Tag Archive for: Minnesota veterans

Navigating Veteran Benefits and Honoring Service at Fort Snelling National Cemetery

On this week’s episode of Minnesota Military Radio, we dive into how the VA Benefits Administration helps Veterans and their families access earned benefits — from disability compensation and education to home loans and survivor support. We also explore the vital mission of the National Cemetery Administration and the services available at Fort Snelling National Cemetery.

Guests:

Charles Martin discusses VBA operations, improved claims processing times, backlog reductions, the PACT Act, and free resources lto lean on when filing a claim like County Veteran Service Officers. Marcus Syverson and Jason Cassellius cover burial eligibility, pre-registration,the Veterans Legacy Memorial,  committal services with honors, various burial options, and long-term space availability at the Fort Snelling National Cemetery complex.

This episode provides practical guidance to help Veterans secure the benefits and honors they’ve earned.

2026 MN Legislative Session Highlights for Veterans & Helmets to Hardhats

This week on Minnesota Military Radio, we break down the 2026 Minnesota Legislative session and what it means for Veterans and military families across the state. We discuss key outcomes including the successful passage of the Veterans Omnibus Bill with unanimous support, recognition for Southeast Asian Veterans of the Secret War in Laos, ongoing priorities such as the Homestead Market Value Exclusion for 100% disabled Veterans, and the strong bipartisan commitment to Veterans issues in Minnesota.

Featured Guests:

In the second half of the program, Justin Rost highlights how Veterans can leverage their skills, discipline, and drive into rewarding careers in the skilled trades through apprenticeships — offering competitive wages (often reaching six figures at journeyman level), excellent benefits, low-to-no cost training, and GI Bill housing allowances.

To find out more about the Helmets to Hardhats program – https://helmetstohardhats.org/ 

Eagle Group of Minnesota Veterans: Helping Veterans & Spouses Transition Successfully

On this episode of Minnesota Military Radio, host Doug Wortham welcomes Brad L. Doboszenski, President of the Eagle Group of Minnesota Veterans, and Dr. Marisa Naryka, military spouse and active member of the organization.

They discuss the real challenges Veterans face when transitioning to civilian careers and how the Eagle Group provides practical, peer-to-peer support to make that transition smoother.

Featured Guests:

Key Topics Covered:

  • The critical importance of networking and building connections after service
  • Translating military skills and experience into civilian language for resumes and interviews
  • Peer-to-peer mentorship and camaraderie for Veterans and military spouses
  • Overcoming common obstacles like resume writing, interviewing, and maintaining a positive attitude
  • Dr. Marisa Naryka’s personal transition journey from higher education into a new leadership role
  • Upcoming 8th Annual Eagle Group Heroes Golf Tournament on August 17th at Crystal Lake Golf Club in Lakeville

This episode offers valuable insights and encouragement for any veteran or military family member navigating life after service.

Learn More & Get Involved:

Ending Veteran Homelessness: Leadership, Impact, and the Work of MACV

 

On this week’s episode of Minnesota Military Radio, we explore the mission to end Veteran homelessness and the progress being made across Minnesota to support those who have served. This important conversation highlights the challenges Veterans face when experiencing housing instability and the collaborative efforts underway to create long-term solutions.

Guests:

During the show, we discuss how the Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MACV) is helping Veterans transition out of homelessness and into stable housing through a combination of outreach, individualized support, and strong community partnerships. From addressing immediate housing needs to developing long-term stability plans, MACV’s approach focuses on meeting Veterans where they are and providing solutions tailored to each individual situation.

We also take a closer look at the broader effort to end Veteran homelessness in Minnesota, including the role of public and private partnerships, ongoing challenges, and the importance of sustained community support. In addition, we highlight upcoming initiatives and events that continue to raise awareness and provide critical resources for Veterans across the state.

Through collaboration, innovation, and a continued commitment to service, organizations like MACV are making a meaningful and lasting impact in the lives of Minnesota Veterans and their families.

Care Beyond the VA: Home-Based Primary Care and Medical Foster Homes for Minnesota Veterans

This week on Minnesota Military Radio, we check in with the Minneapolis VA Health Care System to explore two important programs delivering care beyond the traditional medical center. Learn how Home-Based Primary Care and the Medical Foster Home Program are helping Veterans receive personalized, comprehensive care in the comfort of their homes or in supportive family-style environments.

We also discuss upcoming improvements to primary care appointments and how the VA is working to ensure Veterans receive more dedicated time with their providers.

Guests

Home-Based Primary Care

The Home-Based Primary Care program brings a full team of healthcare professionals directly to Veterans who may have difficulty accessing care at a VA facility. This team can include nurses, social workers, dietitians, therapists, and primary care providers who work together to deliver coordinated, patient-centered care.

By meeting Veterans where they are, this program helps address complex health needs while supporting independence and improving quality of life.

Medical Foster Home Program

The Medical Foster Home Program offers an alternative living arrangement for Veterans who require more daily support. Veterans live in private homes with trained caregivers who provide 24/7 assistance in a family-style setting.

These homes are carefully screened and supported by VA care teams, creating a unique environment where Veterans can receive individualized care while remaining part of a household and community.

Supporting Veterans at Every Stage

Both programs work together to provide a continuum of care—whether a Veteran remains in their own home or transitions to a foster home setting. With a focus on comfort, dignity, and personalized care, these services help ensure Veterans receive the support they need throughout their healthcare journey.