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Born on Veterans Day in San Antonio, Raul Herrera never expected his Navy enlistment for educational benefits would lead him into the heart of Vietnam's maritime battlefield. In this powerful conversation, Herrera takes us aboard PCF-79, one of the Swift Boats that fundamentally altered the course of the Vietnam War yet remains largely overlooked in military history.

Herrera's vivid recollections transport listeners to July 15, 1967, when his six-man crew intercepted and captured an enemy trawler attempting to deliver supplies to Viet Cong forces. This high-profile mission earned them recognition from South Vietnam's highest leadership but also placed a bounty on their heads. Just months later, an ambush would claim the life of Boatswain's Mate Bobby Don Carver, Herrera's tough-love mentor whose death would haunt him for decades.

Most compelling is Herrera's forty-year journey to document this overlooked chapter of military history, a process that ultimately provided healing from undiagnosed PTSD. His book "Capturing Skunk Alpha" stands as both personal catharsis and historical preservation, ensuring the contributions of Swift Boat sailors won't be forgotten as their numbers dwindle.

For anyone interested in untold military stories, the personal costs of war, or the healing power of storytelling, this episode offers profound insights from a veteran who transformed personal trauma into historical legacy.

For book purchases, presentations, or to contact Raul Herrera, visit skunkalpha.com or email raul@skunkalpha.com.

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Jonathan shares his powerful journey of overcoming addiction and trauma as a veteran, illustrating the importance of vulnerability, resilience, and community in recovery. You'll be drawn into his story of loss, struggle, and ultimately, triumph, as he transforms his life and seeks to inspire others facing similar challenges.
• Growing up in a military family
• Coping with the loss of a loved one
• Early struggles with addiction
• Joining the military and facing challenges
• Overcoming addiction through therapy
• The journey to sobriety and rebuilding relationships
• Transitioning to civilian life and entrepreneurship
• The impact of mentorship and support in recovery
• The importance of sharing one’s story in helping others

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www.CharlieMikeThePodcast.com

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Charlie Mike Military Apparel
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Welcoming a new life and relocating has brought profound changes, deepening our appreciation for family and the moments we cherish together. This episode is packed with personal stories and insights into these significant life transitions, including the joy of sharing these experiences on social media and the emotional journey of fatherhood. We are excited to introduce our guest, Lou Rosado Jr., a financial planner who brings a refreshing approach to financial literacy, making it accessible to everyone through his straightforward, fee-based services. Lou shares his inspiring story of self-education driven by the challenges of finding financial advisors willing to work with someone earning a good income, and his passion for empowering others to take control of their financial future.

Football fans, we haven't forgotten you! This episode also captures the energy and excitement of sharing lively interactions with fellow fans from teams like the Bills, Texans, and Miami. The episode transitions into the complex world of parenting, celebrating the achievements of our daughters in college and nursing internships, and the journey of our son as he embraces the challenges of entrepreneurship. We reflect on past struggles with addiction, the resilience it requires, and the joy of witnessing our children's growth and success. Amidst all, we highlight the importance of community and the role of supportive environments, drawing from experiences at veteran-owned business expos and the impactful work of organizations like the PTSD Foundation.

In another heartfelt segment, we express our gratitude for educators who have played transformative roles in our lives, sharing stories like that of my high school English teacher, Ms. Corey. Her genuine support during challenging times left an indelible mark, inspiring a commitment to positively impacting the lives of others. The episode takes a thoughtful look at navigating life's challenges, from overcoming gambling and addiction to the positive changes sobriety brings. We dive into the importance of rebuilding connections, especially in the face of social media setbacks, and the invaluable support networks among veterans. Join us for an episode filled with personal growth, community impact, and meaningful connections.

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Support@CharlieMikeThePodcast.com

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www.CharlieMikeThePodcast.com

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Charlie Mike Military Apparel
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