Veteran Story Hour: Voices of Valor, Presented by SALUTE of Virginia

Shenandoah Valley Story Network
  • 5.0 (6)
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Veteran Story Hour is dedicated to preserving the stories and voices of the men and women who have served our nation. Recorded weekly in partnership with SALUTE of Virginia in Waynesboro, VA, this podcast is creating a living history, one veteran at a time. Through authentic, heartfelt conversations, veterans share their unique experiences, memories, lessons, and perspectives—capturing voices that future generations can cherish and learn from. Because every voice matters, every story counts, and history is best told by those who lived it.

  1. Parker, Jason - Game Master for Game Corps by T4T [Army & Navy]

    6d ago

    Parker, Jason - Game Master for Game Corps by T4T [Army & Navy]

    This week on Veteran Story Hour, Jason Parker joins us from inside the Game Corps Bunker at Tech for Troops in Richmond, Virginia. And yes, there is a dog snoring nearby, because even mental health missions need a mascot. Jason’s story moves from Navy deployments and addiction recovery to suicide survival, gaming, purpose, and building spaces where veterans can reconnect before crisis hits. Game Corps’s mission is simple, impossible, and absolutely worth chasing - reduce veteran suicide to zero. This episode is about video games, but not really. It is about connection. It is about giving veterans a place to show up as they are. It is about Batman comics, Xbox controllers, dark humor, and the belief that sometimes the first step out of isolation is a Discord server, a controller, and somebody asking, “You good?” CONNECT & SUPPORT: Tech for Troops: ⁠https://techfortroops.org/⁠ Game Corps: https://techfortroops.org/game-corps-by-t4t/ Follow Game Corps on Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/GameC0rps Join Game Corps on Discord: https://discord.com/invite/V68RQFM8t7 Website: ⁠https://saluteofvirginia.org/⁠ Donate to SALUTE of Virginia: ⁠https://subsplash.com/u/-5QRKRR/give⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/167A3VpMJu/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/saluteofva/⁠ Nominate a veteran to be interviewed: saluteofva@gmail.com If this episode moved you, please leave a rating and review — it helps other listeners find these stories. CREDITS: Hosted by John Fairbanks and Zach Hale A production of SALUTE of Virginia (501(c)(3))

    1h 19m
  2. Thompson, Tom [Vietnam - Army & Air Force]

    Jun 14

    Thompson, Tom [Vietnam - Army & Air Force]

    In this episode of Veteran Story Hour, Zach Hale sits down with Tom Thompson, a Vietnam veteran, Air Force medic, and lifelong witness to the human cost of war. Tom begins with his early military service in the Army before joining the Air Force in search of real medical work. That path eventually took him to Vietnam, where he served at Bien Hoa and became part of a generation asked to carry out impossible duties under impossible circumstances. He recalls the explosion at Bien Hoa Air Base, medevac missions, treating Vietnamese civilians and children, working with leprosy and battlefield trauma, and the haunting moments that have stayed with him for the rest of his life. A central part of Tom’s story is his connection to William H. Pitsenbarger, the Air Force pararescueman who gave his life while helping save wounded soldiers and who was later awarded the Medal of Honor. Tom reflects on Pitsenbarger’s courage, the decades-long fight to see his actions properly recognized, and the importance of keeping his memory alive. This conversation also addresses PTSD, survivor guilt, the burden carried by medics, and the quiet work veterans continue to do for one another long after their service ends. Tom speaks with honesty about the memories that return, the wounds that remain, and the people who helped him keep going. This is a difficult but important episode, one rooted in service, sacrifice, memory, and the responsibility to listen. CONNECT & SUPPORT Support the Mission: Website: ⁠⁠https://saluteofvirginia.org/⁠⁠Donate to SALUTE of Virginia: ⁠⁠https://subsplash.com/u/-5QRKRR/give⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/167A3VpMJu/⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/saluteofva/⁠⁠Nominate a Veteran:Know a veteran with a story? Send us their name and a brief reason why at ⁠⁠saluteofva@gmail.com⁠⁠. We'll handle the rest.

    48 min
  3. Williams, Doug [Army National Guard]

    May 22

    Williams, Doug [Army National Guard]

    A Waynesboro police officer. A late start in the Army National Guard. A deployment to Syria. And a life completely transformed by faith. On this episode of Voices of Valor, Zach Hale sits down with Doug Williams to talk about military service, leadership, law enforcement, family, and finding purpose in unexpected places. Doug shares stories from joining the Guard at 29, surviving Basic Training during COVID, deploying across Syria in small teams, and learning leadership the hard way — sometimes from soldiers younger than him. He also opens up about his walk with Christ, the regrets that shaped him, and why he believes service to others is the highest calling. There are laughs.There are powerful moments.And there are truths every veteran, first responder, and family member will understand. If you’ve ever wondered how military service changes a person — this episode answers that question. CONNECT & SUPPORT Support the Mission: Website: ⁠https://saluteofvirginia.org/⁠Donate to SALUTE of Virginia: ⁠https://subsplash.com/u/-5QRKRR/give⁠Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/share/167A3VpMJu/⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/saluteofva/⁠Nominate a Veteran:Know a veteran with a story? Send us their name and a brief reason why at ⁠saluteofva@gmail.com⁠. We'll handle the rest.

    45 min
  4. Martin, Chris [Navy]

    Apr 6

    Martin, Chris [Navy]

    Christopher Martin was 17 when college became impossible. At 18, post-9/11, he chose submarines. Five years as a Sonar Technician on the USS Nebraska—seven patrols, listening to the ocean at 500 feet below the surface. The transition home landed him making $100 per glass break detector, then seven years delivering refrigerators. Through the DCMA Keystone Internship Program, Chris finally finds himself inspecting Navy navigation systems at Northrop Grumman, protecting the same submarines he served on, now going on 14 years. And he calls it all luck. Ladies and gentlemen, Christopher Martin: Sonar Technician, Nuclear Deterrence, and the Long Way Home. CONNECT & SUPPORT Support the Mission: Website: https://saluteofvirginia.org/Donate to SALUTE of Virginia: https://subsplash.com/u/-5QRKRR/giveFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/167A3VpMJu/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saluteofva/Nominate a Veteran:Know a veteran with a story? Send us their name and a brief reason why at saluteofva@gmail.com. We'll handle the rest. Veteran Employment Resources: DCMA Keystone Internship Program: https://www.dcma.mil (Careers/Internships)USA Jobs Federal Employment Portal: https://www.usajobs.govVirginia Department of Veterans Services: https://www.dvs.virginia.gov/

    1h 32m
  5. Patrick, Melissa [Army]

    Mar 30

    Patrick, Melissa [Army]

    Melissa Patrick spent 28 years in Army Intelligence — from being the first woman in an ROTC classroom at VMI in 1975, to earning master parachutist wings while afraid of heights, to leading NATO intelligence in Afghanistan. After retiring as a Colonel, her civilian work analyzing vehicle attacks led directly to the MRAP decision that saved American lives in Iraq and Afghanistan. Now she runs a VFW district and a charity bike ride that's raised nearly $300K for combat veterans. She almost didn't think she had a story. She was wrong. CONNECT & SUPPORT: 10th Annual Ride — September 12, 2026 (25th Anniversary of 9/11) Valley Veterans Ride for Heroes: https://valleyvetsrideforheroes.com/ Valley Veterans Ride for Heroes (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/ValleyVeteransRideForHeroes Valley Veterans Ride for Heroes (Email): valleyveteransride@gmail.com Boulder Crest Foundation: https://bouldercrest.org/ Goal: $50,000 for combat veterans dealing with PTSD SALUTE of Virginia Website: https://saluteofvirginia.org/ Donate to SALUTE of Virginia: https://subsplash.com/u/-5QRKRR/give Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/167A3VpMJu/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saluteofva/ Nominate a veteran to be interviewed: saluteofva@gmail.comIf this episode moved you, please leave a rating and review — it helps other listeners find these stories. Support the podcast: https://www.patreon.com/15536490/join CREDITS:Hosted by John Fairbanks and Zach HaleA production of SALUTE of Virginia (501(c)(3))

    1h 4m
  6. Spotlight Preview: Tech For Troops - Richmond, Virginia

    Mar 15

    Spotlight Preview: Tech For Troops - Richmond, Virginia

    Most veterans face a digital and emotional divide that can feel impossible to bridge — but Tech for Troops is rewriting that story. Join John and Zach as they introduce Tech for Troops in this episode and discover how a Virginia-based nonprofit is transforming veteran lives through technology, community, and purpose. From refurbishing over 600 tons of e-waste to creating gaming bunkers that foster camaraderie and healing, Tech for Troops proves that giving veterans the tools and support they need isn’t just charity — it’s a lifeline. You'll hear how their innovative programs, like aiming for zero, tackle veteran suicide, unemployment, and homelessness head-on. We break down how donated computers are transformed into powerful community building blocks, offering not only access but hope. Plus, learn about upcoming local events like the "Vibe Training" class, designed to empower veterans with essential digital skills and confidence — all for just fifty bucks. This is workforce development that actually works, especially when paired with the unbreakable bonds of gaming and camaraderie. We explore the surprising therapeutic benefits of gaming for PTSD and anxiety, how online bunkers emulate the squad-based spirit of military missions, and how tech-enabled community networks are reconnecting veterans to purpose and belonging. If you’ve ever underestimated the power of virtual spaces or wondered how technology can heal wounds both seen and unseen, this episode is your eye-opener. Perfect for veterans, family members, veteran-supporters, and anyone committed to innovative solutions for mental health and community resilience. Tech for Troops isn’t just refurbishing computers — they’re restoring hope, one soldier at a time. Whether you're donating, volunteering, or seeking support, you'll find a blueprint for making a meaningful difference. Join us as we spotlight veterans helping veterans through tech, gaming, and shared purpose. Don’t miss this inspiring look at a movement that proves heroism isn’t just in combat — it’s in connection. CONNECT & SUPPORT: Tech for Troops: https://techfortroops.org/ Website: https://saluteofvirginia.org/ Donate to SALUTE of Virginia: https://subsplash.com/u/-5QRKRR/give Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/167A3VpMJu/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saluteofva/ Nominate a veteran to be interviewed: saluteofva@gmail.com If this episode moved you, please leave a rating and review — it helps other listeners find these stories. CREDITS: Hosted by John Fairbanks and Zach Hale A production of SALUTE of Virginia (501(c)(3))

    35 min
  7. Teixeira, Banita [Navy]

    Mar 5

    Teixeira, Banita [Navy]

    In this episode of Veteran Story Hour, we talk with Banita Teixeira, a United States Navy veteran who served from 1998–2007 during one of the most transformative periods in modern military history. Banita shares stories from - Joining the Navy at 18 Serving aboard the USS Kearsarge Life in naval aviation squadrons The impact of 9/11 on military operations Leadership as a noncommissioned officer Navigating military life as a mother The challenges of spouse co-location and deployments She also reflects on the difficult decision to leave the Navy to prioritize raising her daughters — and what it means today to watch one of them serve in the United States Marine Corps. This episode dives deep into military life, resilience, faith, leadership, and the legacy of service passed between generations. CONNECT & SUPPORT: Website: https://saluteofvirginia.org/ Donate to SALUTE of Virginia: https://subsplash.com/u/-5QRKRR/give Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/167A3VpMJu/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saluteofva/ Nominate a veteran to be interviewed: saluteofva@gmail.com If this episode moved you, please leave a rating and review — it helps other listeners find these stories. CREDITS: Hosted by John Fairbanks and Zach Hale A production of SALUTE of Virginia (501(c)(3))

    1h 15m
  8. Vest Hulse, Wanda [Army] - Lyndhurst, VA

    Feb 22

    Vest Hulse, Wanda [Army] - Lyndhurst, VA

    Wanda Vest Hulse: "Just Because I Did a Drafting Class" | Army Veteran She joined the Army because she scored high in mechanical and hated school. A recruiter pointed her toward Illustrator — MOS 81 Echo — and what followed is the single most fun military career we have ever recorded on this show. In this episode, Wanda shares the full arc — from a high school drafting class at Valley Career and Technical Center, to drawing Cold War war plans by hand with top secret clearance in the Netherlands, to pitching on an all-male Army softball team called the Beef Blood Brothers Plus One, to driving the General's Mercedes across Germany during Reforger exercises. Every door opened into something better. And when the military was done, all of it funneled into what she does now: teaching ninth graders how to build, break, and create in her technology and engineering classes at Waynesboro High School. KEY MOMENTS: - MOS 81 Echo: Army Illustrator — "The recruiter said it was close enough to engineering" - Holdover barracks in basic training — "They did my duty for me. I just showed up to formation." - Top secret clearance and Site R at Fort Ritchie, Maryland - Drawing Cold War contingency war plans by hand in the Netherlands - Pitching on the all-male softball team: the Beef Blood Brothers Plus One - Being the first Black person some Germans in a rural village had ever met - The engineering career, the four-year degree, and arguing with engineers who underestimated her - Landing the teaching job at Waynesboro High School — "They called me over a name and address" ABOUT OUR GUEST: Wanda Diane Vest Hulse served in the United States Army in the 1980s as an Illustrator (MOS 81 Echo), later reclassified as Graphic Documentation Specialist. She completed basic training at Fort Jackson, trained at Lowry Air Force Base, and was stationed at Fort Ritchie, Maryland (where she held top secret clearance and worked with Site R) and in Maastricht, the Netherlands, where she served with the Allied Reserve Corps of Four. She participated in Reforger 87 exercises across Germany. After service, Wanda earned an associate degree from Blue Ridge Community College and a bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering Design and Technology from Old Dominion University. She currently teaches technology and engineering at Waynesboro High School, where she is beloved by students and colleagues alike. WATCH THE FULL VIDEO: YouTube: https://youtu.be/uh6hob5Jh2I CONNECT & SUPPORT: Website: https://saluteofvirginia.org/ Donate to SALUTE of Virginia: https://subsplash.com/u/-5QRKRR/give Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/167A3VpMJu/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saluteofva/ Nominate a veteran to be interviewed: saluteofva@gmail.com If this episode moved you, please leave a rating and review — it helps other listeners find these stories. CREDITS: Hosted by John Fairbanks and Zach Hale A production of SALUTE of Virginia (501(c)(3))

    1h 6m
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Veteran Story Hour is dedicated to preserving the stories and voices of the men and women who have served our nation. Recorded weekly in partnership with SALUTE of Virginia in Waynesboro, VA, this podcast is creating a living history, one veteran at a time. Through authentic, heartfelt conversations, veterans share their unique experiences, memories, lessons, and perspectives—capturing voices that future generations can cherish and learn from. Because every voice matters, every story counts, and history is best told by those who lived it.

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