Cowboy Up!

Jerry and Randy welcome former Special Forces commander and current American horseman, Rick Iannuci, to the program to discuss his group Horses for Heroes in New Mexico. Also, Art Fillmore, a KC attorney, joins the program to discuss kcstanddown.org and his groups efforts to service homeless veterans in Kansas City, possibly setting the standard for similar programs across the country.

Happy Holidays!

The National Defense wishes you and yours a healthy, safe, and happy holiday season. This week, we take a look back at some interesting interviews from Lt. Gen Dave Pamer (Ret.) as well as Congressional Gold Medal recipient, Robert Motley.

The 'Help a Hero' Campaign

The National Defense welcomes longtime friend of the VFW, CEO of SportClips, Gordon Logan, to the program. Gordon is joined by two SportClips employees in Texas to talk about their involvment with "Help a Hero" and "Operation Uplink" in 2012. Jerry and Randy also speak with Tris Harris of Ho-Chunk gaming in Wisconsin as well as Scott Halliwell of USAA.

From 'The Guerrilla Factory' to Bin Laden

The National Defense welcomes former Green Beret and author Tony Schwalm to the program to discuss his new book "The Guerrilla Factory" as well as Maj. Gen Jeffrey Jacobs to talk about Fort Bragg's upcoming "Operation Toy Drop." Author Darren Davis of "Killing Geronimo" discusses his new graphic novel regarding the hunt for Osama bin Laden and Scott Halliwell of USAA talks about the upcoming "fiscal cliff."

Army News from Ft. Leavenworth

The National Defense welcomes Marshall Hevron from New Orleans to discuss his post's dramatic membership turnaround as well as CSM Chris Greca from Ft. Leavenworth to get some Army news. USAA's Scott Halliwell talks with Randy and Jerry about financial planning around the holidays.

Sequestration and Protecting Military Spending

The National Defense wishes you and yours a very happy Thanksgiving holiday! This week, we speak with Prof. Andrew Lubin about the military's involvement with superstorm Sandy and what's been going on in Afghanistan. Ray Kelly, the VFW's man on the hill, discusses "sequestration" and what our listeners can do to protect military spending. Our turkey day program wraps up with giving thanks to Scott Halliwell of USAA.

NASCAR Legend Larry McReynolds

The National Defense welcomes NASCAR legend Larry McReynolds to the program to discuss his career in NASCAR as well as his support of American Veterans and his involvement with the "United for Veterans" initiative. We also speak with Patrick Wildman of the ALS Association on health issues affecting veterans, and then learn from Scott Halliwell of USAA about the best places for Veterans to live. It's all veterans, all the time, on the National Defense!

Happy Birthday Marines

The National Defense wishes a happy birthday to the US Marine Corps, as well as a happy Veterans Day to all of our servicemembers and their families. This week The National Defense features the music of Madison Rising, and interviews their lead singer, Dave Bray. Jerry and Randy speak with Col. Wood of the Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum about their "Living History Week" and check in with Scott Halliwell of USAA on taxes.

'Help a Hero'

The National Defense welcomes Gordon Logan, the CEO of SportClips, to discuss his company's "Help a Hero" program for 2012, as well as discusses the efforts of the VFW's "Unmet Needs" program to help those on the east coast affected by the recent superstorms. The show wraps up, as always with Scott Halliwell of USAA.

VFW National Commander John Hamilton

We open up this week's program by speaking with one of the stars of "High Ground" Matt Nyman. Then we speak John Hamilton about his work as the VFW National Commander-in-Chief.

From 'Birdies for the Brave' to 'High Ground'

The National Defense welcomes Woody Blackburn from the PGA's "Birdies for the Brave" as well as renowned movie producer Don Hahn to discuss his latest documentary project "High Ground." The shows concludes with USAA's Scott Halliwell on advice for those ending their military careers.

'Thirty Days with My Father'

The National Defense welcomes author Christal Presley to discuss her new book "Thirty Days with My Father" dealing with the effects of PTSD from wartime in the family. Listen in for your chance to win a free copy of her book. Scott Halliwell of USAA gives us common sense financial tips on getting geared up for the holiday season.

Squats and Medical Aid

The National Defense opens up this week by welcoming Walter Urban who, at the age of 53, broke the Guinness World Record for squats. Then, the new CEO of Heart to Heart, International, Andre' Butler to discuss the work of his group in dispensing medical aid to those in need around the world and we wrap up this week with the money man, Scott Halliwell.

The Feds Upcoming Action on Interest Rates

The National Defense welcomes David Povlitz of Anago Cleaning Systems to discuss his company's desire to get more veterans involved in the cleaning industry. Randy and Jerry also talk with USAA's Scott Halliwell about the Fed's upcoming actions on interest rates.

'Least Among Saints'

The National Defense welcomes Director and Actor, Martin Papazian, to the program to discuss his new film, "Least Among Saints." Randy congratulates Jerry on his installment as the new Assistant Adjutant General of the VFW, and Jerry fills everyone in on what he'd do if he won the lottery.

Connee Gorman and J Dog

The National Defense welcomes Connee Gorman to discuss her new childrens book highlighting the challenges of dealing with PTSD, as well as Jerry Flanagan of J Dog Junk Removal. The show wraps up, as always, with financial advice from USAA's Scott Halliwell.

Military Working Dog Adoptions

The National Defense welcomes Debbie from militaryworkingdogadoptions.com to discuss her own experience adopting a K-9 military veteran, as well as Jim Murphy from Afterburner Inc., to discuss his organization's model to increase the efficiency and success rate of private firms by utilizing military training principles.

VFW's Ray Kelley Calls in from the RNC

The National Defense highlights a fantastic article in The Washington Times by Nathan Fenno about Sgt 1st Class Josh Olson, and the loss of his leg from an RPG blast. Ray Kelley joins the show from the Republican National Convention in Tampa, FL, and Scott Halliwell of USAA as well.

New Information Regarding Your Health Records

The National Defense speaks with Matt Hawkins of Vitera Healthcare Solutions about the newest information regarding your health records, as well as Richard DeNoyer, the former Nat'l Commander of the VFW about his year in office. The program wraps up with a fill in the blank question from USAA's Scott Halliwell.

'Targets of Opportunity'

The National Defense discusses "Targets of Opportunity" the new novel by author Jeffrey Stephens and asks Mary LaBarre from Burger King what could have possibly gotten into her head in order to shave it? The answer? Raising $10,000 for our the "Unmet Needs" program!

New VFW Commander-in-Chief, John Hamilton

The National Defense sits down for an interview with the VFW's newest Commander-in-Chief, John Hamilton, this week. Jerry and Randy speak with the new National Commander about the current state of the VFW and his priorities for the upcoming year.

More from the 113th VFW National Convention!

The National Defense is in Reno, NV for the VFW's 113th National Convention. Tune in over the next two weeks to hear all the interviews they conducted with guests and dignitaries alike from the convention floor in Reno.

VFW's 113th National Convention

The National Defense is in Reno, NV for the VFW's 113th National Convention. Tune in over the next two weeks to hear all the interviews they conducted with guests and dignitaries alike from the convention floor in Reno.

Support of the Guard and Reserve

Randy handles the show this week as Jerry prepares for the VFW National convention in Reno, NV. Randy speaks with Mick Allen about the employer support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) and one of their awards recently presented to Factory Direct Appliace in Kansas.

Issues Facing Today's Military

The National Defense welcomes Prof. Andrew Lubin to discuss various issues facing todays American military, and Jerry and Randy speak with Scott Halliwell about the financial value and need for planning in pursuing a college degree.

'Until They Are Home'

The National Defense welcomes director Steven Barber to speak about his new Kelsey Grammer narrated documentary "Until They Are Home," Ted Daywalt of VetJobs, and Scott Halliwell of USAA.

Veterans Jobs

The National Defense soldiers on with Randy at the helm while Jerry is on assignment in Las Vegas. This week, Randy speaks with VFW Senior Legislative Associate, Shane Barker, about the VFW's legislative efforts to assist veterans suffering from PTSD. Randy also speaks with the Dept. of Labor's Assistant Secretary, John Moran, about jobs veterans, Gina Townley of the "Run For the Red, White and Blue." USAA's Scott Halliwell also joins us.

Welcome Wally Funk!

The National Defense welcomes American aviation and aerospace legend, Wally Funk, to the program. Wally relates her experience as a test pilot, flight trainer, and trailblazer in American aviation history with Randy and Jerry. Scott Halliwell also doles out some more financial wisdom to wrap up this week's edition of the show.

Welcome Back Senator Claire McCaskill

The National Defense welcomes Senator Claire McCaskill back to the program to discuss recent initiatives at Arlington National Cemetery to bring the facility up to speed with 21st Century technology. Randy and Jerry also speak with USAA's Scott Halliwell about the finer points of home refinancing.

The 68th anniversary of "D-Day"

The National Defense remembers the 68th anniversary of "D-Day" as well as looking at current military activities around the world this week. The program welcomes Jonah Blank, of the Rand Corporation to discuss on the death of Al-Qaeda's #2, Abu Yahya, and what it means for the worldwide war against terror. The National Defense also speaks with Dan Parker on issues affecting membership for the VFW worldwide, and as always, Scott Halliwell of USAA helps to get your financial house in order.

TND Welcomes Retired Lt. Gen Dave Palmer

The National Defense welcomes three great guests to this week's show. First, Randy and Jerry speak with retired Lt. Gen Dave Palmer who has written a new book on America's first President George Washington. Next, Jerry and Randy speak with Bob Motley, a WWII veteran and former umpire for the Negro Leagues. As always, we feature financial info from USAA's Scott Halliwell.

Celebrating Memorial Day

The National Defense wishes everyone a great Memorial Day! This week, Randy and Jerry welcome back financial guru Scott Halliwell of USAA to discuss important monetary issues. The program also speaks with VFW legislative expert, Ryan Gallucci, about the latest work of the VFW on Capitol Hill in Washington D.C..

Broadcasting from the 'Help a Hero 200'

The National Defense broadcasts from Darlington, S.C. while covering the "Help a Hero 200" race. Randy and Jerry speak with racing legend Cale Yarborough, SportClips CEO Gordon Logan, NASCAR driver Joey Logano. Jerry and Randy also speak with Chief Petty Officer Jason Christopher, as well as Heath Cherry of Joe Gibbs racing. The guys wrap up the weeks show by visiting with the man behind the Johnsonville Bratmobile.

The Life of Colonel John W. Ripley

The National Defense welcomes author Norman J. Fulkerson to discuss his new book "An American Knight: The Life of Colonel John W. Ripley." Jerry and Norman talk about the hero that Col Ripley was as well as where you can pick up this fantastic read. The show wraps up with USAA's Scott Halliwell to discuss various issues affecting your finances.

Recruiting Marines

The National Defense welcomes USMC Col Bob Golden to discuss the efforts of the Corps to recruit future Marines to serve their country. Randy and Jerry also speak with Lee Greenwood about his new book and his musical legacy. Scott Halliwell from USAA also joins the program to discuss the importance of financial planning and long-term care.

Welcome Back Randy!

The National Defense welcomes Randy back from his trip to Kenya, speaks with the President of the Ladies Auxiliary VFW, Gwen Rankin, as well as with Chris Marsh from Dignity Memorial. Scott Halliwell also returns to the program to offer more advice on retirements and the pitfalls of paying taxes later in life.

The National Defense welcomes USAA financial advisor Scott Halliwell

Jerry Newberry is flying solo this week as Randy is on assignment in Kenya, and he welcomes USAA financial advisor Scott Halliwell to the program, as well as frequent show contributor, Professor Andrew Lubin.

The National Defense Welcomes William Shatner!

The National Defense brings you the one, the only, William Shatner! Bill and his wife Liz are the founders of "The All Glory Project," a group that promotes horse-assisted therapy for wounded military veterans and their families. Randy and Jerry also welcome Scott Halliwell of USAA to preview a new weekly segment on The National Defense.

Michelle Obama: A New Hiring Initiative for Military Spouses

The National Defense brings you a live news conference from the White House with First Lady Michelle Obama regarding a new hiring initiative for military spouses promosing thousands of new jobs for spouses of those serving our country. We also speak directly with Dawn Shaeffer from Whiteman Air Force Base in Warrensburg, MO about her experience in this new program.

Former Navy SEAL Stephen Kupcha

The National Defense welcomes former Navy SEAL Stephen Kupcha to the program to talk about his new role in community outreach with the PGA Tour through various initatives. The National Defense also welcomes back THE Prof. Andrew Lubin to discuss the recent tragic shootings in Afghanistan and his upcoming film project.

'Leading with Honor -Lessons Learned in Hanoi Hilton'

The National Defense is proud to welcome retired Air Force Colonel Lee Ellis to discuss his new book "Leading with Honor -Lessons Learned in Hanoi Hilton" to the program.

Welcome VFW's 'Voice of Democracy' $30,000 Scholarship Winner

The National Defense welcomes VFW National Commander in Chief, Richard DeNoyer, back to the program. This week Richard talks with Jerry and Randy about his recent trip to Washington D.C., highlighted by his opportunity to sit down for a one-on-one discussion with President Obama in the White House. Randy and Jerry also speak with the winner of the VFW's "Voice of Democracy" $30,000 scholarship winner.

The 'At Ease Project'

The National Defense welcomes Jerry Newberry back from his time on the road and talks with Ryan Gallucci, the VFW's National Legislative Service Deputy Director, about the VFW's legislative actions in Washington D.C. The show also interviews, Sandy Moll, National C0-Chair of the "At Ease Project." Sandy's organization works to lessen the burdens on military veterans experiencing challenges in transitioning back to life on the homefront.

Ever-expanding USDA Job Opportunities for Returning Veterans

The National Defense welcomes US Sec. of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack, back to the program to discuss the ever-expanding job opportunities for returning US soldiers through the USDA. Randy speaks with "Pappy" Mehrmann, radio host of the "Our Military Heroes" show in Houston. Finally, Randy checks in with Jerry Newberry on assignment in Washington D.C. for the VFW's legislative conference.

Part II From International Franchise Association's 52nd annual convention

From the International Franchise Association's 52nd annual convention...

The National Defense is on the road in Orlando, FL, at the International Franchise Association's 52nd annual convention. In this week's show, the National Defense speaks with dozens of individuals about the IFA's Vet Fran program. Randy speaks with great companies who are supporting American veterans through franchising opportunities.

Veterans Transportation and The Spirit of '45 Project

Peter Rogoff, Federal Transit Administator for the US Dept. of Transportation discusses the DoT's efforts to assist veterans in accessing transportation services. Then, Randy welcomes Warren Hegg, National Supervisor for the Spirit of '45 project, an inititive to establish a National day of recognition for Americans that served in WWII.

A Thousand Letters Home: One WWII Soldier's Story of War, Love and Life

The National Defense welcomes the CEO of SportClips, Gordon Logan as well as the leading fundraisers for the "Operation Uplink" program through the SportClips Franchises. Jerry and Randy also speak with the author of "A Thousand Letters Home: One WWII Soldier's Story of War, Love and Life," Teresa K. Irish.

Protecting Military Families from Scam Artist

The National Defense welcomes Holly Petraeus of the Office of Service Member Affairs, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, to discuss efforts being taken to protect military families from scam artists. The program also welcomes Mary Lou Darst, author of "War Ready: In My Father's Shadow" to The National Defense.

The United States' Shift in Foreign Policy

The National Defense welcomes Prof. Andrew Lubin back to the program to discuss the United States' shift in foreign policy under the Obama administration. Jerry and Randy also feature a great story about "Pizza 4 Patriot" and talk to the head of the organization, retired Master Sergeant Mark Evans about this program that has sent thousands and thousands of pizzas to our service members overseas.

Upcoming Changes to Medical Records in the United States

The National Defense welcomes CEO of MedFX, Colin Barry, to discuss the upcoming changes to medical records in the United States, as well as Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleader, Lauren Keeley to talk about her work to support disabled children stateside and military personnel overseas.

Happy New Year!

The National Defense wishes you a happy new year, and the show kicks off 2012 with stories about easing the transition from life in uniform to civilian life. Randy and Jerry welcome CW Conner, Founder of LifeQuest Transitions, Steve Caldeira of the International Franchise Association, Mike Rozman of Boefly, and Army veteran/Quizno’s Franchisee Craig Rector to the program. The National Defense continues to give a voice to those working to better the lives of America’s military service members.

The Best of 2011!

The National Defense wishes you and yours and happy and healthy New Year! This week, the show looks back over some highlights of 2011’s broadcasts including trips to New Mexico for memorial march in honor of those who made the Bataan Death March, as well as Jerry’s interview with the Commander of NATO forces in Afghanistan, Gen. Caldwell. And what highlight show of 2011 could be complete without the incomparable, Ricky Lee? Happy New Year!