Duty & Valor - Military Stories of Courage and Sacrifice

At just 17 years old, Private First Class Jacklyn Lucas became one of the youngest service members ever to receive the Medal of Honor. But his path to heroism was anything but ordinary. After lying about his age to join the Marines at just 14, Lucas would go on to defy the odds, stowing away on a ship to Iwo Jima, diving onto two grenades to save his fellow Marines, and miraculously surviving. In this episode, we recount the astonishing bravery, sacrifice, and resilience of a young man who refused to wait to serve his country. This is the unforgettable story of Jacklyn Lucas, a true American hero. Please visit our YouTube channel to learn more about other American Heroes @ youtube.com/@DutyandValor Sources: warhistoryonline.com military.com nationalww2museum.org wikipedia.org findagrave.com Support the show Thank you for listening to Duty & Valor! Music by Amelie Leclerc. Artist's other music can be found here. Please follow us on your favorite social media site. Facebook Instagram Twitter YouTube

On March 16, 1968, during the Vietnam War, U.S. Army helicopter pilot Hugh Thompson Jr. witnessed something unthinkable — American soldiers slaughtering unarmed civilians in the village of My Lai. What he did next would go down as one of the most courageous acts of moral bravery in U.S. military history. In this episode, we share the powerful story of how Major Thompson risked everything — his career, his reputation, even his life — to stop the massacre, confront those responsible, and save as many lives as he could. This isn’t a story about combat against the enemy. It’s about the strength to do what’s right when your own side has gone terribly wrong. Listener discretion is advised due to graphic content, including descriptions of violence and atrocities. Please visit our YouTube channel to learn more about other American Heroes @ youtube.com/@DutyandValor Sources: Americanswhotellthetruth.org Wikipedia.org Military.com Allthatsinteresting.com Support the show Thank you for listening to Duty & Valor! Music by Amelie Leclerc. Artist's other music can be found here. Please follow us on your favorite social media site. Facebook Instagram Twitter YouTube

Lt. Lance Sijan's story is one of unparalleled courage, resilience, and sacrifice. After ejecting from his disabled F-4 Phantom over enemy territory, he endured unimaginable injuries, starvation, and relentless hardships for 46 days in the jungle, refusing to surrender. Captured by the North Vietnamese, he continued to resist, uphold the military code of conduct, and inspire those around him, even in his final days. His unwavering determination and bravery in the face of overwhelming odds earned him the Medal of Honor, making him a symbol of the warrior spirit. Please visit our YouTube channel to learn more about other American Heroes @ youtube.com/@DutyandValor Sources: airandspaceforces.com macdill.af.mil wikipedia.org Support the show Thank you for listening to Duty & Valor! Music by Amelie Leclerc. Artist's other music can be found here. Please follow us on your favorite social media site. Facebook Instagram Twitter YouTube

At just 18 years old, Navy Hospital Apprentice First Class Robert Bush displayed extraordinary courage during the Battle of Okinawa. While under relentless enemy fire, he tended to a wounded Marine officer, all while fending off attacking Japanese soldiers with his sidearm and a discarded rifle. Gravely wounded himself—including the loss of an eye—Bush refused to be evacuated until his platoon commander was safe. For his heroic actions, he became the youngest sailor to receive the Medal of Honor during World War II. Please visit our YouTube to learn more about other American Heroes @ youtube.com/@DutyandValor Sources: historylink.org togetherweserved.com latimes.com wikipedia.org Support the show Thank you for listening to Duty & Valor! Music by Amelie Leclerc. Artist's other music can be found here. Please follow us on your favorite social media site. Facebook Instagram Twitter YouTube

In this episode of Duty & Valor as we delve into the inspiring life of U.S. Army General Richard Cavazos, the first Hispanic four-star general in American history. Known for his extraordinary courage in the Korean and Vietnam Wars, General Cavazos was a trailblazer who redefined leadership and mentorship in the military. Please visit our YouTube to learn more about other American Heroes @ youtube.com/@DutyandValor Sources: fortcavazosmediacenter.com Militaryhallofhonor.com army.mil thenmusa.org arm.mil/medalofhonor wikipedia.org findagrave.com Support the show Thank you for listening to Duty & Valor! Music by Amelie Leclerc. Artist's other music can be found here. Please follow us on your favorite social media site. Facebook Instagram Twitter YouTube

Send us a text In this episode of Duty & Valor, we honor the extraordinary courage of Lieutenant Colonel Edward S. Michael, a B-17 Flying Fortress pilot and Medal of Honor recipient from World War II. On April 11, 1944, during a harrowing mission over Germany, he faced relentless enemy attacks, a crippled aircraft, and personal injuries that would have defeated most men. Yet, his steadfast resolve to save his crew and complete the mission turned a near-certain tragedy into an inspiring story of heroism. Please visit our YouTube to learn more about other American Heroes @ youtube.com/@DutyandValor Sources: wikipedia.org thisdayinaviation.com findagrave.com archives.gov Support the show Thank you for listening to Duty & Valor! Music by Amelie Leclerc. Artist's other music can be found here. Please follow us on your favorite social media site. Facebook Instagram Twitter YouTube

Send us a text In this episode of Duty & Valor, we honor the incredible life and legacy of Sergeant Major John L. Canley, a Marine Corps legend and Medal of Honor recipient. Join us as we delve into his heroic actions during the Battle of Hue in 1968, where he displayed unparalleled courage and leadership under fire, saving countless lives and ensuring mission success. Discover how his selflessness and devotion to his fellow Marines left an indelible mark on military history and why his story continues to inspire generations. This is the extraordinary tale of a true American hero you won’t want to miss. Please visit our YouTube to learn more about other American Heroes @ youtube.com/@DutyandValor Sources: wikipedia.org marines.mil nytimes.com encyclopediaofarkansas.net marines.mil My Medic My Medic's mission is to empower people with the skills, knowledge, and supplies to save lives. Support the show Thank you for listening to Duty & Valor! Music by Amelie Leclerc. Artist's other music can be found here. Please follow us on your favorite social media site. Facebook Instagram Twitter YouTube

Send us a text In this episode of the Duty & Valor Podcast, we honor the incredible story of US Navy Lieutenant Vincent Capodanno Jr., a Catholic chaplain who sacrificed everything to support his fellow Marines during the Vietnam War. Known as "the Grunt Padre," LT Capodanno's unwavering courage and selflessness on the battlefield saw him being posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. We’ll explore his extraordinary acts of valor, the impact he had on those he served alongside, and his enduring legacy of faith and dedication to duty. Please visit our website to learn more about other American Heroes. www.dutyandvalor.com Sources: milarch.org catholicworldreport.com catholicnewsagency.com wikipedia.org cmohs.org mohmuseum.org Support the show Thank you for listening to Duty & Valor! Music by Amelie Leclerc. Artist's other music can be found here. Please follow us on your favorite social media site. Facebook Instagram Twitter YouTube

Send us a text In this episode, we explore the extraordinary life of Colonel Leo Thorsness, a decorated USAF pilot, Medal of Honor recipient, and Vietnam War hero. From his daring combat missions to the unimaginable challenges he endured as a POW in North Vietnam, Col Thorsness exemplified courage, resilience, and sacrifice. Discover the story of his heroic mission to protect downed airmen against overwhelming odds, his six grueling years as a prisoner in the notorious "Hanoi Hilton," and his unwavering commitment to his fellow service members. Please visit our website to learn more about other American Heroes. www.dutyandvalor.com Sources: apnews.com nytimes.com vvmf.org wikipedia.org cmohs.org findagrave.com Support the show Thank you for listening to Duty & Valor! Music by Amelie Leclerc. Artist's other music can be found here. Please follow us on your favorite social media site. Facebook Instagram Twitter YouTube

Send us a text In this episode of Duty & Valor, we honor the life and legacy of 1LT Pascal Poolaw, Sr., the most decorated Native American soldiers in U.S. Army history. A member of the Kiowa Tribe, Poolaw served with distinction in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, earning four Silver Stars, five Bronze Stars, and three Purple Hearts for his extraordinary bravery. But his story goes far beyond medals—it’s a tale of duty, sacrifice, and love for family. Please visit our website to learn more about other American Heroes. www.dutyandvalor.com Sources: warhistoryonline.com wikipedia.org wearethemighty.com militaryhallofhonor.com military.com homeofheroes.com Support the show Thank you for listening to Duty & Valor! Music by Amelie Leclerc. Artist's other music can be found here. Please follow us on your favorite social media site. Facebook Instagram Twitter YouTube

Send us a text In this episode of Duty & Valor, we spotlight the incredible story of Command Sergeant Major Franklin D. Miller, a Green Beret who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during the Vietnam War. Over six tours in Vietnam, Miller faced the unimaginable, serving with MACV-SOG, a secretive Special Forces unit tasked with some of the most dangerous missions of the war. On January 5, 1970, leading a seven-man team deep in enemy territory, Miller faced overwhelming odds when a massive North Vietnamese Army force attacked. Severely outnumbered, Miller fought relentlessly for hours, single-handedly holding off 100 enemy soldiers while rescuing his wounded teammates. His remarkable courage and endurance in the face of near-certain death stand as a testament to his warrior spirit. Join us as we explore his extraordinary life and the legacy he left behind. Please visit our website to learn more about other American Heroes. www.dutyandvalor.com Sources: arsof-history.org nytimes.com coffeeordie.com wikipedia.org Support the show Thank you for listening to Duty & Valor! Music by Amelie Leclerc. Artist's other music can be found here. Please follow us on your favorite social media site. Facebook Instagram Twitter YouTube

Send us a text In this episode of Duty & Valor, we honor the extraordinary bravery of Navy SEAL Lieutenant Michael Thornton, whose heroic actions during a dangerous mission in Vietnam saw him being awarded the Medal of Honor. When his team came under heavy fire behind enemy lines, Thornton risked his life to save his commanding officer, Lt. Thomas Norris, dragging him to safety while under relentless enemy attack. Discover how Thornton’s selfless courage, unwavering loyalty, and sheer determination exemplify the spirit of the Navy SEALs. Join us as we share the incredible story of one of the most decorated warriors in SEAL history. To support this episodes sponsor Mochi Health, please visit joinmochi.com today to get started and use code DutyandValor to receive $40 off your first month! Sources: navyseals.com navyselas.com Michael Thornton wikipedia.org cmohs.org Support the show Thank you for listening to Duty & Valor! Music by Amelie Leclerc. Artist's other music can be found here. Please follow us on your favorite social media site. Facebook Instagram Twitter YouTube

Send us a text In this episode, we honor the life and service of U.S. Army Colonel Ruby Bradley, one of the most decorated women in American military history. From her courageous actions as a combat nurse during World War II and the Korean War to her incredible resilience as a POW, Colonel Bradley's story is one of selfless heroism and unyielding dedication. Join us as we explore how she earned the title “Angel in Fatigues” and became a symbol of strength, compassion, and sacrifice. To support this episodes sponsor Mochi Health, please visit joinmochi.com today to get started and use code DutyandValor to receive $40 off your first month! Please visit our website to learn more about other American Heroes. www.dutyandvalor.com Sources: wearethemighty.com workingnurse.com arlingtoncemetery.net identifymedals.com latimes.com wikipedia.org findagrave.com Support the show Thank you for listening to Duty & Valor! Music by Amelie Leclerc. Artist's other music can be found here. Please follow us on your favorite social media site. Facebook Instagram Twitter YouTube

Send us a text In this episode of Duty & Valor, we delve into the remarkable life of Major General Merritt "Red Mike" Edson, a Marine Corps legend whose leadership and bravery during World War II saw him being awarded the Medal of Honor. From his early combat experience in the jungles of Nicaragua to his heroic stand at Edson’s Ridge during the Battle of Guadalcanal, we’ll explore how his courage under fire and tactical brilliance shaped the outcome of key battles and left an enduring mark on military history. Join us as we honor the legacy of a man who led by example, inspiring generations of Marines. To support this episodes sponsor Mochi Health, please visit joinmochi.com today to get started and use code DutyandValor to receive $40 off your first month! Please visit our website to learn more about other American Heroes. www.dutyandvalor.com Sources: arlingtoncemetery.net history.navy.mil warhistoryonline.com wikipedia.org Merrit A. Edson wikipedia.org The Battle of Edson's Ridge findagrave.com Support the show Thank you for listening to Duty & Valor! Music by Amelie Leclerc. Artist's other music can be found here. Please follow us on your favorite social media site. Facebook Instagram Twitter YouTube

Send us a text In this episode of Duty & Valor, we honor the extraordinary life of Rear Admiral Bruce McCandless, a hero of the Pacific Theater during World War II. When the USS San Francisco faced near destruction during the Battle of Guadalcanal, McCandless, then a communications officer, took command after his superiors were killed or incapacitated. His quick thinking and courageous leadership not only saved his ship but also played a pivotal role in securing a critical victory. Please visit our website to learn more about other American Heroes. www.dutyandvalor.com Sources: defense.gov wikipedia.org history.navy.mil findagrave.com wikipedia.org USS San Francisco Support the show Thank you for listening to Duty & Valor! Music by Amelie Leclerc. Artist's other music can be found here. Please follow us on your favorite social media site. Facebook Instagram Twitter YouTube

Send us a text Visit Amazon to purchase The Cappy (12 Pack): https://a.co/d/0jh0HP0r In this episode of Duty & Valor, we delve into the remarkable story of U.S. Air Force Colonel Joe M. Jackson, a Vietnam War hero whose quick thinking and fearless actions during a daring rescue mission saw him being awarded the Medal of Honor. On May 12, 1968, with North Vietnamese forces closing in, Col. Jackson risked his life to save a stranded combat control team, landing his C-123 Provider under intense enemy fire. Join us as we explore the details of this incredible feat of courage and learn about the man behind the mission, whose unwavering dedication to his comrades and country left an indelible mark on military history. Please visit our website to learn more about other American Heroes. www.dutyandvalor.com Sources: defense.gov military.com wikipedia.org historylink.org cmohs.org findagrave.com wikipedia.org Battle of Kham Duc afhistory.org Support the show Thank you for listening to Duty & Valor! Music by Amelie Leclerc. Artist's other music can be found here. Please follow us on your favorite social media site. Facebook Instagram Twitter YouTube

Send us a text Visit Amazon to purchase The Cappy (12 Pack): https://a.co/d/0jh0HP0r Richard Sherman's book Home: Remembering The Military Heroes Who Never Returned can be purchased at: www.neverhomeheroes.com In this episode of Duty & Valor, we delve into the extraordinary life of Sergeant First Class Edward Carter Jr., a soldier whose courage and determination transcended the barriers of race and adversity. From his early days fighting in foreign wars to his heroic actions on the battlefields of World War II, Carter’s story is one of relentless bravery and an unyielding commitment to justice. Join us as we honor the legacy of a man who fought not just for his country, but for the recognition and dignity of all who serve. Through his remarkable journey, we’ll explore the true meaning of valor and the profound impact one individual can have on the course of history. Please visit our website to learn more about other American Heroes. www.dutyandvalor.com Sources: Arlingtoncemetery.net blackpast.org defense.gov cmohs.org nationalww2museum.org wikipedia.org Support the show Thank you for listening to Duty & Valor! Music by Amelie Leclerc. Artist's other music can be found here. Please follow us on your favorite social media site. Facebook Instagram Twitter YouTube

Send us a text In this episode of Duty & Valor, we delve into the remarkable story of U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman Second Class Donald E. Ballard, a true American hero. During the Vietnam War, Ballard's selfless act of bravery saved the lives of Marines around him during an intense moment of combat. Join us as we explore the courage, sacrifice, and legacy of this extraordinary man, whose story is a powerful reminder of the bravery exhibited by so many during the Vietnam War. Don’t miss this tribute to a heroic Medal of Honor recipient. Please visit our website to learn more about other American Heroes. www.dutyandvalor.com Sources: usmcu.edu history.navy.mil cmohs.org airpowerfoundation.org defense.gov wikipedia.org 1620 Workwear 1620 WORKWEAR: Made in the USA. GUARANTEED FOR LIFE Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show Thank you for listening to Duty & Valor! Music by Amelie Leclerc. Artist's other music can be found here. Please follow us on your favorite social media site. Facebook Instagram Twitter YouTube

Send us a text In this episode of Duty & Valor, we take a deep dive into the extraordinary life and service of Brigadier General Kenneth N. Walker, a visionary leader whose bold actions helped shape the future of airpower during World War II. Known for leading from the front, Walker refused to stay behind the lines and instead took to the skies alongside his men in some of the most dangerous missions of the war. His strategic brilliance and personal bravery culminated in a fateful mission over the Pacific, where he made the ultimate sacrifice. Awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously, Walker’s legacy is one of unparalleled courage, innovation, and commitment to his country. Join us as we honor the man whose leadership in the face of overwhelming danger continues to inspire airmen and military leaders to this day. Please visit our website to learn more about other American Heroes. www.dutyandvalor.com Sources: kennethwalker.org wikipedia.org nationalww2museum.org arlingtoncemetery.net ozatwar.com findagrave.com b17sanantoniorose.com 1620 Workwear 1620 WORKWEAR: Made in the USA. GUARANTEED FOR LIFE Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show Thank you for listening to Duty & Valor! Music by Amelie Leclerc. Artist's other music can be found here. Please follow us on your favorite social media site. Facebook Instagram Twitter YouTube

Send us a text In this episode of Duty & Valor, we delve into the remarkable story of Llewellyn Chilson, one of World War II’s most decorated soldiers. From his humble beginnings in Ohio to his heroic actions on the battlefields of Europe, Chilson's courage under fire earned him three Distinguished Service Crosses, among other honors. We'll explore his extraordinary feats, including the daring capture of enemy positions that defied the odds, and reflect on the unwavering commitment that defined his service. Join us as we honor the legacy of this American hero, whose actions continue to inspire generations. Please visit our website to learn more about other American Heroes. www.dutyandvalor.com Sources: defensemedianetwork.com wikipedia.org 45thdivision.org warhistoryonline.com homeofheroes.com 1620 Workwear 1620 WORKWEAR: Made in the USA. GUARANTEED FOR LIFE Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show Thank you for listening to Duty & Valor! Music by Amelie Leclerc. Artist's other music can be found here. Please follow us on your favorite social media site. Facebook Instagram Twitter YouTube