On this week’s episode of Minnesota Military Radio, we air the second of two special shows recorded live from Dan Patch Park on Military Appreciation Day at the Minnesota State Fair. This conversation highlights Minnesota’s commitment to Veterans, the dual mission of the Minnesota National Guard, progress at the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA), and modernization across the Minnesota Air National Guard.

Guests:

• Governor Tim Walz – State of Minnesota
• Major General Shawn Manke – Adjutant General, Minnesota National Guard
• Commissioner Brad Lindsay – Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA)
• Brigadier General Daniel Begin – Assistant Adjutant General, Minnesota Air National Guard
• Command Chief Master Sergeant Richard Schumacher – Minnesota Air National Guard

During the show, the Governor looks back on treating Veteran issues first in the state budget through the Veterans omnibus bill, with broad legislative support year after year. That approach has helped Minnesota keep Veteran homelessness among the lowest in the nation, open more State Veterans Homes than any other state, and sustain nationally recognized State Veterans Cemeteries. Care for those who served is framed as keeping faith with people willing to do the hardest things — and as work that should stay out of political debate. He also speaks to Veteran suicide prevention and the danger of assuming someone is “fine,” including the lesson of Clay Hunt and the need for families, friends, and fellow service members to point people toward help.

We also take a closer look at the Minnesota National Guard on a day themed “Your Neighbors, Our Community.” Service members are teachers, coaches, and neighbors who live here, work here, and serve here. Soldiers and Airmen are deployed around the world and recently supported wildfire response in northeastern Minnesota and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area. The force remains strong at about 107 percent on the Army side and about 104 percent on the Air side. Modernization is tied to readiness, including C-130J aircraft expected next summer at Minneapolis–Saint Paul and a continued effort to position the 148th Fighter Wing for F-35 fighters. Leaders invite the next generation to join a team that offers education benefits, state and federal missions, and the chance to serve close to home.

Commissioner Brad Lindsay of MDVA reports the three newest State Veterans Homes hit a 70 percent census goal by July 1 and are now aiming for 90 percent by year’s end so Veterans on the waiting list can receive care. Beginning January 1, National Guard and Reserve members who did not previously qualify may be buried in Minnesota’s state cemeteries if they choose, a change expected to matter especially near Camp Ripley in Little Falls. After the federal process to declare functional zero for Veteran homelessness ended, MDVA is working with the Minnesota Interagency Council on Homelessness so Ramsey County can still be recognized for meeting the criteria. The department has also staffed community health navigators and is executing a statewide Veteran suicide prevention plan. Veterans and families can start with LinkVet at 1-888-LinkVet or LinkVet.org.

In the final segment, Minnesota Air National Guard leaders connect new aircraft to homeland defense, federal missions, and Minnesota’s partnerships with Norway and Croatia. As C-130J aircraft arrive, some career fields will shift into maintenance, the loadmaster field, or retirement under a plan already being shared with the formation. Looking ahead, they point to cyber capabilities and air-based air defense as missions the Air National Guard must stay in. The through line is the citizen Airman: a neighbor most of the week, in uniform when called, serving 100 percent of the time.

Through collaboration among the Governor’s office, the Minnesota National Guard, MDVA, and the Minnesota Air National Guard, Minnesota continues to treat care for Veterans as shared work — visible on Military Appreciation Day and carried out year-round across the state.

Next week we’re back in the studio to visit with the director of the Twin Cities Vet Center and learn how Vet Centers fit into the Department of Veterans Affairs and take care of those who have served.

The post Military Appreciation Day Live: Guard and MDVA at the State Fair appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

This week, we are recorded live from Dan Patch Park at the Minnesota State Fair for the first of two special shows from Military Appreciation Day. This episode highlights Veteran benefits through the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA), the grand opening of the new Minnesota Military and Veterans Museum, community support from Every Third Saturday, and care at Minnesota’s State Veterans Homes.

Guests:

• Dave Bellefeuille – Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs
• Randal Dietrich – Minnesota Military and Veterans Museum
• Tom McKenna – Every Third Saturday
• Diane Lynch-deCombhs – Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs, Health Care Division

During the show, MDVA outlines benefits available from the day of discharge, including education support, the State Soldier Assistance Program, eight Veterans Homes, adult day programs, and four state cemeteries. Listeners learn how to connect through a county Veteran Service Officer, LinkVet at 888-LINK-VET, MinnesotaVeteran.org, or the MDVA and Minnesota Association of County Veterans Service Officers (MACVSO) booth in the Education Building throughout the Fair. MDVA also shares details on a free construction apprenticeship preparatory program through Building Strong Communities, with recruiting underway now and classes starting in February at BuildingStrong.org.

The Minnesota Military and Veterans Museum previews its new 40,000-square-foot facility on 30 acres at Camp Ripley. The campus includes galleries from the Civil War through the Global War on Terror, outdoor exhibits such as the USS Minneapolis-Saint Paul sail and rudder, an F-16, tanks, a Veterans plaza, and a parade ground. Timed-entry gallery tickets should be reserved in advance at mnvetmuseum.org. The three-day grand opening runs September 11–13 and includes a September 11 ceremony marking the 25th anniversary of 9/11.

Every Third Saturday discusses community-based Veteran support near the Minneapolis VA Medical Center, including practical help, referrals, and its Stay in the Fight walk on September 26 at Vikings Lakes. More information is available at everythirdsaturday.org. The MDVA Health Care Division covers nationally recognized care at Minnesota’s eight State Veterans Homes, eligibility for Veterans and spouses, waitlist resources such as adult day programs, and open staff positions across the state.

Through these partnerships, Minnesota Veterans and families can find benefits, history, community, and quality care. Next week we air the second recorded live show from Military Appreciation Day at Dan Patch Park.

The post Military Appreciation Day Live from the Minnesota State Fair appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

On this week’s episode of Minnesota Military Radio, we preview Military Appreciation Day at the Minnesota State Fair and the resources available to service members, Veterans, and families. This conversation highlights how Minnesota’s military community, Veteran support organizations, and state partners come together to honor service and help people connect with benefits they have earned — before we record live from the Fair beginning next week.

Guests:

• Lieutenant Colonel Adam Schultz – Minnesota National Guard
• Eric Moline – Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs
• Tom Anderson – Minnesota Association of County Veterans Service Officers (MACVSO)

During the show, we discuss the history and planning behind Military Appreciation Day, now more than 15 years in the making. The Minnesota National Guard coordinates the event for all branches and Veteran-supporting organizations, with day-long programming at Dan Patch Park from 8 am to 4 pm on Tuesday, September 1st. Fairgoers can expect Veteran support organizations, entertainment, and military community partners throughout the park. In addition to those activities, a 10 am military program at Luther Auto Bandshell (formerly the Leinie Lodge Bandshell) includes an Honor Guard, a military fly over, and entertainment by the 34th Red Bull Band, with a Veterans parade at 2 pm. Eligible service members and Veterans can purchase discounted $15 admission tickets and receive additional discounts on rides and food throughout the Fair with a military ID. Minnesota Military Radio will record two shows live from the Fair on Military Appreciation Day. Next week’s episode will feature the first of those live recordings.

We also take a closer look at the work of the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs and County Veterans Service Officers across all 87 Minnesota counties. MDVA’s field operations team supports tribal Veteran services, women’s Veteran coordination, Gold Star families, incarcerated Veterans, Veteran Service Officer training, and on-site assistance at VA medical centers and State Veterans Homes. Together with MACVSO, the agencies share a booth in the Education Building throughout the Fair from 9 am to 9 pm to answer general questions, share local County Veterans Service Officer contact information, and point families toward follow-up help in a private setting. Listeners will hear about state programs such as the State Soldiers Assistance Program, including dental and optical support for low-income Veterans and a once-in-a-lifetime Veteran relief grant that can help households facing a financial crisis.

Through collaboration, outreach, and a continued commitment to service, organizations like the Minnesota National Guard, the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs, and MACVSO are making it easier for Minnesota Veterans and their families to find the support they have earned — at the State Fair and in their home communities. Veterans who have never spoken with a County Veterans Service Officer are encouraged to start with LinkVet at 1-888-LinkVet or LinkVet.org, or visit MACVSO.org to find their local office.

The post Previewing Military Appreciation Day at the Minnesota State Fair appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

This week, MMR was on the road for the Official Ribbon Cutting of the new Minneapolis VA Medical Center Women’s Clinic Friday, Jul. 24.

The clinic meets the unique needs of the approximately 10,000 women Veterans they serve. The Women’s Clinic, a comprehensive health center brings together primary care, gynecology, mental health, physical therapy, pharmacy, social work, dietician, and navigation services in a dedicated space, improving coordination and convenience of care.

The clinic was designed specifically for women Veterans, using patient-centered design to promote a positive, comfortable experience. The space also includes a lactation room, group therapy room, and state-of-the-art procedure rooms equipped with cutting-edge technology for gynecology services — creating a modern, private, and supportive experience. The new clinic will have its own exterior entrance and will double the on-site space dedicated to women Veterans.

Guests include: 

• Dr. Erin Krebs,  Acting Women’s Health Medical Director for the Minneapolis VA Health Care System
• Justin Barry, Engineer Tech, project lead for the Women’s Clinic Construction
• Pat Kelly, Director, Minneapolis VA Health Care System
• Toni McWilliams, Veteran and Peer Specialist, Minneapolis VA Medical Center
• Jessie Rae Rayle, Veteran and Consumer Advisory Board Member, Minneapolis VA

The post Ribbon Cutting for the New Minneapolis VA Women’s Clinic appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

This week on Minnesota Military Radio, we are recorded live from the 17th Annual Minnesota Military Family Foundation Golf Classic at Bunker Hills Golf Course. The Minnesota Military Family Foundation continues its mission of providing timely financial assistance to currently serving Minnesota military personnel and their families—active duty, National Guard, and Reserve—who face a financial crisis not covered by existing state or federal programs.

Guests:

• Neil Freeman – Group Manager, BOB FM
• Tom Lyons – VP and founding golf chair, Minnesota Military Family Foundation
• Bill Popp – Founder and Chairman, Minnesota Military Family Foundation
• Tim McElroy – 3M Military Support Network and MMFF Board Member
• Mark Copman – Senior VP of New Ventures Group, 3M
• Don Kerr – Retired Colonel (MNNG), former Executive Director of the Department of Military Affairs and MMFF Board Member
• Ed Suarez – Shoot for the Troops
• Chuck Haas – Hugo Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Network

Co-hosted with Chaplain (COL, Retired) Buddy Winn.

Since its founding in 2004, the Foundation has awarded more than 2,700 grants totaling $7.5 million. It defines a military family financial crisis as a situation requiring a year or more of strict financial discipline to resolve, bringing anxiety, marital strain, and uncertainty into the home. By quickly bridging that gap, the Foundation helps service members stay focused on the mission and return home safely while showing families that their sacrifices are recognized and supported by the community.

As a 100% volunteer organization with extremely low overhead, nearly every donated dollar goes directly to grants. The annual Golf Classic is a key fundraising event that makes this work possible. The episode also highlights long-standing partnerships, including support from BOB FM, the 3M Military Support Network (a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon company), Shooting for the Troops, and the Hugo Beyond the Yellow Ribbon Network.

The post Supporting Military Families in Crisis: The 17th Annual Minnesota Military Family Foundation Golf Classic appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

On this week’s episode of Minnesota Military Radio, we focus on two important topics for Minnesota’s military community: ensuring service members, Veterans, and their families can fully participate in elections, and connecting retirees with the resources and support they need.

Guests:

• Steve Simon – Minnesota Secretary of State
• Melanie Hazelip – Voter Outreach Director, Office of the Minnesota Secretary of State
• Don Goble – Director, Navy Retired Activities Office – Minneapolis; Chief of Staff, Navy Marine Corps Retiree Council

The conversation with the Secretary of State’s office covers Minnesota’s strong record of high voter turnout, the simple process to register or update voter registration, the 46-day early voting period, and special options available to active-duty service members, National Guard members, Reservists, and those who are deployed—including the ability to receive a blank ballot electronically. The discussion also addresses election security, the role of election judges, and practical tools available at mnvotes.gov.

In the final segment, the Navy Retired Activities Office shares how its volunteer team supports military retirees, Veterans, spouses, and survivors across all branches of service. The conversation highlights assistance for “gray area” retirees and provides details on the 2026 Joint Retiree Appreciation Day, taking place September 12 at Treasure Island Resort and Casino. The full-day event will feature more than 40 exhibitors, educational presentations, and dedicated virtual appointments with Defense Finance and Accounting Service representatives. Registration is required by August 28 at raominneapolis.com.

The post Voting Access for Service Members and the 2026 Joint Retiree Appreciation Day appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

On this week’s episode of Minnesota Military Radio, we mark a significant milestone as the program airs its 850th show. For more than 15 years, Minnesota Military Radio has served as a dedicated platform sharing the stories of Minnesota’s service members, Veterans, families, and the organizations that support them.

Guests:

• Founding host Tom Lyons
• Zach Halverson – iHeartMedia
• 1st Lt. Austin Stibbe – Minnesota National Guard
• Melanie Nelson – Minneapolis VA Health Care System
• Rose Lambert – Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs
• Cristina Oxtra – Beyond the Yellow Ribbon

This special milestone edition takes a walk down memory lane, reflecting on the program’s beginnings in 2010 and the partnerships that have sustained it. Listeners will hear shout-outs from key leaders and partners, including the Minnesota National Guard, Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs, Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Beyond the Yellow Ribbon, and iHeartMedia. Producers from each partner organization join the conversation to discuss their roles, memorable moments, and the ongoing work of informing and connecting Minnesota’s military community.

From early support that helped launch the show to the growth that now reaches dozens of stations across the state and a national audience, this episode highlights the collaborative effort behind every broadcast. It also looks ahead, celebrating the mission that continues to honor Veterans, support current service members, and share important resources with listeners.

Through consistent storytelling, community partnerships, and a commitment to those who serve, Minnesota Military Radio has become a trusted voice for Minnesota’s military community. This 850th show is both a celebration of that legacy and a reminder of the work still ahead.

Thank you for listening and for supporting Minnesota’s Veterans every week.

The post Celebrating 850 Shows: A Milestone Edition of Minnesota Military Radio appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

On this week’s episode of Minnesota Military Radio, we turn our attention to the Minneapolis VA Health Care System. We hear from system leadership about a recent high-level visit, welcome a new senior nurse executive with deep military roots, and get clarification on the Veterans Health Administration’s 80th anniversary along with updates on ongoing outreach.

Guests:

• Pat Kelly – Director, Minneapolis VA Health Care System
• Jana Nohrenberg – Associate Director for Patient Care Services and Nurse Executive, Minneapolis VA Health Care System (Retired Army Colonel, U.S. Army Nurse Corps)
• Melanie Nelson – Public Affairs Officer, Minneapolis VA Health Care System

Director Pat Kelly discusses VA Secretary Doug Collins’ third visit to Minnesota, including a stop at the Lyle C. Pearson Community Based Outpatient Clinic in Mankato. The conversation covers the Secretary’s focus on hearing directly from staff and Veteran leaders, priority issues already moving forward such as access for state Veterans homes and simplifying community care, and the continuing importance of Community Based Outpatient Clinics in bringing specialty services closer to where Veterans live.

The middle segments feature Jana Nohrenberg, the Minneapolis VA’s new Associate Director for Patient Care Services and Nurse Executive. She shares her path into nursing, an unexpected journey into Army ROTC, 28 years of service that culminated in retirement as a Colonel, and her decision to continue serving Veterans at the VA. Listeners will hear how her experience as a critical care nurse, chief nursing officer at Landstuhl, and nursing faculty member informs her dual role overseeing nursing practice and key patient care services.

In the final segment, Melanie Nelson provides important context around the Veterans Health Administration’s 80th anniversary, distinguishing it from the much longer history of VA care that stretches back to the Revolutionary War and Civil War eras. She also shares how the outreach team continues connecting with Veterans across the catchment area this summer, including Military Appreciation Day at the Minnesota State Fair.

Through new leadership and sustained outreach, the Minneapolis VA remains focused on meeting Veterans where they are and delivering the care they have earned.

The post New Leadership and Milestone Moments at the Minneapolis VA appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

On this week’s episode of Minnesota Military Radio, we highlight two organizations making a meaningful difference for Minnesota’s military community. First, we explore Medica and its Medica Salutes Veterans Employee Resource Group, which supports Veterans and allies through connection, professional development, and community service. In the second half, we meet the team from Believet Canine Service Partners, which builds life-changing service dog partnerships for disabled Veterans and their families.

Guests:

• John Zillhart – Medica Product Architect and Retired Army Colonel
• Matt Eich – Medica Senior Compensation Consultant and Chairperson of Medica Salutes Veterans Employee Resource Group (Former Army Staff Sergeant)
• Sam Daly – Founder of Believet Canine Service Partners
• Scott Listberger – Army and Air Force Veteran and Volunteer with Believet Canine Service Partners

The show opens with John Zillhart and Matt Eich discussing their military careers and how those experiences shape their work at Medica. They share how Medica Salutes Veterans creates a supportive network through monthly meetings, guest speakers on topics like PTSD, suicide prevention, and military spouse experiences, and active participation in Beyond the Yellow Ribbon initiatives. The conversation offers valuable insights for Veterans transitioning to civilian careers — including translating military leadership, teamwork, and communication skills — and advice for companies seeking to recruit and retain Veteran talent.

Listeners will also hear about real-world impact through volunteer efforts, community partnerships, and upcoming events that extend support beyond the workplace.

In the second half, Sam Daly and Scott Listberger from Believet Canine Service Partners discuss how highly trained service dogs help disabled Veterans regain independence, reduce medication reliance, and rebuild family and community connections. They share inspiring success stories of Veterans who transitioned from years of isolation to active lives, along with details on their matching process, ongoing support, and the critical role of volunteers in puppy raising and training. The organization operates without government funding and maintains lifelong commitment to every Veteran they serve.

Through corporate allyship and dedicated nonprofit work, these organizations demonstrate powerful ways to honor and support Veterans long after their service.

The post Supporting Veterans Through Corporate Connection and Canine Companionship appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

On this week’s episode of Minnesota Military Radio, we dive into critical topics for Veterans and their families: protecting against frauds and scams, maximizing education benefits through the Minnesota GI Bill, and transitioning military skills into rewarding public service careers with the Minnesota State Patrol.

Guests:

• Kindahl Larsen – Chief Compliance Officer, Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs
• Ed Godfrey – Education Consultant, Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs
• Charles Egerstrom – State Program Administrator, Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs
• Sergeant April Bogart – Recruiter, Minnesota State Patrol

In the first segment, we focus on frauds and scams targeting Veterans and military families. Kindahl Larsen shares why Veterans are often targeted, common scam types including imposter, romance, investment, phishing, and employment scams, warning signs to watch for, and practical prevention strategies such as using a family safe word and maintaining radio silence with suspected scammers. She also highlights reporting resources and recovery options through the FBI’s IC3, Minnesota Attorney General’s office, Department of Commerce, and more.

Next, we explore education benefits and career pathways. Ed Godfrey and Charles Egerstrom explain the federal and Minnesota GI Bill programs, emphasizing their role as transition assistance—not just for college but for on-the-job training, apprenticeships, licensing, and certifications. They discuss how these benefits support Veterans entering new fields, including partnerships with organizations like Xcel Energy and the Minnesota State Patrol.

In the final segment, Sergeant April Bogart from the Minnesota State Patrol discusses the Law Enforcement Training Opportunity (LETO) Program, how Veterans can leverage military experience and GI Bill benefits in the application and training process, the academy experience, and the diverse career opportunities within the Patrol.

This episode equips Veterans with actionable knowledge to safeguard their finances, pursue education and training opportunities, and explore meaningful civilian careers that build on their service.

The post Veteran Scams Awareness, GI Bill Benefits, and Law Enforcement Careers appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

This week on Minnesota Military Radio, host Doug is broadcasting from the Africa Command Area of Operations alongside the Serving Our Troops organization. The team traveled from Minnesota to serve premium Mancini’s 12-ounce steaks to deployed Minnesota National Guard Airmen and other service members in a remote, austere environment.

This episode captures the powerful impact of community support on troop morale and highlights the strong partnerships between Minnesota’s military, businesses, unions, and nonprofits.

Featured Guests:

• Kevin Olsen – Deputy Director, Minnesota Military & Veterans Museum
• Pat Harris – Founder, Serving Our Troops organization
• Col. Jesse Carlson- Minnesota Air National Guard
• CMSAF Rick Schumacher – Minnesota Air National Guard
• Joe Fowler – Business Manager, Laborers Local 563 & Serving Our Troops volunteer

Key Topics Covered:

• The emotional reactions from Airmen receiving a real Minnesota steak dinner far from home
• How Serving Our Troops has delivered over 150,000 steaks worldwide since 2004
• Update on the new Minnesota Military & Veterans Museum grand opening on September 12th north of Little Falls
• Transition to new C-130J aircraft for the 133rd Airlift Wing
• The special Books for Africa civic engagement event with local students and the U.S. Ambassador
• Stories of Minnesota labor unions and businesses supporting the National Guard through Beyond the Yellow Ribbon initiatives

This heartfelt episode showcases Minnesota’s commitment to supporting its service members and their families — both at home and abroad.

Learn More:

• Serving Our Troops – Donate or volunteer
• Minnesota Military & Veterans Museum – Visit on September 12th

The post Special Edition: Serving Steaks in Africa – Minnesota Troops Get a Taste of Home appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

On this week’s episode of Minnesota Military Radio, we explore education and transition support for Veterans, service members, and military family members at Minnesota State University Moorhead. We also highlight how Federal Ammunition continues to support the military community through donations, events, and partnerships.

Guests:

• Aaron Krenz – Retired Lieutenant Colonel, Minnesota National Guard; Yellow Ribbon Advanced Director, Minnesota State University Moorhead
• Josh Clark – Retired Chief Master Sergeant, North Dakota National Guard; Veterans Outreach Director, Minnesota State University Moorhead
• Dennis Angel – Marine Corps Veteran; Retiree, Federal Ammunition
• Jared Courtney – Army Veteran; Vice President of Operations, Kinetic Group / Federal Ammunition
• Mark Hyland – Army Veteran; Senior Operations Manager, Rimfire Components, Federal Ammunition

Aaron Krenz and Josh Clark discuss the Veteran Success Program, Yellow Ribbon Advanced initiatives, challenges faced by military-connected students, resume translation, employer partnerships, paid practicum opportunities, the Dragon Student Veterans Club, and Dragon Valor training. They share inspiring success stories of students thriving in education and careers.

Dennis Angel, Jared Courtney, and Mark Hyland highlight Federal Ammunition’s long-standing support for military charities, including ammunition and funding for the Minnesota National Guard Youth Camp, Shoot for the Troops / Shooting for the Troops events benefiting the Minnesota Military Family Foundation, the Blaine Veterans Memorial Park, Twin Cities Honor Flight, and many more. They also reflect on the company’s 104-year history and commitment to giving back.

This episode showcases meaningful ways organizations are helping Veterans and military families succeed in education, transition to civilian life, and receive community support.

The post Supporting Military-Connected Students at MSU Moorhead and Federal Ammunition’s Ongoing Commitment to Veterans and Families appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

On this week’s episode of Minnesota Military Radio, we dive into how the VA Benefits Administration helps Veterans and their families access earned benefits — from disability compensation and education to home loans and survivor support. We also explore the vital mission of the National Cemetery Administration and the services available at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

Guests:

• Charles Martin – Veterans Service Center Manager, VA Saint Paul Regional Office, Veterans Benefits Administration
• Marcus Syverson – Assistant Director, Fort Snelling National Cemetery Complex
• Jason Cassellius – Program Analyst, Fort Snelling National Cemetery Complex

Charles Martin discusses VBA operations, improved claims processing times, backlog reductions, the PACT Act, and free resources lto lean on when filing a claim like County Veteran Service Officers. Marcus Syverson and Jason Cassellius cover burial eligibility, pre-registration,the Veterans Legacy Memorial,  committal services with honors, various burial options, and long-term space availability at the Fort Snelling National Cemetery complex.

This episode provides practical guidance to help Veterans secure the benefits and honors they’ve earned.

The post Navigating Veteran Benefits and Honoring Service at Fort Snelling National Cemetery appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

This week on Minnesota Military Radio, we break down the 2026 Minnesota Legislative session and what it means for Veterans and military families across the state. We discuss key outcomes including the successful passage of the Veterans Omnibus Bill with unanimous support, recognition for Southeast Asian Veterans of the Secret War in Laos, ongoing priorities such as the Homestead Market Value Exclusion for 100% disabled Veterans, and the strong bipartisan commitment to Veterans issues in Minnesota.

Featured Guests:

• Rep. Kari Rehrauer – Member of the Minnesota House of Representatives and Co-Vice Chair of the Veterans and Military Affairs Division
• Jon Kelly – Director of Government Affairs, Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs
• Justin Rost – Director of Minnesota Helmets to Hardhats, Marine Corps Veteran

In the second half of the program, Justin Rost highlights how Veterans can leverage their skills, discipline, and drive into rewarding careers in the skilled trades through apprenticeships — offering competitive wages (often reaching six figures at journeyman level), excellent benefits, low-to-no cost training, and GI Bill housing allowances.

To find out more about the Helmets to Hardhats program – https://helmetstohardhats.org/ 

The post 2026 MN Legislative Session Highlights for Veterans & Helmets to Hardhats appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

On this episode of Minnesota Military Radio, host Doug Wortham welcomes Brad L. Doboszenski, President of the Eagle Group of Minnesota Veterans, and Dr. Marisa Naryka, military spouse and active member of the organization.

They discuss the real challenges Veterans face when transitioning to civilian careers and how the Eagle Group provides practical, peer-to-peer support to make that transition smoother.

Featured Guests:

• Brad L. Doboszenski – President, Eagle Group of Minnesota Veterans (Retired Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army)
• Dr. Marisa Naryka – Military Spouse & Eagle Group Member (Incoming School Principal)

Key Topics Covered:

• The critical importance of networking and building connections after service
• Translating military skills and experience into civilian language for resumes and interviews
• Peer-to-peer mentorship and camaraderie for Veterans and military spouses
• Overcoming common obstacles like resume writing, interviewing, and maintaining a positive attitude
• Dr. Marisa Naryka’s personal transition journey from higher education into a new leadership role
• Upcoming 8th Annual Eagle Group Heroes Golf Tournament on August 17th at Crystal Lake Golf Club in Lakeville

This episode offers valuable insights and encouragement for any veteran or military family member navigating life after service.

Learn More & Get Involved:

• Eagle Group of Minnesota Veterans
• 8th Annual Heroes Golf Tournament – August 17th

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This week on Minnesota Military Radio, host Doug Wortham focuses on the United States Navy, exploring career opportunities, recruiting realities, and life at sea with leaders from Navy Talent Acquisition Group Northern Plains.

The post Serving from the Sea: U.S. Navy Careers and Recruiting in the Northern Plains appeared first on Minnesota Military Radio.

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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:

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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.