The Lost Art Project: Veterans’ Voices

Tune in for another great episode filled with laughs, camaraderie, and important information from the Marine Corps League.
In this episode, we’ll discuss everything surrounding the Marine Corps League National Convention — the who, what, when, where, and how of one of the biggest gatherings of Marines and veterans from across the country. From convention events and activities to the friendships and memories that make these gatherings so special, we’ll cover it all while having a great time along the way.
If you want good information, good people, and plenty of laughs, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

John’s back—and he’s not holding anything back.
More raw, motivating Drill Instructor stories that didn’t make it into earlier episodes. The kind that put you right there in the moment and remind you what real leadership and pressure look like.
This is Part 8—and it keeps getting better.

Another great week of FireSide Chat w/ the Crew is in the books. Every week these conversations continue to remind us why preserving stories and staying connected matters so much.
From laughs and stories to serious discussions about service, leadership, life after the military, and the challenges veterans face, the crew continues to create a place where authenticity comes first. No scripts. No agendas. Just real conversations from people who have lived it.
One of the best parts of FireSide Chat is that it feels like sitting around with old friends swapping stories, lessons learned, and plenty of humor along the way. Whether the topics are lighthearted or deeply personal, the conversations always come back to camaraderie and keeping the veteran community connected.
Thank you to everyone who continues to tune in, support the mission, share the episodes, and contribute to preserving these important voices and experiences. This project continues to grow because of all of you.
If you missed this week’s episode, be sure to catch the replay and stay tuned because we have more incredible guests, stories, and special events coming soon.
The mission continues one story at a time.

Tune in for a fun-filled episode as the Marine Corps League Albert E. Schwab Detachment 857 takes part in the Rooster Days Parade and hosts their annual picnic celebration.
This episode features great interviews conducted by Keith Wiesman, member of the Albert E. Schwab Detachment, capturing the camaraderie, laughter, and spirit that make events like these so special. From parade moments to picnic conversations, this episode highlights the strong bonds and traditions that continue to keep the veteran community connected.
Don’t miss this fun and memorable episode.

Tune in as John Crouch shares his experiences training Naval officers and what it truly takes to shape future leaders. He walks through the process, offering insight into the expectations, challenges, and responsibilities that come with the role of a Drill Instructor in this unique environment.
Through story after story, John brings his time to life—highlighting not only the discipline and structure required, but also the lighter moments and humor that come along the way with officer candidates. His perspective provides a deeper understanding of leadership, adaptability, and the impact an instructor can have on those preparing to serve.
Don’t miss this engaging episode as John reflects on his time in Pensacola and the lasting impressions it left on both him and those he trained.

Marine Veteran Jerry Mullen returns to finish his story, picking up where his time in the Marine Corps came to an end and his next chapter began in law enforcement. After becoming a police officer, he soon received the call that would change everything—the opportunity to become an FBI agent. Ready for the challenge, Jerry stepped into a new level of service and responsibility.
After completing training, he was assigned to Wisconsin, where he went on to build an incredible career with the FBI. In this episode, Jerry shares stories from his life after the Corps, offering insight into the transition, the challenges, and the experiences that shaped him along the way. It’s a powerful continuation of his journey and a look at what service can become beyond the uniform.

After completing his second tour as a Drill Instructor, John Crouch returned to the fleet once again, but this time his stay was short. With a continued passion for the drill field, he was ready to step back into the role for a third time. However, that path wasn’t in the cards, and instead he was given a new opportunity—serving as a Drill Instructor for Navy officer training.
In this episode, John shares how this unexpected assignment turned into something he truly enjoyed. From the differences in training officers compared to enlisted recruits, to the unique challenges and rewards that came with the role, he brings his experiences to life through story after story. This chapter highlights adaptability, leadership, and the ability to embrace new opportunities while continuing to make an impact.

Fireside Chat – Weekly Discussion
Join us for our weekly Fireside Chat—an open and honest conversation focused on leadership, transition, and the real-life experiences that shape who we are.
Each week, we bring together veterans, leaders, and members of the community to talk through challenges, share lessons learned, and stay connected through meaningful dialogue. There’s no script—just real conversations with real people.
Whether you’re continuing your journey after service, looking for perspective, or just want to be part of a community that understands, this is a place for you.

Fireside Chat – Weekly Discussion
Join us for our weekly Fireside Chat—an open and honest conversation focused on leadership, transition, and the real-life experiences that shape who we are.
Each week, we bring together veterans, leaders, and members of the community to talk through challenges, share lessons learned, and stay connected through meaningful dialogue. There’s no script—just real conversations with real people.
Whether you’re continuing your journey after service, looking for perspective, or just want to be part of a community that understands, this is a place for you.
Everyone has a story. Every voice matters.

In this episode, we find John Crouch wrapping up his time as a Drill Instructor and transitioning back to the fleet, where he returns to serve with the Air Wing. Now a Staff Non-Commissioned Officer, John steps into new leadership roles, leading in different capacities and continuing to grow as a Marine. It’s here that he truly begins to flourish, applying the lessons he learned on the drill field in a whole new environment.
Before long, John realizes the impact he can make and makes the decision to return to the drill field for a second tour. He shares what led him back, along with the differences between his first and second time as a Drill Instructor. This chapter of his journey highlights growth, leadership, and the drive to continue challenging himself while shaping the next generation of Marines.