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At Mission Roll Call, we believe every veteran’s story deserves to be told—and remembered. Whether they served decades ago or just recently transitioned to civilian life, their experiences, sacrifices, and values shape the strength of our nation. 

That’s why we’re proud to highlight the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ new “Living Veteran” page, an extension of the Veterans Legacy Memorial (VLM) that empowers veterans to take charge of their own legacy while they’re still with us. 

What Is the Living Veteran Page? 

Traditionally, the Veterans Legacy Memorial has been a space to honor those who have passed. It’s a growing digital tribute that allows families and loved ones to share stories, photos, and memories of veterans interred in VA national cemeteries. 

Now, with the launch of the Living Veteran page, that tribute expands to include living veterans. This online profile gives veterans the chance to shape how they are remembered, share their military service history, and connect with their community in a meaningful way—right now. 

Each living veteran’s page includes: 

Why It Matters 

This update is more than just a technical feature. It’s a recognition that veterans’ stories don’t start and stop with their service. They’re ongoing and the lives they touch are countless. 

Many veterans find it hard to talk about their service or feel their experiences are misunderstood. The Living Veteran page offers a safe and accessible platform to share those moments, in their own words, on their own terms. It allows veterans to define their identity beyond the uniform, sharing what they’re proud of, what they’ve overcome, and what they stand for. 

It also offers families a way to celebrate their loved ones while they’re still here, building connection and gratitude across generations. 

For those of us who support veterans—through advocacy, family ties, or simply by listening—this platform helps us understand them better and honor them in more personal ways. 

Who Can Create a Page? 

Veterans who served in the U.S. Armed Forces and received an honorable discharge are eligible. They can create their profiles through VA.gov and will need to verify their identity through a Login.gov, ID.me, or DS Logon account. 

Once the profile is created, veterans can add personal details, upload photos, and invite others to view and interact with their page. The VA moderates content to ensure accuracy and respectful engagement. 

How to Get Started 

If you’re a veteran ready to share your story—or you know one who should—here’s how to begin: 

  1. Visit the Living Veteran Page on VL
  2. Sign in using a secure VA-approved account
  3. Follow the prompts to create your Living Veteran profile
  4. Add your service history, bio, and personal touches
  5. Share your page with family and friends 

A Step Toward Connection 

At Mission Roll Call, we work to ensure veterans and their families are seen, heard, and valued. The VA’s Living Veteran page aligns with that mission, giving veterans the microphone to tell their own stories, in their own voices. 

This isn’t just about history. It’s about legacy. It’s about showing our children, our neighbors, and our nation who these men and women really are. Not just as service members, but as teachers, parents, volunteers, entrepreneurs, artists, and leaders. 

In a time when connection and understanding are more important than ever, the Living Veteran page offers both. We encourage every eligible veteran to take advantage of it, and every supporter to visit, read, and share these incredible stories. Let’s honor our heroes and celebrate their lives—not just their service. 

 

 

 

For 250 years, the men and women of the United States military have stood as the guardians of our nation—defending freedom, protecting democracy, and answering the call whenever and wherever they were needed. They have stormed beaches, braved enemy fire, endured the harshest conditions, and made unimaginable sacrifices to uphold the ideals we hold dear. 

This milestone is more than just a number—it is a tribute to generations of service members who have shaped our country’s history with their courage and dedication. It is a reminder that freedom is never free, and that each era of warriors has carried the torch forward for the next. 

At Mission Roll Call, we believe this legacy deserves to be honored—not just in words, but in action. Even after their military service ends, these heroes become veterans who still need our support.  

As we commemorate this milestone, Mission Roll Call invites you to be part of this legacy. Our $25 for 250 campaign is a chance to honor those who have served by making a meaningful impact on today’s veterans and their families. With just $25, you can help us continue the fight for better care, stronger support, and lasting change for those who wore the uniform. 

A Legacy of Service: 250 Years of the U.S. Military 

The history of the U.S. military is a testament to courage, resilience, and sacrifice. Each branch has played a vital role in protecting our nation, standing ready in times of war and peace. 

Army (June 14, 1775) – Established before the Declaration of Independence, the Army has been the backbone of American defense for nearly two and a half centuries. 

Navy (October 13, 1775) – From the early battles of the Revolutionary War to modern naval supremacy, the Navy has protected our seas and projected power around the world. 

Air Force (September 18, 1947) – Originally part of the Army, the Air Force became its own branch after World War II, pioneering advancements in aerial combat, defense, and space operations. 

Marine Corps (November 10, 1775) – Known for their unmatched toughness, the Marines have led assaults on the most challenging battlefields in history. 

Coast Guard (August 4, 1790) – From enforcing maritime law to conducting search and rescue missions, the Coast Guard plays a crucial role in national security and humanitarian efforts. 

Space Force (December 20, 2019) – The newest branch of the military, the Space Force is responsible for protecting U.S. interests in space and advancing global security in a new frontier. 

Revisit the Moments That Shaped Our Nation 

From the Revolutionary War to the modern military, countless moments have defined our country’s history and the service members who have defended it. Explore our full historical timeline and reflect on the battles, breakthroughs, and bravery that built the military we honor today. View the timeline. 

Honor the Past. Impact the Future. 

For 250 years, service members have answered the call. Now, we’re asking you to stand with them. Whether you’re a veteran, military family member, or patriotic supporter, your $25 donation can help Mission Roll Call continue to fight for those who fought for us. 

Your support helps us:
– Advocate for better healthcare and mental health resources
– Ensure veteran voices are heard at the highest levels of government
– Expand initiatives that improve the lives of military families and transitioning service members 

This is more than a donation—it’s a statement of gratitude, a commitment to those who served, and a promise that we will never forget their sacrifice. 

Join Us Today 

Donate $25 for 250 years of service. Honor the past. Change the future. Make your contribution today. 

 

This Women’s History Month, we shine a light on trailblazing women veterans who continue to serve their country and communities in unique ways. One standout is Jennifer Bennie, a retired Navy helicopter pilot who has turned her passion for storytelling and history into a dynamic platform: Walk With History. Her work bridges the past with the present, ensuring that the sacrifices and legacies of those who came before us are not forgotten.

From the Cockpit to the Camera

Jennifer Bennie’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. She served in the US Navy as a Naval Aviator on board the USS Jarrett and USS Tarawa, and was part of an elite group of women breaking barriers in aviation and military service. Flying missions around the world, she witnessed history in action, and her deep appreciation for those who came before her only grew stronger. After retiring from the Navy, she sought a new way to serve—this time, not through flight, but through storytelling.

Photo Credit: VoyageBaltimore Magazine

That’s where Walk With History was born. This engaging YouTube channel and digital platform bring historical sites and untold stories to life, educating and inspiring audiences about key moments and figures in history. Jennifer takes viewers on immersive journeys to battlefields, memorials, and hidden historical gems, providing insights and personal reflections that make history feel personal, relevant, and alive.

Making History Accessible and Engaging

Unlike a textbook or a standard documentary, Jennifer brings history to life through on-the-ground storytelling. Whether she’s walking the halls of the U.S. Naval Academy or exploring little-known stories of World War II, she connects the past with the present in a way that’s both educational and entertaining.

Through Walk With History, Jennifer has covered a wide range of topics, including:

Her work not only educates but also serves as a bridge between the civilian and military communities, fostering a deeper understanding of the sacrifices and achievements of service members.

More Than Just a Historian

Jennifer Bennie isn’t just an educator—she’s also a dedicated advocate for veterans, using her platform to highlight stories that often go untold. Her work extends beyond Walk With History, as she participates in projects like Pin-Ups for Vets, an initiative that raises funds for hospitalized veterans while celebrating the timeless strength and beauty of military women. 

Her contributions to veterans’ causes ensure that history isn’t just about the past—it’s about honoring those who have paved the way for future generations.

Why Her Story Matters for Women’s History Month

Jennifer’s journey from Navy pilot to historian and content creator is a perfect example of the versatility, resilience, and impact of women veterans. She has taken the discipline and leadership skills she honed in the cockpit and applied them to a mission of historical education and advocacy. Her story reminds us that military service is just one chapter in a veteran’s journey. What comes next can be just as powerful.

As we honor Women’s History Month, let’s take a moment to celebrate trailblazers like Jennifer Bennie—women who served their country and continue to make a lasting impact through their dedication, storytelling, and advocacy. Their work ensures that history is more than just facts in a book—it’s a living, breathing story that we all have a role in preserving.

To learn more about Jennifer’s journey, visit WalkWithHistory.net and explore the incredible history she brings to life.

 

In February, Mission Roll Call focused on one of the most pressing challenges facing the veteran community—veteran homelessness. While progress has been made in reducing the number of unhoused veterans, far too many still struggle to find stable housing, employment, and the support they need to rebuild their lives.

Throughout the month, we highlighted personal stories, advocacy efforts, and innovative solutions aimed at addressing this crisis. From real-life accounts of veterans overcoming homelessness to expert discussions on policy and community-driven solutions, February was a month of action, awareness, and impact.

Advocacy in Action

Our advocacy team continued pushing for meaningful policy changes to improve resources and long-term solutions for veterans and their families. If you missed our January advocacy recap, catch up here: Last Month in Advocacy: January 2025.

Veteran Homelessness: Stories from the Frontlines

One of the most powerful ways to raise awareness is through storytelling. This month, we shared the journeys of veterans facing homelessness and the organizations working tirelessly to change that reality:

The Lasting Mission Podcast: Solutions in Action

We also brought the conversation to The Lasting Mission podcast, where we spoke with leaders from Mighty Hero Homes about their work providing sustainable housing solutions for veterans:

Mission Roll Call University (MRCU): Expanding Opportunities for Veterans

Education and employment play a vital role in veteran success. This month, Mission Roll Call University released an informative session on Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E) opportunities—resources that many veterans may not realize are available. Watch it below.

MRC in the Media

Our advocacy work was featured in major news outlets, shedding light on critical issues facing veterans:

Stay Engaged: Weekly Polls & Community Voice

We want to hear from you! Every Monday, we post fresh polls on key veteran issues—your voice matters in shaping the future. Make your voice heard.

Looking Ahead: Honoring Women Veterans in March

As we move into March, Mission Roll Call will celebrate the service, sacrifices, and leadership of women veterans. Throughout the month, we’ll be sharing their stories, highlighting their contributions to the military and beyond, and advocating for the unique challenges they face.

Women have served in every major conflict in American history, yet their experiences are often overlooked. This month, we’re making sure their voices are heard. Stay tuned for powerful interviews, inspiring stories, and meaningful discussions on how we can better support women veterans.

Are you part of the Mission Roll Call community? Share your voice and get involved to impact more veterans and their families. Thank you for being part of our mission.

 

Transitioning from military service to civilian employment can be a challenging journey, especially for veterans with service-connected disabilities. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offers the Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program, formerly known as Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment, to support veterans in overcoming employment barriers and achieving meaningful careers. 

If you’re a veteran looking to reenter the workforce, develop new skills, or even start your own business, VR&E could be the perfect opportunity for you. In this blog, we’ll break down what the program offers, how to apply, and why it’s an invaluable resource for veterans ready to take control of their futures. 

What is VR&E? 

VR&E is designed to help veterans with service-connected disabilities find, prepare for, and maintain employment. The program provides career counseling, education assistance, and job placement services tailored to each veteran’s unique circumstances. 

To qualify for VR&E, you must have at least a 10% VA disability rating and receive an employment handicap evaluation from a VR&E counselor. This program is not just about finding a job—it’s about finding the right job, ensuring long-term career success and stability. 

How Can VR&E Be Used? 

VR&E is a flexible program with five primary tracks, each designed to meet veterans where they are in their career journey: 

Reemployment: This track helps veterans return to the job they held before their disability by providing accommodations. For example, a veteran needing a wheelchair-compatible desk or other adaptive equipment could receive it through VR&E without the employer bearing the cost. 

The Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) protects service members and veterans from job discrimination and ensures they can return to their civilian employment after training or deployment. If a reservist or National Guard member is injured during service, VR&E can provide the necessary accommodations to help them return to work.

Rapid Access to Employment: Assists veterans in finding immediate job opportunities that align with their existing skills through career counseling, resume assistance, and job search support.

Self-Employment: Provides training and resources to help veterans start their own businesses, including: 

After a business plan is developed, the VA reviews and evaluates its viability to determine if self-employment is a suitable option.

Employment Through Long-Term Services: This track is for veterans who want to change their career path completely. If a VR&E counselor determines that a veteran can no longer perform their previous job due to disabilities and that a new career goal is a better fit, they may receive:

Independent Living Services: For veterans whose disabilities make employment difficult, this track provides support to improve quality of life and independence, including:

These services typically last up to 24 months, though some veterans may qualify for extended support. 

How to Apply For VR&E?  

The application process for VR&E is straightforward and designed to get veterans the help they need as quickly as possible: 

Check Eligibility: Ensure you have at least a 10% service-connected disability rating and complete an employment handicap evaluation with a VR&E counselor. 

Apply Online: Submit your application through the VA website by logging into your VA.gov account and filling out VA Form 28-1900. 

You can also visit a VA regional office for in-person assistance with the application. 

Attend Orientation and Evaluation: Meet with a VR&E counselor who will assess your needs, interests, and goals to develop a personalized rehabilitation plan. The employment handicap evaluation takes place during this meeting. 

Start Your Program: Once approved, you’ll begin receiving services such as training, job placement, and accommodations to support your career goals. 

If your application is denied, don’t lose hope. You can request a re-evaluation, file an appeal, or seek assistance from Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) like Disabled American Veterans (DAV), VFW, or American Legion. 

Can You Use VR&E Without Using Your GI Bill? 

Yes! VR&E is separate from the GI Bill, meaning you do not have to use your GI Bill entitlement to access these services. Veterans who qualify for both programs can use VR&E first and save their GI Bill benefits for future educational opportunities. 

Take the Next Step 

The VR&E program is an incredible opportunity for veterans to rebuild their careers, gain new skills, and achieve greater independence. Whether you need resume support, job training, higher education, or even self-employment guidance, VR&E can provide the tools necessary for success. 

If you think VR&E might be right for you, don’t wait—apply today! Visit VA.gov or contact your local VA office for more information. 

For a deeper dive into the VR&E program, watch our latest video on Mission Roll Call University’s YouTube channel. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share to help spread the word to other veterans who can benefit from this program!

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we honor the trailblazing women who have made a lasting impact in their communities. Among them are the visionary female founders of Boot Campaign, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting veterans and their families through life-changing programs. Their leadership, passion, and commitment have helped thousands of service members navigate the challenges of transitioning to civilian life while addressing critical issues like mental health, financial hardship, and quality of life.

How Boot Campaign Began

Boot Campaign was founded in 2009 by a group of five women from Texas who wanted to give back to those who serve. Inspired by a book and a conversation with a wounded warrior, they launched the campaign as a way to rally national support for veterans by encouraging Americans to lace up combat boots as a visible sign of gratitude.

These remarkable women—Sherri Reuland, Mariae Bui, Ginger Giles, Leigh Ann Ranslem, and Heather Sholl—turned a simple idea into a powerful movement. They recognized that beyond symbolic gestures, veterans and their families needed tangible resources to overcome the unique challenges they face after service. What started as an awareness campaign quickly grew into a full-scale nonprofit dedicated to providing life-improving programs for military families.

How Boot Campaign Serves Veterans

Today, Boot Campaign stands as one of the leading organizations committed to holistic veteran wellness. Their programs focus on providing individualized care, financial support, and community engagement opportunities to help veterans and their families thrive.

Health & Wellness – This program provides comprehensive, individualized treatment for veterans facing post-traumatic stress (PTS), traumatic brain injuries (TBI), chronic pain, insomnia and self-medication. Utilizing a holistic, time-intensive, and highly customized method, Boot Campaign ensures each Veteran is uniquely cared for to address their most immediate needs first while improving their quality of life for the long-term.
Seasons Of Service Program – There can be difficult seasons through the year for many Veteran and military families who have experienced a catastrophic event, are separated because of deployment, or are caring for the health of a wounded, injured or ill family member. Boot Campaign’s Seasons of Service Program unites Americans to show gratitude, meet service members’ needs and strives to alleviate stress and financial burden, by delivering specially-curated gifts and series to Veterans and active duty military families nationwide.

One of Boot Campaign’s standout initiatives remains their Health & Wellness Program, which not only provides specialized medical care but also addresses the invisible wounds of war that often go untreated. By tackling critical health concerns like PTSD and TBI, Boot Campaign is changing lives and ensuring that veterans and their families receive the long-term care they deserve.

How You Can Get Involved

Supporting Boot Campaign is easy, and there are many ways to get involved:

Boot Campaign’s legacy is built on the strength and dedication of five incredible women who saw a need and took action. This Women’s History Month, we celebrate their achievements and recognize the profound difference they continue to make in the lives of our nation’s heroes. To learn more or get involved, visit BootCampaign.org.

 

Building on our earlier blog that shared Michael’s Story: Veteran Homelessness in America – Part I, we now turn our focus to another transformative force in the fight against veteran homelessness.

Mighty Hero Homes is not just another veteran service organization—it’s a community-driven movement dedicated to eradicating veteran homelessness and forging sustainable housing solutions for those who’ve served our country. 

At its core, the organization understands that the challenges veterans face are as diverse as the individuals themselves. By partnering with seasoned veteran leaders and community stakeholders, Mighty Hero Homes is charting a new path that not only addresses housing needs but also creates a supportive network of peers, mentors, and advocates. It’s integral to their mission and vision: “Because they deserve better.”

A Mission Rooted in Service

The number of homeless veterans is increasing – rising more than 7% from 2022 to 2023. On an average night in 2023, 20,067 veterans were living in shelters. A staggering 15,507 veterans were living without any shelter at all.

Mighty Hero Homes was born out of a profound need to reconnect veterans with their communities and offer them a safe space to rebuild their lives. The organization’s mission is clear: to empower veterans through innovative housing initiatives that promote dignity, stability, and community reintegration. 

Recognizing that homelessness among veterans is often a symptom of broader systemic issues—such as gaps in mental health services, economic instability, and challenges transitioning from military service—the organization approaches the problem holistically. 

Their efforts are designed to ensure that veterans not only have a roof over their heads but also access to the support and resources necessary for long-term success.

Community-Level Impact

What sets Mighty Hero Homes apart is its commitment to grassroots change. By working directly within communities, the organization builds local networks that foster resilience and mutual support. 

They collaborate with local governments, nonprofits, and veteran groups like Mission Roll Call to identify areas where the need is greatest and to develop targeted interventions. Veterans often find that the strongest support comes from peers who understand the unique challenges of military life. Through community-level initiatives, Mighty Hero Homes is working to create environments where veterans feel seen, heard, and valued.

Partnerships with Seasoned Veteran Leaders

Integral to Mighty Hero Homes’ success is its collaboration with veteran leaders who bring firsthand experience to the table. Their leadership ensures that the organization’s strategies are grounded in real-world experiences. Led by founder Drew Walston, Mighty Hero Homes has added some notable veterans to its Board of Directors, including Les Carroll – Major General, US Army (Ret); Steven W. Smith – Major General, US Army (Ret); JoAnne Bass – Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force (RET); and Carl Schaefer – Lt. General, Air Force (RET).

Veteran leaders play a crucial role in mentoring younger service members and guiding them through the often complex process of reintegration into civilian life. Their involvement is a testament to the belief that those who have walked the same path are uniquely equipped to lead the way forward.

Addressing veteran homelessness requires more than temporary fixes—it demands sustainable, innovative solutions. Mighty Hero Homes has taken significant steps toward transforming the housing landscape for veterans. Their approach goes beyond traditional housing assistance programs by incorporating elements such as community development, financial literacy training, and mental health support into their housing projects. 

These housing solutions are designed to be adaptable and scalable, ensuring that they can meet the varying needs of different communities. Whether it’s repurposing existing structures into veteran-friendly living spaces or developing new housing communities from the ground up, Mighty Hero Homes is committed to crafting environments that promote healing, empowerment, and long-term stability.

Tune into The Lasting Mission Podcast

Mission Roll Call recently sat down with Derek Layne of Mighty Hero Homes for the first installment of a two-part podcast series on The Lasting Mission. This conversation dives into the importance of supporting veterans and their families—offering not just shelter, but stability, dignity, and hope. The next episode to be released in the coming week will highlight the impactful song Four Walls, created by music artist Mark Ware, which has become an anthem for the organization and its mission. If you want to hear more about how community engagement, veteran leadership, and innovative housing solutions are addressing veteran homelessness, tune in to The Lasting Mission: Mighty Hero Homes – Part 1.

Looking Ahead

Mighty Hero Homes’ work on the community level—combined with the leadership of seasoned veterans and innovative housing strategies—is creating a ripple effect that could transform lives across the nation. And that’s a mission that MRC will support any day.

In the fight against veteran homelessness, every step counts. With Mighty Hero Homes leading the charge, communities are gaining housing solutions and a renewed sense of solidarity and purpose. To learn more about their mission, upcoming concerts and events, and how you can get involved, visit Mighty Hero Homes. 

Stay tuned as Mission Roll Call continues to follow their journey and spotlight more inspiring stories in our ongoing series on homelessness and veteran empowerment.

 

Prioritizing Veteran Health & Wellness

As we kicked off the new year, we focused on an essential theme: veteran health and wellness, including alternative treatment options and support. Physical and mental well-being are critical for veterans and their families, and knowing all available resources can be life-changing. From access to traditional healthcare to exploring innovative treatments and support systems, Mission Roll Call is dedicated to ensuring veterans and their families have the tools they need to thrive.

The Lasting Mission Podcast

Our purpose with The Lasting Mission is clear: to create a space where the triumphs and trials of our nation’s heroes and their loved ones can be openly discussed. Through candid conversations, we aim to foster resilience, understanding, and growth—both for those who have worn the uniform and those who support them. This month, we released three powerful episodes of The Lasting Mission:

Mission Roll Call University

Our Mission Roll Call University series continues to educate and empower veterans. This month, we launched two informative episodes:

Mission Roll Call in the News

We continue to advocate for veterans on a national stage, ensuring their voices are heard on key issues:

Key Stories and Articles

We explored crucial topics affecting veterans and their families, and shared more from real veterans and the organizations that support them:

Make Your Voice Heard

Veterans and supporters, your voices matter. Participate in our open polls and help shape the future for those who served. Stay connected with us as we continue to fight for veterans, their families, and the resources they deserve. Share your voice.

Next month, we shift our focus to veteran homelessness and housing solutions. Every veteran deserves a safe and stable place to call home, and we’ll be highlighting the challenges, initiatives, and solutions that can make a difference. Stay tuned for powerful stories, insights, and ways you can support this critical issue.

 

Making the world 10% happier with Chive Charities

At Chive Charities, the mission is simple: to make the world 10% happier. This nonprofit organization has been a beacon of hope for thousands of individuals—veterans, military families, first responders, and people with rare medical diagnoses—by providing life-changing grants for medically necessary needs often overlooked by insurance and other resources. Whether it’s a wheelchair-accessible van, a service dog, or adaptive technology, Chive Charities is committed to serving the underserved.

Since its founding in 2012, the organization has raised over $22 million in funding, with $5 million directed toward veterans and military families. These grants provide much-needed relief and improve the quality of life for those who have given so much to protect us.

For recipients, this means access to life-altering resources that can restore independence, mobility, and well-being. Some examples of these grants include providing service dogs to assist with physical and emotional needs, funding wheelchair-accessible vehicles to help regain independence, and modifying homes to make them safer and more accessible. 

But Chive Charities is not only about physical support—it’s also about mental and emotional healing, too. The organization has supported veterans and military families with alternative treatments and therapies, recognizing that the journey to recovery doesn’t just involve the body, but the mind and spirit as well. 

In a new episode of The Lasting Mission podcast, Chive Charities’ Executive Director Brian Mercedes delves deep into how the organization supports veterans and military families with therapies and treatments that help with everything from physical recovery to emotional well-being, funding treatments like hyperbaric oxygen therapy, PEMF mats, infrared saunas, and electric bicycles, just to name a few. These therapies provide veterans with alternative, non-pharmaceutical ways to manage pain, reduce stress, and promote overall healing. 

For many veterans, the emotional toll of their service doesn’t just disappear after returning home. The combination of physical injuries and mental health struggles can leave veterans feeling isolated and without the resources they need to recover fully. But with these grants, Chive Charities is offering a path forward, where veterans and their families can regain control over their health and happiness.

To hear more about Chive Charities’ work and how they are helping veterans and military families, listen to the latest episode of The Lasting Mission podcast with Brian Mercedes as he shares a detailed overview of the organization’s mission, its impact, and the specific ways they are supporting those who have served our country, their loved ones, and beyond.

If you or someone you know is a veteran, military family member, or first responder in need of support, Chive Charities may be able to help. The application process for grants is simple and accessible through their website at ChiveCharities.org. Whether you’re looking for assistance with medical treatments, mobility aids, or other medically-related needs, Chive Charities is there to help.

Watch the full episode on YouTube or wherever you stream your favorite podcasts.

For more of The Lasting Mission podcast and episodes on topics ranging from finding a tribe to transitioning from military service, visit MissionRollCall.org.

 

For Ron Pastino, a U.S. Army veteran and retired New York State Police officer, the fight didn’t end with his service. Instead, it shifted to a deeply personal battle against lung disease—a consequence of his heroic efforts as a first responder during 9/11.  

Four years after spending seven months at Ground Zero as part of the rescue and recovery efforts, Ron was diagnosed with a severe inflammatory lung disease directly linked to his time on The Pile. Yet through perseverance, innovation, and his “toolbox” approach to healing, Ron crafted a path to recovery that redefined what’s possible. 

In 2015, Ron began experiencing shortness of breath and fatigue during his daily runs. Concerned, he visited his doctor, who checked his heart. Those scans looked good, but on the periphery of the imaging, the doctor could see lung nodules. Ron was referred to the top pulmonologist in New York City, who told Ron he had full-blown lung disease and potentially lymphoma. He underwent two surgeries, including one through the side of his chest where ¼ of his lung was removed. They ruled out lymphoma but diagnosed him with the worst case of lung inflammation they had ever seen at Weill Cornell Medicine in NYC. 

“I had to retire early,” Ron shared. “Doctors weren’t sure how long I had to live. I went from operating at the tip of the spear to losing my career and fighting just to breathe every day. It was devastating.” 

The transition to retirement brought immense challenges. Ron’s health spiraled, and he struggled with post-traumatic stress, brain fog, irritability, and a profound sense of loss. “I went into two years of darkness,” he admitted. “I tried counseling, but it wasn’t enough. The medical world didn’t have many options for me—just prescriptions that weren’t fixing the problem. I knew I had to become my own advocate.” 

Ron’s journey to recovery began with seeking out holistic and alternative treatments. He connected with Warrior Wellness Solutions and the Boot Campaign, organizations that introduced him to innovative approaches like brain treatments, HeartMath meditation, and coherence-based practices. “That stuff is awesome,” Ron said. “It’s about getting yourself to a balanced state—physiological and mental. It’s good for anybody.” 

Despite some progress, Ron’s health plateaued until he learned about stem cell therapy. Initially skeptical, he eventually decided to give it a try when his breathing worsened. “I felt like it was my last shot at prolonging my life,” he explained. However, stem cell therapy came with a steep price tag. Private insurance, the VA, and the government wouldn’t cover it. Faced with costs of $10,000 to $20,000 per treatment, Ron relied on his law enforcement network and fundraising efforts to access the care he needed. 

The results were remarkable. After completing his treatments—first in Mexico and later with “native” stem cells in Los Angeles—Ron experienced a stunning reversal of his lung disease. His CT scans confirmed it. “My pulmonologist was shocked,” Ron recounted. “He asked me how I did it. When I told him it was stem cells and asked if I could say I reversed my lung disease, he said, ‘Ron, amazingly, you can.” 

Ron attributes his recovery not to a single treatment but to the combination of many approaches. “I’m a big believer in the toolbox approach to healing,” he emphasized. “Not one treatment is the magic bullet. It’s the combination of several disciplines and treatments that really does it. You have to diversify your healing portfolio, just like in finance.” 

Throughout his journey, Ron found an unexpected ally in the VA. “My perspective on the VA here in Albany has been amazing,” he said. “They treat me like gold. The doctors have been open to alternate treatments I wanted to pursue, and there are always appointments available. I actually enjoy going over there—they’re great people.” 

Ron’s story highlights the importance of advocacy and exploration. Today, he continues to maintain his health through meditation with Wisdom Dojo, a veteran-focused nonprofit. “Their classes have been incredibly helpful,” he said. “I’ve learned deeper meditation practices that support my mental health, and I take a class once each week.” 

Ron’s message to fellow veterans is clear:  

He added, “Not every treatment will work for everyone, but there are tools out there. Sometimes, you just need to find the right combination for you. It’s about prevention – so prevent.” 

While Mission Roll Call doesn’t endorse specific treatments, we share Ron’s story to remind veterans and their families that there are many paths to healing. Often, these paths are found through resilience, self-advocacy, and a willingness to explore the various options available—from VA services to veteran service organizations.  

For more on resources and support for veterans and their families, please visit MissionRollCall.org.  

 

 

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