Join us on Operation Insight as we host Chief Petty Officer Kara Jo "KJ" Park!

As a child, she watched as they patrolled the Mississippi River during St. Louis' VP Fair. As a young adult and fresh recruit, she sailed the seas and circumnavigated the globe on a cutter. While in the Coast Guard, KJ Park accomplished nautical feats even some Sailors can't fathom. Throughout KJ's service, she proved herself to be one helluva Puddle Pirate. In fact, she is one helluva resilient individual. From overcoming stubborn stereotypes to standing her ground in the last branch of service to fully integrate women, KJ persevered. Yet, despite her dedication to Semper Paratus, KJ was not protected when her life was in danger on U.S. soil. While enduring the hardships of an abusive relationship, KJ was misled, poorly advised, and ultimately had to navigate a broken system alone. However, KJ doesn't define her career by the setbacks and tribulations she experienced. No, she doesn't take the path of anger and regret. Instead, KJ bravely sets a course that encompasses the good and the bad, both the anguish and the awe-inspiring life as a Coastie!

If you or someone you love is suffering from domestic abuse or intimate partner violence, you are encouraged to visit the links below for help and resources!

https://www.militaryonesource.mil/relationships/prevent-violence-abuse/domestic-abuse-help/

https://www.socialwork.va.gov/IPV/VETERANS_PARTNERS/WhatCanIDo/Index.asp

https://www.thehotline.org/here-for-you/

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Captain William "Bill" Reynolds!

For some folks born and raised in the southern half of the Land of Lincoln, life might seem a little slow. Not so for the adventure-seeking Bill Reynolds. No, life moved fast for Bill, and when the speed wasn't to his liking, he found a way to pull some Gs even when he wasn't supposed to! Captain Reynolds flew all types of aircraft, from the T-33 Shooting Star to the F-86 Sabre, and did so with panache. He had his fair share of close calls and enough "fifteen minutes of fame" to fill an entire book. In fact, he has authored two books: "Tiger 24" and "Inspirational Stories for You," both of which are available to our listeners at a discounted rate offered directly by Captain Reynolds himself (wreynolds12@bluetiehome.com). Beyond his piloting days, Bill served his community as an educator, and an excellent one at that! If it wasn't for him, many high schools in the St. Louis Metro East may not have as strong a Junior ROTC program as they do now. Mr. Reynolds has lived a life of adventure, but most importantly, he has lived a life dedicated to his family, his students, and his country. Even today, he continues to inspire those he meets!

Join us on Operation Insight as we host Gold Star Mother Lee Hundelt, whose son, LCpl Matthew Clark, was killed in action while on deployment to Iraq in 2006.

Monday, May 26th, marks this year's Memorial Day. While many may enjoy their three-day weekend by hosting parties and barbeques, there is a contingent of Americans who do not “celebrate” this holiday. Instead, they commemorate their lost loved ones and honor their sacrifices. This Memorial Day, we remember one such hero: LCpl Matthew Clark. Gold Star Mother Lee Hundelt shares the story of her son, from memories of him as a boy to his time as a Marine and the conversations she has with him even still today. Memorial Day is dedicated to the brave souls who paid the ultimate sacrifice in service to their nation.