The Common Veteran’s Season 2

Episode 5: Proud to be an American

The Common Veterans are all United States Military Veterans. Pride in the country is pride in their service because they were willing to write a blank check to include up to their lives. The life of a Veteran often revolves around their service and how much they love their country. The Common Veterans discuss their love for God and country and the transition back into a noncombatant once back home…
I) Correlation Often Relates to Causation
a. Being an American
i. Being proud to be an American often stems from upbringing and family members loving their country
b. Becoming a Veteran
i. Marketing or family heritage… Maybe something else
1. The Few… The Proud… The Marines
2. An Army of One
3. Aim High
4. Family Heritage – Dad, Grandpa, Uncle, etcetera were Veterans
5. College tuition
6. The recruiter saw you coming
II) Service = Citizenship – Love of Country
a. Becoming a soldier promotes love of country
i. Have to love the country to be willing to die for it
ii. Path to citizenship through the Green Card Program
b. Any stories of war that can be told to
III) American’s Take Veteran’s for Granted… or do they?
a. Soldiers go to war and often come back loving their country more…
i. Notwithstanding bad pullouts of combat areas
ii. Provides love of Country because they don’t know what they have till they don’t have it anymore.
iii. Americans love our soldiers, but don’t understand what Veterans did for this great country
IV) Pride is Pride Not Your Knees or Flags
i. There is one American flag
1. Flag code
ii. Don’t take a knee over the National Anthem – that is a military anthem about the soldiers who died
V) Next Podcast: Episode 6: Daddy’s Mad, or is He?
a. The Common Veterans figure out and discuss having kids and how they teach their kids to cope with “Daddy’s Mad,” even though Daddy may not be mad, just dealing with PTSD.

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The Common Veteran’s Season 2
Episode 4: Let’s Talk About War
“War, huh, yeah… What is it good for?” The Common Veterans take on war – the amount of Veterans that have fought in combat – or been to a combat zone, and why it is so hard to transition back into a noncombatant once back home…
I) Defining War and Combat Experiences
a. What is war?
i. Is it just a state of mind or an actual state of being?
b. What is considered a combat experience?
i. Combat arms vs. Support
1. Define POG
2. Define Combatant
II) What does war do to Veterans?
a. Is it an all-one-size-fits-all situation?
i. How much does one’s mindset play a role in combat?
ii. Does being physically fit change the mental aspect of things?
b. Any stories of war that can be told to emphasize what it means to be a warrior?
i. Combat explosions
ii. Door kicking
iii. Medical aspects
iv. Support for…
III) Transitioning back to civilians… Uh what?!
a. Support systems that… well.. support!
i. Family doesn’t always understand
ii. Vet organizations such as VFW, DAV, American Legion
iii. Nonprofits: FSO, Team RWB, Get Wet for a Vet. Etc…
b. Linking PTSD to TBI to survivor’s guilt to readjusting to civilian life
i. Mental health is not often right away
IV) Continuing on, what’s next?
a. Figure out your triggers are:
i. What is a trigger?
ii. How do we become the next level combatant?
V) Next Podcast: Episode 5: Proud to be an American
a. The Common Veterans are all United States Military Veterans. Pride in the country is pride in their service because they were willing to write a blank check to include up to their lives. The life of a Veteran often revolves around their service and how much they love their country. The Common Veterans discuss their love for God and country.

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The Common Veteran’s Season 2
Episode 3: Free Lunch Day
The Common Veterans discuss Free Lunch Day. Free Lunch Day is and was Veteran’s Day. The Common Veterans talk about their favorite meals and why it is now been adopted by this pet name. The dangers of it and the gratitude that comes with getting a free meal, or are they free?
I) Free Lunch Day?
a. Discuss the historical significance of Veteran’s Day and how it has evolved into being referred to as “Free Lunch Day” among veterans.
i. Veterans were not always recognized.
ii. Soldiers start to expect it.
1. Overdo it – some go to many restaurants, and it becomes a lot
b. Explore the reasons behind this shift in terminology and what it means to the Common Veterans.
II) Favorite Meals and Restaurants
a. Share personal stories from the Common Veterans about their favorite meals on Free Lunch Day.
i. What changes when a Veteran dines with another Veteran?
1. Shared experiences
ii. Traditions that last
1. Common Veterans is a time for us to eat, rehearse, record, then reminisce!
2. Changes hearts and minds.
a. Caleb
i. Best V-Day Ever.
III) Gratis is Awesome, But Does it Attract Scammers?
a. Examine the potential dangers of Free Lunch Day, including overindulgence and exploitation of veterans.
i. Discuss the differences between restaurants that care vs those that create a “free meal” for marketing
1. Offer no drink.
2. Require to eat in a restaurant rather than eating at home
ii. Does it matter that it is a “free lunch?”
1. Better to have a free lunch or get together as Veterans and brothers/sisters in arms?
b. Discuss the stolen valor people that it attracts.
c. Stigma of being, “Anyone would do what I did” (Not a hero.)
IV) Next Podcast: Episode 4: Let’s Talk About War
a. The War, huh, yeah… What is it good for?” The Common Veterans take on war – the amount of Veterans that have fought in combat – or been to a combat zone, and why it is so hard to transition back into a noncombatant once back home…
b. Until next time

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A Veteran who needs to navigate the VA is frequently turned off by the lengthy process that is sometimes experienced. The Common Veterans discusses best practices on how to get started with the process and how to be your own best advocate.

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The Common Veterans take on the stories that Veterans tell – are they real or lies? Do the fish get bigger by the year, or does the memory of the storyteller seem to tell some tales? The Common Veterans bring a fresh perspective on the whopper that got away…

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Common Veterans Podcast
SEASON 1 ADDENDUM
Episode 12: TAKE THIS JOB AND SHOVE IT
From getting out of the military to new jobs as civilians, the transition inevitably feels like it was forced! The Common Veterans take a stab at why everything seems so difficult to do in a civilian job.

I. Introduction
a. Welcome to the addendum to Season 2
i. Why we do what we do
ii. Brief introduction to being a military member and the sense of humor and mindset that goes along with it
II. I QUIT
a. Leaving the military and returning to civilian life perspectives
i. Initiative
ii. Humor
b. You don’t know what you don’t know…
i. Specialized jobs such as combat arms have a different view on civilian employers
ii. Logistics and public figures
iii. Life in the background
c. Can you trust your civilian counterparts like you trust your military siblings?
i. Cops and firefighters
ii. Doctors and social workers
iii. General civilian contracting
III. Entrepreneurial Spirit
a. Veterans start their own companies…
i. Bro shirts
1. GruntStyle CEO gets the boot
2. Other Veteran owned companies
ii. Creative Companies
1. Craft companies
a. Leather
b. Graphic Design
c. C&C and Printing
2. Podcasting and Public speaking
iii. OnlyFans and other sex work
1. Veteran’s do this?
iv. Chapter 30 Benefits – Section 4
IV. Retirement and Disability and other Benefits
a. You earned it, get it
i. Many Veterans don’t utilize their earned benefits because the process is hard.
1. Need to be your own self-advocate.
b. College Benefits are more than just college
i. Get a degree with the GI Bill
ii. Chapter 30 VA Benefits through the VA
1. Helps entrepreneurs establish or get trained in a specific realm.
a. Spouses can utilize it as well.
b. Children, in the state of Indiana, can go to school for free if you have at least a 0% rating
c. Retirement is not Retiring (for most)
i. Retiring from the military a lot of times is not the end for military members.
1. No Golf
2. Work still
a. Bored
b. Not enough to live on
V. TAKE THIS JOB AND SHOVE IT!!!
a. What does it take to quit the military and why people get out if everything is so good.
i. Review the redeployment process.
1. Not just for getting out of the military, but out of the country
b. Becoming self-made
i. Camaraderie helps and being relational
ii. Having initiative to do what needs to be done
c. Working for the “man”.
VI. Wrap up
a. Conclusion of being a Veteran
b. End Season 2 Toast
c. Common Veterans

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Understanding Military Traditions: Exploring the Why Behind the What

Introduction

Welcome to the “Common Veterans Podcast: Season 1 Addendum,” where we delve into the rich tapestry of military traditions; furthermore, unraveling their deeper meanings and historical significance. We’ll uncover why these practices endure while shedding light on the unique mindset and sense of humor prevalent among military members.

The Purpose of Military Traditions

Military traditions are more than rituals; they serve as threads weaving together the fabric of camaraderie, honor, and history within the armed forces. Understanding their origins provides a deeper appreciation for the cultural backbone of military life.

Military Traditions Are Traditional

The Salute

From its roots in the Middle Ages as a gesture of peace to its modern-day symbolism of respect and recognition, the salute is a cornerstone of military etiquette.

Taps and Reveille

The solemnity of waking to a cornet’s notes and the symbolism behind honoring the national colors being lowered underscore the reverence for duty and sacrifice.

Covers (Hats) Outside

Beyond fashion, these headpieces signify protection, camouflage, and a visible marker of rank, fostering a sense of unity and distinction among service members.

Being Pinned

Pinning, whether for rank or awards, represents a badge of honor earned through dedication, sacrifice, and the pursuit of excellence. It’s a tangible symbol of one’s journey and accomplishments.

Because We Can

Military balls, replete with unique rituals like the Army’s “Grogg” or the Air Force’s “Jeff,” offer glimpses into the unit’s identity and shared experiences, strengthening bonds among comrades.

Walking the Line

Physical Training (PT) and Uniforms

Beyond physical fitness, PT instills discipline and preparedness, while uniforms promote unity and morale—a visual representation of a collective identity.

Hazing

A controversial practice that, in elite units, tests resilience and integration. Stories from these experiences illuminate the dynamics within these specialized circles.

Battle Buddies and Group Dynamics

Emphasizing the importance of teamwork, battle buddies epitomize the ethos of collective success and safety, forming the backbone of military operations.

Deployments and Beyond

Embracing More Traditions

Exploring further traditions or quirks unique to different branches or deployments, highlighting the diversity and richness of military cultures.

Conclusion

Addendum II Teaser

As we conclude this deep dive into military traditions, stay tuned for our next podcast, “Take This Job and Shove It,” where we explore the service concept and possibly feature a special guest shedding light on their experiences.

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Common Veterans Podcast

Episode 10:
Friends in Low Places

VFW,
DAV, American Legion, Marine Corps League, and other fraternal organizations
are there for Veterans. This breakdown of the organizations talks to members about
the benefits of these program's camaraderie. The Common Veterans represent
FreedomSystem.org’s martial arts and mountain bike association.

I.                   
Introduction

                                                              
i.     
Friends in Low Places

1.     
Introduce the standby Veteran Fraternal Organizations and their
missions and why.

                                                            
ii.     
Brief Overview of the benefits of the group

1.     
Positives

2.     
Negatives

II.                 
More Than Just Bars

a.      
Bartenders are there, but that isn’t the only reason for them to
be there.

                                                              
i.     
Drinking socially good? Or Bad?

1.     
Opens up.

2.     
Opens up too much.

                                                            
ii.     
It’s a social club…

1.     
Camaraderie is built here among Veterans from all different age
groups.

2.     
Not a lot of physicality

3.     
Has to be open to the public or will not survive monetarily.

b.     
Some organizations are not attached to bars.

                                                              
i.     
FreedomSystem.org is not a bar, but do meet at fraternal
organizations that have them

1.     
FSO focuses on fitness and shared experiences from military
service.

2.     
FSO supports fraternal organizations through shared goals

                                                            
ii.     
Team RWB is a fitness organization

1.     
Originally a totally Veteran organization, it now allows
non-veterans to run their goals

a.      
Puts non-vets in leadership roles

                                                          
iii.     
Fraternal organizations often have specific goals and only allow
specific people to join them

1.     
Marine Corps League

2.     
VFW

3.     
DAV

III.               
Stories, The Fish is Always Bigger

a.      
Members tell stories of their exploits.

                                                              
i.     
Common Veterans share their military stories.

1.     
Stories become what everyone needs.

2.     
Shared experiences from different combat times help create more
fraternization and become friends.

                                                            
ii.     
Different organizations, different stories?

1.     
Multi-members have different experiences in different
organizations and go to different areas for different types of camaraderie.

a.      
VFW then to DAV, etcetera

b.     
Moose and Eagles

c.      
American Legions and Auxiliaries

IV.               
Join or nah?

a.      
Joining a fraternal organization can have its merits…

                                                              
i.     
Positives

                                                            
ii.     
Negatives

                                                          
iii.     
Neutrals

V.                 
Conclusion

a.      
Recap fraternal organizations' essential role in
supporting veterans and fostering camaraderie.

b.      
Encouragement for listeners to explore and
support these organizations or similar initiatives in their communities.

c.      
Closing thoughts emphasize the importance of
camaraderie in veterans' journey and the impact it has on their lives.

VI.               
Next Episode –  Next Season

a.      
Our next episode is or next season, but
there may be a few more episodes this season that pop out of nowhere! Stay
tuned.

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I. Introduction

– Greetings from the Common Veterans podcast

– Hosts: Kenny, Jeff, Tony

– Topic: Military movies, their accuracy, and the downtime in the military for movie-watching

II. Introducing Tony, the Resident Navy Guy

– Tony's military background (8 years in the Navy, overseas service, instructor in Great Lakes)

– Banter about Tony being a “bud light drinker”

III. Military Downtime and Movie Watching

– Discussion about the hosts' experiences with movie-watching during military downtime

– Different perspectives based on the nature of their military roles

IV. Movies and Camaraderie

– Highlighting the camaraderie among military personnel

– Banter about different branches (Army, Air Force, Navy) and their stereotypes

V. Examples of Military Movies

– Mention of popular military movies and TV shows:

– **Tour of Duty (1987-1990)**

– **Operation Petticoat**

– **Gardens of Stone**

– **Last Full Measure**

– **The Great Beer Run**

– **Where Eagles Dare**

– **Eagle Has Landed**

– **Men of Honor**

– **Starship Troopers**

VI. Notable Mention: Inglourious Basterds

– Recognition of Quentin Tarantino's film as a humorous take on killing Nazis

VII. Personal Reflections on Military Movies

– Emotional impact and personal connections to military movies

– Mention of tear-jerking moments and laughter-inducing scenes

– Recognition of actors who delivered powerful performances in military roles

VIII. Perspectives on Modern Military Movies

– Common Veteran's emotional experience watching a recent military movie set in Afghanistan

– Discussion on why individuals with military backgrounds watch such movies despite the emotional impact

IX. Closing Thoughts

– Recap of discussed movies and themes

– Teaser for future podcast episodes and topics

– Gratitude for listeners and encouragement to share feedback

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