Shows
The Veterans Sound Off PodcastFrom Combat Zones to Convention Centers: Where Veterans ConnectSend us a textNestled 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...
2025-08-1120 minThe Veterans Sound Off PodcastDepartment Commander & Adjutant: Mississippi American Legion's New LeadershipSend us a textFrom 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...
2025-08-0828 minThe Veterans Sound Off PodcastHow the American Legion Creates a Second Home for VeteransSend us a textNational 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...
2025-08-061h 03The Veterans Sound Off PodcastCombat, Cards & Coffee: How One Woman Won PeaceSend us a textNavy Chief Debbie Miller never does anything by halves. Whether it's convincing her husband to join the Navy with her at age 34, playing cards with enemy faction bodyguards in war-torn Bosnia, or creating innovative virtual "mess meetings" for her American Legion post, her story exemplifies the resourcefulness and dedication of America's veterans.In this captivating conversation with host Jerry Allhands at the American Legion Department of Mississippi Convention, Miller shares remarkable stories from her 24-year naval career that took her from Sarajevo to Kosovo, Germany, Hawaii, and ultimately England. Her vivid...
2025-08-0338 minThe Veterans Sound Off PodcastSeason 2 promoSend us a textComing up in the next few weeks is a visit with American Legion baseball, Boys State, Magnolia Girls State, the Department of Mississippi's American Legion Convention in Natchez Mississippi and a whole lot more.Support the showDon'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.
2025-07-1101 minThe Veterans Sound Off PodcastWe Lead the Way: Trish Ward's Vision for the American Legion AuxiliarySend us a textJerry Allhands sits down with Trish Ward, the 2024-2025 American Legion Auxiliary National President, for a compelling conversation that reveals the heart of the American Legion family's mission to support veterans across America.At the Oxford VA Home in Mississippi, President Ward shares her remarkable journey from California transplant to national leadership. After relocating to Kansas in 1999, a simple invitation from her realtor—an Auxiliary member—changed the trajectory of her life. Eligible through her father's WWII Army service, Ward's 25-year journey through local and national leadership positions demonstrates how the Legi...
2025-04-2021 minThe Veterans Sound Off PodcastRiding for Veterans: The Post 6 Legion Riders StorySend us a textLeather jackets, rumbling engines, and hearts dedicated to service—the Perry A. Johns American Legion Post 6 Legion Riders embody the continuing mission of veterans helping veterans long after their military service ends. From the moment Tina Hurst and her husband encountered a group of Legion Riders escorting a fallen veteran in 2006, they were drawn into a brotherhood that would become the first official Legion Riders chapter in Mississippi.The Legion Riders aren't just motorcycle enthusiasts who happen to be veterans—they're a structured organization with clear requirements and a focused mission. Memb...
2025-03-2442 minThe Veterans Sound Off PodcastVeterans Serving Veterans: The Mid-South Veterans League StorySend us a textWhen veteran Terry Adams stepped out of a meeting to use the bathroom, he returned to discover he'd been elected president of a brand-new veterans organization. That unexpected moment launched the Mid-South Veterans League Inc. (MVLI), now working to revolutionize support for approximately 100,000 veterans across Tennessee's Shelby County and surrounding areas.The Veterans Sound Off podcast brings us an intimate conversation with Terry Adams (Marine Corps veteran and MVLI President) and Bob Bunton (Navy veteran and MVLI Secretary) about their ambitious vision. What begins with good-natured inter-service ribbing quickly reveals the...
2025-03-1959 minThe Veterans Sound Off PodcastBarbecue Pits and Brotherhood: When the SAL's Grill Caught FireSend us a textThe powerful bonds of military family legacy come alive in this candid conversation with members of the Sons of the American Legion Squadron 6 from Corinth, Mississippi. Commander Randy Leos, alongside dual members Terry Phillips and Jim Horton, share their personal journeys into an organization that honors veterans through meaningful service."We're more than just a bunch of guys sitting in a room," Commander Leos explains, highlighting how the Sons support the broader American Legion family through everything from cooking events to parade participation. With 45 members on their roster, Squadron 6 represents one...
2025-03-1635 minThe Veterans Sound Off PodcastFrom Poppies to Pancakes: How Unit 6 Honors Veterans in Corinth, MississippiSend us a textSupport the showDon'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.
2025-03-1236 minThe Veterans Sound Off PodcastHonoring Service: An Inside Look at American Legion Post 6 in CorinthSend us a textDiscover the heartwarming stories shared by veterans of American Legion Post 6 in Corinth, Mississippi. In this episode, we delve deep into the experience of Commander Nora Moreland, her fellow members Terry Phillips and Mike Hurst, and how their military backgrounds shape their current pursuits in community service. We explore the vital role that camaraderie plays in the post's activities, showcasing unique anecdotes like a young child's touching moment while singing the National Anthem, signifying the strong bond between service and patriotism. We also discuss the community projects spearheaded by the post, e...
2025-03-0359 minThe Veterans Sound Off PodcastAmerican Legion Post 2022 Olive Branch: Honoring Those Who ServedSend us a textAmerican Legion Post 2022 in Olive Branch, Mississippi, is making significant strides in serving local veterans just two years after its inception. The episode shines a light on the challenges of starting a new post, the critical role of honoring veterans at funerals, and the importance of engaging younger veterans through community building. • Founding story of Post 2022 from discussions at a golf tournament • Process of navigating bureaucratic challenges for post establishment • Rapid growth from a small group to over 50 members within two years • Commitment to veteran honors through an active funer...
2025-02-241h 08The Veterans Sound Off PodcastHonoring Veterans Through Ronnie's Retreat and Hinderless 22 InitiativesSend us a textWhat drives a veteran to turn personal tragedy into a force for good? Join us as we uncover the inspiring journey of Joey McNutt, an Army veteran who founded Ronnie's Retreat, a non-profit dedicated to supporting homeless veterans. With insights from Carlene Parker and Nora Moreland of the American Legion Perry A Johns Post 6, we explore the pressing issues veterans face, including homelessness and the mental health challenges that can arise after military service. Carlene shares her vision to elevate Ronnie's Retreat through community engagement and prayer, setting the stage for transformative support...
2025-02-1758 minThe Veterans Sound Off PodcastAmerican Legion Auxiliary Unit 28 ClarksdaleSend us a textWhat motivates someone to dedicate their life to supporting veterans and their families? Meet Mary Eunice Cole, Alice Barberi, and Mary Jo Abraham as they open up about their heartfelt journeys with the American Legion Auxiliary in Mississippi. Their stories are intertwined with personal connections to military service, from Mary Jo's late husband Frank's Army service to Alice's experiences with her husband Victor during the Korean conflict. These powerful narratives reveal the deep sense of duty and passion driving their commitment to the Auxiliary's mission. The episode also celebrates the boundless e...
2025-02-1038 minThe Veterans Sound Off PodcastALA Magnolia Girls State Program: Preparing Young Women for LeadershipSend us a textEver wondered how young women are being prepared to lead the future? Join us on the Veterans Sound Off Podcast as we uncover the impact of the Magnolia Girls State Program, a pioneering leadership initiative for high school juniors. Featuring insightful discussions with Angela Kilcrease, Abby Burris, and Camille Bullock, this episode explores how the program empowers participants by fostering a deep understanding of state government and leadership skills. Angela, with her extensive experience, sheds light on the mission of the program, while Abby and Camille share their journeys from delegates to advocates...
2025-02-0352 minThe Veterans Sound Off PodcastAmerican Legion Auxiliary Unit 1990 DeSoto CountySend us a textExplore the heart of Mississippi with me, Jerry Allhands, as we shine a light on the incredible work of the American Legion family. Ever wondered how a small town like Nesbitt can make a big difference for veterans? Join us at Post 1990, where we celebrate the essential roles played by the American Legion Auxiliary and the Sons of the American Legion. From navigating the charming quirks of Nesbitt's location to uncovering the evolution of the Auxiliary to include male spouses of female veterans, this episode promises insights into the unique support system that...
2025-01-2731 minThe Veterans Sound Off PodcastSons of the American Legion Squadron 1990Send us a textJoin me, Jerry Allhands, as we uncover the heartwarming impact of community support on veterans in Mississippi. Discover the inspiring history of the Sons of the American Legion at the James Buster Keaton Post 1990, and learn about the crucial role the younger generation plays in sustaining this legacy. Personal stories reveal how these efforts provide essential aid to veterans who may not actively seek assistance, highlighting the vital connection between community engagement and veteran welfare.As we navigate through the benefits offered by the Sons of the American Legion, we find...
2025-01-2029 minThe Veterans Sound Off PodcastAmerican Legion Auxiliary National President Trish Ward visits MississippiSend us a textJoin me, Jerry Allhands, on a heartfelt journey across Mississippi, alongside our esteemed guest, Trish Ward, the 2024-2025 National President of the American Legion Auxiliary. Trish opens up about her inspiring travels across 18 states, sharing moving experiences such as honoring fallen heroes at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Her stories about her Kansas upbringing and her devotion to the legacy of the four chaplains, particularly George Fox, add a personal touch to her leadership narrative. Together, we delve into the importance of supporting service members and their families, emphasizing the enduring commitment...
2025-01-1332 minThe Veterans Sound Off PodcastAmerican Legion Riders DeSoto County Post 1990Send us a textWe return to Northwest Mississippi and DeSoto County Post 1990 in Nesbit to visit with the Post 1990 American Legion Riders. In this episode we will learn from Ashley, David and Mark what it means to be a Post 1990 Legion Rider. What makes the American Legion Rider stand out from other motor cycle riding groups. In addition we will find out what makes a person eligible to become a Legion Rider. We will hear about many of the things that the Post 1990 Riders have done in the past year. We will hear about safety and how t...
2025-01-0735 minThe Veterans Sound Off PodcastAmerican Legion DeSoto County Post 1990Send us a textWe traveled to Nesbit, Mississippi where we met with Post Commander Kenny McMinn and Post Adjutant Bill Walkner. We learned what the American Legion means to them and how they each became members. We got a Birds Eye view of the activities at the Post and how they are reaching out to younger veterans and their families. McMinn and Walkner shared some of the many things that members of the Post 1990 American Legion family (The Sons of The American Legion, The American Legion Auxiliary and The American Legion Riders) do to support and car...
2025-01-0143 minThe Veterans Sound Off PodcastPost 1990 promoSend us a textA promo for a visit with DeSoto County Post 1990. Support the showDon'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.
2024-12-3001 minThe Veterans Sound Off PodcastThe Veterans Sound Off Podcast premiers November 1stSend us a textA quick hello to old friends and new as we kick off this podcast of Veterans Sounding Off. Starting November 1st, 2024 we will travel across the state of Mississippi visiting American Legion Posts and discovering how the Legionnaires are still serving their country and their communities.Support the showDon'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@o...
2024-10-1001 min