Tag Archive for: Military Spouses

Honoring a Medal of Honor Hero and Supporting Minnesota’s Military Community

Honoring a Medal of Honor Hero and Supporting Minnesota’s Military Community

This week on Minnesota Military Radio, we honor the extraordinary legacy of Medal of Honor recipient Captain Willibald “Bill” Bianchi, a New Ulm native whose courage during World War II exemplified valor above and beyond the call of duty. Wounded multiple times while leading an assault against enemy positions during the Battle of Bataan, Captain Bianchi refused medical treatment and continued fighting—actions that saved countless lives and earned our nation’s highest military honor. Joining us in the studio are his niece and nephew, Susan Marti and Steve Marti, who share powerful family stories, personal memories, and the emotional journey of bringing their uncle home more than 80 years after his death.

We also highlight the Think Great Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting military spouses through education scholarships and recognizing the sacrifices made on the homefront. Erik Therwanger, founder of the Think Great Foundation, and board member Kathie Boe join the program to discuss the foundation’s mission and impact.

Rounding out the show, we check in with the Minnesota Patriot Guard as Craig Ugland shares insight into the organization’s ongoing mission to honor fallen service members, veterans, and their families with dignity, respect, and unwavering support across Minnesota.

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Going Beyond: Beyond the Yellow Ribbon’s 2025 Impact and 2026 Vision

Going Beyond: Beyond the Yellow Ribbon's 2025 Impact and 2026 Vision

In this special segment of Minnesota Military Radio, host Retired Command Sgt. Maj. Doug Wortham welcomes the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon (BTYR) outreach team for a comprehensive 2025 year-in-review. The discussion covers the program’s statewide impact, key initiatives, the power of community and corporate volunteers, distinctions from the federal Yellow Ribbon program, and exciting goals for 2026.Guests:

Key Highlights from 2025:

  • Helped approximately 76,000 service members, veterans, and families across Minnesota — equivalent to filling U.S. Bank Stadium!
  • Statewide initiatives including Operation Kinship (themed care packages for military families left behind during deployments) and Hero Meals (Thanksgiving/Christmas support, especially vital during challenging times).
  • Reboot success since 2022: Unified community and corporate sides, fostering stronger partnerships and resource sharing.
  • No government funding/red tape — support comes from private donations, volunteers, and companies, enabling quick, flexible aid (e.g., coffee and muffins at Camp Ripley polar plunges, emergency assistance, job connections).
  • New corporate partners joined, including Walser Automotive Group (first automotive group in the program, offering military discounts and potential repair support).
  • Emphasis on volunteers as the “heartbeat” — patriots helping patriots, with opportunities for all ages and commitment levels.

Looking Ahead to 2026:

  • Expanding to over 100 Beyond the Yellow Ribbon companies, including all Minnesota state colleges and universities.
  • Growing volunteer numbers and statewide momentum through more combined initiatives.
  • Continued focus on supporting all branches, families, and filling gaps for those in need — from rural wood delivery to metro job placement.
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