Story Behind the Stone Transistor (https://transistor.fm) https://feeds.transistor.fm/story-behind-the-stone Stories of veteran service and sacrifice straight from the people driving today’s most important veterans causes and veterans organizations around the world. The show shines a spotlight on their inspiring projects making a real difference for veterans and their families, and along the way we'll hear the stories that drive them to do their best every day as they work to support veterans and their memory. © Memory Anchor Inc. 0c5d341a-38ee-52a4-bb9f-4437efdf0958 no en Thu, 16 Apr 2026 11:11:25 -0600 Thu, 16 Apr 2026 11:12:05 -0600 https://memoryanchor.com/ https://img.transistorcdn.com/b7JyuEs04y-tXeMRyBZgSAvPcSYB8ai4wIcgTJp7JGs/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:1400/h:1400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS9mY2Ex/NjgzMjA3ODE2ODM2/MTBhY2UyODI3MTFk/NTE4MC5wbmc.jpg Story Behind the Stone https://memoryanchor.com/ episodic Memory Anchor Stories of veteran service and sacrifice straight from the people driving today’s most important veterans causes and veterans organizations around the world. The show shines a spotlight on their inspiring projects making a real difference for veterans and their families, and along the way we'll hear the stories that drive them to do their best every day as they work to support veterans and their memory. Stories of veteran service and sacrifice straight from the people driving today’s most important veterans causes and veterans organizations around the world. veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals Matthew Cudmore No No Miriam Friedman (Accenture) – Innovation and Remembrance through #everynamecounts 61 61 Miriam Friedman (Accenture) – Innovation and Remembrance through #everynamecounts full 0b1a15ed-ed6b-4878-9292-676ccd6c1dc3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/8297e1f3 "At the core, the goal is really just to turn records into a form of remembrance, one name at a time."

This week, we speak with Miriam Friedman, who leads the #everynamecounts project at Accenture. In partnership with the Arolsen Archives, Accenture leverages Artificial Intelligence to make Holocaust-era documentation searchable for families and researchers worldwide. Miriam explains how technology acts as a bridge to the past, allowing volunteers to restore the names and stories of individuals who were once treated as mere statistics.

In this episode:
- Discover how AI and human validation work together to process millions of documents from the Arolsen Archives, reducing the burden on manual indexing while keeping the "human pass" essential for dignity
- Understand the shift from physical to digital memorialization, enabling people without local access to a Holocaust museum to engage directly with primary historical sources
- Hear Miriam’s personal connection as a descendant of survivors, and how her work helps others find family documents they never knew existed

]]> "At the core, the goal is really just to turn records into a form of remembrance, one name at a time."

This week, we speak with Miriam Friedman, who leads the #everynamecounts project at Accenture. In partnership with the Arolsen Archives, Accenture leverages Artificial Intelligence to make Holocaust-era documentation searchable for families and researchers worldwide. Miriam explains how technology acts as a bridge to the past, allowing volunteers to restore the names and stories of individuals who were once treated as mere statistics.

In this episode:
- Discover how AI and human validation work together to process millions of documents from the Arolsen Archives, reducing the burden on manual indexing while keeping the "human pass" essential for dignity
- Understand the shift from physical to digital memorialization, enabling people without local access to a Holocaust museum to engage directly with primary historical sources
- Hear Miriam’s personal connection as a descendant of survivors, and how her work helps others find family documents they never knew existed

]]> Thu, 16 Apr 2026 11:07:55 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 994 "At the core, the goal is really just to turn records into a form of remembrance, one name at a time."

This week, we speak with Miriam Friedman, who leads the #everynamecounts project at Accenture. In partnership with the Arolsen Archives, Accenture leverages Artificial Intelligence to make Holocaust-era documentation searchable for families and researchers worldwide. Miriam explains how technology acts as a bridge to the past, allowing volunteers to restore the names and stories of individuals who were once treated as mere statistics.

In this episode:
- Discover how AI and human validation work together to process millions of documents from the Arolsen Archives, reducing the burden on manual indexing while keeping the "human pass" essential for dignity
- Understand the shift from physical to digital memorialization, enabling people without local access to a Holocaust museum to engage directly with primary historical sources
- Hear Miriam’s personal connection as a descendant of survivors, and how her work helps others find family documents they never knew existed

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No John Bocskay (UN Memorial Cemetery in Korea) – 75 Years of International Remembrance 60 60 John Bocskay (UN Memorial Cemetery in Korea) – 75 Years of International Remembrance full 1c179505-4f5d-4c65-99c9-4f4861a07de0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/93a95a8a "I think anybody who puts on a uniform and goes to fight and defend a country, especially one they've never met, deserves our respect."

This week, we speak with John Bocskay, Director of International Affairs at the United Nations Memorial Cemetery in Korea (UNMCK). In today's episode, John details the cemetery’s logistical history, the moving ceremonies held for veterans returning to be buried with their comrades, and the upcoming 75th-anniversary commemorations.

In this episode:
- Discover the unique status of the UNMCK as the only United Nations cemetery in existence, a "quirk of history" resulting from the first and last time the UN fought as a unified combatant in a war
- Learn about the "Wall of Remembrance" and national monuments that honor the 22 sending states, including a special look at the humanitarian legacy of Brigadier General Richard Whitcomb
- Explore the evolving relationship between the cemetery and the city of Busan, from strict residential development limits to the powerful impact the site has on young students who see their own ages reflected on the headstones

]]> "I think anybody who puts on a uniform and goes to fight and defend a country, especially one they've never met, deserves our respect."

This week, we speak with John Bocskay, Director of International Affairs at the United Nations Memorial Cemetery in Korea (UNMCK). In today's episode, John details the cemetery’s logistical history, the moving ceremonies held for veterans returning to be buried with their comrades, and the upcoming 75th-anniversary commemorations.

In this episode:
- Discover the unique status of the UNMCK as the only United Nations cemetery in existence, a "quirk of history" resulting from the first and last time the UN fought as a unified combatant in a war
- Learn about the "Wall of Remembrance" and national monuments that honor the 22 sending states, including a special look at the humanitarian legacy of Brigadier General Richard Whitcomb
- Explore the evolving relationship between the cemetery and the city of Busan, from strict residential development limits to the powerful impact the site has on young students who see their own ages reflected on the headstones

]]> Thu, 26 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1608 "I think anybody who puts on a uniform and goes to fight and defend a country, especially one they've never met, deserves our respect."

This week, we speak with John Bocskay, Director of International Affairs at the United Nations Memorial Cemetery in Korea (UNMCK). In today's episode, John details the cemetery’s logistical history, the moving ceremonies held for veterans returning to be buried with their comrades, and the upcoming 75th-anniversary commemorations.

In this episode:
- Discover the unique status of the UNMCK as the only United Nations cemetery in existence, a "quirk of history" resulting from the first and last time the UN fought as a unified combatant in a war
- Learn about the "Wall of Remembrance" and national monuments that honor the 22 sending states, including a special look at the humanitarian legacy of Brigadier General Richard Whitcomb
- Explore the evolving relationship between the cemetery and the city of Busan, from strict residential development limits to the powerful impact the site has on young students who see their own ages reflected on the headstones

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Amy Dozier (Woody Williams Foundation) – Finding Hope After the Knock 59 59 Amy Dozier (Woody Williams Foundation) – Finding Hope After the Knock full b6ed14a4-fcd5-4308-9fbb-94e26a23621a https://share.transistor.fm/s/2fdd21f9 "There is life after that knock. After the knock, there is hope, there is meaning to go find, and there are stories to share."

This week, we speak with Amy Dozier, Director of Outreach at the Woody Williams Foundation. Amy discusses the legacy of World War II Medal of Honor recipient Woody Williams, the foundation's work establishing over 160 Gold Star Families Memorial Monuments, and how her own experience losing her husband in the Iraq War led her to help other survivors navigate their grief journeys.

In this episode:
- Understand the significance of "the knock" and how the Woody Williams Foundation provides a village for families whose lives were permanently changed by military service
- Explore the impact of storytelling through the After the Knock podcast, which offers a safe, judgment-free space for survivors to discuss often-stigmatized topics like sibling loss and suicide
- Hear a moving story of legacy and remembrance involving a handwritten letter, a meaningful tattoo, and how a new generation is being taught the true meaning of family service and sacrifice

]]> "There is life after that knock. After the knock, there is hope, there is meaning to go find, and there are stories to share."

This week, we speak with Amy Dozier, Director of Outreach at the Woody Williams Foundation. Amy discusses the legacy of World War II Medal of Honor recipient Woody Williams, the foundation's work establishing over 160 Gold Star Families Memorial Monuments, and how her own experience losing her husband in the Iraq War led her to help other survivors navigate their grief journeys.

In this episode:
- Understand the significance of "the knock" and how the Woody Williams Foundation provides a village for families whose lives were permanently changed by military service
- Explore the impact of storytelling through the After the Knock podcast, which offers a safe, judgment-free space for survivors to discuss often-stigmatized topics like sibling loss and suicide
- Hear a moving story of legacy and remembrance involving a handwritten letter, a meaningful tattoo, and how a new generation is being taught the true meaning of family service and sacrifice

]]> Thu, 19 Mar 2026 09:52:18 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1247 "There is life after that knock. After the knock, there is hope, there is meaning to go find, and there are stories to share."

This week, we speak with Amy Dozier, Director of Outreach at the Woody Williams Foundation. Amy discusses the legacy of World War II Medal of Honor recipient Woody Williams, the foundation's work establishing over 160 Gold Star Families Memorial Monuments, and how her own experience losing her husband in the Iraq War led her to help other survivors navigate their grief journeys.

In this episode:
- Understand the significance of "the knock" and how the Woody Williams Foundation provides a village for families whose lives were permanently changed by military service
- Explore the impact of storytelling through the After the Knock podcast, which offers a safe, judgment-free space for survivors to discuss often-stigmatized topics like sibling loss and suicide
- Hear a moving story of legacy and remembrance involving a handwritten letter, a meaningful tattoo, and how a new generation is being taught the true meaning of family service and sacrifice

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Jock Phillips ONZM (Author & Former Chief Historian of New Zealand) – The Evolution of New Zealand's War Identity 58 58 Jock Phillips ONZM (Author & Former Chief Historian of New Zealand) – The Evolution of New Zealand's War Identity full 910bfe4c-e2e6-49d2-8b24-0d6b8e80d429 https://share.transistor.fm/s/5e324d44 "You can't understand yourself unless you understand where you've come from and you can't understand the culture in which you grow up unless you understand what created that culture."

This week, we speak with Jock Phillips ONZM, author and former Chief Historian of New Zealand. Jock shares his journey from studying the culture of masculinity to uncovering the deeply personal diaries of First World War soldiers, the shifting public perception of Anzac Day, and the complex history behind New Zealand’s earliest war memorials.

In this episode:
- Hear the moving story of the Western Front involving a soldier’s letters and a nurse’s compassionate act that allowed him to die in peace, highlighting the human extremes of the Great War
- Explore the unique iconography of the New Zealand Wars, including the fascinating story of the country’s first war memorial and its role in the complex relationship between European settlers and Māori tribes
- Learn about Edith Statham, whose pioneering work across the early 20th century ensured that those who fell in the New Zealand Wars were appropriately remembered

]]> "You can't understand yourself unless you understand where you've come from and you can't understand the culture in which you grow up unless you understand what created that culture."

This week, we speak with Jock Phillips ONZM, author and former Chief Historian of New Zealand. Jock shares his journey from studying the culture of masculinity to uncovering the deeply personal diaries of First World War soldiers, the shifting public perception of Anzac Day, and the complex history behind New Zealand’s earliest war memorials.

In this episode:
- Hear the moving story of the Western Front involving a soldier’s letters and a nurse’s compassionate act that allowed him to die in peace, highlighting the human extremes of the Great War
- Explore the unique iconography of the New Zealand Wars, including the fascinating story of the country’s first war memorial and its role in the complex relationship between European settlers and Māori tribes
- Learn about Edith Statham, whose pioneering work across the early 20th century ensured that those who fell in the New Zealand Wars were appropriately remembered

]]> Thu, 12 Mar 2026 15:28:17 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1793 "You can't understand yourself unless you understand where you've come from and you can't understand the culture in which you grow up unless you understand what created that culture."

This week, we speak with Jock Phillips ONZM, author and former Chief Historian of New Zealand. Jock shares his journey from studying the culture of masculinity to uncovering the deeply personal diaries of First World War soldiers, the shifting public perception of Anzac Day, and the complex history behind New Zealand’s earliest war memorials.

In this episode:
- Hear the moving story of the Western Front involving a soldier’s letters and a nurse’s compassionate act that allowed him to die in peace, highlighting the human extremes of the Great War
- Explore the unique iconography of the New Zealand Wars, including the fascinating story of the country’s first war memorial and its role in the complex relationship between European settlers and Māori tribes
- Learn about Edith Statham, whose pioneering work across the early 20th century ensured that those who fell in the New Zealand Wars were appropriately remembered

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Kurt Deion (Historic Congressional Cemetery) – Presidential Grave Hunter 57 57 Kurt Deion (Historic Congressional Cemetery) – Presidential Grave Hunter full 25038eac-6aae-4d4f-b6c3-8b043e961c1a https://share.transistor.fm/s/bcdfdb19 "We’re trying to show that Congressional Cemetery is really a microcosm of American history."

This week, we speak with Kurt Deion, a public historian and author on the education team at the Historic Congressional Cemetery in Washington, DC. Kurt shares his journey of visiting over 3,000 notable gravesites, the stories behind some of the most unique presidential monuments in America, and what it’s like to balance daily life at an active cemetery that doubles as a vibrant community space.

In this episode:
- Explore the unique atmosphere of Historic Congressional Cemetery, including its off-leash dog walking membership, Cinematery movie nights, and K-12 educational programming
- Hear about Kurt's quest to visit every Supreme Court Justice, including the challenges of tracking down unverified burial sites and the research required to document the final resting places of 105 deceased jurists
- Learn about the "future resident" identity, where Kurt shares why he purchased his own plot at Congressional Cemetery in 2022 and how that connection informs his work as a steward of history

]]> "We’re trying to show that Congressional Cemetery is really a microcosm of American history."

This week, we speak with Kurt Deion, a public historian and author on the education team at the Historic Congressional Cemetery in Washington, DC. Kurt shares his journey of visiting over 3,000 notable gravesites, the stories behind some of the most unique presidential monuments in America, and what it’s like to balance daily life at an active cemetery that doubles as a vibrant community space.

In this episode:
- Explore the unique atmosphere of Historic Congressional Cemetery, including its off-leash dog walking membership, Cinematery movie nights, and K-12 educational programming
- Hear about Kurt's quest to visit every Supreme Court Justice, including the challenges of tracking down unverified burial sites and the research required to document the final resting places of 105 deceased jurists
- Learn about the "future resident" identity, where Kurt shares why he purchased his own plot at Congressional Cemetery in 2022 and how that connection informs his work as a steward of history

]]> Thu, 26 Feb 2026 14:51:15 -0700 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1827 "We’re trying to show that Congressional Cemetery is really a microcosm of American history."

This week, we speak with Kurt Deion, a public historian and author on the education team at the Historic Congressional Cemetery in Washington, DC. Kurt shares his journey of visiting over 3,000 notable gravesites, the stories behind some of the most unique presidential monuments in America, and what it’s like to balance daily life at an active cemetery that doubles as a vibrant community space.

In this episode:
- Explore the unique atmosphere of Historic Congressional Cemetery, including its off-leash dog walking membership, Cinematery movie nights, and K-12 educational programming
- Hear about Kurt's quest to visit every Supreme Court Justice, including the challenges of tracking down unverified burial sites and the research required to document the final resting places of 105 deceased jurists
- Learn about the "future resident" identity, where Kurt shares why he purchased his own plot at Congressional Cemetery in 2022 and how that connection informs his work as a steward of history

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Karen Worcester (Wreaths Across America) – Remember, Honor, Teach 56 56 Karen Worcester (Wreaths Across America) – Remember, Honor, Teach full 7e3574a5-42c6-437c-88f1-7e792d6df70f https://share.transistor.fm/s/9aba7111 "We want to remember the individual and we want to give them a voice."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Karen Worcester, Executive Director of Wreaths Across America. Karen shares the incredible journey of how a surplus of wreaths led to a viral moment at Arlington National Cemetery, the logistics of coordinating 3 million volunteers to place wreaths at 5,994 ceremony locations, and how the organization works year-round to support veterans and Gold Star families through its three pillars: Remember, Honor, and Teach.

In this episode:
- Discover the movement's origins and how a single photograph in 2005 sparked a global outpouring of support, turning a family tradition into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
- Learn about the Remembrance Tree program, where Gold Star families tag balsam fir trees in Maine to create a living memorial that provides wreaths for veterans' graves.
- Hear how the organization's pillar, Teach, is reaching a million children through free lesson plans designed to shift the focus from "what is a veteran" to "who is that veteran."

]]> "We want to remember the individual and we want to give them a voice."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Karen Worcester, Executive Director of Wreaths Across America. Karen shares the incredible journey of how a surplus of wreaths led to a viral moment at Arlington National Cemetery, the logistics of coordinating 3 million volunteers to place wreaths at 5,994 ceremony locations, and how the organization works year-round to support veterans and Gold Star families through its three pillars: Remember, Honor, and Teach.

In this episode:
- Discover the movement's origins and how a single photograph in 2005 sparked a global outpouring of support, turning a family tradition into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
- Learn about the Remembrance Tree program, where Gold Star families tag balsam fir trees in Maine to create a living memorial that provides wreaths for veterans' graves.
- Hear how the organization's pillar, Teach, is reaching a million children through free lesson plans designed to shift the focus from "what is a veteran" to "who is that veteran."

]]> Thu, 19 Feb 2026 14:35:29 -0700 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1494 "We want to remember the individual and we want to give them a voice."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Karen Worcester, Executive Director of Wreaths Across America. Karen shares the incredible journey of how a surplus of wreaths led to a viral moment at Arlington National Cemetery, the logistics of coordinating 3 million volunteers to place wreaths at 5,994 ceremony locations, and how the organization works year-round to support veterans and Gold Star families through its three pillars: Remember, Honor, and Teach.

In this episode:
- Discover the movement's origins and how a single photograph in 2005 sparked a global outpouring of support, turning a family tradition into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
- Learn about the Remembrance Tree program, where Gold Star families tag balsam fir trees in Maine to create a living memorial that provides wreaths for veterans' graves.
- Hear how the organization's pillar, Teach, is reaching a million children through free lesson plans designed to shift the focus from "what is a veteran" to "who is that veteran."

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Dr. James Bulgin (Imperial War Museums) – Interpreting the Past for the Next Generation 55 55 Dr. James Bulgin (Imperial War Museums) – Interpreting the Past for the Next Generation full cd57b449-b19c-4aac-ba28-b1dd88661bde https://share.transistor.fm/s/e7dbe7a1 "It's never lost on any of us what a privilege it is to do what we do."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Dr. James Bulgin, Head of Public History at the Imperial War Museums. James shares how the museum preserves the stories of conflict from the First World War to the present day, how the Holocaust galleries emphasize individual stories, and why engaging younger generations remains a vital and urgent task.

In this episode:
- Learn about the museum’s challenge of communicating complex histories to visitors whose understanding is increasingly shaped by popular media
- Hear how survivors and their families helped influence the Holocaust galleries and why their stories matter
- Discover why digital outreach, learning programs, and global accessibility help the museum connect with audiences far beyond its physical sites

]]> "It's never lost on any of us what a privilege it is to do what we do."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Dr. James Bulgin, Head of Public History at the Imperial War Museums. James shares how the museum preserves the stories of conflict from the First World War to the present day, how the Holocaust galleries emphasize individual stories, and why engaging younger generations remains a vital and urgent task.

In this episode:
- Learn about the museum’s challenge of communicating complex histories to visitors whose understanding is increasingly shaped by popular media
- Hear how survivors and their families helped influence the Holocaust galleries and why their stories matter
- Discover why digital outreach, learning programs, and global accessibility help the museum connect with audiences far beyond its physical sites

]]> Thu, 12 Feb 2026 13:27:52 -0700 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1094 "It's never lost on any of us what a privilege it is to do what we do."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Dr. James Bulgin, Head of Public History at the Imperial War Museums. James shares how the museum preserves the stories of conflict from the First World War to the present day, how the Holocaust galleries emphasize individual stories, and why engaging younger generations remains a vital and urgent task.

In this episode:
- Learn about the museum’s challenge of communicating complex histories to visitors whose understanding is increasingly shaped by popular media
- Hear how survivors and their families helped influence the Holocaust galleries and why their stories matter
- Discover why digital outreach, learning programs, and global accessibility help the museum connect with audiences far beyond its physical sites

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Quinn Duffy (Game Director) – Bringing History to Life Through Video Games 54 54 Quinn Duffy (Game Director) – Bringing History to Life Through Video Games full e558b31a-c34b-453f-a0a7-447e0e36229a https://share.transistor.fm/s/b827d9d9 "If gamers look up some piece of information or read about a piece of history and start connecting dots based on their experience in the game, I think that’s an incredibly powerful experience."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Quinn Duffy, a longtime video game director whose games have shaped how millions of players interact with history in the video game franchises "Company of Heroes" and Microsoft's "Age of Empires". Quinn shares how reading veteran accounts, visiting battlefields, and studying military tactics helped bring depth and accuracy to titles that connect players with real history in meaningful ways.

In this episode:
- Learn how Quinn’s battlefield research in places like Leningrad, Caen, and Normandy shaped the authenticity and emotional tone of his games
- Discover how immersion and storytelling come together to create strategy games that stand the test of time
- Hear why Quinn believes historical games can serve as powerful learning tools that encourage players to explore the past beyond the screen

]]> "If gamers look up some piece of information or read about a piece of history and start connecting dots based on their experience in the game, I think that’s an incredibly powerful experience."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Quinn Duffy, a longtime video game director whose games have shaped how millions of players interact with history in the video game franchises "Company of Heroes" and Microsoft's "Age of Empires". Quinn shares how reading veteran accounts, visiting battlefields, and studying military tactics helped bring depth and accuracy to titles that connect players with real history in meaningful ways.

In this episode:
- Learn how Quinn’s battlefield research in places like Leningrad, Caen, and Normandy shaped the authenticity and emotional tone of his games
- Discover how immersion and storytelling come together to create strategy games that stand the test of time
- Hear why Quinn believes historical games can serve as powerful learning tools that encourage players to explore the past beyond the screen

]]> Thu, 05 Feb 2026 10:36:55 -0700 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1209 "If gamers look up some piece of information or read about a piece of history and start connecting dots based on their experience in the game, I think that’s an incredibly powerful experience."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Quinn Duffy, a longtime video game director whose games have shaped how millions of players interact with history in the video game franchises "Company of Heroes" and Microsoft's "Age of Empires". Quinn shares how reading veteran accounts, visiting battlefields, and studying military tactics helped bring depth and accuracy to titles that connect players with real history in meaningful ways.

In this episode:
- Learn how Quinn’s battlefield research in places like Leningrad, Caen, and Normandy shaped the authenticity and emotional tone of his games
- Discover how immersion and storytelling come together to create strategy games that stand the test of time
- Hear why Quinn believes historical games can serve as powerful learning tools that encourage players to explore the past beyond the screen

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Allan Hunn (Escape and Evasion Research and Tours) – Retracing The Escape Routes of WWII 53 53 Allan Hunn (Escape and Evasion Research and Tours) – Retracing The Escape Routes of WWII full ba7efe9d-1be0-47ac-bc85-3b22e64e2207 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f87c5dff "It’s impossible to overemphasize the support that many escapers and evaders had."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Allan Hunn of Escape and Evasion Research and Tours. Allan shares how his work uncovers the routes taken by Allied servicemen crossing the Pyrenees during the Second World War and how retracing those paths helps families connect with acts of courage, sacrifice, and humanity.

In this episode:
- Learn how Allied aircrew and soldiers escaped occupied Europe through the Pyrenees with the help of local civilians
- Hear how meticulous research and on the ground exploration bring escape and evasion stories to life
- Discover how walking these routes provides families with understanding, connection, and closure

]]> "It’s impossible to overemphasize the support that many escapers and evaders had."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Allan Hunn of Escape and Evasion Research and Tours. Allan shares how his work uncovers the routes taken by Allied servicemen crossing the Pyrenees during the Second World War and how retracing those paths helps families connect with acts of courage, sacrifice, and humanity.

In this episode:
- Learn how Allied aircrew and soldiers escaped occupied Europe through the Pyrenees with the help of local civilians
- Hear how meticulous research and on the ground exploration bring escape and evasion stories to life
- Discover how walking these routes provides families with understanding, connection, and closure

]]> Thu, 29 Jan 2026 13:48:53 -0700 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 2356 "It’s impossible to overemphasize the support that many escapers and evaders had."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Allan Hunn of Escape and Evasion Research and Tours. Allan shares how his work uncovers the routes taken by Allied servicemen crossing the Pyrenees during the Second World War and how retracing those paths helps families connect with acts of courage, sacrifice, and humanity.

In this episode:
- Learn how Allied aircrew and soldiers escaped occupied Europe through the Pyrenees with the help of local civilians
- Hear how meticulous research and on the ground exploration bring escape and evasion stories to life
- Discover how walking these routes provides families with understanding, connection, and closure

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Jim Landon (ATCO Frontec) – Service, Remembrance, and the Invictus Games 52 52 Jim Landon (ATCO Frontec) – Service, Remembrance, and the Invictus Games full d43b5c14-c592-42e9-b58f-f9bfd3692700 https://share.transistor.fm/s/7a3b86e1 This week, we speak with Jim Landon of ATCO Frontec, a former British Army officer whose career has spanned global operations, disaster response, veteran advocacy, and major international partnerships through the Invictus Games.

Jim shares how service shaped his leadership, the values that carried him into his work at ATCO Frontec, and why veterans bring powerful skills into civilian organizations.

In this episode:
- Explore the impact of ATCO's Invictus Games involvement and how it is transforming veteran employment and awareness
- Understand why remembrance, defence readiness, and cultural understanding matter more now than ever
- Learn how Jim’s 28 years in the British Army shaped his approach to leadership and teamwork

Learn more: https://frontec.atco.com/en-ca.html
Listen on Apple, Spotify, and Wreaths Across America Radio.

]]> This week, we speak with Jim Landon of ATCO Frontec, a former British Army officer whose career has spanned global operations, disaster response, veteran advocacy, and major international partnerships through the Invictus Games.

Jim shares how service shaped his leadership, the values that carried him into his work at ATCO Frontec, and why veterans bring powerful skills into civilian organizations.

In this episode:
- Explore the impact of ATCO's Invictus Games involvement and how it is transforming veteran employment and awareness
- Understand why remembrance, defence readiness, and cultural understanding matter more now than ever
- Learn how Jim’s 28 years in the British Army shaped his approach to leadership and teamwork

Learn more: https://frontec.atco.com/en-ca.html
Listen on Apple, Spotify, and Wreaths Across America Radio.

]]> Thu, 22 Jan 2026 11:48:16 -0700 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 2674 This week, we speak with Jim Landon of ATCO Frontec, a former British Army officer whose career has spanned global operations, disaster response, veteran advocacy, and major international partnerships through the Invictus Games.

Jim shares how service shaped his leadership, the values that carried him into his work at ATCO Frontec, and why veterans bring powerful skills into civilian organizations.

In this episode:
- Explore the impact of ATCO's Invictus Games involvement and how it is transforming veteran employment and awareness
- Understand why remembrance, defence readiness, and cultural understanding matter more now than ever
- Learn how Jim’s 28 years in the British Army shaped his approach to leadership and teamwork

Learn more: https://frontec.atco.com/en-ca.html
Listen on Apple, Spotify, and Wreaths Across America Radio.

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Zita Ballinger Fletcher (Author & Military Historian) – Bridging Past and Present Through Military History 51 51 Zita Ballinger Fletcher (Author & Military Historian) – Bridging Past and Present Through Military History full db87c663-d404-4439-80db-80d448e5c698 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f95b38da “When you interact with historical documents, it’s like having a conversation with the past and nobody else can have that conversation for you.”

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Zita Ballinger Fletcher, a military historian and author whose work spans World War II research, defense journalism, and cultural preservation. Zita shares how her deep dive into archives and original sources is reshaping our understanding of history and why those lessons matter today.

In this episode:

- Learn how language and translation shape historical narratives
- Hear about her work with the German War Graves Commission and a challenging search for fallen policemen in Berlin
- Explore how FPV drones are changing the future of warfare—and what history can teach us about adapting to new threats

Learn more: https://zitasteele.com/
Listen on Apple, Spotify, and Wreaths Across America Radio.

]]> “When you interact with historical documents, it’s like having a conversation with the past and nobody else can have that conversation for you.”

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Zita Ballinger Fletcher, a military historian and author whose work spans World War II research, defense journalism, and cultural preservation. Zita shares how her deep dive into archives and original sources is reshaping our understanding of history and why those lessons matter today.

In this episode:

- Learn how language and translation shape historical narratives
- Hear about her work with the German War Graves Commission and a challenging search for fallen policemen in Berlin
- Explore how FPV drones are changing the future of warfare—and what history can teach us about adapting to new threats

Learn more: https://zitasteele.com/
Listen on Apple, Spotify, and Wreaths Across America Radio.

]]> Thu, 15 Jan 2026 12:52:24 -0700 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1165 “When you interact with historical documents, it’s like having a conversation with the past and nobody else can have that conversation for you.”

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Zita Ballinger Fletcher, a military historian and author whose work spans World War II research, defense journalism, and cultural preservation. Zita shares how her deep dive into archives and original sources is reshaping our understanding of history and why those lessons matter today.

In this episode:

- Learn how language and translation shape historical narratives
- Hear about her work with the German War Graves Commission and a challenging search for fallen policemen in Berlin
- Explore how FPV drones are changing the future of warfare—and what history can teach us about adapting to new threats

Learn more: https://zitasteele.com/
Listen on Apple, Spotify, and Wreaths Across America Radio.

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Ultan Moran (Dublin Cemeteries Trust) – Irish Echoes Across the Atlantic 50 50 Ultan Moran (Dublin Cemeteries Trust) – Irish Echoes Across the Atlantic full 7ea6a460-0b48-4822-ba14-e26c7b7aa3f8 https://share.transistor.fm/s/6935366b “Glasnevin is of course famous in this country for having the burials of so many people who shaped Irish history.”

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Ultan Moran, historian and tour guide at Glasnevin Cemetery in Dublin, Ireland's National Cemetery. Ultan shares powerful stories of Irish lives that shaped, and were shaped by, North American history.

In this episode:
- Discover how a Dublin-born soldier became a hero of the American Civil War
- Learn how Frederick Douglass was inspired by Irish abolitionist Daniel O’Connell
- Explore the legacy of Irish-born veterans of the Canadian Expeditionary Force and how their memory is preserved today

]]> “Glasnevin is of course famous in this country for having the burials of so many people who shaped Irish history.”

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Ultan Moran, historian and tour guide at Glasnevin Cemetery in Dublin, Ireland's National Cemetery. Ultan shares powerful stories of Irish lives that shaped, and were shaped by, North American history.

In this episode:
- Discover how a Dublin-born soldier became a hero of the American Civil War
- Learn how Frederick Douglass was inspired by Irish abolitionist Daniel O’Connell
- Explore the legacy of Irish-born veterans of the Canadian Expeditionary Force and how their memory is preserved today

]]> Tue, 06 Jan 2026 09:51:40 -0700 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1567 “Glasnevin is of course famous in this country for having the burials of so many people who shaped Irish history.”

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Ultan Moran, historian and tour guide at Glasnevin Cemetery in Dublin, Ireland's National Cemetery. Ultan shares powerful stories of Irish lives that shaped, and were shaped by, North American history.

In this episode:
- Discover how a Dublin-born soldier became a hero of the American Civil War
- Learn how Frederick Douglass was inspired by Irish abolitionist Daniel O’Connell
- Explore the legacy of Irish-born veterans of the Canadian Expeditionary Force and how their memory is preserved today

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Kristen Sergeant (Sargent Initiatives) – Translating Military Values into Industry Success 49 49 Kristen Sergeant (Sargent Initiatives) – Translating Military Values into Industry Success full 3ff2c176-f530-4bd5-ac18-d0d718d2642a https://share.transistor.fm/s/d0eaed29 "Veterans are constantly faced with problems. You're constantly having to solve them. You almost don't know how to walk by a problem, and not solve it."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we're joined by Kristin Sargent, founder of Sargent Initiatives. We explore Kristin’s transition from the US Army’s air defense artillery to her work at the intersection of technology and national security, helping companies navigate the complexities of the defense sector. 

In this episode:

Discover Kristin’s journey from serving as a unit Information Assurance Officer to leading modernization efforts at Booz Allen Hamilton and Amazon Web Services. 

Learn about the core challenges entrepreneurs face when entering the government system, including identifying essential requirements and managing corporate resources efficiently. 

Hear Kristin’s "Measured Restraint" philosophy for business growth and why she believes the defense sector is an "endurance sport" that requires patience and C-suite commitment. 

Explore the unique value veterans bring to the tech industry, fueled by a desire to solve archaic processes and a commitment to the "Mission, Men, Me" hierarchy of service. 

Learn more: Sargent Initiatives and the Defense Entrepreneurs Forum 

Listen on Wreaths Across America Radio on Friday December 19: https://wreathsacrossamerica.org/

]]> "Veterans are constantly faced with problems. You're constantly having to solve them. You almost don't know how to walk by a problem, and not solve it."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we're joined by Kristin Sargent, founder of Sargent Initiatives. We explore Kristin’s transition from the US Army’s air defense artillery to her work at the intersection of technology and national security, helping companies navigate the complexities of the defense sector. 

In this episode:

Discover Kristin’s journey from serving as a unit Information Assurance Officer to leading modernization efforts at Booz Allen Hamilton and Amazon Web Services. 

Learn about the core challenges entrepreneurs face when entering the government system, including identifying essential requirements and managing corporate resources efficiently. 

Hear Kristin’s "Measured Restraint" philosophy for business growth and why she believes the defense sector is an "endurance sport" that requires patience and C-suite commitment. 

Explore the unique value veterans bring to the tech industry, fueled by a desire to solve archaic processes and a commitment to the "Mission, Men, Me" hierarchy of service. 

Learn more: Sargent Initiatives and the Defense Entrepreneurs Forum 

Listen on Wreaths Across America Radio on Friday December 19: https://wreathsacrossamerica.org/

]]> Thu, 18 Dec 2025 14:17:57 -0700 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1788 "Veterans are constantly faced with problems. You're constantly having to solve them. You almost don't know how to walk by a problem, and not solve it."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we're joined by Kristin Sargent, founder of Sargent Initiatives. We explore Kristin’s transition from the US Army’s air defense artillery to her work at the intersection of technology and national security, helping companies navigate the complexities of the defense sector. 

In this episode:

Discover Kristin’s journey from serving as a unit Information Assurance Officer to leading modernization efforts at Booz Allen Hamilton and Amazon Web Services. 

Learn about the core challenges entrepreneurs face when entering the government system, including identifying essential requirements and managing corporate resources efficiently. 

Hear Kristin’s "Measured Restraint" philosophy for business growth and why she believes the defense sector is an "endurance sport" that requires patience and C-suite commitment. 

Explore the unique value veterans bring to the tech industry, fueled by a desire to solve archaic processes and a commitment to the "Mission, Men, Me" hierarchy of service. 

Learn more: Sargent Initiatives and the Defense Entrepreneurs Forum 

Listen on Wreaths Across America Radio on Friday December 19: https://wreathsacrossamerica.org/

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Stuart Smith (Veteran Advocate) – A Lifetime of Service 48 48 Stuart Smith (Veteran Advocate) – A Lifetime of Service full e4dcfd5a-282d-4917-86a5-39773df58033 https://share.transistor.fm/s/2710fe74 "I think more importantly for my fellow veterans is just remember the promise that you made to never leave anyone behind."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Stuart Smith, who has dedicated 33 years to serving his fellow veterans. We explore Stuart's military service, his transition to civilian life, and his commitment to supporting veteran-owned businesses through organizations like the National Veteran Small Business Coalition (NVSBC) and the National Association of Veteran Owned Businesses (NaVOBA).

In this episode:

- Discover Stuart's personal journey from joining the Army as a "last option" to transitioning successfully into human resources and organizational development

- Learn about the work of the National Veteran Small Business Coalition (NVSBC) and the National Association of Veteran Owned Businesses (NaVOBA) in helping veteran small businesses thrive in government contracting and commercial supplier diversity spaces

- Hear why Stuart is honored to MC the Wreaths Across America laying at the Cape Canaveral National Cemetery and what that day means for the community

Learn more: National Veteran Small Business Coalition and National Association of Veteran Owned Businesses

Listen on Apple, Spotify, and Wreaths Across America Radio

]]> "I think more importantly for my fellow veterans is just remember the promise that you made to never leave anyone behind."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Stuart Smith, who has dedicated 33 years to serving his fellow veterans. We explore Stuart's military service, his transition to civilian life, and his commitment to supporting veteran-owned businesses through organizations like the National Veteran Small Business Coalition (NVSBC) and the National Association of Veteran Owned Businesses (NaVOBA).

In this episode:

- Discover Stuart's personal journey from joining the Army as a "last option" to transitioning successfully into human resources and organizational development

- Learn about the work of the National Veteran Small Business Coalition (NVSBC) and the National Association of Veteran Owned Businesses (NaVOBA) in helping veteran small businesses thrive in government contracting and commercial supplier diversity spaces

- Hear why Stuart is honored to MC the Wreaths Across America laying at the Cape Canaveral National Cemetery and what that day means for the community

Learn more: National Veteran Small Business Coalition and National Association of Veteran Owned Businesses

Listen on Apple, Spotify, and Wreaths Across America Radio

]]> Thu, 11 Dec 2025 12:38:31 -0700 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1241 "I think more importantly for my fellow veterans is just remember the promise that you made to never leave anyone behind."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Stuart Smith, who has dedicated 33 years to serving his fellow veterans. We explore Stuart's military service, his transition to civilian life, and his commitment to supporting veteran-owned businesses through organizations like the National Veteran Small Business Coalition (NVSBC) and the National Association of Veteran Owned Businesses (NaVOBA).

In this episode:

- Discover Stuart's personal journey from joining the Army as a "last option" to transitioning successfully into human resources and organizational development

- Learn about the work of the National Veteran Small Business Coalition (NVSBC) and the National Association of Veteran Owned Businesses (NaVOBA) in helping veteran small businesses thrive in government contracting and commercial supplier diversity spaces

- Hear why Stuart is honored to MC the Wreaths Across America laying at the Cape Canaveral National Cemetery and what that day means for the community

Learn more: National Veteran Small Business Coalition and National Association of Veteran Owned Businesses

Listen on Apple, Spotify, and Wreaths Across America Radio

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Attila Szalay-Berzeviczy (Author) – Capturing the Centenary of the Great War 47 47 Attila Szalay-Berzeviczy (Author) – Capturing the Centenary of the Great War full 4664c1d5-e640-490d-824d-ddfa70fc5945 https://share.transistor.fm/s/8924a1c2 "We all live in the world created by the First World War."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Attila Szalay-Berzeviczy, author of In the Centennial Footsteps of the Great War. Attila shares how a personal journey to Sarajevo evolved into a global project documenting the centenary of World War I.

In this episode:
- Discover why the First World War remains the most transformative period of the last 200 years
- Learn how Attila navigated war zones and military restrictions to capture rare commemorative moments
- Explore the untold stories of frontier theaters that shaped the outcome of the war

Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/InTheCentennialFootstepsOfTheGreatWar
Listen on Apple, Spotify, and Wreaths Across America Radio

]]> "We all live in the world created by the First World War."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Attila Szalay-Berzeviczy, author of In the Centennial Footsteps of the Great War. Attila shares how a personal journey to Sarajevo evolved into a global project documenting the centenary of World War I.

In this episode:
- Discover why the First World War remains the most transformative period of the last 200 years
- Learn how Attila navigated war zones and military restrictions to capture rare commemorative moments
- Explore the untold stories of frontier theaters that shaped the outcome of the war

Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/InTheCentennialFootstepsOfTheGreatWar
Listen on Apple, Spotify, and Wreaths Across America Radio

]]> Thu, 04 Dec 2025 15:23:30 -0700 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 2201 "We all live in the world created by the First World War."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Attila Szalay-Berzeviczy, author of In the Centennial Footsteps of the Great War. Attila shares how a personal journey to Sarajevo evolved into a global project documenting the centenary of World War I.

In this episode:
- Discover why the First World War remains the most transformative period of the last 200 years
- Learn how Attila navigated war zones and military restrictions to capture rare commemorative moments
- Explore the untold stories of frontier theaters that shaped the outcome of the war

Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/InTheCentennialFootstepsOfTheGreatWar
Listen on Apple, Spotify, and Wreaths Across America Radio

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Courtney Trollinger (Army Historical Foundation) – Preserving the Legacy of the American Soldier 46 46 Courtney Trollinger (Army Historical Foundation) – Preserving the Legacy of the American Soldier full 28f65940-c333-4aac-a2d5-696a54bf7c91 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f5e8795c "Every soldier’s story deserves to be remembered."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Courtney Trollinger, Vice President of Development at the Army Historical Foundation, the organization behind the National Museum of the United States Army. Courtney shares how the Foundation is safeguarding Army history and inspiring future generations through immersive exhibits.

In this episode:
- Discover why the Army was the last branch to have a national museum and how that changed in 2020
- Explore the museum’s awe-inspiring galleries, including World War I artifacts and the Soldier Stories exhibit
- Learn about upcoming projects like the Call to Arms exhibit, the Nisei Traveling Exhibit, and plans for a memorial garden on the museum campus

Learn more: https://www.armyhistory.org

]]> "Every soldier’s story deserves to be remembered."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Courtney Trollinger, Vice President of Development at the Army Historical Foundation, the organization behind the National Museum of the United States Army. Courtney shares how the Foundation is safeguarding Army history and inspiring future generations through immersive exhibits.

In this episode:
- Discover why the Army was the last branch to have a national museum and how that changed in 2020
- Explore the museum’s awe-inspiring galleries, including World War I artifacts and the Soldier Stories exhibit
- Learn about upcoming projects like the Call to Arms exhibit, the Nisei Traveling Exhibit, and plans for a memorial garden on the museum campus

Learn more: https://www.armyhistory.org

]]> Thu, 27 Nov 2025 15:07:47 -0700 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1076 "Every soldier’s story deserves to be remembered."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Courtney Trollinger, Vice President of Development at the Army Historical Foundation, the organization behind the National Museum of the United States Army. Courtney shares how the Foundation is safeguarding Army history and inspiring future generations through immersive exhibits.

In this episode:
- Discover why the Army was the last branch to have a national museum and how that changed in 2020
- Explore the museum’s awe-inspiring galleries, including World War I artifacts and the Soldier Stories exhibit
- Learn about upcoming projects like the Call to Arms exhibit, the Nisei Traveling Exhibit, and plans for a memorial garden on the museum campus

Learn more: https://www.armyhistory.org

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Louise Fetigan (Little Troopers UK) - Building a Legacy of Care for the UK Military Families 45 45 Louise Fetigan (Little Troopers UK) - Building a Legacy of Care for the UK Military Families full 4493bd4a-bed1-4aee-8ddd-5f315063f86d https://share.transistor.fm/s/5e4e58ee "She deserved better, that she hadn’t joined the military. Me and my husband had both chosen to serve our country, but she hadn’t made that choice yet."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Louise Fetigan, founder of Little Troopers in the United Kingdom. Louise shares how her personal journey as a military parent led to the creation of a national charity supporting children with parents in the British Armed Forces.

In this episode:
- Learn how Little Troopers supports over 25,000 children annually through therapy, school programs, and family reconnection camps
- Hear how the new Little Troopers Clubs are creating continuity for children who move schools frequently
- Discover how Christmas Smiles boxes bring joy to families separated by deployment during the holidays

Learn more: littletroopers.net

]]> "She deserved better, that she hadn’t joined the military. Me and my husband had both chosen to serve our country, but she hadn’t made that choice yet."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Louise Fetigan, founder of Little Troopers in the United Kingdom. Louise shares how her personal journey as a military parent led to the creation of a national charity supporting children with parents in the British Armed Forces.

In this episode:
- Learn how Little Troopers supports over 25,000 children annually through therapy, school programs, and family reconnection camps
- Hear how the new Little Troopers Clubs are creating continuity for children who move schools frequently
- Discover how Christmas Smiles boxes bring joy to families separated by deployment during the holidays

Learn more: littletroopers.net

]]> Thu, 20 Nov 2025 01:00:00 -0700 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1639 "She deserved better, that she hadn’t joined the military. Me and my husband had both chosen to serve our country, but she hadn’t made that choice yet."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Louise Fetigan, founder of Little Troopers in the United Kingdom. Louise shares how her personal journey as a military parent led to the creation of a national charity supporting children with parents in the British Armed Forces.

In this episode:
- Learn how Little Troopers supports over 25,000 children annually through therapy, school programs, and family reconnection camps
- Hear how the new Little Troopers Clubs are creating continuity for children who move schools frequently
- Discover how Christmas Smiles boxes bring joy to families separated by deployment during the holidays

Learn more: littletroopers.net

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Dr Megan Wang (Royal Air Force Museum UK) – Preserving Memory Beyond the Battlefield 44 44 Dr Megan Wang (Royal Air Force Museum UK) – Preserving Memory Beyond the Battlefield full aeb5fa85-70fc-4bed-9897-5724b7b2ae1c https://share.transistor.fm/s/6e61b9a0 “No matter how you choose to commemorate or how you choose to remember people, just make sure you say their names.”

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Dr. Megan Wang, Historian and Academic Access Manager at the Royal Air Force Museum. Megan shares her passion for commemoration and the stories behind war graves in Britain and beyond.

In this episode:
- Understand the unique challenges of commemorating war dead buried far from the battlefield
- Hear how original grave markers reveal unexpected stories of respect between enemies
- Explore the future of commemoration and how museums connect new generations to military history

Learn more: https://www.rafmuseum.org.uk

]]> “No matter how you choose to commemorate or how you choose to remember people, just make sure you say their names.”

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Dr. Megan Wang, Historian and Academic Access Manager at the Royal Air Force Museum. Megan shares her passion for commemoration and the stories behind war graves in Britain and beyond.

In this episode:
- Understand the unique challenges of commemorating war dead buried far from the battlefield
- Hear how original grave markers reveal unexpected stories of respect between enemies
- Explore the future of commemoration and how museums connect new generations to military history

Learn more: https://www.rafmuseum.org.uk

]]> Thu, 13 Nov 2025 12:20:56 -0700 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 2853 “No matter how you choose to commemorate or how you choose to remember people, just make sure you say their names.”

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Dr. Megan Wang, Historian and Academic Access Manager at the Royal Air Force Museum. Megan shares her passion for commemoration and the stories behind war graves in Britain and beyond.

In this episode:
- Understand the unique challenges of commemorating war dead buried far from the battlefield
- Hear how original grave markers reveal unexpected stories of respect between enemies
- Explore the future of commemoration and how museums connect new generations to military history

Learn more: https://www.rafmuseum.org.uk

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Philippa Rawlinson (National Memorial Arboretum) – A Living Landscape of Remembrance 43 43 Philippa Rawlinson (National Memorial Arboretum) – A Living Landscape of Remembrance full 897cf8b0-9401-4db1-a146-e24abc05bbd9 https://share.transistor.fm/s/a8f8df84 "Remembrance unites us and brings us together."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Philippa Rawlinson, Managing Director of the National Memorial Arboretum in the UK. Philippa shares how the Arboretum fosters connection through nature and storytelling, and why remembrance is more important than ever in today’s world.

In this episode:
- Learn how a memorial to the Desert Rats helped Philippa connect with her grandfather’s legacy
- Discover how the Arboretum engages 25,000 young people annually through immersive education
- Hear how the Arboretum is evolving with new memorials, including tributes to parliamentarians and Muslim soldiers of the World Wars

Learn more: https://www.nma.org.uk
Listen on Apple, Spotify, and Wreaths Across America Radio

]]> "Remembrance unites us and brings us together."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Philippa Rawlinson, Managing Director of the National Memorial Arboretum in the UK. Philippa shares how the Arboretum fosters connection through nature and storytelling, and why remembrance is more important than ever in today’s world.

In this episode:
- Learn how a memorial to the Desert Rats helped Philippa connect with her grandfather’s legacy
- Discover how the Arboretum engages 25,000 young people annually through immersive education
- Hear how the Arboretum is evolving with new memorials, including tributes to parliamentarians and Muslim soldiers of the World Wars

Learn more: https://www.nma.org.uk
Listen on Apple, Spotify, and Wreaths Across America Radio

]]> Thu, 06 Nov 2025 14:32:40 -0700 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1315 "Remembrance unites us and brings us together."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Philippa Rawlinson, Managing Director of the National Memorial Arboretum in the UK. Philippa shares how the Arboretum fosters connection through nature and storytelling, and why remembrance is more important than ever in today’s world.

In this episode:
- Learn how a memorial to the Desert Rats helped Philippa connect with her grandfather’s legacy
- Discover how the Arboretum engages 25,000 young people annually through immersive education
- Hear how the Arboretum is evolving with new memorials, including tributes to parliamentarians and Muslim soldiers of the World Wars

Learn more: https://www.nma.org.uk
Listen on Apple, Spotify, and Wreaths Across America Radio

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Dr. Allison S. Finkelstein (U.S. Army National Military Cemeteries) - Arlington’s Hidden History 42 42 Dr. Allison S. Finkelstein (U.S. Army National Military Cemeteries) - Arlington’s Hidden History full 58f7350d-11d9-4955-9a43-b710b0e68deb https://share.transistor.fm/s/86f0b1d0 "Every day is different. Every day is exciting. And one of the things that drives me the most is this feeling of the overwhelming amount of stories that there are to be told at Arlington.”

New this week is our episode featuring Dr. Allison S. Finkelstein with U.S. Army National Military Cemeteries Arlington National Cemetery where we learn about the incredible scale, scope, and deep meaning of this historic American landmark.

*Undertold Stories of Women in WWI: The "Hello Girls" and "reconstruction aides" 

*Unconventional Memorials: Learn about Arlington's beautiful, living memorials, including Arlington's memorial trees, part of their Level 3 Memorial Arboretum.

*America's 250th Anniversary in 2026: The cemetery's plans to highlight graves and sites connected to Anniversary.

]]> "Every day is different. Every day is exciting. And one of the things that drives me the most is this feeling of the overwhelming amount of stories that there are to be told at Arlington.”

New this week is our episode featuring Dr. Allison S. Finkelstein with U.S. Army National Military Cemeteries Arlington National Cemetery where we learn about the incredible scale, scope, and deep meaning of this historic American landmark.

*Undertold Stories of Women in WWI: The "Hello Girls" and "reconstruction aides" 

*Unconventional Memorials: Learn about Arlington's beautiful, living memorials, including Arlington's memorial trees, part of their Level 3 Memorial Arboretum.

*America's 250th Anniversary in 2026: The cemetery's plans to highlight graves and sites connected to Anniversary.

]]> Thu, 30 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1989 "Every day is different. Every day is exciting. And one of the things that drives me the most is this feeling of the overwhelming amount of stories that there are to be told at Arlington.”

New this week is our episode featuring Dr. Allison S. Finkelstein with U.S. Army National Military Cemeteries Arlington National Cemetery where we learn about the incredible scale, scope, and deep meaning of this historic American landmark.

*Undertold Stories of Women in WWI: The "Hello Girls" and "reconstruction aides" 

*Unconventional Memorials: Learn about Arlington's beautiful, living memorials, including Arlington's memorial trees, part of their Level 3 Memorial Arboretum.

*America's 250th Anniversary in 2026: The cemetery's plans to highlight graves and sites connected to Anniversary.

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Charles Sadnick and Bob Brinkman (Texas Historical Commission) - Preserving Texas History One Marker at a Time 41 41 Charles Sadnick and Bob Brinkman (Texas Historical Commission) - Preserving Texas History One Marker at a Time full ae170bd8-f7b9-465f-8e09-08a25c521495 https://share.transistor.fm/s/93daba9c “We have about 17,000 historical markers in Texas and every single one tells a story worth remembering.” – Charles Sadnick, Texas Historical Commission

In this week's episode we speak with Charles Sadnick and Bob Brinkman of the Texas Historical Commission.

Charles and Bob talk about preserving Texas history through their historical marker program, where each marker reveals a moment, a person, or a community that shaped the state’s identity. 

In this episode:

- Learn how to submit a story idea by November 15th that may become a part of the Undertold Marker Program

- Hear about unique historical markers including a Cold War missile silo, a Korean-Texan heritage site, and historic Texas cemeteries

- Explore how the team is using mobile apps and digital archives to connect Texans with their past

]]> “We have about 17,000 historical markers in Texas and every single one tells a story worth remembering.” – Charles Sadnick, Texas Historical Commission

In this week's episode we speak with Charles Sadnick and Bob Brinkman of the Texas Historical Commission.

Charles and Bob talk about preserving Texas history through their historical marker program, where each marker reveals a moment, a person, or a community that shaped the state’s identity. 

In this episode:

- Learn how to submit a story idea by November 15th that may become a part of the Undertold Marker Program

- Hear about unique historical markers including a Cold War missile silo, a Korean-Texan heritage site, and historic Texas cemeteries

- Explore how the team is using mobile apps and digital archives to connect Texans with their past

]]> Thu, 23 Oct 2025 15:26:20 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1848 “We have about 17,000 historical markers in Texas and every single one tells a story worth remembering.” – Charles Sadnick, Texas Historical Commission

In this week's episode we speak with Charles Sadnick and Bob Brinkman of the Texas Historical Commission.

Charles and Bob talk about preserving Texas history through their historical marker program, where each marker reveals a moment, a person, or a community that shaped the state’s identity. 

In this episode:

- Learn how to submit a story idea by November 15th that may become a part of the Undertold Marker Program

- Hear about unique historical markers including a Cold War missile silo, a Korean-Texan heritage site, and historic Texas cemeteries

- Explore how the team is using mobile apps and digital archives to connect Texans with their past

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Alexandra McKinnon (Department of National Defence) - Reconnecting Families with Canada’s Missing War Dead 40 40 Alexandra McKinnon (Department of National Defence) - Reconnecting Families with Canada’s Missing War Dead full aa0ec078-3b2f-465d-8c2b-4aabfef775d1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/1c8a7197 "The ultimate purpose of the Casualty Identification Program is for the missing to be buried with their name, by their unit, and in the presence of their family."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Alexandra McKinnon, historian with the Canadian Department of Defence Casualty Identification Program. Alexandra shares how her team is using historical research, forensic anthropology, and DNA to reconnect families with lost loved ones from the First World War, WWII, Korea, and beyond.

In this episode:
- Learn how attestation papers, ancestry trees, and social media help solve century-old mysteries
- Hear how a soldier’s height and age can narrow a list of 1,300 missing names
- Discover why Hill 70 remains one of Canada’s most overlooked battlefields
 

]]> "The ultimate purpose of the Casualty Identification Program is for the missing to be buried with their name, by their unit, and in the presence of their family."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Alexandra McKinnon, historian with the Canadian Department of Defence Casualty Identification Program. Alexandra shares how her team is using historical research, forensic anthropology, and DNA to reconnect families with lost loved ones from the First World War, WWII, Korea, and beyond.

In this episode:
- Learn how attestation papers, ancestry trees, and social media help solve century-old mysteries
- Hear how a soldier’s height and age can narrow a list of 1,300 missing names
- Discover why Hill 70 remains one of Canada’s most overlooked battlefields
 

]]> Thu, 16 Oct 2025 11:15:16 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 2101 "The ultimate purpose of the Casualty Identification Program is for the missing to be buried with their name, by their unit, and in the presence of their family."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Alexandra McKinnon, historian with the Canadian Department of Defence Casualty Identification Program. Alexandra shares how her team is using historical research, forensic anthropology, and DNA to reconnect families with lost loved ones from the First World War, WWII, Korea, and beyond.

In this episode:
- Learn how attestation papers, ancestry trees, and social media help solve century-old mysteries
- Hear how a soldier’s height and age can narrow a list of 1,300 missing names
- Discover why Hill 70 remains one of Canada’s most overlooked battlefields
 

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Stephen Harding (New York Times Bestselling Author) – Untold Stories of War, Sacrifice, and Memory 39 39 Stephen Harding (New York Times Bestselling Author) – Untold Stories of War, Sacrifice, and Memory full 7ac0a38e-3b4b-4b2d-90b2-2930d9bb53e7 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b8b1608f "War does something to you...it affects you for the rest of your life."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with New York Times bestselling author and veteran Stephen Harding. Stephen shares how a year in military hospitals shaped his lifelong commitment to telling the stories of those who served and those who never came home.

His work explores the human cost of war, the complexities of remembrance, and the quiet heroism often lost to history.

In this episode:
- Learn how FBI agents in Army uniforms hunted American traitors in WWII
- Discover the story of a German officer who defied the SS and died defending French prisoners alongside American troops
- Hear why military cemeteries carry a different kind of weight and what they reveal about national memory

]]> "War does something to you...it affects you for the rest of your life."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with New York Times bestselling author and veteran Stephen Harding. Stephen shares how a year in military hospitals shaped his lifelong commitment to telling the stories of those who served and those who never came home.

His work explores the human cost of war, the complexities of remembrance, and the quiet heroism often lost to history.

In this episode:
- Learn how FBI agents in Army uniforms hunted American traitors in WWII
- Discover the story of a German officer who defied the SS and died defending French prisoners alongside American troops
- Hear why military cemeteries carry a different kind of weight and what they reveal about national memory

]]> Thu, 09 Oct 2025 15:14:17 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1688 "War does something to you...it affects you for the rest of your life."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with New York Times bestselling author and veteran Stephen Harding. Stephen shares how a year in military hospitals shaped his lifelong commitment to telling the stories of those who served and those who never came home.

His work explores the human cost of war, the complexities of remembrance, and the quiet heroism often lost to history.

In this episode:
- Learn how FBI agents in Army uniforms hunted American traitors in WWII
- Discover the story of a German officer who defied the SS and died defending French prisoners alongside American troops
- Hear why military cemeteries carry a different kind of weight and what they reveal about national memory

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Anoma Pieris and Arthur Tsakonas (Eucalypts of Hodogaya Shrine of Remembrance) - the Architecture of Reconciliation 38 38 Anoma Pieris and Arthur Tsakonas (Eucalypts of Hodogaya Shrine of Remembrance) - the Architecture of Reconciliation full 776094f6-fcda-4f16-b541-72a27e9554f2 https://share.transistor.fm/s/504b7261 "We want the public sentiment to turn away from war and towards reconciliation."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Professor Anoma Pieris and Arthur Tsakonas from the University of Melbourne about the Yokohama War Cemetery and the exhibition they co-curated at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne.

Eucalypts of Hodogaya is more than an architectural story. It’s a reflection on memory, diplomacy, and the quiet power of collaboration. Anoma and Arthur share how Australian and Japanese architects worked together in the 1940s to build a cemetery that honors the dead and invites the living to reflect.

In this episode:
- Learn how a Japanese garden design shaped a Commonwealth cemetery
- Hear the story of a POW who taught architecture in a prison camp
- Discover why reconciliation is central to the exhibition’s message

]]> "We want the public sentiment to turn away from war and towards reconciliation."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Professor Anoma Pieris and Arthur Tsakonas from the University of Melbourne about the Yokohama War Cemetery and the exhibition they co-curated at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne.

Eucalypts of Hodogaya is more than an architectural story. It’s a reflection on memory, diplomacy, and the quiet power of collaboration. Anoma and Arthur share how Australian and Japanese architects worked together in the 1940s to build a cemetery that honors the dead and invites the living to reflect.

In this episode:
- Learn how a Japanese garden design shaped a Commonwealth cemetery
- Hear the story of a POW who taught architecture in a prison camp
- Discover why reconciliation is central to the exhibition’s message

]]> Thu, 02 Oct 2025 13:11:15 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 2045 "We want the public sentiment to turn away from war and towards reconciliation."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Professor Anoma Pieris and Arthur Tsakonas from the University of Melbourne about the Yokohama War Cemetery and the exhibition they co-curated at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne.

Eucalypts of Hodogaya is more than an architectural story. It’s a reflection on memory, diplomacy, and the quiet power of collaboration. Anoma and Arthur share how Australian and Japanese architects worked together in the 1940s to build a cemetery that honors the dead and invites the living to reflect.

In this episode:
- Learn how a Japanese garden design shaped a Commonwealth cemetery
- Hear the story of a POW who taught architecture in a prison camp
- Discover why reconciliation is central to the exhibition’s message

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Michael Caldwell and Kevin Basik (National Medal of Honor Museum and Monument) - A Medal Steeped in History 37 37 Michael Caldwell and Kevin Basik (National Medal of Honor Museum and Monument) - A Medal Steeped in History full 12d72471-c92c-4b7c-83ce-0495c1e5b828 https://share.transistor.fm/s/52a433be “They're ordinary people who in a moment of time on the battlefield, courage met circumstance, and they did something extraordinary.”

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Mike Caldwell and Kevin Basik of the National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation. Together, they’re building a museum, a monument, and a movement to help people reconnect with the values that hold a nation together.

Mike shares how the museum’s design reflects the weight and meaning of the medal, while Kevin introduces the Griffin Institute, a leadership hub helping people face life’s battles with courage, character, and clarity.

In this episode:

- Hear how the Griffin Institute is helping leaders define their creed
- Find out why Arlington, Texas was chosen as the home for the museum
- Discover how Medal of Honor stories are being used in classrooms and corporate boardrooms

]]> “They're ordinary people who in a moment of time on the battlefield, courage met circumstance, and they did something extraordinary.”

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Mike Caldwell and Kevin Basik of the National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation. Together, they’re building a museum, a monument, and a movement to help people reconnect with the values that hold a nation together.

Mike shares how the museum’s design reflects the weight and meaning of the medal, while Kevin introduces the Griffin Institute, a leadership hub helping people face life’s battles with courage, character, and clarity.

In this episode:

- Hear how the Griffin Institute is helping leaders define their creed
- Find out why Arlington, Texas was chosen as the home for the museum
- Discover how Medal of Honor stories are being used in classrooms and corporate boardrooms

]]> Wed, 24 Sep 2025 16:20:47 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 3222 “They're ordinary people who in a moment of time on the battlefield, courage met circumstance, and they did something extraordinary.”

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Mike Caldwell and Kevin Basik of the National Medal of Honor Museum Foundation. Together, they’re building a museum, a monument, and a movement to help people reconnect with the values that hold a nation together.

Mike shares how the museum’s design reflects the weight and meaning of the medal, while Kevin introduces the Griffin Institute, a leadership hub helping people face life’s battles with courage, character, and clarity.

In this episode:

- Hear how the Griffin Institute is helping leaders define their creed
- Find out why Arlington, Texas was chosen as the home for the museum
- Discover how Medal of Honor stories are being used in classrooms and corporate boardrooms

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Cyndi Benavides (Historic Mallory Cemetery) - A Site Worth Saving 36 36 Cyndi Benavides (Historic Mallory Cemetery) - A Site Worth Saving full 35914285-76b0-4c76-9a6d-3d05b4f1112d https://share.transistor.fm/s/a85d3c7b "I didn’t go looking for it. It found me."

This week we speak with Cyndi Benavides, Army veteran and founder of the nonprofit Mallory Cemetery, a historic cemetery tucked into the heart of Franklin, Tennessee.

In this episode, Cyndi shares how a quiet walk in 2020 turned into a mission of preservation, storytelling, and connection.

In this episode:

- Learn how one veteran became the voice for a forgotten cemetery
- Hear about the Revolutionary War patriot, John Mallory, buried on site
- Find out how Cyndi rallied the community behind the cemetery's restoration following a devastating hurricane

]]> "I didn’t go looking for it. It found me."

This week we speak with Cyndi Benavides, Army veteran and founder of the nonprofit Mallory Cemetery, a historic cemetery tucked into the heart of Franklin, Tennessee.

In this episode, Cyndi shares how a quiet walk in 2020 turned into a mission of preservation, storytelling, and connection.

In this episode:

- Learn how one veteran became the voice for a forgotten cemetery
- Hear about the Revolutionary War patriot, John Mallory, buried on site
- Find out how Cyndi rallied the community behind the cemetery's restoration following a devastating hurricane

]]> Wed, 17 Sep 2025 14:21:07 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1058 "I didn’t go looking for it. It found me."

This week we speak with Cyndi Benavides, Army veteran and founder of the nonprofit Mallory Cemetery, a historic cemetery tucked into the heart of Franklin, Tennessee.

In this episode, Cyndi shares how a quiet walk in 2020 turned into a mission of preservation, storytelling, and connection.

In this episode:

- Learn how one veteran became the voice for a forgotten cemetery
- Hear about the Revolutionary War patriot, John Mallory, buried on site
- Find out how Cyndi rallied the community behind the cemetery's restoration following a devastating hurricane

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Steve Topham (Wounded Warriors Canada) - Road to Freedom on The Battlefield Bike Ride 35 35 Steve Topham (Wounded Warriors Canada) - Road to Freedom on The Battlefield Bike Ride full 670d2f5c-6a17-41da-8856-031749736de9 https://share.transistor.fm/s/0c66b07f "Just because they hang up the uniform doesn’t mean they stop serving."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Steve Topham of Wounded Warriors Canada about the healing power of remembrance, the importance of community, and the transformative experience of the Battlefield Bike Ride.

From Vimy Ridge to the Scheldt Estuary, Steve shares how this annual ride helps veterans, first responders, and families reconnect with history, with each other, and with themselves.
 In this episode:

- Learn how the Battlefield Bike Ride became a gateway to healing
- Hear stories of veterans rediscovering their family history on the ride
- Discover why trauma is trauma, and why no one should struggle alone
 Learn more: woundedwarriors.ca and bbrseries.ca

]]> "Just because they hang up the uniform doesn’t mean they stop serving."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Steve Topham of Wounded Warriors Canada about the healing power of remembrance, the importance of community, and the transformative experience of the Battlefield Bike Ride.

From Vimy Ridge to the Scheldt Estuary, Steve shares how this annual ride helps veterans, first responders, and families reconnect with history, with each other, and with themselves.
 In this episode:

- Learn how the Battlefield Bike Ride became a gateway to healing
- Hear stories of veterans rediscovering their family history on the ride
- Discover why trauma is trauma, and why no one should struggle alone
 Learn more: woundedwarriors.ca and bbrseries.ca

]]> Mon, 08 Sep 2025 13:26:46 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1802 "Just because they hang up the uniform doesn’t mean they stop serving."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Steve Topham of Wounded Warriors Canada about the healing power of remembrance, the importance of community, and the transformative experience of the Battlefield Bike Ride.

From Vimy Ridge to the Scheldt Estuary, Steve shares how this annual ride helps veterans, first responders, and families reconnect with history, with each other, and with themselves.
 In this episode:

- Learn how the Battlefield Bike Ride became a gateway to healing
- Hear stories of veterans rediscovering their family history on the ride
- Discover why trauma is trauma, and why no one should struggle alone
 Learn more: woundedwarriors.ca and bbrseries.ca

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Jason Gillard (Veterans Awards Ireland) - Building Bridges Through Service 34 34 Jason Gillard (Veterans Awards Ireland) - Building Bridges Through Service full c06ba6df-eaa2-45c5-bb4c-a8414042d77c https://share.transistor.fm/s/bae408da “We had a nominee called Bryan Phillips, unbelievable lad. Double amputee. He was in the Irish Guards, lost his legs in Afghanistan. And when I saw his name was called out and he stood up ... I turned to my wife and I said, that's why I've done this.”


This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Jason Gillard, veteran, entrepreneur, and founder of Veteran Awards Ireland.


Jason’s mission is nothing short of transformative: giving veterans permission to step out of the shadows, celebrate their service, and reconnect with community and business.


In this episode:


- How the Awards are rewriting the narrative for veterans in Northern Ireland and expanding to the Republic of Ireland in 2027

- The life-changing power of recognition

- Learn about Connect Through Service Ltd and the power of trust in veteran employment



Follow: Veteran Awards Ireland on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X

]]> “We had a nominee called Bryan Phillips, unbelievable lad. Double amputee. He was in the Irish Guards, lost his legs in Afghanistan. And when I saw his name was called out and he stood up ... I turned to my wife and I said, that's why I've done this.”


This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Jason Gillard, veteran, entrepreneur, and founder of Veteran Awards Ireland.


Jason’s mission is nothing short of transformative: giving veterans permission to step out of the shadows, celebrate their service, and reconnect with community and business.


In this episode:


- How the Awards are rewriting the narrative for veterans in Northern Ireland and expanding to the Republic of Ireland in 2027

- The life-changing power of recognition

- Learn about Connect Through Service Ltd and the power of trust in veteran employment



Follow: Veteran Awards Ireland on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X

]]> Wed, 03 Sep 2025 16:12:50 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1770 “We had a nominee called Bryan Phillips, unbelievable lad. Double amputee. He was in the Irish Guards, lost his legs in Afghanistan. And when I saw his name was called out and he stood up ... I turned to my wife and I said, that's why I've done this.”


This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Jason Gillard, veteran, entrepreneur, and founder of Veteran Awards Ireland.


Jason’s mission is nothing short of transformative: giving veterans permission to step out of the shadows, celebrate their service, and reconnect with community and business.


In this episode:


- How the Awards are rewriting the narrative for veterans in Northern Ireland and expanding to the Republic of Ireland in 2027

- The life-changing power of recognition

- Learn about Connect Through Service Ltd and the power of trust in veteran employment



Follow: Veteran Awards Ireland on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No John Shertzer (Medal of Honor Foundation) - Inspiring the Next Generation 33 33 John Shertzer (Medal of Honor Foundation) - Inspiring the Next Generation full 9e10ac45-dd42-41e7-bdad-65b68a1b8354 https://share.transistor.fm/s/288d5126 "I didn’t understand the stakes until I saw what these men had done and how they continue to serve."


This week we speak with John Shertzer, Executive Director of the Medal of Honor Foundation, about the sacred mission of preserving valor, inspiring citizenship, and connecting generations through the legacy of America’s highest military honor.


From classroom programs to national museums, John shares how the Foundation is amplifying the stories of Medal of Honor recipients and helping young people rediscover courage, service, and civic pride.


In this episode:


- Learn how the Foundation is reaching 20,000+ teachers and transforming classroom culture


- Hear the story behind the real-life Medal of Honor ceremony used in Forrest Gump


- Discover how the Citizen Honors Awards spotlight everyday acts of heroism

]]> "I didn’t understand the stakes until I saw what these men had done and how they continue to serve."


This week we speak with John Shertzer, Executive Director of the Medal of Honor Foundation, about the sacred mission of preserving valor, inspiring citizenship, and connecting generations through the legacy of America’s highest military honor.


From classroom programs to national museums, John shares how the Foundation is amplifying the stories of Medal of Honor recipients and helping young people rediscover courage, service, and civic pride.


In this episode:


- Learn how the Foundation is reaching 20,000+ teachers and transforming classroom culture


- Hear the story behind the real-life Medal of Honor ceremony used in Forrest Gump


- Discover how the Citizen Honors Awards spotlight everyday acts of heroism

]]> Mon, 25 Aug 2025 11:15:05 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1794 "I didn’t understand the stakes until I saw what these men had done and how they continue to serve."


This week we speak with John Shertzer, Executive Director of the Medal of Honor Foundation, about the sacred mission of preserving valor, inspiring citizenship, and connecting generations through the legacy of America’s highest military honor.


From classroom programs to national museums, John shares how the Foundation is amplifying the stories of Medal of Honor recipients and helping young people rediscover courage, service, and civic pride.


In this episode:


- Learn how the Foundation is reaching 20,000+ teachers and transforming classroom culture


- Hear the story behind the real-life Medal of Honor ceremony used in Forrest Gump


- Discover how the Citizen Honors Awards spotlight everyday acts of heroism

]]> Medal of Honor, Medal of Honor Foundation, John Shertzer, Forrest Gump, Real Forrest Gump, veterans, military service No Captain Jay Singh-Sohal OBE VR (WW1 Sikh Memorial) - Building Bridges Through Commemoration 32 32 Captain Jay Singh-Sohal OBE VR (WW1 Sikh Memorial) - Building Bridges Through Commemoration full 31c8e4ed-0630-4a6d-bf09-9e5acd52b70e https://share.transistor.fm/s/679fc157 "Commemoration is another kind of service. It is about remembering those who came before and inspiring those who come next."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Jay Singh-Sohal, active reservist, veteran, Chairman of the World War I Sikh Memorial,  Trustee of The Commonwealth War Graves Foundation, about representation, remembrance, and the power of storytelling.

From Birmingham to Burma, Jay shares how his personal journey led to a global mission honouring Sikh and Commonwealth contributions, challenging historical gaps, and helping future generations connect with service and sacrifice.

 In this episode:

  • Learn how the WWI Sikh Memorial in England is reshaping remembrance
  • Hear about the African Labour Corps Memorial and the movement to correct non-commemoration
  • Discover why diversity in service brings strength, insight, and innovation

Explore the memorial and Jay’s work: [Search “WWI Sikh Memorial” or “Jay Singh-Sohal”] 
Listen on Apple, Spotify, and Wreaths Across America Radio at the links below.

]]> "Commemoration is another kind of service. It is about remembering those who came before and inspiring those who come next."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Jay Singh-Sohal, active reservist, veteran, Chairman of the World War I Sikh Memorial,  Trustee of The Commonwealth War Graves Foundation, about representation, remembrance, and the power of storytelling.

From Birmingham to Burma, Jay shares how his personal journey led to a global mission honouring Sikh and Commonwealth contributions, challenging historical gaps, and helping future generations connect with service and sacrifice.

 In this episode:

  • Learn how the WWI Sikh Memorial in England is reshaping remembrance
  • Hear about the African Labour Corps Memorial and the movement to correct non-commemoration
  • Discover why diversity in service brings strength, insight, and innovation

Explore the memorial and Jay’s work: [Search “WWI Sikh Memorial” or “Jay Singh-Sohal”] 
Listen on Apple, Spotify, and Wreaths Across America Radio at the links below.

]]> Tue, 19 Aug 2025 22:51:36 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 2112 "Commemoration is another kind of service. It is about remembering those who came before and inspiring those who come next."

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we speak with Jay Singh-Sohal, active reservist, veteran, Chairman of the World War I Sikh Memorial,  Trustee of The Commonwealth War Graves Foundation, about representation, remembrance, and the power of storytelling.

From Birmingham to Burma, Jay shares how his personal journey led to a global mission honouring Sikh and Commonwealth contributions, challenging historical gaps, and helping future generations connect with service and sacrifice.

 In this episode:

  • Learn how the WWI Sikh Memorial in England is reshaping remembrance
  • Hear about the African Labour Corps Memorial and the movement to correct non-commemoration
  • Discover why diversity in service brings strength, insight, and innovation

Explore the memorial and Jay’s work: [Search “WWI Sikh Memorial” or “Jay Singh-Sohal”] 
Listen on Apple, Spotify, and Wreaths Across America Radio at the links below.

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Ben Mayne (Liberation Route Europe) - Walking Through WWII History on The Liberation Route Europe 31 31 Ben Mayne (Liberation Route Europe) - Walking Through WWII History on The Liberation Route Europe full 2c822cc1-e495-4c9a-a567-ebdbe3fabf33 https://share.transistor.fm/s/92d07d0f “We’re carrying that torch of remembrance - that baton we’re passing over for future generations.”

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we sit down with Ben Mayne, battlefield tour guide and UK Director of Liberation Route Europe, to talk about remembrance, reconnection, and the power of walking in the footsteps of history.

From Normandy to the Netherlands, Ben shares how Liberation Route Europe is building a network of trails, stories, and sites that help families, veterans, and future generations connect with the past in deeply personal ways.
 In this episode:

  • Hear how a battlefield tour reunited a WWII veteran with the family of his fallen comrade
  • Learn about the Canadian Trail, a 1,000+ km route tracing Canada’s WWII journey through Europe
  • Explore how technology is reshaping remembrance for a new generation

 Learn more about Liberation Route Europe: www.liberationroute.com

]]> “We’re carrying that torch of remembrance - that baton we’re passing over for future generations.”

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we sit down with Ben Mayne, battlefield tour guide and UK Director of Liberation Route Europe, to talk about remembrance, reconnection, and the power of walking in the footsteps of history.

From Normandy to the Netherlands, Ben shares how Liberation Route Europe is building a network of trails, stories, and sites that help families, veterans, and future generations connect with the past in deeply personal ways.
 In this episode:

  • Hear how a battlefield tour reunited a WWII veteran with the family of his fallen comrade
  • Learn about the Canadian Trail, a 1,000+ km route tracing Canada’s WWII journey through Europe
  • Explore how technology is reshaping remembrance for a new generation

 Learn more about Liberation Route Europe: www.liberationroute.com

]]> Wed, 13 Aug 2025 18:38:16 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 2162 “We’re carrying that torch of remembrance - that baton we’re passing over for future generations.”

This week on Story Behind the Stone, we sit down with Ben Mayne, battlefield tour guide and UK Director of Liberation Route Europe, to talk about remembrance, reconnection, and the power of walking in the footsteps of history.

From Normandy to the Netherlands, Ben shares how Liberation Route Europe is building a network of trails, stories, and sites that help families, veterans, and future generations connect with the past in deeply personal ways.
 In this episode:

  • Hear how a battlefield tour reunited a WWII veteran with the family of his fallen comrade
  • Learn about the Canadian Trail, a 1,000+ km route tracing Canada’s WWII journey through Europe
  • Explore how technology is reshaping remembrance for a new generation

 Learn more about Liberation Route Europe: www.liberationroute.com

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Pete Jackson M.B.E. & Gail Francis-Tiron (The Tunnels Gibraltar's WWII Experience) - Preserving the Rock 30 30 Pete Jackson M.B.E. & Gail Francis-Tiron (The Tunnels Gibraltar's WWII Experience) - Preserving the Rock full c12232db-e015-41ac-8825-4165459d6d06 https://share.transistor.fm/s/701cabaa This week on the podcast we go deep into history (literally and figuratively) with Gail Francis-Tiron and Pete Jackson M.B.E. , two passionate stewards of history, preserving Gibraltar’s World War II legacy at The Tunnels Gibraltar's WWII Experience, which preserves miles and miles of tunnels carved into the Rock.


Join us as we explore:


🌄 The strategic role Gibraltar played in WWII


🚢 Discover the emotional stories of wartime evacuation and return


🕵 Learn how Ian Fleming’s time in Gibraltar inspired James Bond


🍁 Hear about the Canadian engineers who helped carve the rock

]]> This week on the podcast we go deep into history (literally and figuratively) with Gail Francis-Tiron and Pete Jackson M.B.E. , two passionate stewards of history, preserving Gibraltar’s World War II legacy at The Tunnels Gibraltar's WWII Experience, which preserves miles and miles of tunnels carved into the Rock.


Join us as we explore:


🌄 The strategic role Gibraltar played in WWII


🚢 Discover the emotional stories of wartime evacuation and return


🕵 Learn how Ian Fleming’s time in Gibraltar inspired James Bond


🍁 Hear about the Canadian engineers who helped carve the rock

]]> Fri, 01 Aug 2025 23:51:35 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 2291 This week on the podcast we go deep into history (literally and figuratively) with Gail Francis-Tiron and Pete Jackson M.B.E. , two passionate stewards of history, preserving Gibraltar’s World War II legacy at The Tunnels Gibraltar's WWII Experience, which preserves miles and miles of tunnels carved into the Rock.


Join us as we explore:


🌄 The strategic role Gibraltar played in WWII


🚢 Discover the emotional stories of wartime evacuation and return


🕵 Learn how Ian Fleming’s time in Gibraltar inspired James Bond


🍁 Hear about the Canadian engineers who helped carve the rock

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Michael Rodriguez (Global War on Terror Memorial) - Honoring Service Past and Present 28 28 Michael Rodriguez (Global War on Terror Memorial) - Honoring Service Past and Present full 6980fc1a-3654-409a-b641-3a8561b820c1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/6cc96cbb How do you build a memorial for a war that’s still shaping lives?

Michael “Rod” Rodriguez, CEO of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation, shares his deeply personal mission to create a memorial on the National Mall in Washington D.C. honoring generations of service and sacrifice.

From 21 years in uniform to spearheading a project of national healing, Rod’s story is one of resilience, community, and remembrance.

🌟 Hear about the four guiding tenets — Honor. Heal. Empower. Unite. — and why this memorial is about so much more than stone and steel.
📍 Learn more about the GWOT Memorial Foundation and find ways to support: https://www.gwotmemorialfoundation.org
 🎧 Listen on Apple, Spotify, and Wreaths Across America Radio.

Content Note: This episode contains discussions about suicide, loss, and mental health challenges. You are not alone. Help is available. If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available:

United States – Call or text 988, or chat via 988lifeline.org (Veterans press 1).
Canada – Call or text 988, or visit 988.ca for support in English and French.
United Kingdom – Call Samaritans at 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org.
Ireland – Call Samaritans at 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org.
Australia – Call Lifeline at 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au for 24/7 support.
New Zealand – Call or text 1737 (free, 24/7) to talk with a trained counselor, or visit 1737.org.nz.
Netherlands – Call 113 or 0800-0113 (free, 24/7) or visit 113.nl.
France – Call 3114 (free, 24/7) or visit 3114.fr.
Norway – Call Mental Health Helpline at 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit mentalhelse.no.
 


]]> How do you build a memorial for a war that’s still shaping lives?

Michael “Rod” Rodriguez, CEO of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation, shares his deeply personal mission to create a memorial on the National Mall in Washington D.C. honoring generations of service and sacrifice.

From 21 years in uniform to spearheading a project of national healing, Rod’s story is one of resilience, community, and remembrance.

🌟 Hear about the four guiding tenets — Honor. Heal. Empower. Unite. — and why this memorial is about so much more than stone and steel.
📍 Learn more about the GWOT Memorial Foundation and find ways to support: https://www.gwotmemorialfoundation.org
 🎧 Listen on Apple, Spotify, and Wreaths Across America Radio.

Content Note: This episode contains discussions about suicide, loss, and mental health challenges. You are not alone. Help is available. If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available:

United States – Call or text 988, or chat via 988lifeline.org (Veterans press 1).
Canada – Call or text 988, or visit 988.ca for support in English and French.
United Kingdom – Call Samaritans at 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org.
Ireland – Call Samaritans at 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org.
Australia – Call Lifeline at 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au for 24/7 support.
New Zealand – Call or text 1737 (free, 24/7) to talk with a trained counselor, or visit 1737.org.nz.
Netherlands – Call 113 or 0800-0113 (free, 24/7) or visit 113.nl.
France – Call 3114 (free, 24/7) or visit 3114.fr.
Norway – Call Mental Health Helpline at 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit mentalhelse.no.
 


]]> Wed, 23 Jul 2025 13:02:25 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 2207 How do you build a memorial for a war that’s still shaping lives?

Michael “Rod” Rodriguez, CEO of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation, shares his deeply personal mission to create a memorial on the National Mall in Washington D.C. honoring generations of service and sacrifice.

From 21 years in uniform to spearheading a project of national healing, Rod’s story is one of resilience, community, and remembrance.

🌟 Hear about the four guiding tenets — Honor. Heal. Empower. Unite. — and why this memorial is about so much more than stone and steel.
📍 Learn more about the GWOT Memorial Foundation and find ways to support: https://www.gwotmemorialfoundation.org
 🎧 Listen on Apple, Spotify, and Wreaths Across America Radio.

Content Note: This episode contains discussions about suicide, loss, and mental health challenges. You are not alone. Help is available. If you or someone you know is struggling, support is available:

United States – Call or text 988, or chat via 988lifeline.org (Veterans press 1).
Canada – Call or text 988, or visit 988.ca for support in English and French.
United Kingdom – Call Samaritans at 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org.
Ireland – Call Samaritans at 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit samaritans.org.
Australia – Call Lifeline at 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au for 24/7 support.
New Zealand – Call or text 1737 (free, 24/7) to talk with a trained counselor, or visit 1737.org.nz.
Netherlands – Call 113 or 0800-0113 (free, 24/7) or visit 113.nl.
France – Call 3114 (free, 24/7) or visit 3114.fr.
Norway – Call Mental Health Helpline at 116 123 (free, 24/7) or visit mentalhelse.no.
 


]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Amanda Kelly (AWAKE Ashes) - The Hidden Harm of Human Ashes 29 29 Amanda Kelly (AWAKE Ashes) - The Hidden Harm of Human Ashes full a8140f40-ec63-4c4f-bed5-95aa9da75bd3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/8ecefe22 Traditional cremation leaves behind more than memories — it leaves behind toxic, fossil-like remains.

This week we sit down with Amanda Kelly, co-founder of AWAKE, to talk about the quiet revolution in cremation — one rooted in science, soil, and sustainability.

🌱 Learn about:

The rise of cremation: 60%+ in the U.S. (up from 3% in 1960!)

Why traditional ashes don’t biodegrade

The why behind AWAKE’s soil science

What veterans and families are asking for in green burials


]]> Traditional cremation leaves behind more than memories — it leaves behind toxic, fossil-like remains.

This week we sit down with Amanda Kelly, co-founder of AWAKE, to talk about the quiet revolution in cremation — one rooted in science, soil, and sustainability.

🌱 Learn about:

The rise of cremation: 60%+ in the U.S. (up from 3% in 1960!)

Why traditional ashes don’t biodegrade

The why behind AWAKE’s soil science

What veterans and families are asking for in green burials


]]> Tue, 22 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1623 Traditional cremation leaves behind more than memories — it leaves behind toxic, fossil-like remains.

This week we sit down with Amanda Kelly, co-founder of AWAKE, to talk about the quiet revolution in cremation — one rooted in science, soil, and sustainability.

🌱 Learn about:

The rise of cremation: 60%+ in the U.S. (up from 3% in 1960!)

Why traditional ashes don’t biodegrade

The why behind AWAKE’s soil science

What veterans and families are asking for in green burials


]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Patricia Cecil (National WW1 Museum and Memorial) - Faith on the Frontlines 27 27 Patricia Cecil (National WW1 Museum and Memorial) - Faith on the Frontlines full d8012600-264f-41b7-8350-0841919dd418 https://share.transistor.fm/s/9af0c342 What happens when faith meets the frontlines?

In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, we sit down with Patricia Cecil, Specialist Curator of Faith, Religion, and WWI at the National WWI Museum and Memorial in Kansas City. Patricia takes us behind the scenes of Sacred Service, an extraordinary exhibit that uncovers how chaplains became unlikely healers, helpers, and mental health champions during the Great War.

From 3D scans of rare artifacts to stories of sacrifice and courage, this conversation will change how you think about faith, war, and remembrance.

✨ What you'll learn:

  • How chaplains supported soldiers’ mental health long before PTSD had a name
  • The power of small acts of compassion in unimaginable circumstances
  • How technology like 3D scanning is helping preserve and share history globally
]]> What happens when faith meets the frontlines?

In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, we sit down with Patricia Cecil, Specialist Curator of Faith, Religion, and WWI at the National WWI Museum and Memorial in Kansas City. Patricia takes us behind the scenes of Sacred Service, an extraordinary exhibit that uncovers how chaplains became unlikely healers, helpers, and mental health champions during the Great War.

From 3D scans of rare artifacts to stories of sacrifice and courage, this conversation will change how you think about faith, war, and remembrance.

✨ What you'll learn:

  • How chaplains supported soldiers’ mental health long before PTSD had a name
  • The power of small acts of compassion in unimaginable circumstances
  • How technology like 3D scanning is helping preserve and share history globally
]]> Wed, 16 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 2066 What happens when faith meets the frontlines?

In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, we sit down with Patricia Cecil, Specialist Curator of Faith, Religion, and WWI at the National WWI Museum and Memorial in Kansas City. Patricia takes us behind the scenes of Sacred Service, an extraordinary exhibit that uncovers how chaplains became unlikely healers, helpers, and mental health champions during the Great War.

From 3D scans of rare artifacts to stories of sacrifice and courage, this conversation will change how you think about faith, war, and remembrance.

✨ What you'll learn:

  • How chaplains supported soldiers’ mental health long before PTSD had a name
  • The power of small acts of compassion in unimaginable circumstances
  • How technology like 3D scanning is helping preserve and share history globally
]]> National World War I Museum, WW1, chaplains, faith, spirituality, digital exhibitions, museum, history, veterans, storytelling, memorial No France Q. Hoang (Vietnam Veterans Memorial) - A Life Dedicated to Service 26 26 France Q. Hoang (Vietnam Veterans Memorial) - A Life Dedicated to Service full 63d03db2-4e01-4834-8424-d2e4998d5462 https://share.transistor.fm/s/00f83db8 In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, host Matthew Cudmore sits down with France Q. Hoang—Army Ranger, former White House Counsel, Special Assistant to the President, and co-founder of AI-powered platform BoodleBox.

Born in Saigon in 1973, France and his family were airlifted from Vietnam in 1975 as the city fell, beginning a journey that shaped a life of extraordinary service, leadership, and innovation. From graduating in the top 1% at West Point to serving in Bosnia and Afghanistan, and later helping lead evacuations during the fall of Kabul, France shares powerful reflections on sacrifice, legacy, and the parallels between past and present refugee crises.

They also discuss his work with the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and his passion for preparing future generations to navigate an AI-enabled world.

If you're curious about leadership, resilience, and the power of technology to preserve memory and inspire service, this episode is a must-watch.

]]> In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, host Matthew Cudmore sits down with France Q. Hoang—Army Ranger, former White House Counsel, Special Assistant to the President, and co-founder of AI-powered platform BoodleBox.

Born in Saigon in 1973, France and his family were airlifted from Vietnam in 1975 as the city fell, beginning a journey that shaped a life of extraordinary service, leadership, and innovation. From graduating in the top 1% at West Point to serving in Bosnia and Afghanistan, and later helping lead evacuations during the fall of Kabul, France shares powerful reflections on sacrifice, legacy, and the parallels between past and present refugee crises.

They also discuss his work with the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and his passion for preparing future generations to navigate an AI-enabled world.

If you're curious about leadership, resilience, and the power of technology to preserve memory and inspire service, this episode is a must-watch.

]]> Wed, 09 Jul 2025 16:45:25 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1462 In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, host Matthew Cudmore sits down with France Q. Hoang—Army Ranger, former White House Counsel, Special Assistant to the President, and co-founder of AI-powered platform BoodleBox.

Born in Saigon in 1973, France and his family were airlifted from Vietnam in 1975 as the city fell, beginning a journey that shaped a life of extraordinary service, leadership, and innovation. From graduating in the top 1% at West Point to serving in Bosnia and Afghanistan, and later helping lead evacuations during the fall of Kabul, France shares powerful reflections on sacrifice, legacy, and the parallels between past and present refugee crises.

They also discuss his work with the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and his passion for preparing future generations to navigate an AI-enabled world.

If you're curious about leadership, resilience, and the power of technology to preserve memory and inspire service, this episode is a must-watch.

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Lee Collins (Pacific Historic Parks) - Honoring Pearl Harbor’s Legacy 25 25 Lee Collins (Pacific Historic Parks) - Honoring Pearl Harbor’s Legacy full 81e29296-6000-4991-9178-ad9f47369dad https://share.transistor.fm/s/b05b07e9 In this conversation, Matthew Cudmore and Ryan Mullens speak with Lee Collins, Chief of Staff at Pacific Historic Parks, about the organization's mission to preserve and honor the history of World War II and the sacrifices made by veterans. Lee shares his personal journey from military service to his current role, emphasizing the importance of community engagement, education, and volunteerism in preserving history. He recounts poignant stories of courage and sacrifice, highlighting the values that define the military and the need for continued support to ensure these stories are told for future generations.

Takeaways

  • Pacific Historic Parks is dedicated to preserving World War II history
  • Lee Collins emphasizes the importance of community and volunteerism
  • Military service provides valuable experiences and leadership skills
  • Engaging youth in history is crucial for future generations
  • The organization relies on donations and support for preservation efforts
  • Lee's personal journey reflects a deep commitment to service
  • The military today is more educated than ever before
  • Community events foster strong connections between military and civilians
  • Honoring sacrifices is a core mission of Pacific Historic Parks
  • Future goals include raising funds for educational programs and preservation


]]> In this conversation, Matthew Cudmore and Ryan Mullens speak with Lee Collins, Chief of Staff at Pacific Historic Parks, about the organization's mission to preserve and honor the history of World War II and the sacrifices made by veterans. Lee shares his personal journey from military service to his current role, emphasizing the importance of community engagement, education, and volunteerism in preserving history. He recounts poignant stories of courage and sacrifice, highlighting the values that define the military and the need for continued support to ensure these stories are told for future generations.

Takeaways

  • Pacific Historic Parks is dedicated to preserving World War II history
  • Lee Collins emphasizes the importance of community and volunteerism
  • Military service provides valuable experiences and leadership skills
  • Engaging youth in history is crucial for future generations
  • The organization relies on donations and support for preservation efforts
  • Lee's personal journey reflects a deep commitment to service
  • The military today is more educated than ever before
  • Community events foster strong connections between military and civilians
  • Honoring sacrifices is a core mission of Pacific Historic Parks
  • Future goals include raising funds for educational programs and preservation


]]> Fri, 27 Jun 2025 18:47:04 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 2455 In this conversation, Matthew Cudmore and Ryan Mullens speak with Lee Collins, Chief of Staff at Pacific Historic Parks, about the organization's mission to preserve and honor the history of World War II and the sacrifices made by veterans. Lee shares his personal journey from military service to his current role, emphasizing the importance of community engagement, education, and volunteerism in preserving history. He recounts poignant stories of courage and sacrifice, highlighting the values that define the military and the need for continued support to ensure these stories are told for future generations.

Takeaways

  • Pacific Historic Parks is dedicated to preserving World War II history
  • Lee Collins emphasizes the importance of community and volunteerism
  • Military service provides valuable experiences and leadership skills
  • Engaging youth in history is crucial for future generations
  • The organization relies on donations and support for preservation efforts
  • Lee's personal journey reflects a deep commitment to service
  • The military today is more educated than ever before
  • Community events foster strong connections between military and civilians
  • Honoring sacrifices is a core mission of Pacific Historic Parks
  • Future goals include raising funds for educational programs and preservation


]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Gillian Nye (Better Place Forests) - A Tree Instead of a Tombstone 24 24 Gillian Nye (Better Place Forests) - A Tree Instead of a Tombstone full 83d9e9f0-52d0-4448-a1da-b0a8766436af https://share.transistor.fm/s/b8a818f0 In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, host Matthew Cudmore speaks with Gillian Nye, Forest Memorials Manager at Better Place Forests. Better Place Forests is a nonprofit operating nine memorial forests across the United States. They discuss the unique concept of memorial forests, where individuals can have their ashes placed in nature, creating a lasting tribute. Gillian shares her personal journey into this meaningful work, the experiences of families visiting the forests, and the special ceremonies held for veterans. The conversation highlights the healing power of nature, the importance of honoring loved ones, and the future vision for Better Place Forests as a nonprofit organization.

takeaways
Better Place Forests offers a unique way to memorialize loved ones in nature.
The experience of visiting a memorial forest is often filled with peace and gratitude.
Gillian's background in storytelling and herbalism enhances her role at Better Place Forests.
Nature provides a healing space for families dealing with grief.
Veterans' ceremonies in the forest combine nature with military honors.
Families often feel a strong connection to the trees they choose for memorials.
The process of selecting a tree is deeply personal and meaningful.
Gillian emphasizes the importance of compassion and empathy in her work.
The organization aims to bring more people to nature, especially those with limited access.

]]> In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, host Matthew Cudmore speaks with Gillian Nye, Forest Memorials Manager at Better Place Forests. Better Place Forests is a nonprofit operating nine memorial forests across the United States. They discuss the unique concept of memorial forests, where individuals can have their ashes placed in nature, creating a lasting tribute. Gillian shares her personal journey into this meaningful work, the experiences of families visiting the forests, and the special ceremonies held for veterans. The conversation highlights the healing power of nature, the importance of honoring loved ones, and the future vision for Better Place Forests as a nonprofit organization.

takeaways
Better Place Forests offers a unique way to memorialize loved ones in nature.
The experience of visiting a memorial forest is often filled with peace and gratitude.
Gillian's background in storytelling and herbalism enhances her role at Better Place Forests.
Nature provides a healing space for families dealing with grief.
Veterans' ceremonies in the forest combine nature with military honors.
Families often feel a strong connection to the trees they choose for memorials.
The process of selecting a tree is deeply personal and meaningful.
Gillian emphasizes the importance of compassion and empathy in her work.
The organization aims to bring more people to nature, especially those with limited access.

]]> Tue, 24 Jun 2025 07:49:16 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1561 In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, host Matthew Cudmore speaks with Gillian Nye, Forest Memorials Manager at Better Place Forests. Better Place Forests is a nonprofit operating nine memorial forests across the United States. They discuss the unique concept of memorial forests, where individuals can have their ashes placed in nature, creating a lasting tribute. Gillian shares her personal journey into this meaningful work, the experiences of families visiting the forests, and the special ceremonies held for veterans. The conversation highlights the healing power of nature, the importance of honoring loved ones, and the future vision for Better Place Forests as a nonprofit organization.

takeaways
Better Place Forests offers a unique way to memorialize loved ones in nature.
The experience of visiting a memorial forest is often filled with peace and gratitude.
Gillian's background in storytelling and herbalism enhances her role at Better Place Forests.
Nature provides a healing space for families dealing with grief.
Veterans' ceremonies in the forest combine nature with military honors.
Families often feel a strong connection to the trees they choose for memorials.
The process of selecting a tree is deeply personal and meaningful.
Gillian emphasizes the importance of compassion and empathy in her work.
The organization aims to bring more people to nature, especially those with limited access.

]]> Keywords memorial forests, Better Place Forests, nature, grief, veterans, memorial ceremonies, family experiences, healing, end of life, environmental conservation No Terri-Anne Simmonds (Australian War Memorial) - Past Meets Future at the AWM 23 23 Terri-Anne Simmonds (Australian War Memorial) - Past Meets Future at the AWM full 3c6c0661-a0c4-482e-9695-426edca94e65 https://share.transistor.fm/s/c2210188 In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore engage with Terri-Anne Simmonds, Head of Digital at the Australian War Memorial. They explore the significance of the memorial, its multifaceted role as a museum, memorial, and archive, and the personal connections Australians have with their military history. The conversation delves into the Places of Pride project, commemorative practices like Anzac Day, and the impact of modern conflicts on remembrance. Terri-Anne shares her passion for digital technology in enhancing commemoration and discusses future developments at the memorial, inviting listeners to engage with the stories and history it preserves.

Takeaways

  • The Australian War Memorial is located in Canberra, the national capital of Australia.
  • It serves as a museum, memorial, and archive to help Australians understand the meaning and impact of war.
  • The memorial is a significant site for commemoration and reflection for Australians.
  • Personal connections to military history are profound, with many Australians having family members who served.
  • The Places of Pride project aims to document and showcase war memorials across Australia.
  • Anzac Day is a key moment for Australians to reflect on their military history and honor service members.
  • Digital technology plays a crucial role in reaching new audiences and enhancing the commemoration experience.
  • The expansion of the memorial aims to include stories from modern conflicts and provide context for visitors.
  • Terryann Simmons emphasizes the importance of personal stories in understanding the impact of war.
  • Future developments at the memorial will enhance visitor experiences and showcase more of Australia's military history.
]]> In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore engage with Terri-Anne Simmonds, Head of Digital at the Australian War Memorial. They explore the significance of the memorial, its multifaceted role as a museum, memorial, and archive, and the personal connections Australians have with their military history. The conversation delves into the Places of Pride project, commemorative practices like Anzac Day, and the impact of modern conflicts on remembrance. Terri-Anne shares her passion for digital technology in enhancing commemoration and discusses future developments at the memorial, inviting listeners to engage with the stories and history it preserves.

Takeaways

  • The Australian War Memorial is located in Canberra, the national capital of Australia.
  • It serves as a museum, memorial, and archive to help Australians understand the meaning and impact of war.
  • The memorial is a significant site for commemoration and reflection for Australians.
  • Personal connections to military history are profound, with many Australians having family members who served.
  • The Places of Pride project aims to document and showcase war memorials across Australia.
  • Anzac Day is a key moment for Australians to reflect on their military history and honor service members.
  • Digital technology plays a crucial role in reaching new audiences and enhancing the commemoration experience.
  • The expansion of the memorial aims to include stories from modern conflicts and provide context for visitors.
  • Terryann Simmons emphasizes the importance of personal stories in understanding the impact of war.
  • Future developments at the memorial will enhance visitor experiences and showcase more of Australia's military history.
]]> Fri, 13 Jun 2025 16:28:20 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 2369 In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore engage with Terri-Anne Simmonds, Head of Digital at the Australian War Memorial. They explore the significance of the memorial, its multifaceted role as a museum, memorial, and archive, and the personal connections Australians have with their military history. The conversation delves into the Places of Pride project, commemorative practices like Anzac Day, and the impact of modern conflicts on remembrance. Terri-Anne shares her passion for digital technology in enhancing commemoration and discusses future developments at the memorial, inviting listeners to engage with the stories and history it preserves.

Takeaways

  • The Australian War Memorial is located in Canberra, the national capital of Australia.
  • It serves as a museum, memorial, and archive to help Australians understand the meaning and impact of war.
  • The memorial is a significant site for commemoration and reflection for Australians.
  • Personal connections to military history are profound, with many Australians having family members who served.
  • The Places of Pride project aims to document and showcase war memorials across Australia.
  • Anzac Day is a key moment for Australians to reflect on their military history and honor service members.
  • Digital technology plays a crucial role in reaching new audiences and enhancing the commemoration experience.
  • The expansion of the memorial aims to include stories from modern conflicts and provide context for visitors.
  • Terryann Simmons emphasizes the importance of personal stories in understanding the impact of war.
  • Future developments at the memorial will enhance visitor experiences and showcase more of Australia's military history.
]]> Australian War Memorial, Anzac Day, military history, digital commemoration, veteran stories, Places of Pride, remembrance, war memorials, contemporary conflicts, digital technology No Jeremy Diamond (Royal Canadian Air Force Foundation) - Connecting Generations Through History 22 22 Jeremy Diamond (Royal Canadian Air Force Foundation) - Connecting Generations Through History full 7453b395-04e9-410a-af18-6f554738b4b3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/97f18f79 CEO of the Royal Canadian Air Force Foundation Jeremy Diamond discusses his journey into the field of history and commemoration, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and personal narratives in engaging the public with Canadian history. He highlights the role of the RCAF Foundation in connecting generations through shared stories and innovative digital approaches to education. The conversation also touches on the future aspirations of the foundation, focusing on inspiring youth and ensuring the legacy of veterans is preserved.

]]> CEO of the Royal Canadian Air Force Foundation Jeremy Diamond discusses his journey into the field of history and commemoration, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and personal narratives in engaging the public with Canadian history. He highlights the role of the RCAF Foundation in connecting generations through shared stories and innovative digital approaches to education. The conversation also touches on the future aspirations of the foundation, focusing on inspiring youth and ensuring the legacy of veterans is preserved.

]]> Fri, 06 Jun 2025 23:43:10 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 2701 CEO of the Royal Canadian Air Force Foundation Jeremy Diamond discusses his journey into the field of history and commemoration, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and personal narratives in engaging the public with Canadian history. He highlights the role of the RCAF Foundation in connecting generations through shared stories and innovative digital approaches to education. The conversation also touches on the future aspirations of the foundation, focusing on inspiring youth and ensuring the legacy of veterans is preserved.

]]> RCAF Foundation, RCAF, history, storytelling, commemoration, veterans, digital media, education, aviation, youth engagement, personal narratives, Canadian history No Amy Osborn (NJ Vietnam Veterans' Memorial & Museum) - Honoring New Jersey's Fallen 21 21 Amy Osborn (NJ Vietnam Veterans' Memorial & Museum) - Honoring New Jersey's Fallen full 0b46df92-8f62-44ec-bde1-c6eb297b2ca7 https://share.transistor.fm/s/93ba7b79 In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, host Matthew Cudmore speaks with Amy Osborn, the Executive Director of the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial and Museum. They discuss Amy's journey to the memorial, the unique features of the memorial, the impact of educational programs on youth, and the emotional rewards of working with veterans. Amy shares stories of the docents, the process of adding names to the memorial wall, and the future plans for expansion and support from the community. The conversation highlights the importance of honoring veterans and preserving their legacy for future generations.

takeaways

  • Amy Osborn transitioned from banking to leading the memorial.
  • The memorial is unique and dedicated to New Jersey veterans.
  • Educational programs engage over 15,000 students annually.
  • The emotional impact of working with veterans is profound.
  • Docents share personal stories that enhance visitor experiences.
  • New names are still being added to the memorial wall.
  • Community support is crucial for the memorial's future.
  • Legislative efforts are underway for expansion funding.
  • The memorial serves as a place of peace for veterans.
  • Artifacts from veterans are essential for preserving history.
]]> In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, host Matthew Cudmore speaks with Amy Osborn, the Executive Director of the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial and Museum. They discuss Amy's journey to the memorial, the unique features of the memorial, the impact of educational programs on youth, and the emotional rewards of working with veterans. Amy shares stories of the docents, the process of adding names to the memorial wall, and the future plans for expansion and support from the community. The conversation highlights the importance of honoring veterans and preserving their legacy for future generations.

takeaways

  • Amy Osborn transitioned from banking to leading the memorial.
  • The memorial is unique and dedicated to New Jersey veterans.
  • Educational programs engage over 15,000 students annually.
  • The emotional impact of working with veterans is profound.
  • Docents share personal stories that enhance visitor experiences.
  • New names are still being added to the memorial wall.
  • Community support is crucial for the memorial's future.
  • Legislative efforts are underway for expansion funding.
  • The memorial serves as a place of peace for veterans.
  • Artifacts from veterans are essential for preserving history.
]]> Mon, 26 May 2025 23:13:55 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 2397 In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, host Matthew Cudmore speaks with Amy Osborn, the Executive Director of the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial and Museum. They discuss Amy's journey to the memorial, the unique features of the memorial, the impact of educational programs on youth, and the emotional rewards of working with veterans. Amy shares stories of the docents, the process of adding names to the memorial wall, and the future plans for expansion and support from the community. The conversation highlights the importance of honoring veterans and preserving their legacy for future generations.

takeaways

  • Amy Osborn transitioned from banking to leading the memorial.
  • The memorial is unique and dedicated to New Jersey veterans.
  • Educational programs engage over 15,000 students annually.
  • The emotional impact of working with veterans is profound.
  • Docents share personal stories that enhance visitor experiences.
  • New names are still being added to the memorial wall.
  • Community support is crucial for the memorial's future.
  • Legislative efforts are underway for expansion funding.
  • The memorial serves as a place of peace for veterans.
  • Artifacts from veterans are essential for preserving history.
]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Bill Butler (National Veterans Memorial) - The New Home of the Brave 20 20 Bill Butler (National Veterans Memorial) - The New Home of the Brave full 330d15d3-6cdf-492b-b04e-98d2cc0ce141 https://share.transistor.fm/s/47704bdb In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore speak with William (Bill) Butler, the Acting President of the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio. Bill shares his extensive military background and discusses the museum's mission to honor veterans and elevate their stories. The conversation explores the challenges veterans face during their transition to civilian life, the importance of community engagement, and the various programs the museum offers to support mental health and wellness. Bill highlights the significance of storytelling and education in connecting younger generations with veterans, as well as the museum's innovative design and its role in fostering intergenerational empathy. The episode concludes with inspiring stories of resilience and a look at the museum's future plans.


A Legacy Lives On

The National Veterans Memorial and Museum began with a vision from the late Senator John Glenn (1921-2016), Colonel, USMC (Retired), who understood the pressing need to honor the legacy of the courageous men and women who answered the call.

https://nationalvmm.org/


takeaways

  • Bill Butler served 27 years in the Army.
  • The museum aims to honor all veterans and elevate their stories.
  • Stereotypes about veterans often misrepresent their experiences.
  • Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging.
  • The museum offers programs addressing PTSD and mental health.
  • Community engagement is a key focus of the museum's mission.
  • Educational initiatives connect youth with veterans' stories.
  • The museum's design symbolizes healing and connection.
  • Intergenerational interactions foster empathy and understanding.
  • Resilience stories inspire hope and connection among veterans.
]]> In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore speak with William (Bill) Butler, the Acting President of the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio. Bill shares his extensive military background and discusses the museum's mission to honor veterans and elevate their stories. The conversation explores the challenges veterans face during their transition to civilian life, the importance of community engagement, and the various programs the museum offers to support mental health and wellness. Bill highlights the significance of storytelling and education in connecting younger generations with veterans, as well as the museum's innovative design and its role in fostering intergenerational empathy. The episode concludes with inspiring stories of resilience and a look at the museum's future plans.


A Legacy Lives On

The National Veterans Memorial and Museum began with a vision from the late Senator John Glenn (1921-2016), Colonel, USMC (Retired), who understood the pressing need to honor the legacy of the courageous men and women who answered the call.

https://nationalvmm.org/


takeaways

  • Bill Butler served 27 years in the Army.
  • The museum aims to honor all veterans and elevate their stories.
  • Stereotypes about veterans often misrepresent their experiences.
  • Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging.
  • The museum offers programs addressing PTSD and mental health.
  • Community engagement is a key focus of the museum's mission.
  • Educational initiatives connect youth with veterans' stories.
  • The museum's design symbolizes healing and connection.
  • Intergenerational interactions foster empathy and understanding.
  • Resilience stories inspire hope and connection among veterans.
]]> Fri, 23 May 2025 22:43:59 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 2059 In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore speak with William (Bill) Butler, the Acting President of the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio. Bill shares his extensive military background and discusses the museum's mission to honor veterans and elevate their stories. The conversation explores the challenges veterans face during their transition to civilian life, the importance of community engagement, and the various programs the museum offers to support mental health and wellness. Bill highlights the significance of storytelling and education in connecting younger generations with veterans, as well as the museum's innovative design and its role in fostering intergenerational empathy. The episode concludes with inspiring stories of resilience and a look at the museum's future plans.


A Legacy Lives On

The National Veterans Memorial and Museum began with a vision from the late Senator John Glenn (1921-2016), Colonel, USMC (Retired), who understood the pressing need to honor the legacy of the courageous men and women who answered the call.

https://nationalvmm.org/


takeaways

  • Bill Butler served 27 years in the Army.
  • The museum aims to honor all veterans and elevate their stories.
  • Stereotypes about veterans often misrepresent their experiences.
  • Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging.
  • The museum offers programs addressing PTSD and mental health.
  • Community engagement is a key focus of the museum's mission.
  • Educational initiatives connect youth with veterans' stories.
  • The museum's design symbolizes healing and connection.
  • Intergenerational interactions foster empathy and understanding.
  • Resilience stories inspire hope and connection among veterans.
]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Nicolas McCarthy (Beechwood Cemetery) - Canada's National Cemetery 19 19 Nicolas McCarthy (Beechwood Cemetery) - Canada's National Cemetery full 55c32e58-9246-4c96-9560-34d2192e31a6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/d889efda In this episode, Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore engage with Nicolas (Nick) McCarthy, the Director of Marketing, Communications and Community Outreach for Canada's National Cemetery, Beechwood Cemetery in Ottawa, exploring its rich history and unique features. They discuss Nick's unconventional journey into the cemetery industry, the significance of Beechwood as a military and cultural landmark, and the personal stories that make it a living history of Canada. 

The conversation also touches on the future of technology in commemoration, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and personal narratives in remembering those who have served. In this conversation, Nicolas (Nick) McCarthy highlights initiatives to honor diverse military communities, including Latin American soldiers, and the No Stone Left Alone program that encourages remembrance among school children. Additionally, he introduces the Under the Maple Leaf program, aimed at properly disposing of Canadian flags and fostering national pride. McCarthy emphasizes the significance of these stories and initiatives in shaping Canadian identity and honoring sacrifices made by military personnel and their families.

]]> In this episode, Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore engage with Nicolas (Nick) McCarthy, the Director of Marketing, Communications and Community Outreach for Canada's National Cemetery, Beechwood Cemetery in Ottawa, exploring its rich history and unique features. They discuss Nick's unconventional journey into the cemetery industry, the significance of Beechwood as a military and cultural landmark, and the personal stories that make it a living history of Canada. 

The conversation also touches on the future of technology in commemoration, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and personal narratives in remembering those who have served. In this conversation, Nicolas (Nick) McCarthy highlights initiatives to honor diverse military communities, including Latin American soldiers, and the No Stone Left Alone program that encourages remembrance among school children. Additionally, he introduces the Under the Maple Leaf program, aimed at properly disposing of Canadian flags and fostering national pride. McCarthy emphasizes the significance of these stories and initiatives in shaping Canadian identity and honoring sacrifices made by military personnel and their families.

]]> Fri, 16 May 2025 16:21:58 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 2752 In this episode, Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore engage with Nicolas (Nick) McCarthy, the Director of Marketing, Communications and Community Outreach for Canada's National Cemetery, Beechwood Cemetery in Ottawa, exploring its rich history and unique features. They discuss Nick's unconventional journey into the cemetery industry, the significance of Beechwood as a military and cultural landmark, and the personal stories that make it a living history of Canada. 

The conversation also touches on the future of technology in commemoration, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and personal narratives in remembering those who have served. In this conversation, Nicolas (Nick) McCarthy highlights initiatives to honor diverse military communities, including Latin American soldiers, and the No Stone Left Alone program that encourages remembrance among school children. Additionally, he introduces the Under the Maple Leaf program, aimed at properly disposing of Canadian flags and fostering national pride. McCarthy emphasizes the significance of these stories and initiatives in shaping Canadian identity and honoring sacrifices made by military personnel and their families.

]]> Beechwood Cemetery, military commemoration, Canadian history, technology in cemeteries, Nick McCarthy, veteran stories, cemetery industry, historical narratives, remembrance, community engagement, Corporal Cannell, reconciliation, Indigenous culture, military history, Latin American soldiers, No Stone Left Alone, Under the Maple Leaf, Canadian military, remembrance, community initiatives No AJ Orlikoff (Historic Congressional Cemetery) - DC's Greatest Undertaking 18 18 AJ Orlikoff (Historic Congressional Cemetery) - DC's Greatest Undertaking full c8257b6e-3b05-46f2-bbed-09d2c72e3b2f https://share.transistor.fm/s/f010590f In this episode, A.J. Orlikoff, the interim executive director of the Historic Congressional Cemetery, shares his journey and passion for history. He discusses the unique features of the cemetery, its role as a community space, and the notable figures interred there. A.J. highlights the importance of serving bereaved families and the lively atmosphere of the cemetery, which includes an active dog-walking program and various community events. He also shares inspiring stories of individuals like Leonard Matlovich, emphasizing the cemetery's rich history and its significance in LGBTQ+ history. The conversation concludes with insights into the cemetery's architectural features and the Cemetery Speaker Series, which fosters community engagement through historical discussions. In this conversation, A.J. Orlikoff discusses the innovative programs at Congressional Cemetery, emphasizing the importance of making history accessible and engaging for the community. He highlights the Speaker Series, military connections, and the emotional impact of events like Wreaths Across America. The conversation also delves into the unique Soul Strolls program, which combines history with immersive theater, and the ongoing efforts to preserve the cemetery's legacy while addressing the challenges faced by historic sites.

With its first burial in 1807, Historic Congressional Cemetery is among the oldest institutions in Washington, DC, and is the final resting place of over 70,000 individuals. Their stories are American history in microcosm, all in 35 acres of the nation’s capital. Still an active burial ground, it is the only place in Washington where individuals can be buried at a site directly on Pierre L’Enfant’s 18th century city plan.

Historic Congressional Cemetery was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2011 and continues to build upon the legacy of over 200 years of American history. 

]]> In this episode, A.J. Orlikoff, the interim executive director of the Historic Congressional Cemetery, shares his journey and passion for history. He discusses the unique features of the cemetery, its role as a community space, and the notable figures interred there. A.J. highlights the importance of serving bereaved families and the lively atmosphere of the cemetery, which includes an active dog-walking program and various community events. He also shares inspiring stories of individuals like Leonard Matlovich, emphasizing the cemetery's rich history and its significance in LGBTQ+ history. The conversation concludes with insights into the cemetery's architectural features and the Cemetery Speaker Series, which fosters community engagement through historical discussions. In this conversation, A.J. Orlikoff discusses the innovative programs at Congressional Cemetery, emphasizing the importance of making history accessible and engaging for the community. He highlights the Speaker Series, military connections, and the emotional impact of events like Wreaths Across America. The conversation also delves into the unique Soul Strolls program, which combines history with immersive theater, and the ongoing efforts to preserve the cemetery's legacy while addressing the challenges faced by historic sites.

With its first burial in 1807, Historic Congressional Cemetery is among the oldest institutions in Washington, DC, and is the final resting place of over 70,000 individuals. Their stories are American history in microcosm, all in 35 acres of the nation’s capital. Still an active burial ground, it is the only place in Washington where individuals can be buried at a site directly on Pierre L’Enfant’s 18th century city plan.

Historic Congressional Cemetery was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2011 and continues to build upon the legacy of over 200 years of American history. 

]]> Thu, 15 May 2025 07:58:45 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 2929 In this episode, A.J. Orlikoff, the interim executive director of the Historic Congressional Cemetery, shares his journey and passion for history. He discusses the unique features of the cemetery, its role as a community space, and the notable figures interred there. A.J. highlights the importance of serving bereaved families and the lively atmosphere of the cemetery, which includes an active dog-walking program and various community events. He also shares inspiring stories of individuals like Leonard Matlovich, emphasizing the cemetery's rich history and its significance in LGBTQ+ history. The conversation concludes with insights into the cemetery's architectural features and the Cemetery Speaker Series, which fosters community engagement through historical discussions. In this conversation, A.J. Orlikoff discusses the innovative programs at Congressional Cemetery, emphasizing the importance of making history accessible and engaging for the community. He highlights the Speaker Series, military connections, and the emotional impact of events like Wreaths Across America. The conversation also delves into the unique Soul Strolls program, which combines history with immersive theater, and the ongoing efforts to preserve the cemetery's legacy while addressing the challenges faced by historic sites.

With its first burial in 1807, Historic Congressional Cemetery is among the oldest institutions in Washington, DC, and is the final resting place of over 70,000 individuals. Their stories are American history in microcosm, all in 35 acres of the nation’s capital. Still an active burial ground, it is the only place in Washington where individuals can be buried at a site directly on Pierre L’Enfant’s 18th century city plan.

Historic Congressional Cemetery was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2011 and continues to build upon the legacy of over 200 years of American history. 

]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Monica Mohindra (Library of Congress) - Preserving the Voice of America's Veterans 17 17 Monica Mohindra (Library of Congress) - Preserving the Voice of America's Veterans full b49fbeda-f600-412e-91b2-30d61f3fc68c https://share.transistor.fm/s/af4be26d The Library of Congress Veterans History Project is the most extensive oral history project in American history, with over 120,000 collections, encompassing oral, physical, digital artifacts and recordings of U.S. veterans — across generations of servicemembers and conflicts dating back to the First World War.

In today's episode join us as we sit down with the dynamic Monica Mohindra, Director of the Veterans History Project at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. who heads up a team racing against time to collect, preserve, and share these priceless stories.

We explore the significance of collecting and preserving the stories of over 120,000 U.S. veterans, emphasizing the personal connections and the impact of sharing them with the next generation. With a significant history of military service in her own family, Monica shares her own experiences that drive her and underline the importance of maintaining curiosity in storytelling, while highlighting the ripple effect that these stories can have on individuals and communities, for both veterans and with surprising effects on their interviewers. The discussion also touches on the living legacy of oral histories and the future of the project as it celebrates its 25th anniversary.

]]> The Library of Congress Veterans History Project is the most extensive oral history project in American history, with over 120,000 collections, encompassing oral, physical, digital artifacts and recordings of U.S. veterans — across generations of servicemembers and conflicts dating back to the First World War.

In today's episode join us as we sit down with the dynamic Monica Mohindra, Director of the Veterans History Project at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. who heads up a team racing against time to collect, preserve, and share these priceless stories.

We explore the significance of collecting and preserving the stories of over 120,000 U.S. veterans, emphasizing the personal connections and the impact of sharing them with the next generation. With a significant history of military service in her own family, Monica shares her own experiences that drive her and underline the importance of maintaining curiosity in storytelling, while highlighting the ripple effect that these stories can have on individuals and communities, for both veterans and with surprising effects on their interviewers. The discussion also touches on the living legacy of oral histories and the future of the project as it celebrates its 25th anniversary.

]]> Tue, 29 Apr 2025 22:40:56 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 2427 The Library of Congress Veterans History Project is the most extensive oral history project in American history, with over 120,000 collections, encompassing oral, physical, digital artifacts and recordings of U.S. veterans — across generations of servicemembers and conflicts dating back to the First World War.

In today's episode join us as we sit down with the dynamic Monica Mohindra, Director of the Veterans History Project at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. who heads up a team racing against time to collect, preserve, and share these priceless stories.

We explore the significance of collecting and preserving the stories of over 120,000 U.S. veterans, emphasizing the personal connections and the impact of sharing them with the next generation. With a significant history of military service in her own family, Monica shares her own experiences that drive her and underline the importance of maintaining curiosity in storytelling, while highlighting the ripple effect that these stories can have on individuals and communities, for both veterans and with surprising effects on their interviewers. The discussion also touches on the living legacy of oral histories and the future of the project as it celebrates its 25th anniversary.

]]> Keywords Veteran History Project, oral history, storytelling, military service, personal stories, history preservation, Library of Congress, veterans, interviews, legacy No Jason van Bruggen - 80 Years of Freedom for the Netherlands 16 16 Jason van Bruggen - 80 Years of Freedom for the Netherlands full f4818973-850f-4502-9f30-57b9e03a8ef3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/bd4efaf3 In this conversation, Ryan Mullens and co-hosts Matthew Cudmore and Matthew Stewart sit down with Jason Van Bruggen, a Dutch-Canadian visual artist behind the 80 Years of Freedom project. They discuss Jason's artistic journey, the importance of visual storytelling, and the emotional impact of sharing personal histories, particularly from the civilian perspective during wartime. The conversation highlights the significance of commemoration and the challenges faced in preserving these narratives for future generations. Jason shares insights into his creative process and the upcoming exhibitions related to his project, emphasizing the need to connect with and learn from the past.

takeaways

  • Jason van Bruggen is driven by curiosity and human interest.
  • Legacy is a significant focus for Jason in his work.
  • Visual storytelling can evoke emotional responses and change behavior.
  • The civilian experience of war is often overlooked in narratives.
  • Commemoration is crucial in understanding the impact of conflict.
  • Connecting generations through shared stories is vital.
  • Many survivors of WWII are reluctant to share their experiences.
  • The importance of asking questions to elicit personal histories.
  • Art can serve as a powerful medium for remembrance.
  • The 80 Years of Freedom project aims to honor and share these stories.
]]> In this conversation, Ryan Mullens and co-hosts Matthew Cudmore and Matthew Stewart sit down with Jason Van Bruggen, a Dutch-Canadian visual artist behind the 80 Years of Freedom project. They discuss Jason's artistic journey, the importance of visual storytelling, and the emotional impact of sharing personal histories, particularly from the civilian perspective during wartime. The conversation highlights the significance of commemoration and the challenges faced in preserving these narratives for future generations. Jason shares insights into his creative process and the upcoming exhibitions related to his project, emphasizing the need to connect with and learn from the past.

takeaways

  • Jason van Bruggen is driven by curiosity and human interest.
  • Legacy is a significant focus for Jason in his work.
  • Visual storytelling can evoke emotional responses and change behavior.
  • The civilian experience of war is often overlooked in narratives.
  • Commemoration is crucial in understanding the impact of conflict.
  • Connecting generations through shared stories is vital.
  • Many survivors of WWII are reluctant to share their experiences.
  • The importance of asking questions to elicit personal histories.
  • Art can serve as a powerful medium for remembrance.
  • The 80 Years of Freedom project aims to honor and share these stories.
]]> Fri, 25 Apr 2025 18:30:54 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1758 In this conversation, Ryan Mullens and co-hosts Matthew Cudmore and Matthew Stewart sit down with Jason Van Bruggen, a Dutch-Canadian visual artist behind the 80 Years of Freedom project. They discuss Jason's artistic journey, the importance of visual storytelling, and the emotional impact of sharing personal histories, particularly from the civilian perspective during wartime. The conversation highlights the significance of commemoration and the challenges faced in preserving these narratives for future generations. Jason shares insights into his creative process and the upcoming exhibitions related to his project, emphasizing the need to connect with and learn from the past.

takeaways

  • Jason van Bruggen is driven by curiosity and human interest.
  • Legacy is a significant focus for Jason in his work.
  • Visual storytelling can evoke emotional responses and change behavior.
  • The civilian experience of war is often overlooked in narratives.
  • Commemoration is crucial in understanding the impact of conflict.
  • Connecting generations through shared stories is vital.
  • Many survivors of WWII are reluctant to share their experiences.
  • The importance of asking questions to elicit personal histories.
  • Art can serve as a powerful medium for remembrance.
  • The 80 Years of Freedom project aims to honor and share these stories.
]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No New Zealand Liberation Museum Te Arawhata - The Ladder to Liberation 15 15 New Zealand Liberation Museum Te Arawhata - The Ladder to Liberation full cdbdf307-4b83-43ff-8fef-87ff9b383115 https://share.transistor.fm/s/20f6a6b5 Join us for our very first "walk and talk" episode hosted by Matthew Stewart and featuring guests Elizabeth Wratislav and Jacob Siermans who head up Te Arawhata, the New Zealand Liberation Museum located in Le Quesnoy, France. Elizabeth and Jacob share the museum's mission to commemorate New Zealand's role in World War I, particularly the liberation of the historic walled French village Le Quesnoy, and the ladder to liberation that helped free the town from occupation in the World War I.

]]> Join us for our very first "walk and talk" episode hosted by Matthew Stewart and featuring guests Elizabeth Wratislav and Jacob Siermans who head up Te Arawhata, the New Zealand Liberation Museum located in Le Quesnoy, France. Elizabeth and Jacob share the museum's mission to commemorate New Zealand's role in World War I, particularly the liberation of the historic walled French village Le Quesnoy, and the ladder to liberation that helped free the town from occupation in the World War I.

]]> Wed, 23 Apr 2025 23:16:59 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 2587 Join us for our very first "walk and talk" episode hosted by Matthew Stewart and featuring guests Elizabeth Wratislav and Jacob Siermans who head up Te Arawhata, the New Zealand Liberation Museum located in Le Quesnoy, France. Elizabeth and Jacob share the museum's mission to commemorate New Zealand's role in World War I, particularly the liberation of the historic walled French village Le Quesnoy, and the ladder to liberation that helped free the town from occupation in the World War I.

]]> Te Arawhata, New Zealand Liberation Museum, World War I, history, remembrance, personal stories, cultural connections, future events No Roseanna Rolph (Dear Mr Snippet Book) - Wartime letters bring history to life 14 14 Roseanna Rolph (Dear Mr Snippet Book) - Wartime letters bring history to life full 771dff04-a9b4-44bf-8e45-a85174ef3fd3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/9de6d21b In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, host Matthew Cudmore interviews author Roseanna Rolph about her historical memoir, 'Dear Mr. Snippet,' which is based on the letters exchanged between her grandparents during World War II. Roseanna shares the emotional journey of discovering these letters, the significance of transcribing them, and the insights gained about her grandparents' relationship and experiences during the war. The conversation also touches on the impact of the book, her collaboration with the charity Little Troopers, and the upcoming exhibit at the London Postal Museum.

takeaways

  • The title 'Dear Mr. Snippet' reflects the intimate correspondence between Roseanna’s grandparents.
  • The letters provide a unique glimpse into life during World War II.
  • Transcribing the letters deepened Roseanna's understanding of her grandparents' lives.
  • The emotional contrast in the letters mirrors the realities of war.
  • Rita and John's relationship was characterized by humor and love despite the war's challenges.
  • The letters reveal the struggles of maintaining morale during long separations.
  • Rita's home front experiences included rationing and community efforts during the war.
  • VE Day was a pivotal moment of hope and celebration for the couple.
  • The book aims to resonate with modern military families through shared experiences.
  • Roseanna's work with Little Troopers highlights the ongoing impact of military life on families.
]]> In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, host Matthew Cudmore interviews author Roseanna Rolph about her historical memoir, 'Dear Mr. Snippet,' which is based on the letters exchanged between her grandparents during World War II. Roseanna shares the emotional journey of discovering these letters, the significance of transcribing them, and the insights gained about her grandparents' relationship and experiences during the war. The conversation also touches on the impact of the book, her collaboration with the charity Little Troopers, and the upcoming exhibit at the London Postal Museum.

takeaways

  • The title 'Dear Mr. Snippet' reflects the intimate correspondence between Roseanna’s grandparents.
  • The letters provide a unique glimpse into life during World War II.
  • Transcribing the letters deepened Roseanna's understanding of her grandparents' lives.
  • The emotional contrast in the letters mirrors the realities of war.
  • Rita and John's relationship was characterized by humor and love despite the war's challenges.
  • The letters reveal the struggles of maintaining morale during long separations.
  • Rita's home front experiences included rationing and community efforts during the war.
  • VE Day was a pivotal moment of hope and celebration for the couple.
  • The book aims to resonate with modern military families through shared experiences.
  • Roseanna's work with Little Troopers highlights the ongoing impact of military life on families.
]]> Wed, 16 Apr 2025 22:52:38 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1501 In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, host Matthew Cudmore interviews author Roseanna Rolph about her historical memoir, 'Dear Mr. Snippet,' which is based on the letters exchanged between her grandparents during World War II. Roseanna shares the emotional journey of discovering these letters, the significance of transcribing them, and the insights gained about her grandparents' relationship and experiences during the war. The conversation also touches on the impact of the book, her collaboration with the charity Little Troopers, and the upcoming exhibit at the London Postal Museum.

takeaways

  • The title 'Dear Mr. Snippet' reflects the intimate correspondence between Roseanna’s grandparents.
  • The letters provide a unique glimpse into life during World War II.
  • Transcribing the letters deepened Roseanna's understanding of her grandparents' lives.
  • The emotional contrast in the letters mirrors the realities of war.
  • Rita and John's relationship was characterized by humor and love despite the war's challenges.
  • The letters reveal the struggles of maintaining morale during long separations.
  • Rita's home front experiences included rationing and community efforts during the war.
  • VE Day was a pivotal moment of hope and celebration for the couple.
  • The book aims to resonate with modern military families through shared experiences.
  • Roseanna's work with Little Troopers highlights the ongoing impact of military life on families.
]]> World War II, historical memoir, letters, family history, emotional storytelling, VE Day, military families, Little Troopers, Roseanna Rolph, Dear Mr Snippet No Caitlin Bailey (Vimy Foundation) - Vimy Memorial: Living Stories 13 13 Caitlin Bailey (Vimy Foundation) - Vimy Memorial: Living Stories full 43683a6a-dfe8-4e0d-956b-c062c0b76c3c https://share.transistor.fm/s/a9ecaf5e In this conversation, Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore speak with Caitlin Bailey, Executive Director of the Vimy Foundation. They discuss the foundation's mission to educate Canadians about their history, particularly the significance of Vimy Ridge, and the various programs aimed at youth engagement and commemoration. Caitlin shares her unexpected journey to the foundation, the importance of Vimy Ridge in Canadian identity, and the impact of their youth programs. The conversation also touches on future initiatives and the role of technology in commemoration.

Takeaways

  • Caitlin Bailey's journey to the Vimy Foundation was accidental but meaningful.
  • Vimy Ridge symbolizes Canadian identity and unity during WWI.
  • The Vimy Foundation runs year-round programs, not just for Vimy Day.
  • Youth programs foster connections among young Canadians from diverse backgrounds.
  • History encourages critical thinking and civic responsibility.
  • The Vimy Foundation's digital initiatives enhance engagement with history.
  • Commemoration is a way to honor those who served in the military.
  • Vimy Ridge is featured on the Canadian $20 bill and passport.
  • The foundation has a collection of 4,000 artifacts related to WWI.
  • Future milestones for the Vimy Foundation include significant anniversaries in 2026 and 2027.
]]> In this conversation, Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore speak with Caitlin Bailey, Executive Director of the Vimy Foundation. They discuss the foundation's mission to educate Canadians about their history, particularly the significance of Vimy Ridge, and the various programs aimed at youth engagement and commemoration. Caitlin shares her unexpected journey to the foundation, the importance of Vimy Ridge in Canadian identity, and the impact of their youth programs. The conversation also touches on future initiatives and the role of technology in commemoration.

Takeaways

  • Caitlin Bailey's journey to the Vimy Foundation was accidental but meaningful.
  • Vimy Ridge symbolizes Canadian identity and unity during WWI.
  • The Vimy Foundation runs year-round programs, not just for Vimy Day.
  • Youth programs foster connections among young Canadians from diverse backgrounds.
  • History encourages critical thinking and civic responsibility.
  • The Vimy Foundation's digital initiatives enhance engagement with history.
  • Commemoration is a way to honor those who served in the military.
  • Vimy Ridge is featured on the Canadian $20 bill and passport.
  • The foundation has a collection of 4,000 artifacts related to WWI.
  • Future milestones for the Vimy Foundation include significant anniversaries in 2026 and 2027.
]]> Tue, 01 Apr 2025 22:22:12 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1641 In this conversation, Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore speak with Caitlin Bailey, Executive Director of the Vimy Foundation. They discuss the foundation's mission to educate Canadians about their history, particularly the significance of Vimy Ridge, and the various programs aimed at youth engagement and commemoration. Caitlin shares her unexpected journey to the foundation, the importance of Vimy Ridge in Canadian identity, and the impact of their youth programs. The conversation also touches on future initiatives and the role of technology in commemoration.

Takeaways

  • Caitlin Bailey's journey to the Vimy Foundation was accidental but meaningful.
  • Vimy Ridge symbolizes Canadian identity and unity during WWI.
  • The Vimy Foundation runs year-round programs, not just for Vimy Day.
  • Youth programs foster connections among young Canadians from diverse backgrounds.
  • History encourages critical thinking and civic responsibility.
  • The Vimy Foundation's digital initiatives enhance engagement with history.
  • Commemoration is a way to honor those who served in the military.
  • Vimy Ridge is featured on the Canadian $20 bill and passport.
  • The foundation has a collection of 4,000 artifacts related to WWI.
  • Future milestones for the Vimy Foundation include significant anniversaries in 2026 and 2027.
]]> Vimy Foundation, commemoration, Canadian history, youth programs, Vimy Ridge, education, civic responsibility, digital initiatives, First World War, Canadian identity No Rich Darby (Operation Honor Guard) - Final Military Honors for American Veterans 12 12 Rich Darby (Operation Honor Guard) - Final Military Honors for American Veterans full 74094e95-618b-45dc-9020-4ee15934d6ab https://share.transistor.fm/s/963acdc3 In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, host Matthew Cudmore speaks with Rich Darby, founder and president of Operation Honor Guard. The organization aims to support honor guards across the United States, which are primarily composed of volunteers who perform military honors at funerals. Rich shares his personal journey, the inspiration behind the organization, and the emotional significance of military funerals. He discusses the challenges faced by honor guards, the need for financial support, and the future initiatives aimed at expanding their reach and resources.

To support Operation Honor Guard, visit https://www.operationhonorguard.us/

Takeaways

  • Operation Honor Guard supports over 10,000 honor guards in the U.S.
  • Rich Darby started fundraising on street corners.
  • The emotional impact of military funerals is profound.
  • Honor guards provide a final sendoff for veterans.
  • Training for honor guards is essential for maintaining standards.
  • The organization is expanding nationally to meet growing needs.
  • Community support is crucial for funding honor guards.
  • Rich's family is actively involved in the organization.
  • The need for financial support is increasing as veterans age.
  • A national database for honor guards is being developed.
]]> In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, host Matthew Cudmore speaks with Rich Darby, founder and president of Operation Honor Guard. The organization aims to support honor guards across the United States, which are primarily composed of volunteers who perform military honors at funerals. Rich shares his personal journey, the inspiration behind the organization, and the emotional significance of military funerals. He discusses the challenges faced by honor guards, the need for financial support, and the future initiatives aimed at expanding their reach and resources.

To support Operation Honor Guard, visit https://www.operationhonorguard.us/

Takeaways

  • Operation Honor Guard supports over 10,000 honor guards in the U.S.
  • Rich Darby started fundraising on street corners.
  • The emotional impact of military funerals is profound.
  • Honor guards provide a final sendoff for veterans.
  • Training for honor guards is essential for maintaining standards.
  • The organization is expanding nationally to meet growing needs.
  • Community support is crucial for funding honor guards.
  • Rich's family is actively involved in the organization.
  • The need for financial support is increasing as veterans age.
  • A national database for honor guards is being developed.
]]> Mon, 31 Mar 2025 16:58:01 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1636 In this episode of Story Behind the Stone, host Matthew Cudmore speaks with Rich Darby, founder and president of Operation Honor Guard. The organization aims to support honor guards across the United States, which are primarily composed of volunteers who perform military honors at funerals. Rich shares his personal journey, the inspiration behind the organization, and the emotional significance of military funerals. He discusses the challenges faced by honor guards, the need for financial support, and the future initiatives aimed at expanding their reach and resources.

To support Operation Honor Guard, visit https://www.operationhonorguard.us/

Takeaways

  • Operation Honor Guard supports over 10,000 honor guards in the U.S.
  • Rich Darby started fundraising on street corners.
  • The emotional impact of military funerals is profound.
  • Honor guards provide a final sendoff for veterans.
  • Training for honor guards is essential for maintaining standards.
  • The organization is expanding nationally to meet growing needs.
  • Community support is crucial for funding honor guards.
  • Rich's family is actively involved in the organization.
  • The need for financial support is increasing as veterans age.
  • A national database for honor guards is being developed.
]]> Operation Honor Guard, veterans, military funerals, honor guard training, nonprofit organization, community support, fundraising, military honors, emotional impact, family legacy No Nicola Nash (British Ministry of Defence) - The War Detectives 11 11 Nicola Nash (British Ministry of Defence) - The War Detectives full 31a1366b-8927-4ce0-aa5d-3ad8db13aca9 https://share.transistor.fm/s/e1e3b91e Join Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore as they speak with Nicola Nash from the Ministry of Defence about her work in the Joint Casualty and Compassionate Center (The War Detectives). They discuss the challenges of identifying military casualties from various conflicts, the emotional connections formed with families, and the importance of storytelling in remembering those who served. Nicola shares her experiences in Korea, the processes involved in identifying unknown soldiers, and the significance of building relationships with families to provide closure and honor the memories of their loved ones.

takeaways

  • Nicola Nash works with the Ministry of Defence to identify historic military casualties.
  • There are over half a million British military casualties from the First and Second World Wars.
  • The records available for each conflict vary significantly, affecting identification efforts.
  • DNA testing is important but not the only method for identifying soldiers.
  • Building relationships with families is a crucial part of the identification process.
  • Personal stories of soldiers help humanize the statistics of war casualties.
  • Recent work in Korea has led to the identification of unknown graves.
  • The emotional impact of connecting families with their lost relatives is profound.
  • The Commonwealth War Graves Commission plays a vital role in the identification process.
  • Nicola's background in archaeology aids her work in military history and casualty identification.
]]> Join Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore as they speak with Nicola Nash from the Ministry of Defence about her work in the Joint Casualty and Compassionate Center (The War Detectives). They discuss the challenges of identifying military casualties from various conflicts, the emotional connections formed with families, and the importance of storytelling in remembering those who served. Nicola shares her experiences in Korea, the processes involved in identifying unknown soldiers, and the significance of building relationships with families to provide closure and honor the memories of their loved ones.

takeaways

  • Nicola Nash works with the Ministry of Defence to identify historic military casualties.
  • There are over half a million British military casualties from the First and Second World Wars.
  • The records available for each conflict vary significantly, affecting identification efforts.
  • DNA testing is important but not the only method for identifying soldiers.
  • Building relationships with families is a crucial part of the identification process.
  • Personal stories of soldiers help humanize the statistics of war casualties.
  • Recent work in Korea has led to the identification of unknown graves.
  • The emotional impact of connecting families with their lost relatives is profound.
  • The Commonwealth War Graves Commission plays a vital role in the identification process.
  • Nicola's background in archaeology aids her work in military history and casualty identification.
]]> Fri, 21 Mar 2025 12:52:39 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1951 Join Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore as they speak with Nicola Nash from the Ministry of Defence about her work in the Joint Casualty and Compassionate Center (The War Detectives). They discuss the challenges of identifying military casualties from various conflicts, the emotional connections formed with families, and the importance of storytelling in remembering those who served. Nicola shares her experiences in Korea, the processes involved in identifying unknown soldiers, and the significance of building relationships with families to provide closure and honor the memories of their loved ones.

takeaways

  • Nicola Nash works with the Ministry of Defence to identify historic military casualties.
  • There are over half a million British military casualties from the First and Second World Wars.
  • The records available for each conflict vary significantly, affecting identification efforts.
  • DNA testing is important but not the only method for identifying soldiers.
  • Building relationships with families is a crucial part of the identification process.
  • Personal stories of soldiers help humanize the statistics of war casualties.
  • Recent work in Korea has led to the identification of unknown graves.
  • The emotional impact of connecting families with their lost relatives is profound.
  • The Commonwealth War Graves Commission plays a vital role in the identification process.
  • Nicola's background in archaeology aids her work in military history and casualty identification.
]]> Ministry of Defense, military history, casualty identification, family connections, Korean War, First World War, Second World War, emotional stories, remembrance, DNA testing No Renée Davis (Department of National Defence) - Identifying Unknown Soldiers 10 10 Renée Davis (Department of National Defence) - Identifying Unknown Soldiers full d0b26d26-61ed-4550-9b63-9db2916a6fac https://share.transistor.fm/s/566724bc In this episode, Ryan and Matt sit down with Renée Davis, a research historian with the Department of National Defence Directorate of History and Heritage working in the Casualty Identification Program. They discuss Renee's journey into military history, the nature of her work in identifying the remains and graves of Canadian service members, and the emotional impact this work has on families. Renee shares specific case studies, including the identification of Private Arthur Venance, and emphasizes the importance of community involvement and curiosity in commemorating the stories of those who served. The conversation highlights the significance of recognizing individual sacrifices and the ongoing efforts to honor their memories.

takeaways

  • Renee's passion for military history developed through her experiences at Vimy.
  • The Casualty Identification Program aims to identify missing service members from past conflicts.
  • Renee's work involves historical sleuthing to piece together soldiers' stories.
  • Identification of remains cases require forensic analysis and genealogical research.
  • The emotional impact of identifying remains is profound for families.
  • Community involvement is crucial for identifying partially known graves.
  • Renee emphasizes the importance of recognizing individual stories behind headstones.
  • The process of identification can take years and involves meticulous research.
  • Ceremonies for identified soldiers provide closure and honor their sacrifices.
  • Renee encourages curiosity in exploring the stories of those commemorated.
]]> In this episode, Ryan and Matt sit down with Renée Davis, a research historian with the Department of National Defence Directorate of History and Heritage working in the Casualty Identification Program. They discuss Renee's journey into military history, the nature of her work in identifying the remains and graves of Canadian service members, and the emotional impact this work has on families. Renee shares specific case studies, including the identification of Private Arthur Venance, and emphasizes the importance of community involvement and curiosity in commemorating the stories of those who served. The conversation highlights the significance of recognizing individual sacrifices and the ongoing efforts to honor their memories.

takeaways

  • Renee's passion for military history developed through her experiences at Vimy.
  • The Casualty Identification Program aims to identify missing service members from past conflicts.
  • Renee's work involves historical sleuthing to piece together soldiers' stories.
  • Identification of remains cases require forensic analysis and genealogical research.
  • The emotional impact of identifying remains is profound for families.
  • Community involvement is crucial for identifying partially known graves.
  • Renee emphasizes the importance of recognizing individual stories behind headstones.
  • The process of identification can take years and involves meticulous research.
  • Ceremonies for identified soldiers provide closure and honor their sacrifices.
  • Renee encourages curiosity in exploring the stories of those commemorated.
]]> Mon, 17 Mar 2025 14:09:57 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 2199 In this episode, Ryan and Matt sit down with Renée Davis, a research historian with the Department of National Defence Directorate of History and Heritage working in the Casualty Identification Program. They discuss Renee's journey into military history, the nature of her work in identifying the remains and graves of Canadian service members, and the emotional impact this work has on families. Renee shares specific case studies, including the identification of Private Arthur Venance, and emphasizes the importance of community involvement and curiosity in commemorating the stories of those who served. The conversation highlights the significance of recognizing individual sacrifices and the ongoing efforts to honor their memories.

takeaways

  • Renee's passion for military history developed through her experiences at Vimy.
  • The Casualty Identification Program aims to identify missing service members from past conflicts.
  • Renee's work involves historical sleuthing to piece together soldiers' stories.
  • Identification of remains cases require forensic analysis and genealogical research.
  • The emotional impact of identifying remains is profound for families.
  • Community involvement is crucial for identifying partially known graves.
  • Renee emphasizes the importance of recognizing individual stories behind headstones.
  • The process of identification can take years and involves meticulous research.
  • Ceremonies for identified soldiers provide closure and honor their sacrifices.
  • Renee encourages curiosity in exploring the stories of those commemorated.
]]> Casualty Identification, Military History, Veterans, Commemoration, Historical Research, Family Closure, Remains Identification, Canadian Military, War Graves, Historical Sleuthing No Haakon Vinje (Norwegian War Graves Service) - Norway's War Graves 9 9 Haakon Vinje (Norwegian War Graves Service) - Norway's War Graves full 8af9422c-aa2c-453d-b876-447b13168c0c https://share.transistor.fm/s/508e0e3b In this conversation, Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore discuss the history and significance of war graves in Norway and around the world with Haakon Vinje from the Norwegian War Graves Service. They explore Norway's role in World War II, the traditions of commemoration, and the complexities of maintaining war graves for both Norwegian and foreign soldiers. Haakon shares personal stories of sacrifice, the importance of recognizing all contributions to the war effort, including those of the merchant navy, and the ongoing efforts to identify and commemorate fallen soldiers. The conversation highlights the significance of preserving history and honoring those who served.

takeaways

  • Norway maintained neutrality in World War I but was occupied in World War II.
  • The 8th of May marks the start of the commemoration season in Norway.
  • The Norwegian War Graves Service manages 29,000 foreign war graves.
  • Norwegian casualties are often buried in family plots rather than national cemeteries.
  • Herman Hirsch Becker's story exemplifies personal sacrifice during the war.
  • The importance of equality in commemoration is emphasized.
  • Digitalization has made it easier to research and identify war graves.
  • The Norwegian merchant navy played a significant role in the Allied war effort.
  • The War Graves Service collaborates with various organizations for maintenance and commemoration.
  • Future commemorative events will highlight the contributions of the merchant navy.
]]> In this conversation, Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore discuss the history and significance of war graves in Norway and around the world with Haakon Vinje from the Norwegian War Graves Service. They explore Norway's role in World War II, the traditions of commemoration, and the complexities of maintaining war graves for both Norwegian and foreign soldiers. Haakon shares personal stories of sacrifice, the importance of recognizing all contributions to the war effort, including those of the merchant navy, and the ongoing efforts to identify and commemorate fallen soldiers. The conversation highlights the significance of preserving history and honoring those who served.

takeaways

  • Norway maintained neutrality in World War I but was occupied in World War II.
  • The 8th of May marks the start of the commemoration season in Norway.
  • The Norwegian War Graves Service manages 29,000 foreign war graves.
  • Norwegian casualties are often buried in family plots rather than national cemeteries.
  • Herman Hirsch Becker's story exemplifies personal sacrifice during the war.
  • The importance of equality in commemoration is emphasized.
  • Digitalization has made it easier to research and identify war graves.
  • The Norwegian merchant navy played a significant role in the Allied war effort.
  • The War Graves Service collaborates with various organizations for maintenance and commemoration.
  • Future commemorative events will highlight the contributions of the merchant navy.
]]> Sat, 15 Mar 2025 00:50:05 -0600 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 2164 In this conversation, Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore discuss the history and significance of war graves in Norway and around the world with Haakon Vinje from the Norwegian War Graves Service. They explore Norway's role in World War II, the traditions of commemoration, and the complexities of maintaining war graves for both Norwegian and foreign soldiers. Haakon shares personal stories of sacrifice, the importance of recognizing all contributions to the war effort, including those of the merchant navy, and the ongoing efforts to identify and commemorate fallen soldiers. The conversation highlights the significance of preserving history and honoring those who served.

takeaways

  • Norway maintained neutrality in World War I but was occupied in World War II.
  • The 8th of May marks the start of the commemoration season in Norway.
  • The Norwegian War Graves Service manages 29,000 foreign war graves.
  • Norwegian casualties are often buried in family plots rather than national cemeteries.
  • Herman Hirsch Becker's story exemplifies personal sacrifice during the war.
  • The importance of equality in commemoration is emphasized.
  • Digitalization has made it easier to research and identify war graves.
  • The Norwegian merchant navy played a significant role in the Allied war effort.
  • The War Graves Service collaborates with various organizations for maintenance and commemoration.
  • Future commemorative events will highlight the contributions of the merchant navy.
]]> Norwegian War Graves, World War II, commemoration, veterans, history, memorials, Norwegian Armed Forces, Lancaster Bomber, merchant navy, cultural heritage No Stuart Taylor (Allied Forces Foundation) - Healing Together, Side by Side 8 8 Stuart Taylor (Allied Forces Foundation) - Healing Together, Side by Side full 064a36fe-a976-4a69-bc11-ebca52022a48 https://share.transistor.fm/s/11b1394d Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore speak with Stuart Taylor, the president and CEO of the Allied Forces Foundation (AFF). They discuss the foundation's mission to support wounded warriors through various events and initiatives, emphasizing the importance of communication, connection, and family involvement. Stuart shares powerful personal stories of transformation and healing, highlighting the impact of the AFF's work on veterans and their families. The conversation also touches on upcoming events and the need for community support.

takeaways

  • The Allied Forces Foundation was established to support wounded warriors.
  • Stuart Taylor emphasizes the importance of continued service after military life.
  • Communication is crucial for veterans to reconnect with their identities.
  • Personal stories of transformation highlight the impact of the AFF's work.
  • Family involvement is essential in the healing process for veterans.
  • The AFF organizes events that foster connection and camaraderie among veterans.
  • Volunteering and community support are vital for the success of veteran initiatives.
  • The foundation aims to help veterans overcome isolation and mental health challenges.
  • Upcoming events include the Catarane Yomp and Warrior Yomp in Washington, D.C.
  • The AFF is collecting prosthetics to support wounded warriors in Ukraine.
]]> Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore speak with Stuart Taylor, the president and CEO of the Allied Forces Foundation (AFF). They discuss the foundation's mission to support wounded warriors through various events and initiatives, emphasizing the importance of communication, connection, and family involvement. Stuart shares powerful personal stories of transformation and healing, highlighting the impact of the AFF's work on veterans and their families. The conversation also touches on upcoming events and the need for community support.

takeaways

  • The Allied Forces Foundation was established to support wounded warriors.
  • Stuart Taylor emphasizes the importance of continued service after military life.
  • Communication is crucial for veterans to reconnect with their identities.
  • Personal stories of transformation highlight the impact of the AFF's work.
  • Family involvement is essential in the healing process for veterans.
  • The AFF organizes events that foster connection and camaraderie among veterans.
  • Volunteering and community support are vital for the success of veteran initiatives.
  • The foundation aims to help veterans overcome isolation and mental health challenges.
  • Upcoming events include the Catarane Yomp and Warrior Yomp in Washington, D.C.
  • The AFF is collecting prosthetics to support wounded warriors in Ukraine.
]]> Thu, 06 Mar 2025 23:36:19 -0700 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1533 Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore speak with Stuart Taylor, the president and CEO of the Allied Forces Foundation (AFF). They discuss the foundation's mission to support wounded warriors through various events and initiatives, emphasizing the importance of communication, connection, and family involvement. Stuart shares powerful personal stories of transformation and healing, highlighting the impact of the AFF's work on veterans and their families. The conversation also touches on upcoming events and the need for community support.

takeaways

  • The Allied Forces Foundation was established to support wounded warriors.
  • Stuart Taylor emphasizes the importance of continued service after military life.
  • Communication is crucial for veterans to reconnect with their identities.
  • Personal stories of transformation highlight the impact of the AFF's work.
  • Family involvement is essential in the healing process for veterans.
  • The AFF organizes events that foster connection and camaraderie among veterans.
  • Volunteering and community support are vital for the success of veteran initiatives.
  • The foundation aims to help veterans overcome isolation and mental health challenges.
  • Upcoming events include the Catarane Yomp and Warrior Yomp in Washington, D.C.
  • The AFF is collecting prosthetics to support wounded warriors in Ukraine.
]]> Allied Forces Foundation, veterans support, wounded warriors, communication, mental health, community, family support, events, transformation, charity No Sam Edwards (The Running Historian) - Allies in Memory and The Friendly Invasion 7 7 Sam Edwards (The Running Historian) - Allies in Memory and The Friendly Invasion full 84a3cee8-49a6-488e-a30f-ff619a4d8d67 https://share.transistor.fm/s/647c2074 Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore sit down with "The Running Historian", Professor Sam Edwards, exploring themes of memory, commemoration, and the impact of historical events on contemporary society. Sam shares his personal journey into the field of history, influenced by the American military presence in Eastern England during World War II. The discussion delves into the significance of memorials, the role of technology in preserving memory, and the importance of complicating historical narratives to ensure a more nuanced understanding of the past. Sam emphasizes the emotional connections veterans have to their experiences and the need for communities to keep these memories alive through various means, including technology and personal visits to historical sites. The conversation also touches on the mythologization of historical figures and the use of memory in diplomacy, particularly in the context of Anglo-American relations. As the discussion progresses, Sam shares personal anecdotes and reflections on the importance of remembering history to prevent its repetition.

Takeaways

  • Sam's interest in history began in his teenage years.
  • The American military presence in Eastern England was transformative.
  • Memory and commemoration are crucial for understanding history.
  • Technology can help preserve and share historical memories.
  • Complicating narratives is essential for a deeper understanding of history.
  • The mythologization of figures like Churchill shapes public perception.
  • Memory can be a diplomatic tool in international relations.
  • Veterans' emotional connections to their past are profound.
  • Experiencing historical sites can enhance understanding of memory.
  • Future projects aim to commemorate significant historical anniversaries.
]]> Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore sit down with "The Running Historian", Professor Sam Edwards, exploring themes of memory, commemoration, and the impact of historical events on contemporary society. Sam shares his personal journey into the field of history, influenced by the American military presence in Eastern England during World War II. The discussion delves into the significance of memorials, the role of technology in preserving memory, and the importance of complicating historical narratives to ensure a more nuanced understanding of the past. Sam emphasizes the emotional connections veterans have to their experiences and the need for communities to keep these memories alive through various means, including technology and personal visits to historical sites. The conversation also touches on the mythologization of historical figures and the use of memory in diplomacy, particularly in the context of Anglo-American relations. As the discussion progresses, Sam shares personal anecdotes and reflections on the importance of remembering history to prevent its repetition.

Takeaways

  • Sam's interest in history began in his teenage years.
  • The American military presence in Eastern England was transformative.
  • Memory and commemoration are crucial for understanding history.
  • Technology can help preserve and share historical memories.
  • Complicating narratives is essential for a deeper understanding of history.
  • The mythologization of figures like Churchill shapes public perception.
  • Memory can be a diplomatic tool in international relations.
  • Veterans' emotional connections to their past are profound.
  • Experiencing historical sites can enhance understanding of memory.
  • Future projects aim to commemorate significant historical anniversaries.
]]> Wed, 05 Mar 2025 18:37:42 -0700 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1952 Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore sit down with "The Running Historian", Professor Sam Edwards, exploring themes of memory, commemoration, and the impact of historical events on contemporary society. Sam shares his personal journey into the field of history, influenced by the American military presence in Eastern England during World War II. The discussion delves into the significance of memorials, the role of technology in preserving memory, and the importance of complicating historical narratives to ensure a more nuanced understanding of the past. Sam emphasizes the emotional connections veterans have to their experiences and the need for communities to keep these memories alive through various means, including technology and personal visits to historical sites. The conversation also touches on the mythologization of historical figures and the use of memory in diplomacy, particularly in the context of Anglo-American relations. As the discussion progresses, Sam shares personal anecdotes and reflections on the importance of remembering history to prevent its repetition.

Takeaways

  • Sam's interest in history began in his teenage years.
  • The American military presence in Eastern England was transformative.
  • Memory and commemoration are crucial for understanding history.
  • Technology can help preserve and share historical memories.
  • Complicating narratives is essential for a deeper understanding of history.
  • The mythologization of figures like Churchill shapes public perception.
  • Memory can be a diplomatic tool in international relations.
  • Veterans' emotional connections to their past are profound.
  • Experiencing historical sites can enhance understanding of memory.
  • Future projects aim to commemorate significant historical anniversaries.
]]> Allies in Memory, Masters Of The Air, The Friendly Invasion, commemoration, history, veterans, technology, Anglo-American relations, cultural memory, historical narratives, diplomacy No Ultan Moran (Glasnevin, Ireland's National Cemetery) - Ireland's Largest Burial Place 6 6 Ultan Moran (Glasnevin, Ireland's National Cemetery) - Ireland's Largest Burial Place full 783ff92a-b57f-4f13-9dcf-208da1035d3f https://share.transistor.fm/s/636691f6 In this conversation, Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore welcome Ultan Moran from Glasnevin Irish National Cemetery, exploring its rich history, notable figures buried there, and the cultural significance of cemeteries. Ultan shares insights into the cemetery's origins, the stories of prominent individuals, and the unique features that make Glasnevin a significant historical site. The discussion also touches on the evolving nature of commemoration and the importance of preserving these narratives for future generations.

takeaways

  • Glasnevin Cemetery is the National Cemetery of Ireland.
  • Daniel O'Connell advocated for a non-denominational burial site.
  • 1.5 million people are buried in Glasnevin Cemetery.
  • The cemetery tells the story of Irish history over the last two centuries.
  • Michael Collins is one of the most visited graves.
  • Cemeteries provide insight into the culture and history of a place.
  • Unique features like the O'Connell Tower attract visitors.
  • Memento Mori reflects Victorian attitudes towards death.
  • Celtic Crosses symbolize the merging of pagan and Christian beliefs.
  • Exploring cemeteries can reveal connections to one's own heritage. Headstones have limited space for inscriptions, making them significant.
  • Inscriptions often reflect the social status of the deceased.
  • Many graves in Glasnevin are unmarked, representing lost histories.
  • The cemetery meticulously records every burial, preserving history.
  • Genealogy research is facilitated by digitized records at the cemetery.
  • Commemoration events are frequent, reflecting diverse narratives.
  • The cemetery serves as a focal point for Irish history and remembrance.
  • Future events will celebrate the bicentenary of the Dublin Cemetery's Trust.
  • Guided tours highlight both prominent and overlooked figures in history.
  • The Women in History tour showcases the contributions of women to Irish independence.
]]> In this conversation, Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore welcome Ultan Moran from Glasnevin Irish National Cemetery, exploring its rich history, notable figures buried there, and the cultural significance of cemeteries. Ultan shares insights into the cemetery's origins, the stories of prominent individuals, and the unique features that make Glasnevin a significant historical site. The discussion also touches on the evolving nature of commemoration and the importance of preserving these narratives for future generations.

takeaways

  • Glasnevin Cemetery is the National Cemetery of Ireland.
  • Daniel O'Connell advocated for a non-denominational burial site.
  • 1.5 million people are buried in Glasnevin Cemetery.
  • The cemetery tells the story of Irish history over the last two centuries.
  • Michael Collins is one of the most visited graves.
  • Cemeteries provide insight into the culture and history of a place.
  • Unique features like the O'Connell Tower attract visitors.
  • Memento Mori reflects Victorian attitudes towards death.
  • Celtic Crosses symbolize the merging of pagan and Christian beliefs.
  • Exploring cemeteries can reveal connections to one's own heritage. Headstones have limited space for inscriptions, making them significant.
  • Inscriptions often reflect the social status of the deceased.
  • Many graves in Glasnevin are unmarked, representing lost histories.
  • The cemetery meticulously records every burial, preserving history.
  • Genealogy research is facilitated by digitized records at the cemetery.
  • Commemoration events are frequent, reflecting diverse narratives.
  • The cemetery serves as a focal point for Irish history and remembrance.
  • Future events will celebrate the bicentenary of the Dublin Cemetery's Trust.
  • Guided tours highlight both prominent and overlooked figures in history.
  • The Women in History tour showcases the contributions of women to Irish independence.
]]> Tue, 04 Mar 2025 20:49:32 -0700 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 2227 In this conversation, Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore welcome Ultan Moran from Glasnevin Irish National Cemetery, exploring its rich history, notable figures buried there, and the cultural significance of cemeteries. Ultan shares insights into the cemetery's origins, the stories of prominent individuals, and the unique features that make Glasnevin a significant historical site. The discussion also touches on the evolving nature of commemoration and the importance of preserving these narratives for future generations.

takeaways

  • Glasnevin Cemetery is the National Cemetery of Ireland.
  • Daniel O'Connell advocated for a non-denominational burial site.
  • 1.5 million people are buried in Glasnevin Cemetery.
  • The cemetery tells the story of Irish history over the last two centuries.
  • Michael Collins is one of the most visited graves.
  • Cemeteries provide insight into the culture and history of a place.
  • Unique features like the O'Connell Tower attract visitors.
  • Memento Mori reflects Victorian attitudes towards death.
  • Celtic Crosses symbolize the merging of pagan and Christian beliefs.
  • Exploring cemeteries can reveal connections to one's own heritage. Headstones have limited space for inscriptions, making them significant.
  • Inscriptions often reflect the social status of the deceased.
  • Many graves in Glasnevin are unmarked, representing lost histories.
  • The cemetery meticulously records every burial, preserving history.
  • Genealogy research is facilitated by digitized records at the cemetery.
  • Commemoration events are frequent, reflecting diverse narratives.
  • The cemetery serves as a focal point for Irish history and remembrance.
  • Future events will celebrate the bicentenary of the Dublin Cemetery's Trust.
  • Guided tours highlight both prominent and overlooked figures in history.
  • The Women in History tour showcases the contributions of women to Irish independence.
]]> Glasnevin Cemetery, Irish history, prominent figures, cemetery tours, historical research, genealogy, memorialization, cultural heritage, cemetery symbolism, cemetery, Glasnevin, inscriptions, genealogy, commemoration, Irish history, headstones, burial records, historical narratives, memorials No Scott Smith (The Royal Parks): Wartime in the Royal Parks of London 5 5 Scott Smith (The Royal Parks): Wartime in the Royal Parks of London full b6f9db25-4783-406b-9d39-e798ecc2b0c2 https://share.transistor.fm/s/202f74c3 Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore speak with Scott Smith from the Royal Parks about his journey to the organization, the historical significance of the parks, and the role of technology in preserving their rich heritage. Scott shares insights into the parks' connection to World War II, personal stories of veterans, and the importance of remembrance. The discussion also touches on the impact of community involvement and the need to pass on these stories to future generations, concluding with book recommendations and resources for further exploration.

]]> Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore speak with Scott Smith from the Royal Parks about his journey to the organization, the historical significance of the parks, and the role of technology in preserving their rich heritage. Scott shares insights into the parks' connection to World War II, personal stories of veterans, and the importance of remembrance. The discussion also touches on the impact of community involvement and the need to pass on these stories to future generations, concluding with book recommendations and resources for further exploration.

]]> Fri, 28 Feb 2025 20:09:08 -0700 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 2046 Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore speak with Scott Smith from the Royal Parks about his journey to the organization, the historical significance of the parks, and the role of technology in preserving their rich heritage. Scott shares insights into the parks' connection to World War II, personal stories of veterans, and the importance of remembrance. The discussion also touches on the impact of community involvement and the need to pass on these stories to future generations, concluding with book recommendations and resources for further exploration.

]]> Royal Parks, Scott Smith, veteran stories, commemoration, technology in preservation, historical parks, World War II, memorials, personal history, remembrance No Simon Bendry (Commonwealth War Graves Commission): Passing the Torch of Commemoration 4 4 Simon Bendry (Commonwealth War Graves Commission): Passing the Torch of Commemoration full 166e4fe7-b1ac-474a-ad2a-57ce2a3a7556 https://share.transistor.fm/s/0a0d424c In this episode, Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore chat with Simon Bendry from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) to explore the organization's vital role in commemorating those who served in the Commonwealth. They discuss the history of the CWGC, the unique stories behind various cemeteries, and the importance of personal connections behind the gravestones. The conversation also highlights the challenges faced in modern commemoration, the impact of technology in preserving stories, and the significance of engaging communities and descendants in remembrance efforts. Simon shares insights into the Cape Town Labour Corps Memorial and the CWGC's future plans for commemorative events, emphasizing the need for ongoing support and connection to the past.

Takeaways

  • The Commonwealth War Graves Commission plays a crucial role in maintaining the memory of those who served in the military.
  • Each cemetery has its own unique story that reflects the history of the individuals buried there.
  • Personal connections to war graves can evoke powerful emotions and memories.
  • Technology is transforming the way stories of the fallen are shared and preserved.
  • The importance of commemoration is evolving as we move into a new phase of remembrance.
  • Engaging communities and descendants is vital for preserving the stories of those who served.
  • The Cape Town Labour Corps Memorial represents a significant step in recognizing overlooked individuals.
  • Future commemorative events will focus on sharing stories and engaging the public.
  • Cemeteries serve as a space for the living to remember and honor the past.
  • Support for the CWGC can help ensure that these stories continue to be told.
]]> In this episode, Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore chat with Simon Bendry from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) to explore the organization's vital role in commemorating those who served in the Commonwealth. They discuss the history of the CWGC, the unique stories behind various cemeteries, and the importance of personal connections behind the gravestones. The conversation also highlights the challenges faced in modern commemoration, the impact of technology in preserving stories, and the significance of engaging communities and descendants in remembrance efforts. Simon shares insights into the Cape Town Labour Corps Memorial and the CWGC's future plans for commemorative events, emphasizing the need for ongoing support and connection to the past.

Takeaways

  • The Commonwealth War Graves Commission plays a crucial role in maintaining the memory of those who served in the military.
  • Each cemetery has its own unique story that reflects the history of the individuals buried there.
  • Personal connections to war graves can evoke powerful emotions and memories.
  • Technology is transforming the way stories of the fallen are shared and preserved.
  • The importance of commemoration is evolving as we move into a new phase of remembrance.
  • Engaging communities and descendants is vital for preserving the stories of those who served.
  • The Cape Town Labour Corps Memorial represents a significant step in recognizing overlooked individuals.
  • Future commemorative events will focus on sharing stories and engaging the public.
  • Cemeteries serve as a space for the living to remember and honor the past.
  • Support for the CWGC can help ensure that these stories continue to be told.
]]> Wed, 12 Feb 2025 23:56:59 -0700 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 3050 In this episode, Ryan Mullens and Matthew Cudmore chat with Simon Bendry from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) to explore the organization's vital role in commemorating those who served in the Commonwealth. They discuss the history of the CWGC, the unique stories behind various cemeteries, and the importance of personal connections behind the gravestones. The conversation also highlights the challenges faced in modern commemoration, the impact of technology in preserving stories, and the significance of engaging communities and descendants in remembrance efforts. Simon shares insights into the Cape Town Labour Corps Memorial and the CWGC's future plans for commemorative events, emphasizing the need for ongoing support and connection to the past.

Takeaways

  • The Commonwealth War Graves Commission plays a crucial role in maintaining the memory of those who served in the military.
  • Each cemetery has its own unique story that reflects the history of the individuals buried there.
  • Personal connections to war graves can evoke powerful emotions and memories.
  • Technology is transforming the way stories of the fallen are shared and preserved.
  • The importance of commemoration is evolving as we move into a new phase of remembrance.
  • Engaging communities and descendants is vital for preserving the stories of those who served.
  • The Cape Town Labour Corps Memorial represents a significant step in recognizing overlooked individuals.
  • Future commemorative events will focus on sharing stories and engaging the public.
  • Cemeteries serve as a space for the living to remember and honor the past.
  • Support for the CWGC can help ensure that these stories continue to be told.
]]> veterans, commemoration, cemeteries, military, funerals No Nick Miller (Former CIO Arlington National Cemetery): Connecting visitors to stories of service 3 3 Nick Miller (Former CIO Arlington National Cemetery): Connecting visitors to stories of service full 52c36ca3-9050-4561-9cfa-8b7e7fab8f60 https://share.transistor.fm/s/8a134c4b In this conversation, Nick Miller shares his journey from military service to his pivotal role in enhancing commemoration through technology at Arlington Cemetery. He discusses the importance of honoring veterans, the challenges faced in modernizing the cemetery's operations, and the critical role of technology in improving visitor experiences. The conversation also explores the future of commemoration, emphasizing the need for data organization and personalized experiences for visitors. In this conversation, Nick Miller discusses the transformative impact of generative AI on customer experiences, particularly in the context of Arlington Cemetery. He reflects on the digital transformation efforts at Arlington, highlighting the benefits of technology in enhancing visitor experiences and operational efficiency. The discussion also delves into the emotional and healing aspects of commemoration for families and veterans, as well as the ethical considerations surrounding the use of technology in storytelling. Miller emphasizes the importance of collaboration and innovation in shaping the future of commemoration and memorialization.

Takeaways

  • Nick's military journey began reluctantly but evolved into a passion for commemoration.
  • The human cost of sacrifice is a driving force behind commemorative efforts.
  • Technology can significantly enhance the visitor experience at memorial sites.
  • Restoring trust in commemorative practices is essential for honoring veterans.
  • The importance of data organization in modernizing cemetery operations cannot be overstated.
  • Visitor experiences must cater to both personal connections and broader military history.
  • Connecting visitors to stories of service is crucial for meaningful commemoration.
  • Emerging technologies can create personalized learning experiences in the commemoration space.
  • The future of commemoration will rely heavily on data and technology integration.
  • Creating unique experiences for visitors is a growing opportunity in the field of commemoration. Generative AI is set to revolutionize customer experiences.
  • Digital transformation at Arlington has improved operations and visitor engagement.
  • Technology enhances the connection to military service and sacrifice.
  • Commemoration spaces provide healing for families and veterans.
  • The Cemetery Geospatial System has modernized record-keeping at Arlington.
  • Visitor experiences can be enriched through technology and data organization.
  • Exploring lesser-known sections of Arlington reveals rich histories.
  • Emotional connections can be fostered through technology in memorialization.
  • The future of commemoration involves ethical considerations in storytelling.
  • Collaboration is key to developing authoritative narratives in memorial spaces.
]]> In this conversation, Nick Miller shares his journey from military service to his pivotal role in enhancing commemoration through technology at Arlington Cemetery. He discusses the importance of honoring veterans, the challenges faced in modernizing the cemetery's operations, and the critical role of technology in improving visitor experiences. The conversation also explores the future of commemoration, emphasizing the need for data organization and personalized experiences for visitors. In this conversation, Nick Miller discusses the transformative impact of generative AI on customer experiences, particularly in the context of Arlington Cemetery. He reflects on the digital transformation efforts at Arlington, highlighting the benefits of technology in enhancing visitor experiences and operational efficiency. The discussion also delves into the emotional and healing aspects of commemoration for families and veterans, as well as the ethical considerations surrounding the use of technology in storytelling. Miller emphasizes the importance of collaboration and innovation in shaping the future of commemoration and memorialization.

Takeaways

  • Nick's military journey began reluctantly but evolved into a passion for commemoration.
  • The human cost of sacrifice is a driving force behind commemorative efforts.
  • Technology can significantly enhance the visitor experience at memorial sites.
  • Restoring trust in commemorative practices is essential for honoring veterans.
  • The importance of data organization in modernizing cemetery operations cannot be overstated.
  • Visitor experiences must cater to both personal connections and broader military history.
  • Connecting visitors to stories of service is crucial for meaningful commemoration.
  • Emerging technologies can create personalized learning experiences in the commemoration space.
  • The future of commemoration will rely heavily on data and technology integration.
  • Creating unique experiences for visitors is a growing opportunity in the field of commemoration. Generative AI is set to revolutionize customer experiences.
  • Digital transformation at Arlington has improved operations and visitor engagement.
  • Technology enhances the connection to military service and sacrifice.
  • Commemoration spaces provide healing for families and veterans.
  • The Cemetery Geospatial System has modernized record-keeping at Arlington.
  • Visitor experiences can be enriched through technology and data organization.
  • Exploring lesser-known sections of Arlington reveals rich histories.
  • Emotional connections can be fostered through technology in memorialization.
  • The future of commemoration involves ethical considerations in storytelling.
  • Collaboration is key to developing authoritative narratives in memorial spaces.
]]> Wed, 12 Feb 2025 08:44:26 -0700 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 1755 In this conversation, Nick Miller shares his journey from military service to his pivotal role in enhancing commemoration through technology at Arlington Cemetery. He discusses the importance of honoring veterans, the challenges faced in modernizing the cemetery's operations, and the critical role of technology in improving visitor experiences. The conversation also explores the future of commemoration, emphasizing the need for data organization and personalized experiences for visitors. In this conversation, Nick Miller discusses the transformative impact of generative AI on customer experiences, particularly in the context of Arlington Cemetery. He reflects on the digital transformation efforts at Arlington, highlighting the benefits of technology in enhancing visitor experiences and operational efficiency. The discussion also delves into the emotional and healing aspects of commemoration for families and veterans, as well as the ethical considerations surrounding the use of technology in storytelling. Miller emphasizes the importance of collaboration and innovation in shaping the future of commemoration and memorialization.

Takeaways

  • Nick's military journey began reluctantly but evolved into a passion for commemoration.
  • The human cost of sacrifice is a driving force behind commemorative efforts.
  • Technology can significantly enhance the visitor experience at memorial sites.
  • Restoring trust in commemorative practices is essential for honoring veterans.
  • The importance of data organization in modernizing cemetery operations cannot be overstated.
  • Visitor experiences must cater to both personal connections and broader military history.
  • Connecting visitors to stories of service is crucial for meaningful commemoration.
  • Emerging technologies can create personalized learning experiences in the commemoration space.
  • The future of commemoration will rely heavily on data and technology integration.
  • Creating unique experiences for visitors is a growing opportunity in the field of commemoration. Generative AI is set to revolutionize customer experiences.
  • Digital transformation at Arlington has improved operations and visitor engagement.
  • Technology enhances the connection to military service and sacrifice.
  • Commemoration spaces provide healing for families and veterans.
  • The Cemetery Geospatial System has modernized record-keeping at Arlington.
  • Visitor experiences can be enriched through technology and data organization.
  • Exploring lesser-known sections of Arlington reveals rich histories.
  • Emotional connections can be fostered through technology in memorialization.
  • The future of commemoration involves ethical considerations in storytelling.
  • Collaboration is key to developing authoritative narratives in memorial spaces.
]]> Arlington Cemetery, Arlington, Arlington National Cemetery, Mobile app, cemetery software, GIS No Amanda Thompson (Best Defense Foundation): The Healing Power of Battlefield Return 2 2 Amanda Thompson (Best Defense Foundation): The Healing Power of Battlefield Return full b7b2e2be-3c97-4981-9d50-fdb52a2832a4 https://share.transistor.fm/s/184a5a7e Join guest Amanda Thompson, the executive director of the Best Defense Foundation, who discusses the organization's mission to honor veterans through innovative programs including their landmark Battlefield Return program. The conversation covers the logistics of bringing veterans to significant historical sites, the importance of personal stories in understanding history, and the role of technology in engaging younger generations. Amanda shares her personal journey and the emotional weight of her work, highlighting the need to recognize every veteran's contribution, including those of women during wartime. The discussion also touches on future plans for the foundation and the ongoing challenges in commemoration.

]]> Join guest Amanda Thompson, the executive director of the Best Defense Foundation, who discusses the organization's mission to honor veterans through innovative programs including their landmark Battlefield Return program. The conversation covers the logistics of bringing veterans to significant historical sites, the importance of personal stories in understanding history, and the role of technology in engaging younger generations. Amanda shares her personal journey and the emotional weight of her work, highlighting the need to recognize every veteran's contribution, including those of women during wartime. The discussion also touches on future plans for the foundation and the ongoing challenges in commemoration.

]]> Tue, 11 Feb 2025 18:18:57 -0700 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 2028 Join guest Amanda Thompson, the executive director of the Best Defense Foundation, who discusses the organization's mission to honor veterans through innovative programs including their landmark Battlefield Return program. The conversation covers the logistics of bringing veterans to significant historical sites, the importance of personal stories in understanding history, and the role of technology in engaging younger generations. Amanda shares her personal journey and the emotional weight of her work, highlighting the need to recognize every veteran's contribution, including those of women during wartime. The discussion also touches on future plans for the foundation and the ongoing challenges in commemoration.

]]> Best Defence Foundation, veterans, commemoration, Normandy, legacy, technology, education, support, mental health, women's history No Amy Meunier (Veterans Affairs Canada): Invictus Games 2025 and the Future of Commemoration 1 1 Amy Meunier (Veterans Affairs Canada): Invictus Games 2025 and the Future of Commemoration full 842c297a-139c-4fbf-9399-9f50dad90ab0 https://share.transistor.fm/s/63c88184 Amy Meunier, the Veterans Affairs Canada Assistant Deputy Minister of Commemoration and Public Affairs, joins Ryan Mullens to speak about the importance of recognizing and commemorating veterans. They discuss various initiatives by Veterans Affairs Canada, the significance of grassroots commemoration, and the need to highlight the stories of Indigenous and women veterans. The conversation also touches on the Invictus Games as a platform for healing and connection among veterans, and Amy shares her personal journey and passion for supporting veterans.

Takeaways

  • Commemoration is essential for recognizing veterans' sacrifices.
  • Grassroots initiatives play a crucial role in veteran recognition.
  • Indigenous veterans' stories need more visibility and support.
  • Women veterans face unique challenges that require attention.
  • The Invictus Games provide healing through community and sport.
  • Recognition by communities enhances veterans' well-being.
  • Storytelling is vital for preserving veterans' experiences.
  • Government has a role, but communities lead in recognition.
  • Connecting traditional and modern veterans fosters understanding.
  • Amy's passion stems from personal experiences and a desire to help.
]]> Amy Meunier, the Veterans Affairs Canada Assistant Deputy Minister of Commemoration and Public Affairs, joins Ryan Mullens to speak about the importance of recognizing and commemorating veterans. They discuss various initiatives by Veterans Affairs Canada, the significance of grassroots commemoration, and the need to highlight the stories of Indigenous and women veterans. The conversation also touches on the Invictus Games as a platform for healing and connection among veterans, and Amy shares her personal journey and passion for supporting veterans.

Takeaways

  • Commemoration is essential for recognizing veterans' sacrifices.
  • Grassroots initiatives play a crucial role in veteran recognition.
  • Indigenous veterans' stories need more visibility and support.
  • Women veterans face unique challenges that require attention.
  • The Invictus Games provide healing through community and sport.
  • Recognition by communities enhances veterans' well-being.
  • Storytelling is vital for preserving veterans' experiences.
  • Government has a role, but communities lead in recognition.
  • Connecting traditional and modern veterans fosters understanding.
  • Amy's passion stems from personal experiences and a desire to help.
]]> Tue, 11 Feb 2025 15:45:26 -0700 Memory Anchor Memory Anchor 2351 Amy Meunier, the Veterans Affairs Canada Assistant Deputy Minister of Commemoration and Public Affairs, joins Ryan Mullens to speak about the importance of recognizing and commemorating veterans. They discuss various initiatives by Veterans Affairs Canada, the significance of grassroots commemoration, and the need to highlight the stories of Indigenous and women veterans. The conversation also touches on the Invictus Games as a platform for healing and connection among veterans, and Amy shares her personal journey and passion for supporting veterans.

Takeaways

  • Commemoration is essential for recognizing veterans' sacrifices.
  • Grassroots initiatives play a crucial role in veteran recognition.
  • Indigenous veterans' stories need more visibility and support.
  • Women veterans face unique challenges that require attention.
  • The Invictus Games provide healing through community and sport.
  • Recognition by communities enhances veterans' well-being.
  • Storytelling is vital for preserving veterans' experiences.
  • Government has a role, but communities lead in recognition.
  • Connecting traditional and modern veterans fosters understanding.
  • Amy's passion stems from personal experiences and a desire to help.
]]> invictus games, prince harry, veterans, veterans affairs canada, indigenous veterans, women veterans No