Show Notes
In this episode of America’s Frontlines:
Colonel Denny and Matt ask an important question: Why do Americans increasingly trust military veterans to lead? They examine new polling showing strong public confidence in veterans seeking elected office, the growing number of veterans running for Congress, and whether the courage, accountability, discipline, and leadership developed through military service are qualities Washington needs now more than ever. They also break down a wide-ranging series of national security developments—from the Pentagon’s review of America’s Service Academies and ICE efforts targeting sophisticated criminal networks, to major new investment in American defense manufacturing, high-stakes diplomacy surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, and Ukrainian strikes in Crimea. Together, these stories reveal how technology, ideology, economic power, and military strength are rapidly reshaping the modern battlefield. As always, Colonel Denny delivers another round of his trademark one-liners to lighten the mood and put a smile on our faces. Our featured guest is Jenn De Pew from Concerned Veterans for America (CVA), who brings a deeply personal perspective to the debate over veterans’ healthcare. Jenn shares the story of her husband, a Vietnam veteran who waited approximately 100 days for a VA colonoscopy before the family ultimately sought private care. The examination revealed colon cancer that had nearly penetrated the colon wall. Jenn discusses that frightening experience from the perspective of both a veteran’s spouse and caregiver and explains how the proposed Take Care of America’s Veterans Act could help veterans facing similar delays obtain timely care outside the VA system. Based in South Carolina, she also talks about her broader work with CVA and the organization’s efforts on behalf of veterans and their families. We continue our regular journey through military history, revisiting significant events that occurred around this date and remembering the sacrifices, victories, and difficult lessons that helped shape America. Retired Coast Guard Chief Warrant Officer Roland Ashby returns with another installment of “Warrant Wisdom,” this time examining the evolving tools and technologies being developed for Marines on tomorrow’s battlefield and how those advances are changing the way our forces fight. And it’s time once again for the Battle of the Month with retired U.S. Army Brigadier General Chris Petty. This month, General Petty takes us inside one of history’s most strategically significant battles, examining the decisions, leadership, and battlefield lessons that continue to resonate with military leaders today.
From veterans in public office and the fight for better veterans’ healthcare to emerging battlefield technology and the lessons of military history, this episode is about service, leadership, and taking care of those who have taken care of America.
More from America’s Frontlines
In this episode of America’s Frontlines: What does the successful return of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-12 mean for America’s future in space? Colonel Denny and Matt examine the mission, NASA’s growing partnership with private industry, and the remarkable technology that makes human spaceflight possible. They discuss why continued American leadership in space exploration matters—not only for scientific discovery, but also for technological innovation, national security, and the next generation of explorers. Colonel Denny and Matt also tackle a difficult question: What costs America more—the price of confronting Iran or the potentially catastrophic consequences of a nuclear attack? They examine the economic and military considerations surrounding that debate, along with the remarkable longevity of America's strategic bombers and nuclear submarines, allegations of North Korean operatives infiltrating American businesses, and China's ambitious efforts to expand its influence in Europe's automobile industry. Together, these stories highlight the increasingly complicated relationship between military strength, economic security, and emerging global threats. And, as always, Colonel Denny delivers another round of his trademark humor and one-liners to lighten the mood and bring a few smiles along the way. Our featured guest is Greg Kelley, CEO of Unknown Nations, a Christian missionary organization working to bring the Gospel to communities around the world with limited access to Christian resources. Greg joins Colonel Denny to share his personal background, explain the organization's unique approach to international outreach, and discuss its work among people of different religious traditions. Their conversation offers a look at the challenges, opportunities, and experiences involved in carrying out this mission across different cultures. Of course, we continue our regular journey through military history, revisiting significant events that occurred around this date. From pivotal battles and extraordinary acts of courage to decisions that changed the course of nations, these historical reminders help us better understand the sacrifices and lessons that shaped the world we live in today. Retired Coast Guard Chief Warrant Officer Roland Ashby returns with another installment of “Warrant Wisdom,” bringing his years of military experience, practical insight, and unique perspective to another thought-provoking discussion. And it's time once again for our Movie of the Month! Diane Raver of the Garden State Film Festival joins Colonel Denny to discuss this month's featured film and share more about the festival, its celebration of independent filmmaking, and the stories and filmmakers it helps bring to audiences. From America's future in space and the difficult choices surrounding national security to international Christian outreach, military history, Warrant Wisdom, and the movies, this episode brings together another wide-ranging collection of stories, perspectives, and conversations that make America's Frontlines worth tuning in to.