HOMEFRONT SITREP

HomeFront Sitrep

HomeFront SitRep is a powerful and heartfelt veteran-led podcast dedicated to giving a voice to those who have served—and those who continue to serve behind the scenes. It stands as a platform for real stories, real impact, and real people who genuinely care about the veteran community—not just as statistics, but as brothers, sisters, and family. This podcast shines a spotlight on the grassroots: the unsung, often-overlooked mom-and-pop nonprofit organizations that are boots-on-the-ground, showing up daily for veterans. These aren’t corporate machines or big-budget operations—they're passionate individuals and small teams who lead with heart, often formed by veterans or military families who know the struggle firsthand. HomeFront SitRep celebrates these organizations that haven’t lost sight of humanity, offering support, services, and community without red tape or fine print. But the mission doesn’t stop there. The show also brings in a vibrant cross-section of the veteran community—highlighting veteran-owned businesses, showcasing the creativity of veteran authors and musicians, and laughing alongside veteran comedians. Each episode dives deep into personal journeys, challenges, and triumphs, giving veterans from all walks of life a chance to share their story, their mission, and their voice. Whether it's a Marine turned mental health advocate, an Army veteran launching a clothing brand, or a Navy vet writing their first book, HomeFront SitRep serves as a rally point for veterans and patriots alike. It’s not just a podcast—it’s a mission to build connection, community, and conversation. This is where the fight continues—on the home front. This is HomeFront SitRep.

  1. -5 J

    Paddle. Fish. Heal. — The Mission of Heroes on the Water

    This episode of HomeFront SitRep dives into the mission behind Heroes on the Water — a nonprofit organization changing lives through kayak fishing, camaraderie, and the healing power of the outdoors. Founded in 2007, Heroes on the Water was built on a simple but powerful idea: sometimes healing doesn’t happen in a clinic… sometimes it happens on the water. Through free kayak fishing events across the country, the organization creates a place where veterans, active-duty service members, first responders, and their families can reconnect, decompress, and find community without judgment or pressure. Hosts David Willis and Gunny Samuel Deeds explore how something as simple as paddling a kayak and casting a fishing line can become a lifeline for those battling stress, isolation, PTSD, transition struggles, and the invisible wounds carried long after service ends. This conversation highlights the organization’s “Paddle. Fish. Heal.” philosophy, the volunteers who dedicate their time to supporting veterans, and the impact outdoor therapy and peer connection can have on mental wellness. From wounded warriors recovering at military rehabilitation centers to veterans simply looking for a place to belong again, Heroes on the Water continues to prove that healing often starts with connection. This episode is about more than fishing. It’s about purpose, brotherhood, resilience, and creating spaces where veterans know they are not alone. Because sometimes the best therapy doesn’t come from four walls — it comes from open water, fresh air, and the people beside you.

    1 h 23 min
  2. -5 J

    Behind the Brand: Elite Engraving and the Veteran-Owned Movement

    On this episode of HomeFront SitRep, hosts David Willis and Samuel Deeds sit down to spotlight a Kentucky-based veteran-owned business that is turning craftsmanship into community impact — Elite Engraving LLC. What started as a passion for quality work and custom design has grown into a mission-driven company dedicated to serving businesses, organizations, veterans, and everyday Americans through personalized engraving, branded merchandise, leather patch hats, bourbon barrel creations, awards, and promotional products built with purpose. But this conversation goes beyond products. The team behind Elite Engraving shares the realities of transitioning from military service into entrepreneurship, the discipline veterans bring into the business world, and why supporting veteran-owned companies matters now more than ever. From long nights building a brand from the ground up to helping nonprofits, podcasts, and community organizations create lasting impressions, this episode highlights the grit, sacrifice, and determination required to succeed after the uniform comes off. Listeners will also hear about the importance of community partnerships, supporting local businesses, and how craftsmanship can become a way to continue serving others long after military service ends. This is a conversation about mission, identity, resilience, and building something bigger than yourself — one engraving at a time. Real stories. Real craftsmanship. Real impact. Only on HomeFront SitRep.

    1 h 24 min
  3. 15 MAI

    Breaking Barriers: Carol Whitmore and the Future of the VFW

    On this episode of HomeFront SitRep, we dive into the story of Carol Whitmore — a retired U.S. Army veteran who shattered barriers by becoming the first female Commander-in-Chief in the history of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. From her decades of military service, including deployments to Iraq, to leading one of the most recognized veteran service organizations in America, Carol Whitmore represents a new chapter in veteran leadership while carrying forward the mission of those who came before her. The hosts break down what the VFW truly is beyond the letters on the building sign. Founded in 1899, the Veterans of Foreign Wars has become a lifeline for combat veterans across generations — fighting for VA benefits, mental health resources, veteran advocacy, military family support, and preserving the bond of brotherhood and sisterhood forged through service overseas. This episode explores: The history and purpose of the VFW Who qualifies for membership and why it matters How local VFW Posts impact communities nationwide Carol Whitmore’s rise from Army service to national leadership The evolving role of veteran organizations in today’s America Why connection, advocacy, and community remain critical for veterans after the uniform comes off As always, HomeFront SitRep keeps the conversation real, unfiltered, and mission-focused — highlighting the people and organizations continuing to serve long after active duty ends. Because the mission never really stops… it just changes uniforms.

    1 h 21 min
  4. 15 MAI

    Tip of the Spear, A Veterans Roundtable 04/29/2026

    This isn’t just another podcast… this is what happens when the mission continues beyond the uniform. Forged roughly 18 months ago out of a need for real conversation and real connection, Tip of the Spear unites a coalition of veteran-led platforms including HomeFront SitRep, Triple Threat Vet Podcast, The MisFitNation, and I Am Pitts. What started as a small circle of voices has evolved into a growing network of veteran leaders, creators, and advocates committed to one thing—keeping the conversation going when it matters most. You’ll hear perspectives from across the spectrum of service and experience, with contributors and collaborators like Adam Bird, Shawn Welsch, Tim Thomas, Philippa Bagley, and Gene Campbell—each bringing their own voice, perspective, and fire to the table. This roundtable isn’t scripted. It’s not filtered. It’s real veterans having real discussions about the issues that don’t make headlines—but impact lives every single day. From mental health and transition struggles to leadership, policy, and the global landscape, Tip of the Spear tackles it all with honesty, grit, and a level of understanding that only comes from those who’ve lived it. It’s about bridging the gap between military service and civilian life—while continuing to serve in a different capacity. Because here’s the truth— The tip of the spear isn’t just on the battlefield anymore… It’s right here at home. This episode pulls back the curtain on how this roundtable came to life, why it continues to grow, and how it’s becoming a force multiplier for veteran voices across the country. No red tape. No fluff. Just mission-driven conversation. This is more than a podcast— It’s a movement.

    1 h 4 min
  5. 15 MAI

    From Deckplates to Dream Chasing: The Voice of Sailor Jerri

    On this episode of HomeFront SitRep, we sit down with Sailor Jerri—a Navy veteran turned singer-songwriter who’s using her voice to carry the stories of those who served. From life on the deckplates to life behind the mic, Sailor Jerri shares her journey of transition—trading uniform for guitar, and finding purpose in music that speaks directly to the heart of the veteran community. Her songs aren’t just melodies—they’re missions. Each lyric reflects the realities of service, the weight of sacrifice, and the resilience it takes to keep moving forward after the military. We dive into the inspiration behind her powerful renditions like her veteran tribute version of Hallelujah, and discuss how she’s tackling tough issues like veteran suicide awareness through music that connects on a deeply human level. This is about more than entertainment—it’s about impact. As always, HomeFront SitRep brings you real stories from real people making a difference. Sailor Jerri is doing exactly that—one song, one story, one veteran at a time. 🎧 What You’ll Hear in This Episode: Transitioning from military service to music with purpose Using songwriting as a tool for healing and connection The role of music in veteran advocacy and awareness Why authenticity matters when telling the veteran story Mission Focus: Amplifying veteran voices and supporting mental health awareness through music and community.

    1 h 27 min
  6. 27 AVR.

    Building the Brand: Community, Marketing, and Mission with Social 502 Media

    On this episode of HomeFront Sitrep, we go beyond the algorithm and into the heart of community-driven business with Social 502 Media and its founder Jennifer Reasor Gilpin—a leader who’s built her career at the intersection of service, strategy, and connection. Jennifer brings over 25 years of experience in the restaurant and marketing industry, starting with a pastry degree from Sullivan University and evolving into managing and marketing multiple restaurant brands. But her story doesn’t stop at business—it expands into mission. Her journey led her into community-focused work through Mission, where she spent years alongside local heroes, foundations, and nonprofits—learning how to plan impactful events, build strong partnerships, and bring people together for something bigger than themselves. Now, as the driving force behind Social 502 Media, Jennifer helps businesses grow their digital presence while continuing her passion for outreach. She actively supports initiatives like Toys for Tots and works with local hero groups to organize events, manage logistics, and create meaningful experiences—from food service planning to full event execution and engagement. This episode breaks down what it really means to build a brand with purpose—where marketing meets mission, and business becomes a vehicle for impact. Because Jennifer believes something we talk about often here on HomeFront Sitrep: real change happens when businesses and communities come together. Real stories. Real impact. Real people. Because on the HomeFront… the mission never stops.

    1 h 16 min
  7. 27 AVR.

    A Wingman for Miss Universe: When Duty Meets Destiny in Vietnam

    On this episode of HomeFront SitRep, we step into a powerful and unexpected chapter of military history through the lens of A Wingman for Miss Universe by L. Wright Wallace—a story where war, duty, and fate collide in the summer of 1967. At the center of this narrative is Dennis Peek, a Marine Corps aviator navigating the realities of the Vietnam War, whose mission takes an unexpected turn when he’s assigned to escort Sylvia Hitchcock. What unfolds is more than a simple assignment—it’s a moment frozen in time where the worlds of combat aviation and global spotlight intersect, revealing a deeply human story behind the uniform. Drawing from research connected to the Van of Valor initiative—an effort dedicated to preserving and honoring the legacy of American service members—this short but impactful 59-page historical novel captures a side of war rarely told: the homefront emotions, the fleeting connections, and the lasting imprint of service on the soul. In true HomeFront SitRep fashion, this episode goes beyond the surface. We explore the significance of telling stories like this—stories that remind us that behind every mission is a man or woman with a life, a heart, and sometimes, a once-in-a-lifetime encounter that changes everything. With themes of service, sacrifice, and destiny, A Wingman for Miss Universe offers a compelling look at how even in the middle of war, moments of humanity and connection can define a lifetime. Release Note: The book officially releases April 21, 2026, and is currently available for pre-order on Amazon. Tagline: Real stories. Real people. And one unforgettable moment where a Marine met Miss Universe—and history took note.

    1 h 3 min

À propos

HomeFront SitRep is a powerful and heartfelt veteran-led podcast dedicated to giving a voice to those who have served—and those who continue to serve behind the scenes. It stands as a platform for real stories, real impact, and real people who genuinely care about the veteran community—not just as statistics, but as brothers, sisters, and family. This podcast shines a spotlight on the grassroots: the unsung, often-overlooked mom-and-pop nonprofit organizations that are boots-on-the-ground, showing up daily for veterans. These aren’t corporate machines or big-budget operations—they're passionate individuals and small teams who lead with heart, often formed by veterans or military families who know the struggle firsthand. HomeFront SitRep celebrates these organizations that haven’t lost sight of humanity, offering support, services, and community without red tape or fine print. But the mission doesn’t stop there. The show also brings in a vibrant cross-section of the veteran community—highlighting veteran-owned businesses, showcasing the creativity of veteran authors and musicians, and laughing alongside veteran comedians. Each episode dives deep into personal journeys, challenges, and triumphs, giving veterans from all walks of life a chance to share their story, their mission, and their voice. Whether it's a Marine turned mental health advocate, an Army veteran launching a clothing brand, or a Navy vet writing their first book, HomeFront SitRep serves as a rally point for veterans and patriots alike. It’s not just a podcast—it’s a mission to build connection, community, and conversation. This is where the fight continues—on the home front. This is HomeFront SitRep.