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Nestled within the historic walls of the Natchez Convention Center, the Veterans Sound Off Podcast captures the essence of service and sacrifice at the American Legion Department of Mississippi's annual convention. Host Jerry Allhands, himself a veteran of both the Air Force and Army, brings listeners into intimate conversations with those who've worn the uniform and continue to serve their communities.

The episode features a powerful interview with Van Alford, a Marine Corps veteran and survivor of the 1983 Beirut bombing. "Every day I think about it," Alford shares, his words carrying the weight of that tragic moment in military history. As a fourth-generation combat veteran whose son also served as a combat medic in Afghanistan and Iraq, Alford embodies the legacy of service that runs through so many military families. Despite his experiences leaving him 90% disabled, his continued commitment to the American Legion as an incoming State Historian demonstrates how veterans channel their experiences into continued service.

The spotlight also falls on Soldiers Freedom Outdoors, a remarkable volunteer-run nonprofit dedicated to "healing the hidden wounds of war." Army combat veteran Kevin Wittenberg and his wife Cindy explain how their organization provides free outdoor retreats and programs to all who've served, regardless of era or branch. Their inclusive approach – offering activities from blacksmithing to horseback riding, fishing to hunting – creates healing spaces where veterans reconnect with themselves and others through nature's therapeutic embrace.

Throughout the conversations, a powerful theme emerges: the profound sense of belonging that organizations like the American Legion provide. "I don't have family that lives in Anchorage, but the Legion is my family," one veteran shares. These communities become lifelines, especially when confronting challenges like veteran suicide – the "new war raging...in the hearts and minds of those who served."

Join us for this moving exploration of how veterans create meaning, find purpose, and build communities that understand their unique experiences. Subscribe to Veterans Sound Off Podcast to hear more stories of service, sacrifice, and the unbreakable bonds formed in and after uniform.

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Don't forget to subscribe and share with your friends and family. Drop us a line today at JDAllhands@outlook.com. If you'd like to become a sponsor of our show or advertise with us please send an email to jdallhands@outlook.com or call us at 662-902-6658.

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From the historic streets of Natchez, Mississippi comes a riveting exploration of veteran leadership, service beyond the uniform, and the powerful community that forms when military bonds extend into civilian life. Jerry Allhands, USAF and Army veteran, brings listeners into the heart of the American Legion Department of Mississippi's annual convention.

Meet Mark Harrington, the incoming Department Commander whose journey began 16 years ago after returning from Iraq. What started with his son's baseball team evolved into a lifelong commitment to veterans' causes. Harrington shares his ambitious plans for membership growth and statewide outreach with remarkable clarity and purpose that resonates whether you're a Legion member or simply someone who supports those who served.

The podcast delivers a fascinating conversation with Deborah Fielder, Department Adjutant and 41-year Air Force veteran who joined at just 17 years old. Her remarkable transition from military service to Legion leadership reveals the profound need many veterans feel to stay connected to service after hanging up the uniform. "You miss the people and you miss the job," she explains with disarming honesty, "so you find something else that's going to keep you close to the military, to the veteran, and that's the American Legion."

Throughout these conversations emerges a theme of resourcefulness and dedication to supporting fellow veterans. The convention's Veterans Expo represents a growing effort to connect veterans with vital services and resources. As Fielder poignantly notes, "The one great disappointment is for a veteran to call you and ask for help and you don't know where to go."

Whether you're a veteran seeking community, a military family member looking for resources, or simply someone who appreciates stories of service and dedication, this episode offers valuable insights into how veterans continue their mission long after leaving active duty. The camaraderie, sense of purpose, and commitment to fellow service members shines through every conversation.

Have you ever wondered how veterans organizations work behind the scenes? Listen now to discover the remarkable stories of those who continue to serve.

Support the show

Don't forget to subscribe and share with your friends and family. Drop us a line today at JDAllhands@outlook.com. If you'd like to become a sponsor of our show or advertise with us please send an email to jdallhands@outlook.com or call us at 662-902-6658.

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National Vice Commander Joe Lysaght joins us from the American Legion Department of Mississippi's 106th annual convention in Natchez to share powerful insights from his decades of service to veterans. As an Air Force veteran who served in Southeast Asia, Lysaght brings a unique perspective on how the Legion bridges military and civilian life for veterans seeking community.

The conversation takes us deep into the crucial mental health initiatives supported by the American Legion. Lysaght speaks with raw honesty about his experiences losing veterans to suicide during his eight years as a County Veterans Service Officer, including one heartbreaking moment when a veteran took his life while on the phone with him. These experiences fuel his passionate advocacy for the "988 Be The One" program and Buddy Check initiative. His personal commitment to making at least one daily check-in call to fellow veterans demonstrates how simple human connection can save lives.

Beyond crisis intervention, we explore the multifaceted community-building activities that make the Legion a second family for many veterans. From Easter egg hunts and weekly seafood dinners serving hundreds to holiday celebrations with Santa for kids, Lysaght paints a picture of an organization deeply embedded in communities while steadfastly focused on its core mission of veteran support. His stories about achieving an 88% first-submission approval rate for VA claims highlight how the Legion's expertise translates into tangible benefits for veterans navigating complex systems.

What emerges most clearly is Lysaght's genuine passion for connecting with people. As he prepares to complete his one-year tour as National Vice Commander, his reflections on finding common ground with veterans across all branches and eras reveal the true heart of the American Legion – a place where service continues long after uniforms come off. Whether you're a veteran seeking community or someone looking to support those who served, this conversation offers an inspiring look at an organization that has been supporting veterans and their families for over a century.

Ready to learn more about the American Legion or connect with veterans in your community? Visit legion.org/join or call 601-352-4986 to find out how you can get involved.

Support the show

Don't forget to subscribe and share with your friends and family. Drop us a line today at JDAllhands@outlook.com. If you'd like to become a sponsor of our show or advertise with us please send an email to jdallhands@outlook.com or call us at 662-902-6658.