America's Frontline Podcast 12 August 2026

In this episode of America’s Frontlines:

Colonel Denny and Matt ask an important question: Why do Americans increasingly trust military veterans to lead? They examine new polling showing strong public confidence in veterans seeking elected office, the growing number of veterans running for Congress, and whether the courage, accountability, discipline, and leadership developed through military service are qualities Washington needs now more than ever.

They also break down a wide-ranging series of national security developments—from the Pentagon’s review of America’s Service Academies and ICE efforts targeting sophisticated criminal networks, to major new investment in American defense manufacturing, high-stakes diplomacy surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, and Ukrainian strikes in Crimea. Together, these stories reveal how technology, ideology, economic power, and military strength are rapidly reshaping the modern battlefield.

As always, Colonel Denny delivers another round of his trademark one-liners to lighten the mood and put a smile on our faces.

Our featured guest is Jenn De Pew from Concerned Veterans for America (CVA), who brings a deeply personal perspective to the debate over veterans’ healthcare. Jenn shares the story of her husband, a Vietnam veteran who waited approximately 100 days for a VA colonoscopy before the family ultimately sought private care. The examination revealed colon cancer that had nearly penetrated the colon wall.

Jenn discusses that frightening experience from the perspective of both a veteran’s spouse and caregiver and explains how the proposed Take Care of America’s Veterans Act could help veterans facing similar delays obtain timely care outside the VA system. Based in South Carolina, she also talks about her broader work with CVA and the organization’s efforts on behalf of veterans and their families.

We continue our regular journey through military history, revisiting significant events that occurred around this date and remembering the sacrifices, victories, and difficult lessons that helped shape America.

Retired Coast Guard Chief Warrant Officer Roland Ashby returns with another installment of “Warrant Wisdom,” this time examining the evolving tools and technologies being developed for Marines on tomorrow’s battlefield and how those advances are changing the way our forces fight.

And it’s time once again for the Battle of the Month with retired U.S. Army Brigadier General Chris Petty. This month, General Petty takes us inside one of history’s most strategically significant battles, examining the decisions, leadership, and battlefield lessons that continue to resonate with military leaders today.

From veterans in public office and the fight for better veterans’ healthcare to emerging battlefield technology and the lessons of military history, this episode is about service, leadership, and taking care of those who have taken care of America.