bluetooth streaming — far beyond traditional hearing aids.
Jenni Hargraves explains Starkey Cares and the company’s commitment to hiring Veterans, offering military-friendly benefits, and supporting service members and their families.

The Power of Volunteers at Minnesota’s State Veterans Homes

Erin Betlock shares how volunteers are essential to the quality of life at Minnesota’s eight State Veterans Homes. They help with bingo, church services, outings, parties, one-on-one visits, and major events like Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and the State Fair.
“Volunteers are vital,” says Erin. “We can’t do activities without them.”
She encourages anyone interested to apply through MinnesotaVeteran.org, where a single application covers all homes.

Listen to the full episode here:

Support Veterans by volunteering at a State Veterans Home or exploring opportunities with veteran-friendly companies like Starkey. Visit MinnesotaVeteran.org to get started.

Thank you to our guests for their important work supporting Minnesota’s Veterans and service members.

The post Beyond the Yellow Ribbon: Starkey’s Hearing Tech for Veterans + The Power of Volunteers at State Veterans Homes appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

The post Modernizing Care for Minnesota Veterans: Minneapolis VA’s Federal Electronic Health Record Rollout and AI Enhancements appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

The post Honoring Service: Tribute, Veterans Homes Update, and 2026 Legislative Outlook appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

• Nate Wallerstedt, Project Management Branch Chief, who discussed the district’s core missions and the new “Building Infrastructure, Not Paperwork” initiative to speed up projects and cut red tape.
• Dan Fasching, Civil Engineer, who explained water level management as “art meets engineering,” emphasizing drought control for navigation and the river’s role in efficient logistics.
• Tammy Frauenshuh, Natural Resource Planner, who covered recreation opportunities, park ranger duties, and free Military Pass benefits via the America the Beautiful program for service members and veterans.

The post U.S. Army Corps of Engineers St. Paul District: Navigation, Flood Protection, and River Recreation appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

In this episode of Minnesota Military Radio, host Retired Command Sergeant Major Doug Wortham sits down with Sherry Schultz, Chief Human Resources Officer and Executive Vice President, and Greg Davis, General Manager and Vice President of Walser Toyota in Bloomington. They discuss Walser’s journey to this milestone, driven by employee-led initiatives like the Veterans at Walser resource group (now nearly 200 members), leadership commitment, and practical programs that make a difference.

Key highlights from the conversation include:

• Guaranteed interviews for any veteran applicant, with an open-door policy for support and de-escalation.
• GI Bill-eligible accredited training programs in sales (about 30 days) and service advising (about 2 weeks + 2 days).
• Deployment support, including differential pay, continued 401(k) vesting, and family outreach/check-ins.
• Mentorship and onboarding to bridge military-to-civilian transitions, helping veterans translate skills and adapt to workplace norms.
• A goal to hire 50+ veterans in the first year post-designation (already well on track).
• Ongoing support for current Guard/Reserve employees, including deployment send-offs and reintegration.

Sherry Schultz, a military spouse herself, emphasized creating structure, empathy, and purpose for transitions, while Greg Davis shared insights as a parent of active-duty service members, noting the value of veterans’ discipline, efficiency, and purpose-driven mindset in Walser’s transparent, customer-focused environment.

For more details on Walser’s commitment, read their official announcement: Walser Earns Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Designation in Minnesota.

The post Walser Automotive Group: Minnesota’s First Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Automotive Company appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

This week, host Retired Command Sergeant Major Doug Wortham spotlights the incredible work of the Poly Trauma Center of Excellence at the Minneapolis VA Health Care System. For veterans and service members facing complex, life-changing injuries—often involving traumatic brain injury (TBI) combined with other physical and emotional trauma—this center provides a full continuum of specialized care designed to optimize recovery and quality of life.

The episode dives deep into the Poly Trauma System of Care, which celebrated its 20th anniversary recently, with Minneapolis as one of the original five Centers of Excellence. Guests from the Minneapolis VA share insights on acute rehabilitation, transitional programs, outpatient services, recent facility renovations (including private rooms, consolidated therapy spaces, and enhanced interdisciplinary collaboration), family/caregiver support, and the innovative RENEW (Intensive Evaluation and Treatment Program) for active duty service members, including those in special operations.

Guests Include:

• Becky Vogsland – Rehabilitation Director, Minneapolis VA
• Amanda Momin – Acute Rehab Manager, Minneapolis VA (Marine Corps veteran)
• April Cerqua – Poly Trauma System of Care Coordinator, Minneapolis VA
• Leah Gause – Poly Trauma Residential Programs Director, Minneapolis VA

Key topics covered:

• Defining polytrauma and its impact on brain, body, and emotional health
• The continuum of care: acute rehab, transitional living, outpatient TBI/polytrauma services, and lifespan support
• Major renovations improving patient experience (private rooms, natural light, built-in therapy progress tracking, family lounges)
• The RENEW program: 5-week intensive for chronic/milder polytrauma issues, focusing on community integration, purpose, and return to duty or civilian life
• Family involvement, including Fisher House support, and interdisciplinary team approach (PT, OT, speech, psychology, nursing, and more)
• How to access care: referrals from community hospitals, primary care, or regional partners

Listeners hear inspiring stories of mission-driven care, long-term staff dedication (60+ combined years among guests), and real impact—helping veterans and service members reclaim their best lives after severe injuries.

For more on the Poly Trauma System of Care nationwide, visit polytrauma.va.gov. Learn about services at the Minneapolis VA here.

Or listen directly: Download MP3

Thank a veteran today—and honor those who continue to serve.

Produced in partnership with the Minnesota National Guard, Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, and Beyond the Yellow Ribbon.

The post Spotlighting the Poly Trauma Center of Excellence: Lifeline for Minnesota Veterans appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

This week on Minnesota Military Radio, host Retired Command Sergeant Major Doug Wortham welcomes two knowledgeable guests who are deeply committed to supporting Minnesota’s veterans and their families. Through advocacy, community action, and innovative new programs, they share practical ways the state is honoring and assisting those who have served.

Barry Hendrickson, Adjutant Quartermaster and Legislative Chairman for the Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of Minnesota, shares updates on VFW advocacy, community donations (including a $100,000 gift to veterans homes and VA facilities), legislative priorities like property tax relief and the Major Richard Starr Act, membership efforts, and the VFW’s first female National Commander-in-Chief.

For more info: www.vfwmn.org (Minnesota) and www.VFW.org (national)

Raeann Murray, Veteran Health Navigator Supervisor and licensed social worker with the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA), introduces the new Veteran Health Navigator Program launching in 2026. The program partners with healthcare systems statewide to close gaps in care and benefits through the “Ask the Question” initiative, care coordination, and connections to resources.

For more info: www.minnesotaveteran.org and www.linkvet.org

The post Supporting Minnesota Veterans: VFW Updates and the New Health Navigator Program appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

This week on Minnesota Military Radio, host Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Doug Wortham welcomes back Staff Sergeant Joe Hance, a recruiter with the Minnesota Army National Guard. In this anniversary revisit from his previous appearance, SSG Hance shares his full story—from enlisting as a high school junior through the split-option program, serving as an infantryman with multiple assignments and an overseas deployment, transitioning to full-time Active Guard Reserve (AGR) status, mentoring future officers in the University of Minnesota Army ROTC program, and now recruiting in his hometown area.

He reflects on his lifelong draw to military service (always Army, never other branches), the pivotal moment a recruiter contacted him after a strong ASVAB score, choosing the Guard to balance a civilian career goal in law enforcement with part-time military duty, the essential support from his family amid young children at home, and why the motto “We live here, we work here, we serve here” truly captures the Minnesota National Guard experience.

The conversation also dives into the recruiting process: basic qualifications, the ASVAB’s role in job placement, what to expect at MEPS (including the two-day physical and oath), current enlistment incentives and bonuses in select fields, education benefits like Minnesota tuition assistance and the GI Bill, and the kind of motivated, patriotic individuals the Guard is seeking—no need to be a perfect student, just ready to serve and grow.

Interested in exploring service with the Minnesota Army National Guard? Get started today or connect directly with a local recruiter in the Cottage Grove area at recruiting.minnesotaarmynationalguard.com/local-recruiters/cottage-grove.

Whether you’re considering enlisting, supporting a loved one, or simply interested in stories of service, this honest discussion highlights the opportunities, camaraderie, and community impact of the Minnesota National Guard.

Listen now and hear firsthand about building a future while serving your state and nation.

The post Serving Here, Living Here: SSG Joe Hance Shares His Path with the Minnesota National Guard appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

This week on Minnesota Military Radio, host Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Doug Wortham is joined by special co-host Tom Lyons and Minnesota National Guard chaplains:

• CH (LTC) Tim Usset (State Chaplain)
• CH (MAJ) Justin Lansdonne (full-time support chaplain and deputy division chaplain for the 34th Infantry Division)
• CH (CPT) Charles Kim (chaplain for the 34th Combat Aviation Brigade)

The guests share their personal paths into chaplaincy, how their civilian experiences—from civil engineering and youth ministry to healthcare chaplaincy and veteran-focused research—strengthen their ministry, and the essential spiritual, emotional, and family support they provide to soldiers, airmen, and loved ones amid the demands of service, moral injury, and life’s hardships.

The episode also honors the powerful legacy of the Four Chaplains of World War II, whose interfaith selfless sacrifice aboard the sinking USAT Dorchester in 1943—giving away their life jackets and standing together in prayer as the ship went down—continues to inspire unity, faith, and service in military chaplaincy today.

The post Chaplains of the Minnesota National Guard: Service, Sacrifice, and the Legacy of the Four Chaplains appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

In this special segment of Minnesota Military Radio, host Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Doug Wortham welcomes the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon (BTYR) outreach team for a comprehensive 2025 year-in-review. The discussion covers the program’s statewide impact, key initiatives, the power of community and corporate volunteers, distinctions from the federal Yellow Ribbon program, and exciting goals for 2026.Guests:

• Stephanie Hurt – Community Outreach Coordinator
• Taunja Moe Forbes – Community Outreach Coordinator
• Taylor Kristoffe-Jones – Corporate Outreach Coordinator

Key Highlights from 2025:

• Helped approximately 76,000 service members, veterans, and families across Minnesota — equivalent to filling U.S. Bank Stadium!
• Statewide initiatives including Operation Kinship (themed care packages for military families left behind during deployments) and Hero Meals (Thanksgiving/Christmas support, especially vital during challenging times).
• Reboot success since 2022: Unified community and corporate sides, fostering stronger partnerships and resource sharing.
• No government funding/red tape — support comes from private donations, volunteers, and companies, enabling quick, flexible aid (e.g., coffee and muffins at Camp Ripley polar plunges, emergency assistance, job connections).
• New corporate partners joined, including Walser Automotive Group (first automotive group in the program, offering military discounts and potential repair support).
• Emphasis on volunteers as the “heartbeat” — patriots helping patriots, with opportunities for all ages and commitment levels.

Looking Ahead to 2026:

• Expanding to over 100 Beyond the Yellow Ribbon companies, including all Minnesota state colleges and universities.
• Growing volunteer numbers and statewide momentum through more combined initiatives.
• Continued focus on supporting all branches, families, and filling gaps for those in need — from rural wood delivery to metro job placement.

The post Going Beyond: Beyond the Yellow Ribbon’s 2025 Impact and 2026 Vision appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

In this episode of Minnesota Military Radio, we explore two critical advancements in Veteran healthcare at the Minneapolis VA Health Care System: a major shift toward digital pharmacy services and a proactive approach to limb preservation.

Guests Include:

• Dr. Lisa Anderson – Chief of Pharmacy, Minneapolis VA
• Stephanie Walek – Pharmacy Program Manager, Minneapolis VA
• Dr. Wei Li – Chief of Vascular Surgery, Minneapolis VA
• Dawn Strief – Nurse Practitioner, Minneapolis VA
• Shanon Harper – Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Minneapolis VA

Part 1: The Move to Paperless Pharmacy

Chief of Pharmacy Dr. Lisa Anderson and Program Manager Stephanie Walek discuss the new transition to digital prescription information.

• What’s Changing: Starting in early 2026, the Minneapolis VA is replacing bulky paper inserts with QR codes on prescription labels.

• Why It Matters: This initiative reduces waste (saving over 34,000 sheets of paper annually) and provides Veterans with 24/7 access to instructional videos and medication guides via their smartphones.

• Veteran Choice: Paper copies remain available upon request for those who prefer them.

Part 2: Programs focused on limb preservation.

Dr. Wei Li, the new Chief of Vascular Surgery, introduces us to two Nurse Practitioners Dawn Strief and Shanon Harper who share information about life-changing initiatives that use tele-health and focus on limb preservation.

• PAVE: Prevention of Amputation in Veterans
• FIRM: Follow –up Initiative for the Recovery, Retention and Management of Patients

The post Pharmacy Innovations and Amputation Prevention at the Minneapolis VA appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

In this year-end legislative wrap-up, host Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Doug Wortham sits down with key leaders to reflect on major accomplishments for Minnesota veterans in 2025 and priorities moving into 2026.

The episode features insightful conversations with:

• Senator Aric Putnam (DFL-St. Cloud, Chair of the Veterans Subcommittee) – Discussing funding boosts for veterans homes, expanding Meals on Wheels for Greater Minnesota, addressing food insecurity, protecting veterans from predatory “claims sharks,” and future ideas like farm-to-veterans programs to support aging vets and local farmers.
• Representative Matt Bliss (R-Pennington, Veterans Committee member) – Highlighting the creation of a dedicated veterans omnibus bill process, increased focus on homelessness and suicide prevention (a top priority amid rising rates), family involvement in mental health support, and bipartisan collaboration to keep politics out of veterans’ issues.
• Governor Tim Walz – Praising the unanimous passage of veterans funding (including new homes, cemeteries, National Guard bonuses, and hunting/fishing license benefits), progress toward ending veteran homelessness, executive actions on food insecurity, and the importance of separating veterans issues from broader partisan debates.

Key 2025 Highlights Discussed:

• Historic funding for veterans homes to staff new facilities and reduce waitlists.
• Expanded efforts on food insecurity and home-delivered meals.
• Strong progress on veteran homelessness (nearing functional zero in most counties).
• Emphasis on suicide prevention, family support, and eliminating stigma around seeking help.
• Bipartisan approach: Veterans issues handled first, with no partisan bickering—resulting in real wins like retention bonuses keeping Minnesota competitive nationally.

Looking to 2026:

• Continued focus on suicide prevention, food programs, and claims protection.
• Potential supplemental funding to offset federal cuts (e.g., domiciliary care).
• Codifying successful initiatives into law for long-term stability.
• Gratitude to veterans, families, and caregivers—no one serves alone.

This episode showcases how Minnesota continues to lead in supporting those who served—through collaboration, empathy, and putting veterans first.

The post 2025 Legislative Year in Review – Bipartisan Wins for Veterans & Looking Ahead to 2026 appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

In this special Year in Review episode (recorded late 2025), retired Command Sgt. Maj. Doug Wortham sits down with the Minnesota National Guard’s command team:

• Major General Shawn Manke, Adjutant General
• Command Sgt. Maj. Jason Rost, Command Senior Enlisted Leader

They discuss leadership dynamics, 2025 accomplishments, domestic and international missions, and exciting plans for 2026.

Key Highlights from 2025

• Force growth and high readiness levels (nearly 13,000 Soldiers and Airmen strong)
• Domestic support: Wildfire response on the North Shore and cyber assistance in St. Paul
• International partnerships: Deepened ties with Croatia (29 years) and Norway (including the 52nd troop exchange)

Looking Ahead to 2026

• 53rd Norwegian Reciprocal Troop Exchange (NOREX) in February
• 30th anniversary celebrations with Croatia, including joint training
• Upcoming deployments and returns (e.g., 34th MP Company, 148th Fighter Wing)
• Modernization: New C-130J aircraft arriving for the 133rd Airlift Wing
• New facilities opening, including the Minnesota Military & Veterans Museum

The leaders emphasized trust, community connections (“We live here, we work here, we serve here”), and pride in the Guard’s motto: Always Ready, Always There
Interested in joining? As CSM Rost says: “This is a great time to be part of this team—we need leaders for the next generation.”

For more information or to explore service opportunities: MinnesotaNationalGuard.ng.mil

The post Minnesota National Guard 2025 Year in Review appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

In this special Year in Review episode of Minnesota Military Radio, host Retired Command Sergeant Major Doug Wortham sits down with leaders from the Minnesota Commanders Task Force (CTF) — a coalition of congressionally chartered veterans service organizations working together on legislative priorities and support for Minnesota’s veterans.

The episode features discussions with CTF Chair Stewart Mednick (Jewish War Veterans of Minnesota), Vice Chair John Walker (Disabled American Veterans), Willie Pargo (Military Order of the Purple Heart), Barry Henriksen (Veterans of Foreign Wars), Andrew McCormick (Marine Corps League), Linda Dvorak (American Legion), and Todd Kemery (Minnesota Paralyzed Veterans of America).

The post Commander’s Task Force: 2025 Year in Review & 2026 Outlook appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

The post Minneapolis VA 2025 Year in Review appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

This week we kick off our annual series of Year-in-Review shows with the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs. In a full-hour conversation, the Commissioner, Brad Lindsey walks us through the major accomplishments of 2025 and lays out priorities for 2026, including:

• Three new State Veterans Homes now open and serving residents in Preston, Montevideo, and Bemidji
• Minnesota reaching functional zero on veteran homelessness in nine of ten continuums of care (only Ramsey County remains)
• Community Health Navigators deployed to hospitals statewide as part of expanded suicide-prevention efforts
• Launch of a new veteran food-insecurity program in partnership with Disabled American Veterans and the Minnesota Veterans Food Pantry
• Continued aggressive hiring and in-house training for healthcare staff at all eight veterans homes. Click here to learn more
• The official State Veterans Day ceremony now rotating to different regions of Minnesota each year

The post Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs: 2025 Year in Review & Vision for 2026 appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

• Captain Brett Tuberville – Minnesota National Guard
• First Sergeant Jacob Barker – Minnesota National Guard

The post 34th Military Police Company Heads to the Middle East appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

This week, Twin Cities U.S. Navy recruiters share real stories from submarines and carriers — plus how Minnesotans can join today. Then, hear how the Minnesota National Guard teams up with the Vikings, Twins, Wild, Wolves, and local communities to honor service members. Guests include:

• Lt. John Gillotte – United States Navy
• Counselor 1st Class Anthony Nemo – United States Navy
• Cpt. Kristin Ohrt – Minnesota National Guard

The post Sailors in the Heartland and Minnesota National Guard Community Relations appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

This week, we meet members of the Sons of the American Legion Detachment of Minnesota to hear about their annual disabled veterans deer hunt and fall turkey hunt held at Legionville, plus we sit down with a Tribal Veteran Service Officer supervisor to learn how the program serves Native veterans across all 11 tribal nations in Minnesota. Guests include:

• Chuck Stoney – Sons of the American Legion, Detachment of Minnesota
• Steve Bilderback – Sons of the American Legion, Detachment of Minnesota
• James Randsdell – Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs

Click here to find out more about the John Zgoda Disabled Veteran Deer Hunt

The post Disabled Veteran Hunt and Tribal Veteran Service Officer appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

This week, we meet members of the Minneapolis VA Health Care System’s Patient Advocate Team and learn that the Patient Advocacy Program is for all Veterans and their families who receive care at VA health care facilities. What can the patient advocate do? What are their limitations? And what do patients bring into the relationship when it comes to resolving an issue they may have in the country’s largest health care system. Guests include:

• Director Patrick Kelly – Minneapolis VA Health Care System
• Program Director Stephanie Bertucci – Minneapolis VA Health Care System
• Lead Patient Advocate Nikki Jackson – Minneapolis VA Health Care System
• Lead Patient Advocate Lori Clair – Minneapolis VA Health Care System

The post Minneapolis VA Patient Advocacy Team appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.