Duty & Valor - Military Stories of Courage and Sacrifice

In this week’s episode of Duty & Valor, we share the remarkable story of Air Force Lt Col Louis Curdes, a WWII ace unlike any other. Curdes was one of only a handful of American pilots to shoot down aircraft from all three major Axis powers. Germany, Italy, and Japan. But his most astonishing feat came when he made a split-second decision to shoot down an American transport plane to save its crew from capture. From his early days in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to daring escapes as a POW, and fi...

On March 16, 1968, during the Vietnam War, U.S. Army helicopter pilot Hugh Thompson Jr. witnessed something unthinkable — American soldiers slaughtering unarmed civilians in the village of My Lai. What he did next would go down as one of the most courageous acts of moral bravery in U.S. military history. In this episode, we share the powerful story of how Major Thompson risked everything — his career, his reputation, even his life — to stop the massacre, confront those responsible, and save a...

At just 18 years old, Navy Hospital Apprentice First Class Robert Bush displayed extraordinary courage during the Battle of Okinawa. While under relentless enemy fire, he tended to a wounded Marine officer, all while fending off attacking Japanese soldiers with his sidearm and a discarded rifle. Gravely wounded himself—including the loss of an eye—Bush refused to be evacuated until his platoon commander was safe. For his heroic actions, he became the youngest sailor to receive the Medal of Ho...

In this episode of Duty & Valor, we honor the extraordinary courage of Lieutenant Colonel Edward S. Michael, a B-17 Flying Fortress pilot and Medal of Honor recipient from World War II. On April 11, 1944, during a harrowing mission over Germany, he faced relentless enemy attacks, a crippled aircraft, and personal injuries that would have defeated most men. Yet, his steadfast resolve to save his crew and complete the mission turned a near-certain tragedy into an inspiring story of heroism....

In this episode of the Duty & Valor Podcast, we honor the incredible story of US Navy Lieutenant Vincent Capodanno Jr., a Catholic chaplain who sacrificed everything to support his fellow Marines during the Vietnam War. Known as "the Grunt Padre," LT Capodanno's unwavering courage and selflessness on the battlefield saw him being posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. We’ll explore his extraordinary acts of valor, the impact he had on those he served alongside, and his enduring legacy o...

In this episode of Duty & Valor, we honor the life and legacy of 1LT Pascal Poolaw, Sr., the most decorated Native American soldiers in U.S. Army history. A member of the Kiowa Tribe, Poolaw served with distinction in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, earning four Silver Stars, five Bronze Stars, and three Purple Hearts for his extraordinary bravery. But his story goes far beyond medals—it’s a tale of duty, sacrifice, and love for family. Please visit our website ...

In this episode of Duty & Valor, we honor the extraordinary bravery of Navy SEAL Lieutenant Michael Thornton, whose heroic actions during a dangerous mission in Vietnam saw him being awarded the Medal of Honor. When his team came under heavy fire behind enemy lines, Thornton risked his life to save his commanding officer, Lt. Thomas Norris, dragging him to safety while under relentless enemy attack. Discover how Thornton’s selfless courage, unwavering loyalty, and sheer determination exem...

In this episode of Duty & Valor, we delve into the remarkable life of Major General Merritt "Red Mike" Edson, a Marine Corps legend whose leadership and bravery during World War II saw him being awarded the Medal of Honor. From his early combat experience in the jungles of Nicaragua to his heroic stand at Edson’s Ridge during the Battle of Guadalcanal, we’ll explore how his courage under fire and tactical brilliance shaped the outcome of key battles and left an enduring mark on military h...

Visit Amazon to purchase The Cappy (12 Pack): https://a.co/d/0jh0HP0r In this episode of Duty & Valor, we delve into the remarkable story of U.S. Air Force Colonel Joe M. Jackson, a Vietnam War hero whose quick thinking and fearless actions during a daring rescue mission saw him being awarded the Medal of Honor. On May 12, 1968, with North Vietnamese forces closing in, Col. Jackson risked his life to save a stranded combat control team, landing his C-123 Provider under intense enemy fire...

In this episode of Duty & Valor, we delve into the remarkable story of U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman Second Class Donald E. Ballard, a true American hero. During the Vietnam War, Ballard's selfless act of bravery saved the lives of Marines around him during an intense moment of combat. Join us as we explore the courage, sacrifice, and legacy of this extraordinary man, whose story is a powerful reminder of the bravery exhibited by so many during the Vietnam War. Don’t miss this t...

In this episode of Duty & Valor, we delve into the remarkable story of Llewellyn Chilson, one of World War II’s most decorated soldiers. From his humble beginnings in Ohio to his heroic actions on the battlefields of Europe, Chilson's courage under fire earned him three Distinguished Service Crosses, among other honors. We'll explore his extraordinary feats, including the daring capture of enemy positions that defied the odds, and reflect on the unwavering commitment that defined his serv...

In this episode of Duty & Valor, we honor the extraordinary life and legacy of Kurt Chew-Een Lee, the first Asian American officer in the United States Marine Corps. Lee's journey is one of breaking barriers, defying odds, and exemplifying true courage and leadership in the face of overwhelming adversity. His unwavering determination to serve his country despite the racial prejudices of the time, and his heroic actions during the Korean War that earned him the Navy Cross, Silver Sta...