Veterans SITREP

Pets For Vets - Clarissa Black, Part 2

On this episode of Veterans SITREP, we continue our conversation with Clarissa Black, the founder and CEO of Pets for Vets, an organization dedicated to pairing veterans with rescue animals specially matched to their needs. Clarissa’s background in animal behavior and her passion for helping those who served have created a program that doesn’t just place pets — it builds healing partnerships, restores confidence, and brings comfort to veterans navigating life after service.  From the science behind the human–animal connection to the stories of transformation that remind us why this work matters, Clarissa has been at the forefront of a movement that gives both veterans and rescue animals a second chance at a better life.  So settle in — this is a conversation about hope, healing, and the incredible impact one idea can have when it’s driven by compassion and purpose.

Pets For Vets - Clarissa Black, Part 1

Today on Veterans SITREP we speak with Clarissa Black, the founder and CEO of Pets for Vets, an organization dedicated to pairing veterans with rescue animals specially matched to their needs. Clarissa’s background in animal behavior and her passion for helping those who served have created a program that doesn’t just place pets — it builds healing partnerships, restores confidence, and brings comfort to veterans navigating life after service.  From the science behind the human–animal connection to the stories of transformation that remind us why this work matters, Clarissa has been at the forefront of a movement that gives both veterans and rescue animals a second chance at a better life.  So settle in — this is a conversation about hope, healing, and the incredible impact one idea can have when it’s driven by compassion and purpose.

Jimmy Anderson, Deputy Secretary for the Maryland Department of Veterans and Military Families, Part 2

Today, we continue our conversation with Jimmy Anderson, Deputy Secretary for the Maryland Department of Veterans and Military Families.  Deputy Secretary Anderson brings a remarkable blend of enlisted and commissioned Air Force service, national security experience, White House leadership, and private-sector strategy to Maryland’s veterans’ community.  He deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, served at the White House advancing the PACT Act and veteran engagement, and now oversees Maryland’s statewide service and benefits programs, cemeteries, memorial affairs, intergovernmental relations, and legislative affairs. 

Jimmy Anderson, Deputy Secretary for the Maryland Department of Veterans and Military Families, Part 1

Veterans SITREP is honored to be joined today by Jimmy Anderson, Deputy Secretary for the Maryland Department of Veterans and Military Families.  Deputy Secretary Anderson brings a remarkable blend of enlisted and commissioned Air Force service, national security experience, White House leadership, and private-sector strategy to Maryland’s veterans’ community.  He deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, served at the White House advancing the PACT Act and veteran engagement, and now oversees Maryland’s statewide service and benefits programs, cemeteries, memorial affairs, intergovernmental relations, and legislative affairs.   Today we’re going to learn more about the very backbone of Maryland’s military and veteran community programs and services.

Aberdeen Proving Ground Community Spouses Club

Joining me today on Veterans SITREP are board members from the Aberdeen Proving Ground Community Spouses Club, Kelly Foster, first vice president and Elizabeth Perez Garcia, secretary.  The Club provides a support system for members by developing leadership, creating a sense of unity within the Aberdeen Proving Ground community, broadening the lives of its members, and promoting the relationship between the military and surrounding civilian communities. The Spouses Club sponsors various educational, charitable, social, recreational, and other activities for the community.  We’re going to explore how the Community Spouses Clubs are more than social groups — but how they are one of the quiet engines that keep military installations connected, supported, and thriving.

Keith Taylor, President of the Sparrows Point North Point Historical Society

Joining me today on Veterans SITREP is Keith Taylor, President of the Sparrows Point North Point Historical Society who has a unique collaboration story with the Wells McComas VFW Post 2678.  Together, these organizations have collaborated to create the Veterans Memorial Park and Gateway into Edgemere, a space designed to honor service, preserve local history, and welcome residents and visitors with a message of gratitude.   This project isn’t about bricks, landscaping, or monuments — it’s about community identity. It’s about recognizing the generations of men and women from the Sparrows Point, North Point, and Edgemere areas who stepped forward to serve. And it’s about ensuring their stories remain visible, respected, and understood.  Today, we’ll explore how this collaboration came to life, the history it preserves, the veterans it honors, and the impact it’s already having on the community.

Platoon 22: Niki Falzone, Part 2

We continue our conversation on Veterans SITREP with Niki Falzone, Executive Director, Platoon 22, an organization dedicated to Veteran support & suicide prevention.   Platoon 22 is a nonprofit, veteran-focused service organization committed to ending veteran suicide through the fostering of meaningful connections and comprehensive support. They understand the unique challenges faced by veterans and military-connected individuals and are there to ensure they never face those challenges alone. We’re going to explore the mission of Platoon 22 of combating veteran suicide by creating a robust network of resources and support for those who have served, as well as for the families who served alongside them. 

American Red Cross: Chris Duffley, Regional Director, Service to the Armed Forces and International Services

Joining me today on Veterans SITREP is Chris Duffley, Regional Director, Service to the Armed Forces and International Services, American Red Cross of the National Capital, and Greater Chesapeake Region.  Chris leads a team of over 1000 paid and volunteer staff providing support to military members, Veterans, and their families at 26 military installations, five VA medical centers throughout his region.  Today, we’re going to explore how the Red Cross provides emergency casework, community outreach, military and VA hospital/caregiver support and behavioral health training to the military and veteran community.

Team RWB: Michael "Sully" Sullivan

Joining me today on Veterans SITREP is Michael “Sully” Sullivan, Executive Director of Team Red, White and Blue.  Sully is a passionate leader, dedicated veteran, and tireless advocate for the well-being of those who have served.  He brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering commitment to building stronger, healthier veteran communities across the nation.  Under his leadership, Team RWB has continued to grow as a beacon of connection, purpose, and resilience—empowering veterans through physical activity, community engagement, and leadership development. Today, we’re proud to have him join us to share insights, stories, and strategies that are shaping the future of veteran support and engagement.

VA Maryland Health Care System: Dr. Minu Aghveli, Harm Reduction Coordinator

Joining me today on Veterans SITREP Dr. Minu Aghveli, a psychologist and coordinator of the Harm Reduction Program at the VA Maryland Health Care System.  The VA Harm Reduction Program supports veterans who may be facing challenges with substance use or other risky behaviors.  Dr. Aghveli will share various treatments for substance use disorder and ways the VA is supporting Veterans to reduce harm from risky behaviors.