Veteran Support with Jeff 'Gunny' Shilanski

Today we are honored to be joined by Jeff 'Gunny' Shilanski, the founder of FOB Rasor, a veteran-led peer support group in Montgomery County. In addition to being a support group for veterans, it is also open to first responders; like 911 dispatchers, law enforcement members, firefighters, and those who work in the prison system. Jeff is a retired Marine Gunnery Sergeant and spent 21 years in the infantry. Like many others, he used alcohol to help him cope with the immense stresses of his job and overwhelming PTSD. In today’s conversation, Jeff shares his vulnerable account of reaching his breaking point and how his service dog, Cupholder, saved his life. He shares how rehab helped him recover from his experiences and how he founded FOB Rasor in honor of his best friend. Tuning in, you’ll learn about FOB Rasor’s mission, their peer support model, the contents of their meetings, and how they make sure that everyone’s experience is validated. Jeff also reflects on the nature of addiction and PTSD, why recovery is a lifelong process, and what has been the most rewarding part of his experience with FOB Rasor. We hope you’ll join us for this humbling and hope-filled conversation with Jeff ‘Gunny’ Shilanski. Please note that today’s episode contains mention of suicide. We ask you to please listen with care.

Key Points From This Episode:

• A warm welcome to today’s guest, Jeff 'Gunny' Shilanski.
• Insight into Jeff’s 20 years with the Marine Corps.
• His experience with PTSD and alcoholism.
• Trigger Warning: For listeners who wish to avoid Jeff’s account of his suicide attempt, please skip audio between [03:14] and [04:43].
• How Jeff found recovery and met Korean war veteran, Bobby.
• The life-changing impact Bobby had on him.
• Why he founded the non-profit organization, FOB Rasor.
• The story behind the name FOB Rasor.
• FOB Rasor’s mission to support veterans and first responders. 
• Why they use the 12-step program as their model.
• How the COVID-19 pandemic influenced their virtual and in-person options.
• An overview of what happens in their meetings.
• General Hummer and the many ways he has supported FOB Rasor.
• The work that FOB Rasor does in the veterans’ portion of the local jail.
• Jeff’s definition of what it means to be a lifer for life.
• Two stories of hope from Jeff and the role that FOB Rasor played.
• Reflections on recovery and why it’s a lifelong process.
• The importance of their mandatory fun sessions at FOB Rasor.
• Find out how you can reach out to Jeff and FOB Rasor.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

FOB Rasor

Jeff's email

Hope Pieced Together

Mosaics of Mercy

Mosaics of Mercy | Resources

Jeff’s phone number: 281-573-7250