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- [00:00]
iHeart Advertising Announcer
This is an Iheart podcast.
- [00:05]
Annabe Sofas Advertiser
There's nothing like sinking into luxury. Anabe sofas combine ultimate comfort and design at an affordable price. Annabe has designed the only fully machine washable sofa. From top to bottom, the stain resistant performance fabric slipcovers and cloud like frame duvet can go straight into your wash. Perfect for anyone with kids, pets or anyone who loves an easy to clean spotless sofa. With a modular design with changeable slipcovers, you can customize your sofa to fit any space and style. Whether you need a single chair, loveseat or a luxuriously large sectional, Anna Bay has you covered. Visit washablesofas.com to upgrade your home. Sofas start at just $699 and right now get early access to Black Friday savings up to 60% off storewide with a 30 day money back guarantee. Shop now@washablesofas.com Add a little to your life. Offers are subject to change and certain restrictions may apply.
- [01:05]
Steve Gruber
You know what your customers are doing right this second? The exact same thing. You are listening to me. Which, let's be honest, is kind of flattering. But my point Is, ads on iHeartRadio actually get heard in the car, at the gym, on the couch while people are walking their dogs. Who's a good boy? Who's a good boy? You're a good boy.
- [01:23]
Bowling (Steve Gruber's dog owner/friend)
That's right, dude.
- [01:24]
Steve Gruber
You're a good. So why not make the next ad about you? Get started today. Call 844-844-IHEART or go to iheartadvert. That's 844-844-Iheart or iheartadvertising.com this is America's Voice live. And welcome to America's Voice Live. I'm Steve, the pulse of the people. We need somebody that's going to hear the people's voice, the truth the mainstream won't touch. This guy is by definition a globalist. And the stories that matter, Rav's own Ben Berklav.
- [01:53]
Ben Berkley
Right up over this hill. We gotta love Cartel.
- [01:55]
iHeart Advertising Announcer
I see him. I see him.
- [01:56]
Colonel Derek Harvey
I see him.
- [02:00]
Steve Gruber
Live. Breaking news right now here on Real America'.
- [02:03]
Ben Berkley
Filtered.
- [02:03]
Steve Gruber
These people are domestic terrorists and unapologetic. We're here to take a stand for God and country. Does feel good. America's Voice live starts now. Welcome to America's Voice Live. I'm Steve Gruber. Today is Wednesday the 19th of November in the year of our Lord 2025. As always, thank you for joining me here on Real America's Voice. We appreciate your patronage as always. US Army Sergeant Michael Verardo being laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery today. I will bring you some live coverage there of this very special event. Throughout the program, it's really important. Sergeant Verardo was one of the most catastrophically injured heroes of the Afghanistan war and received a Purple Heart for his injuries. Verardo passed away in August due to complications from injuries sustained on the battlefield so many years ago. Here at Real America's Voice, we will honor his legacy today by bringing on military veterans and personnel. So be sure to stay tuned for coverage on that and so much more. Meanwhile, I'd like to start off with President Trump's plan for peace. Peace in Gaza seems fitting today, doesn't it? The United Nations Security Council has approved a U S backed resolution built on President Donald Trump's 20 point Gaza peace plan, marking a major shift in the international approach to ending the two year war. US Ambassador Mike Waltz urged members to support what he called a bold, pragmatic blueprint to stabilize Gaza and finally move the region toward peace. The resolution passed with overwhelming support, even as Russia chose to abstain. President Trump's plan lays out the creation of a multinational stabilization force crafted through U S led diplomacy with partners like Qatar, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the uae, Turkey, Pakistan and Indonesia, to name a few. The force would secure Gaza, protect civilians, oversee demilitarization, and guide a phased Israeli withdrawal. Waltz told the council that Gaza has become a hell on earth and said this plan gives the world a real chance to replace destruction with a path to lasting stability. Joining now to discuss this is retired U.S. army colonel and former special advisor to President Trump, Colonel Derek Harvey. Colonel, nice to see you again today.
- [04:13]
Colonel Derek Harvey
Glad to be here.
- [04:15]
Steve Gruber
Let's talk about this 20 point plan accepted by the United Nations. Look, this is an accomplishment by President Trump. It wasn't pulled off by anybody else, wasn't pulled off by Joe Biden or George W. Bush. It was pulled off by Donald Trump by focusing on peace not just in Gaza, but in several places around the world. But let's talk about this 20 point plan now adopted by the UN what do you make of it?
- [04:37]
Colonel Derek Harvey
Well, the President has continued to move forward and has overcome many, many obstacles and he has committed a lot of political capital to to this process and it's amazing what he's done to date. But still, the most important issue that still needs to be addressed is the issue of Hamas, the deradicalization of Hamas, the disarmament of Hamas. Because unless you really do that, you cannot rebuild a country that will be sitting next to Israel and have peace. That's the major Problem?
- [05:14]
Steve Gruber
Yeah, that's the major problem. So how do we get there? It seems that the world has turned on Israel, blaming it for its attacks on Gaza after it was attacked on October 7. But the world has certainly changed. Its attitude toward Israel has changed. The attitude inside this country has changed. What do you think of that?
- [05:33]
Colonel Derek Harvey
Well, the strategic landscape has become very difficult for Israel. As you allude to the international organizations, be it the United nations, the international court at the Hague, Europe, you've got Ireland, Spain, and other countries recognizing this idea of a Palestinian state, although they don't know where the capital is or what its boundaries would be. And domestically, in the United States, you've got significant erosion over the support of the Israeli state and the Jewish people because of the war and the demonization also of Prime Minister Netanyahu because of the war. And that has eroded significantly the, you know, the ability of Israel to rely on the United States, which I would say is probably our number one most reliable ally in the world.
- [06:28]
Steve Gruber
Yeah. One of the other things that has caught the attention of the left, and not in a good way, was the visit by the Syrian president to the Oval Office here a week ago. President Trump is trying to get everybody he can into the Abraham Accords, and people are complaining he's dealing with bad people, which is true. He is dealing with a bad human being here. A person who's committed crimes has been a terrorist. But if you look back historically, I can remember in 1972, Air Force One flew to Beijing. President Nixon went and met Chairman Mao. At that very moment in time, the Chinese were backing the Viet Cong actively killing Americans. I remember Barack Obama eating hot dogs and drinking beer and laughing with Fidel Castro, somebody else who has actively killed Americans and almost got us into a nuclear exchange. Sometimes, Colonel, you have to deal with bad people to get good results. Is that true or false?
- [07:17]
Colonel Derek Harvey
That's the world we actually live in. But you have to be guarded, and you have to be, you know, very focused on and appreciate who you're dealing with here. Now, in the case of Syria with Jelani, his government is full of very committed, you know, radical Islamists that want to establish Sharia law and are actively punishing Christians, Alawi, Druze, Kurds and others. And so he doesn't have complete control over everything, but he, as a government, he is actually moving forward to engage with Israel in some bilateral talks and others. And keep in mind, you know, we have a good relationship with President Erdogan in Turkey, and HTS and Jelani are actually, you know, partners with President Erdogan, they would not have succeeded without the long standing support of Turkey, which is a NATO ally of ours. So we've got some, you know, some opportunities here. And again, this is what the president does. He's not going to not move forward and not try if there's an opportunity, a possible chance to bring peace, to decrease the amount of violence, to improve the lot of ethnic and religious minorities, we might not get what we really want completely. But he's willing to try to better the situation by using his time, his resources and the political capital of the United States to try to get things done. And that's far better for the world and for the American people to have a president who's engaged in the world bringing investments to the United States like he's done with Saudi Arabia and the announcement with Mohammed bin Salman of investing $1 trillion in the United States and also increasing our sales to the Middle east region. It's not just about stopping wars and fighting Islamists. It's about building up American prosperity by being engaged in a world that is, in fact, global.
- [09:29]
Steve Gruber
Yeah, I want to mention something, I want to go back to something you said there. Syrians being targeted in Syria, also in Nigeria, other places around the world, Christians being devastated, being murdered by the tens of thousands in some places. And Donald Trump just laid the line on that said, look, we're not going to continue to allow that to happen. He was warning Nigeria directly. I'm going to anticipate and believe that he had some of those conversations with the Syrian president as well. He has made it clear the United States will not sit idly by. The United nations is a failure. It had two jobs, stop wars and stop genocide. It's failed at all of those things ever since the 1940s. Donald Trump trying to make a difference here. What do you say?
- [10:11]
Colonel Derek Harvey
Well, I say even in the opportunity that was presented yesterday with Mohammed bin Salman from Saudi Arabia, they discussed the situation in Sudan and the persecution of Christians and The fact that 21 million people are on the verge of famine and starvation and the ongoing civil war there between, you know, Muslims and Christians. So that was brought up, it was brought up by the Saudis as an area that the president could actually make some significant gains on and that the Saudis were willing to help us with that. And there are other countries that are engaged in the region that, you know, in Sudan that have significant interest there to include Egypt and Turkey. So I think the president is being very agile in his approach to the world. And when he sees an opportunity to have a partnership with the Saudis and the Egyptians to address the situation in Sudan, he's going to seize it. When he sees a problem in Nigeria, he's going to look at it and see what we can do. It's not about being overly interventionist. It's about working with partners and allies. And you'll notice we're not putting American troops on the ground. We're enabling. We're partnering. We're bringing others together to address the problem. But we're not based upon his America first agenda, not putting American troops on the ground and getting involved in nation building or new wars.
- [11:42]
Steve Gruber
Yeah, people are very opposed to these forever wars all over the world. The United States been involved with as long as I've been around. This is the first time in maybe my lifetime I've seen a president trying to stop war wherever possible. Colonel, I would like to shift gears because I mentioned off the top of the program today that U.S. army Sergeant Michael Verardo is being laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery today. He finally succumbed to his wounds he received while serving in Afghanistan. Verardo was one of the most severely wounded heroes of the Afghan war and a Purple Harper recipient. Obviously, Arlington is a very special place. It is a place that has an emotional impact on me and everybody else that visits there. What are your thoughts today?
- [12:23]
Colonel Derek Harvey
Well, Section 60 at Arlington Cemetery is an important place because that's where so many people that I fought with and served with in Iraq are buried. You know, the burial service today for Sergeant Velorado is, you know, important one. He is a hero as much for what he has done since he was in the military as for what he did in the war in Afghanistan and his commitment to US service when he enlisted after 9, 11, 15 years, he's been a model and a hero for all of the wounded warriors. He's contributed in so many ways as a symbol of overcoming these obstacles. And he never wavered in his commitment to his family, to our country and to his brothers in arms. Okay. And he was wounded. You know, he suffered a serious concussion. You know, two weeks before he had this grievous injury where he, he was not expected to live. He was marked as imminently dying. Okay? And he overcame that just like he overcame so many other obstacles. But his, his vehicle was blown up and he was in the, he was the gunner in the turret, and that turret got blown away. And somehow he survived. And two weeks later, he volunteered to go back to his unit and go back on patrol. He, he signifies the best in our American infantrymen in our 82nd Airborne Division warriors. Okay. Our comrades in arms who have sacrificed so much. He is a true hero being laid to rest today.
- [14:09]
Steve Gruber
And we pay our respects here today for him and his family who have lost this man that meant so much to so many people because of what you said, standing up for wounded warriors, standing up for what's best in America. And that's the best reason I can think of, sir, to say, let's stop these wars. Let's follow Donald Trump's lead on bringing peace to the planet. That would be the best tribute to Mr. Verardo and his inclusion in Section 60. I'll give you the last word.
- [14:39]
Colonel Derek Harvey
Well, what I would say, and having been in these wars and I know many who were there, the key thing is that when we do engage and we're going to commit American blood and treasure and sacrifice warriors like we have, it's important that we go in there with a commitment to actually winning and that we're in there for a purpose and that the President of the United States clearly explains it and is held accountable for maintaining success. Americans are willing to support a war when it's clearly explained and we understand what the costs are for. But to manage conflicts to unacceptable outcomes for decades is malfeasance.
- [15:22]
Steve Gruber
Yeah. Colonel, always a good conversation. I appreciate you being here today. Thank you so much.
- [15:28]
Colonel Derek Harvey
Thank you. God bless you.
- [15:30]
Steve Gruber
God bless you, my friend. After the break, I'll discuss tensions between the United States and Venezuela as possible talks between President Trump and Nicolas Maduro could be in the mix in the near future. Stay tuned. We'll have details coming up on America's Voice Live.
- [15:49]
Annabe Sofas Advertiser
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- [16:49]
iHeart Advertising Announcer
Run a business and not thinking about podcasting, Think again. More Americans listen to podcasts than ads. Supported streaming music from Spotify and Pandora. And as the number one podcaster, iHeart's twice as large the next two combined. So whatever your customers are into true crime, sports, comedy, culture, they'll hear your message. Plus, only iHeart can extend your message to audiences across broadcast radio. And all this reach means everything. Just think about the universal marketing formula. The number of consumers who hear your message times the response rate equals the results. Now let's get those results growing for you. Think podcasting can help your business? Think iHeart streaming radio and podcasting. Let us show you at iheartadvertising.com that's iheartadvertising.com or call 844-844-IHEART. One more time, call 844-844-iHEART and get podcasting working for you.
- [17:53]
Steve Gruber
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, along with others, expected to speak at the ceremony honoring U.S. army Sergeant Michael Verardo. Point. We'll share some of that with you. I will bring you coverage as it becomes available to us. Meanwhile, President Trump and Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro could hold talks soon as tensions continue to rise. If these talks do happen, then it's expected that narcotics will be the topic of discussion, the only topic. That and cartels moving the drugs, of course. The military has now carried out at least 21 airstrikes and 22 vessels suspected of drug trafficking in the Caribbean and Eastern Pacific. Democrats are calling these strikes illegal. However, the truth is that these strikes are disrupting the flow of narcotics into our country. Join me now to discuss this former Navy intelligence officer and chairman of the Bramer Group, Don Bramer. Don, thank you for being here.
- [18:43]
Don Bramer
Thank you. And good afternoon to you, sir.
- [18:46]
Steve Gruber
Now, critics would have you believe these are fishing boats. I've had a lot of fishing boats in my life. I've been a lot of charter boats. These don't look like any fishing boat I've ever seen. And I've got to put my faith in your former colleagues, the folks in the intelligence community saying this is a drug boat, this is what they're moving, this is what's happening and ending it. Your thoughts?
- [19:09]
Don Bramer
If you look at the videos, these are not fishing boats. These are not charters. These are drugs. And they are moving to this country and we are putting a halt to it. And, you know, this president is protecting our border not only from land but from sea. And, you know, what it's doing is it's affecting the drug Trade and something we need to address in this country wholeheartedly as we, you know, thousands and thousands of people, young men and women and their families, been destroyed by these illegal substances.
- [19:41]
Steve Gruber
Yeah. So one of the other arguments I've heard, strange as it may be, Don, well, that's not fentanyl. That's just cocaine. Just cocaine. As if overdosing on cocaine and dying is somehow a better way to go than dying from fentanyl. And here's the truth. This fentanyl has laced into cocaine, marijuana, other street drugs. Taking cocaine off the street is a key step forward as well, is it not?
- [20:05]
Don Bramer
Well, you know, whether it is any narcotic, taking it off the street is important because not only do the revenue from these. These drug trades fuel and support, you know, other illegal activities, but they eventually, a lot of it goes back to support terrorism. So, you know, anything they can do to disrupt it, I fully support. You know, and it reminds me, if you look back to 1988, 1989, you know, we had a very similar situation with Manuel Norega. Most people who remember that George Bush went in and we, with a small band of Marines, we extradited and captured Manuel and charged him with something very similar as the indictment against what we see with Maduro. So what's really the difference? I don't see one.
- [20:53]
Steve Gruber
I don't see one either. Based on the historical precedent that's been laid out, what we think would come out of a conversation between Maduro and the president. Obviously, narcotics is a big problem. It's also a big problem in Mexico, where the cartels there are also being discussed, and how to end their reign of terror and corruption in Mexico. This is not a single front war. This is a multifaceted war. If we want to stop the drugs flowing into this country freely and killing over 100,000Americans a year, this has to be a priority, doesn't it?
- [21:27]
Don Bramer
I mean, it does. This is an 8 billion annual corporate affair. If you look at the cartels just in Venezuela and Colombia. So, you know, Maduro, whether he's the head of the cartel del Sol or he's just a faction of it, it is where he's gaining his influence. It's what's forcing him to make the decisions that he makes. And he asked to realize that if you want to stay in the chair that you sit in, then you need to look at a new course of business and a new way of life for the people of your country.
- [21:58]
Steve Gruber
Yeah. What do you think the best course of action going forward is, Don? I mean, Are we doing the right thing? Do we need to do more? You're in the Intelligence Committee. What's the best way to stop this from happening?
- [22:08]
Don Bramer
Well, I think we're doing a very strong. We're sending a very strong message to these cartels that, you know, this stops if you. If you take what we're doing with these strikes, you take what we're doing by closing our border, especially compared to what we saw just a year and a half ago under President Biden. These are the steps we have to take that, you know, this is the United States. We are going to protect our country. We are going to protect our citizens that live here and our citizens live abroad, because, you know, we can't be the gatekeeper for the world unless we take care of ourselves first.
- [22:40]
Steve Gruber
Absolutely true. I agree with that. You can't have an empty cup trying to supply the world. All right, I want to shift gears just a little bit here, Don, because today we are honoring the life and service of US Army Sergeant Michael Verardo, a Purple Heart recipient, Afghan veteran. What does a life like Michael and his dedication, his legacy mean to you?
- [22:59]
Don Bramer
Well, you know, I'm actually glad you brought that picture up. I've had the pleasure of being friends with Michael, but especially Sarah, for about the past decade in the work that my foundation, American Freedom Fund, does. And we've had a strong partnership, a strong working relationship. And Michael, you know, a lot of people did great things when they were in uniform. But what's, I think, important about Michael is his service out of uniform and the countless, countless lives that he and his families were touched to. To improve the lives of those who. Who did not have people to stand behind or who did not have people to support them when they took the uniform off. And in many cases, they either lost their life or they lost their. Their normal way of living.
- [23:47]
Steve Gruber
So this said, this is personal to you, then. You know these folks.
- [23:51]
Don Bramer
I. I do. And, you know, I. I get. I get a chill as we sit here and talk about it right now, because the Verardo family, you know, whether it was on Capitol Hill, whether with the White House, or whether it was, you know, a soldier's house, they had the same dedication, the same mission and the same heartfelt mission going forward that they did every day of their life. And Sarah will do a tremendous job carrying on her husband's legacy, and there's still so much work that the Independence Fund will still do. And my heart goes out to her. I love her to death, and I hope that she hangs in there and she has all of our thoughts over the next few days.
- [24:38]
Steve Gruber
I appreciate you being here. Thank you for that heartfelt message. I certainly appreciate it. So do the people watching today. Sir, thank you for spending time with us.
- [24:46]
Don Bramer
Thank you, sir.
- [24:48]
Steve Gruber
All right, coming up after the break, I'll continue coverage of that funeral in Sergeant Michael Verado's burial in Arlington National Cemetery. Stay tuned and honor his legacy right here with us on America's Voice lot.
- [25:05]
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- [26:05]
iHeart Advertising Announcer
Run a business and not thinking about podcasting? Think again. More Americans listen to podcasts than ads supported streaming music from Spotify and Pandora. And as the number one podcaster, iHeart's twice as large as the next combine. So whatever your customers are into true crime, sports, comedy, culture, they'll hear your message. Plus, only iHeart can extend your message to audiences across broadcast radio. And all this reach means everything. Just think about the universal marketing formula. The number of consumers who hear your message times the response rate equals the results. Now let's get those results growing for you. Think podcasting can help your business? Think iHeart streaming radio and podcasting. Let us show you at iheartadvertising.com that's iheartadvertising.com or call 844-844-iheart one more time, call 844-844-IHEART and get podcasting working for you.
- [27:10]
Steve Gruber
We're continuing our special coverage today of the burial with full military honors for Afghanistan war hero and chief ambassador for the Wounded Warriors. Sergeant Michael Verardo being buried at Arlington National Cemetery today. Jimmy now is a fellow Afghanistan veteran, chairman of America PAC, and Michigan Republican Senate candidate Tom Norton. Tom, nice to see you today.
- [27:32]
Tom Norton
Nice to see you, Steve.
- [27:34]
Steve Gruber
All right, so let's talk about this. What do you make of this event? How important was, was this man that had been so grievously injured in reaching out and trying to normalize the world for other veterans returning home?
- [27:49]
Tom Norton
Well, wounded warriors and him being a speaker for him is very important. They raised a lot of money on it. Actually, years ago when Bill O'Reilly was doing his Boulder and Fresher, they helped raise money for a soldier that was wounded in our unit in Afghanistan. Mr. What was David Dudenhoff. David, I can't remember it completely off top of my head, but I ended up going with him to the event. And I hate the fact that I forgot his last name right now, but they raised a ton of money for different handicap ramps around this country. They've been able to help provide minivans to people that have lost limbs in Afghanistan, a lot of other resources. So this individual went around the country, helped raise a ton of money for those types of things. And it is very difficult for soldiers that return from war that have both physical and emotional wounds to be able to be that productive. So the fact that he was able to do that and then finally succumbing to wounds from Afghanistan is extremely important and is going to be felt throughout the entire veteran community.
- [28:49]
Steve Gruber
So what can we do to make things better for veterans here in America? We talk about it a lot, Tom, but it seems that oftentimes veterans still fall through the cracks. We still have 22 veterans a day take their own lives. Mental health clearly a big issue, helping those that have been injured, a big issue, making sure that veterans get the care and treatment they need, whether it's physical or mental or both, right?
- [29:13]
iHeart Advertising Announcer
Yeah.
- [29:13]
Steve Gruber
Well, with the mental health, that's probably.
- [29:15]
Tom Norton
One of the biggest scars that people aren't seeing. And a lot of that is because our society has become so soft. They don't understand the directness of a veteran. Combat veterans, a lot of us are very direct, very straightforward. We don't hide anything, and people get offended by that. The greatest thing that our society could possibly do is be understanding and actually grow a little bit thicker of a skin. At the end of World War II, so many millions of Americans actually had served that it was easier. Our society had that thicker skin. So the other thing is we, when we were in the service usually created a stigma when it came into mental health. So part of that was when we were in, if you went to mental health, you were weak. And now as many of us are out, if you go to mental health, we encourage it more and it's nice to have somebody that was in the service that does mental health. In Grand Rapids, we have quite a few Afghanistan Iraq war veterans that the veterans over here are luckily enough to have as counselors that understand the exact position these guys are in and what they went through in Afghanistan or Iraq.
- [30:17]
Steve Gruber
Yeah. So when you see Donald Trump out there now working to end wars in places I didn't even know there were wars, Gaza we've heard about, but other places, you know, in Africa and Asia and elsewhere, I think most Americans have no idea. I think they're oblivious to what goes on in this world too often. And looking at the burial of Verardo and others, how important is it for this president to continue to pursue peace?
- [30:43]
Tom Norton
Peace restraint is extremely important. I think that a lot of this stuff where there's like, Donald Trump's going to create another war. I don't think he's going to. A lot of it is sheer posturing to sit there and show that we are willing to go to war if necessary. The other part is Donald J. Trump's willing to win if we go to war, not drag it out for 10, 20 years and cause veterans more mental health issues. He's going to go there and win it and be done with it. So it's extremely important that we as a society start to identify what's going around the world and realize that Donald Trump is using peace through strength. And at the end of the day, he has ended more wars than any modern president, Period. End of story.
- [31:23]
Steve Gruber
All right, give us a quick update on your current race in Michigan. It's going to be a pivotal state. I think it's ground zero is Michigan when it comes to what happens in the midterms and in 2028. How's your race going?
- [31:35]
Tom Norton
Our race is going really, really good. People can go to thomasjnorden.com and support us. If everybody goes there and donates, we'll be doing pretty good. But the thing is, we need to be able to retake the state Senate so that these Democrats don't continue to destroy Michigan with these hard leftist policies. Remove government red tape. The other thing that I want to make sure we do is put the Constitution back in every single public classroom so that way all of our students know what it says, and it will make it a lot easier for people to fall in love with the concept of America and the freedoms that are truly in that Constitution.
- [32:09]
Steve Gruber
Tom, thank you. Greatly appreciate you being here today.
- [32:12]
Tom Norton
Thank you. God bless.
- [32:14]
Steve Gruber
All right, after the break, I'll bring on a retired Army General to discuss the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. You haven't heard much about it lately, as well as to continue the discussion of Sergeant Michael Verardo's burial in Arlington National Cemetery. Stay tuned for more America's Voice Live.
- [32:35]
Annabe Sofas Advertiser
There's nothing like sinking into luxury Anibe sofas combine ultimate comfort and design at an affordable price. Annabe has designed the only fully machine washable sofa. From top to bottom. The stain resistant performance fabric, slip covers and cloud like frame duvet can go straight into your wash. Perfect for anyone with kids, pets or anyone who loves an easy to clean spotless sofa. With a modular design and changeable slipcovers, you can customize your sofa to fit any space and style. Whether you need a single chair loveseat or a luxuriously large sectional, Anna Bay has you covered. Visit washablesofas.com to upgrade your home. Sofas start at just $699 and right now get early access to Black Friday savings up to 60% off store wide with a 30 day money back guarantee. Shop now@washablesofas.com Add a little to your life. Offers are subject to change and certain restrictions may apply.
- [33:35]
iHeart Advertising Announcer
Run a business and not thinking about radio? Think again because more people are listening to the radio and iHeart today than they were 20 years ago and only iHeart broadcast radio connects with more Americans than TV, digital, social, any other media, even twice as many teens than TikTok. And that reach means everything. Just think about the universal marketing formula. The number of consumers who hear your message times the response rate equals the results. Now let's get those results growing for your business. Radio's here now more than ever and iheart's leading the way. Think radio can help your business? Think iHeart streaming, podcasting and radio. Where the reach is real. Let us show you@iheartadvertising.com that's iheartadvertising.com or call 844-844 iheart one more time. Just call 844-844, iheart and get radio working for you.
- [34:38]
Steve Gruber
Well, as we continue our live coverage of U.S. army Sergeant Michael Verardo's burial, I want to turn your attention to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. It's not been in the headlines much the last week or two. Ukraine's military has confirmed that it has used US supplied ATAK missiles to strike military targets inside Russia, calling the move a major turning point in the conflict. It's the first time Kyiv has openly acknowledged deploying these long range American weapons across the border, something the Biden Administration quietly approved on its way out the door last year. For many, the development raises serious questions. How far is Washington willing to let this war escalate? As Ukraine expands its use of US Weapons, calls are growing for strict oversight and for a foreign policy driven by American interests. First, join me now to discuss retired U.S. army general and candidate for Congress in Florida's 6th congressional district, General Charles Gambaro. General, thank you for being here. Before we talk about Russia and Ukraine, please tell me the impact of Michael Verardo's life and legacy.
- [35:43]
Ben Berkley
Well, Steve, it's great to be with you from the great city of Palm Coast, Florida. I'll tell you, Sergeant Verardo is an American patriot, a true hero, and someone that exemplifies the very best man and soldier that I served with while in uniform. He's a leader that, after his military service, continued serving in a way that mattered, by building an enduring organization that was greater than himself. And it carries on to this day. Our prayers are with Sarah as she continues the mission of the Independence Fund and driving that positive change for our veterans community. Because our veterans still need help, especially when it comes to getting the support they need for, you know, the cost that they've paid, the blank check that they wrote, and especially for trying to do the very best we can to eradicate veteran suicide.
- [36:39]
Steve Gruber
And it's not just the physical injuries. It's also the mental problems and breakdowns. 22 veterans a day still take their lives. We've known that number for a long time. We need to do more in that regard, don't we, General?
- [36:53]
Ben Berkley
We do, Steve. And I'll tell you, as someone that's seen these roadside bombs go off, as someone that has lost close friends, as someone that has seen soldiers deal with the effects, we're still learning, trying to understand the effects of the effects to the body, the explosive nature or the overpressure and the damage that it does to the body in a way that we can't see. And we have to continue to provide research for the veterans community, for the VA to bring resolution to some of these problems. First, it's identifying them up front. As a general officer. You know, I grew up in a culture where you're tough as nails and you never complain. But it's very important that when our soldiers and our veterans have an issue that they don't suffer in silence, they raise their hand and they say, hey, look, we need help. And it's. And that's. And that's leadership, being able to say that out loud and ask for help. And I would ask, as I continue my race in Congress for veterans that want to give us recommendations because senior leaders don't always have all the answers, please reach out to us@voteforgambero.com I'd love to hear what recommendations you have on how we can work together and partner and make lives better, the lives of our veterans better going forward.
- [38:15]
Steve Gruber
Well, there has been progress made in my lifetime. I mean, when I was a kid, VA hospitals had a terrible reputation, terrible, worst place you could possibly go. It has improved, but there's still a lot of work to be done. If you were going to lay it out and say, here are the things we need to address for veterans, first and foremost, what would be on your priority list?
- [38:35]
Ben Berkley
Bringing more doctors, nurses, physician assistants to the hospital. I go to the hospital, to the VA hospital in Daytona beach, and they do a great job in providing service, but they need help, and they're also overworked. And we need to ensure that we have enough funding to hire enough personnel to help our veterans. The other item that I would bring up is let's, let's, for the things that the VA is not an expert at, let's get it out to private care. Let's make sure that we get experts, the experts that we need supporting our veterans.
- [39:07]
Steve Gruber
All right. Well, that's incredibly important. Are you satisfied that the Trump administration is trying to do everything it can for the va, for the VA administration, for the VA hospital system and everything else, or are there things you would say, Mr. President, could you do this?
- [39:23]
Ben Berkley
So I'm a very. I work for President Trump at the National Security Council in the White House. And I will tell you, you will not find a finer president who supports our veterans anywhere, anytime. He was just a tremendous leader, a tremendous boss, and he will do everything and anything he can to help our veterans. Secretary Collins and as well, is focused on ensuring that we move the resources in the right place. And he's going to ask to Congress for the funding that he needs in order to provide that. So I am confident that this administration is doing everything necessary to help our veterans going forward. During my time at the White House and at the Pentagon, we passed a variety of different acts that enabled our veterans to provide service, connected claims to respiratory problems, to sulfur fires that occurred in Iraq. My father is an actual recipient of a claim on that. All these things that we were exposed to. Right. We wrote the blank check for our nation and President Trump. And the administration is certainly focused on helping our veterans out, but we could always, always do more. We can never do enough to repay our veterans for writing that blank check for our country.
- [40:40]
Steve Gruber
General, sit tight right there because after the break we're going to get into the whole Russia, Ukraine situation and see where that war is going. I appreciate you being here today. We'll take a quick break, be back with the General who's also running for Florida 6th congressional district. As you heard, we'll be back on America's Voice LIVE after this.
- [41:00]
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- [42:00]
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- [43:04]
Steve Gruber
Well, before we get back to the General, Usha Vance, the Second lady is at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina talking to military families. We're gonna duck in and see what she has to say today. Here she is.
- [43:14]
Annabe Sofas Advertiser
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- [43:52]
Melania Trump
Good afternoon, camp lejeune. Thank you Usha, for that kind introduction to General Rizo for your warm welcome here today. It has been a memorable day and an honor to meet the men and women of the United States Marine Corps. Last week the Marine Corps celebrated 250 years of service. Two and a half countries of courage, centuries of courage, tradition and excellence. To you and your families who give so much for our country, thank you. Technology is changing the art of war. Predictably. AI will alter war more profoundly than any technology since nuclear weapons. The most significant change will be speed. Speed in weaponry, decision making, detection, attack and defense. Artificial intelligence will take center stage in the theater of war. It already plays a meaningful role on the battlefield. Of course, it is the Marine who will always play the most critical role in realizing mission success. Before I continue, I would like to take a moment to welcome to the stage two outstanding Marines who are being recognized for their service. Sergeant Blake Donner, the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit Warrior of the Month and Corporal Tashimarrie Cannon, the Marine Medium Tiltrator. Sure don 365 nco of the quarter. Marine Corps Europe's air station New river serves as a leading site for aviation. Seamlessly combining state of the art aircraft training and response capabilities along the east coast of the United States. A vital asset for America's security. Technology is at the core of New river and will guide its evolution. Artificial intelligence is propelling America's military into a new era. We are moving from human operators to human overseers fast. The shift from soldiers to machines is already underway. Autonomous helicopters, swarming drones and Rakon aircraft are here now. Fighter less jets and autonomous bombers are on the way to win the AI war. We must train our next generation for its America's students who will lead the Marine Corps in the future. Lejeune High School demonstrate demonstrated today that it's ready to lead its mission. Educate, engage and empower each student to succeed in a dynamic world is more than a slogan. The school's ecosystem of educators, administrators, parents and students is poised to drive innovation for America. They have fully embraced the Presidential Artificial Intelligence challenge showcasing creativity and technical vision for the future of AI. Their dedication to learning and their commitment to our country is inspiring. The Lejeune and the New river community impressed me today. Military families are the quiet strength of our nation. Your love, patience and courage give our service members the confidence to serve with honor and the comfort of knowing home is always waiting. As thank is giving approaches, families across America will come together. But for many of you, someone you love will be serving far from home. Please know that our nation is thinking of you, praying for you and deeply grateful for your service. To every service member, thank you for standing standing watch so others can celebrate in peace. And to every military, military spouse and child, thank you for your strength and love. You serve our country too. This month and every month, America remains grateful for your service, your sacrifice and your spirit. As we give thanks to this season, let us remember what unite us our shared love of country, our faith in one another and our pride in those who serve. Happy Thanksgiving. Thank you.
- [50:27]
Steve Gruber
There you have the First Lady Camp Lejeune, North Carolina Talking to military families. We'll talk about what makes America wonderful after the break here on America's Voice Line.
- [50:42]
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- [51:42]
iHeart Advertising Announcer
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- [52:47]
Steve Gruber
All right. What makes America wonderful? We do it every day with the hope of putting a smile on your face. And today we've been covering this throughout the show and with good reason. Today we honor the life of U.S. army veteran Michael Verardo, who passed away on August 26, age 40. Michael served proudly as an infantryman and paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg in Afghanistan. He survived two IED attacks, the second leaving him among the most catastrophically wounded soldiers of the Global War on Terror. Despite enduring more than 120 surgeries and facing unimaginable challenges, he refused to let tragedy define him. He dedicated his life to helping others, turning his own experience into tireless advocacy for wounded veterans and their families. Alongside his wife Sarah, now CEO of the Independence Fund, Michael worked to strengthen care, support and opportunities for those who sacrificed so much in service to our nation. His voice reached the highest levels of government, shaping reforms that continue to make a difference for veterans today. And above all, Michael's greatest joy was his family. He and Sarah built a loving home together and leave behind three daughters, Grace, Mary, Scott and Elizabeth. Michael Varardo's life is a testament to courage, resilience and selfless service. His legacy of love, strength and unwavering commitment to his fellow Americans is a true testament of what truly makes America wonderful. America's Voice Question of the Day why should we be thankful for America's military? Mike Foshee writes, this country would not exist without our military. That's so true, Mike. Mike McLaughlin writes, We owe them every free breath we take. God bless our troops and God bless America. I feel the same way. Phil Day writes, be thankful our nation is not speaking Japanese or German. Many thanks to the greatest generation. The next time you visit Washington, D.C. take the time to visit the World War II Memorial. I agree, although I think the Korean War Memorial is the most stirring to me personally. Remarkable places. Remarkable places to reflect on who came before you. Rowdy Cates has this without them, someone else will raise your children and we'd be speaking a foreign language. That's why we have to be steadfast every day. Penelope Brandenburg writes, america's military has a long history. Our military defends our country, our rights and our liberty. We can sleep comfortably in knowing our lives are protected by their sacrifices. Penelope, you're exactly right. Tommy Breese has this without the military, we wouldn't be safe. Even a liberal mommy's basement wouldn't be safe from invaders. They'd find out quickly then. Yes, they would. John Hogan has this we should all be thankful to anyone willing to protect us and allow our freedoms and liberties to continue as we know them. Todd Bayshore has this that we're free and alive in solarcat because it's made up of civilians like us from our communities with presumably the same values and ideals as usual And Bohica Bob because of its ability to save this country from its many enemies outside and inside of the borders. And one more Salem woman writes this. They're selfless and risk their lives to defend our freedoms. If you'd like to be part of the question of the day, just follow me on social media. All the usual suspects, of course. Just follow me on social media, write a response. We do this every day here. You can answer the question. And remember, if you want to send me an email and you don't want to participate here, please do that. SteveGruber.com the Place to Send me an email. I'll make sure we look them over. Some of them. We'll make it right here on the program. Join me weekday mornings at 6am to kick your day off with the Steve Gruber Show. We're first live here on Real America's Voice. We do it every day. We get up early, early folks. Drink lots of coffee. That's why Bowling's sleeping in. I'm working. He's sleeping. Sorry. That's just the way it is. Bowling, you awake?
- [56:48]
Bowling (Steve Gruber's dog owner/friend)
4:40 this morning. Gruber, my dog.
- [56:51]
Steve Gruber
Okay.
- [56:52]
Bowling (Steve Gruber's dog owner/friend)
Little soul licks my face, gets me up before 40. If it's, if it's 3 o', clock, maybe there's another hour or two sleep. But when it's 4 o' clock before she does it quite often because she wants to go outside and then she wants to eat. And you know, I make her a little licky pad with some food on it but a little warm it up in the, in the microwave and I put a little cheese on top. A little supplement, vitamin supplement over there. It's like she's like a Michelin star breakfast, this dog.
- [57:18]
Steve Gruber
But, but that's very nice. Still kidding. Michelin rated breakfast for the dog.
- [57:24]
Bowling (Steve Gruber's dog owner/friend)
Absolutely.
- [57:25]
Steve Gruber
Nice Bowling give you a lot of credit for that.
- [57:28]
Bowling (Steve Gruber's dog owner/friend)
Bowling household rolls that way. I have a question forever. I have a military esque question for you, Steve Gruber or your audience maybe.
- [57:35]
Steve Gruber
All right.
- [57:35]
Bowling (Steve Gruber's dog owner/friend)
So we saw, we saw Melania and Usha there and we talked about our massive military one. Wonderful. We, we are selling some of our top technical fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. That's a Good idea. Was that a good idea?
- [57:50]
Steve Gruber
I mean, I, I always wonder, you know, I always wonder, no matter who we're selling it to, we're selling the best of the best to, to other countries and think, do they really have our best interest in mind? You know, I have mixed feelings about bowling, I'll be honest with you. Because look, too many times in American history, the weaponry that we've sold to other countries becomes a weaponry that gets turned on us and our American men and women. That's what concerns me.
- [58:15]
Bowling (Steve Gruber's dog owner/friend)
We leave $80 billion of weapons for the Taliban. All of a sudden they're showing up killing Americans. Bagram bag. American air Force.
- [58:22]
Steve Gruber
Yeah.
- [58:23]
Bowling (Steve Gruber's dog owner/friend)
Why don't we keep that? Why the hell did Biden pull out?
- [58:25]
Steve Gruber
There was no reason to give that away. There was no reason to give that. That was one of the most foolish things ever.
- [58:30]
Bowling (Steve Gruber's dog owner/friend)
Watch China over there, you'd watch Russia over there. It was. Is a perfectly successful Air force base. Wow.
- [58:36]
Steve Gruber
Now we got nothing.
- [58:37]
Bowling (Steve Gruber's dog owner/friend)
We got Saudi's cozying up to the Chinese lately for oil. Chinese need oil. Saudis want sure that tap into their, their customer base. That's from loving the idea of selling them high tech equipment. Right about now it's maybe, maybe they, maybe they stuck the, you know, a little spyware in there so we can hear what they're talking about and go and give it to the Chinese. We'll listen to them. Maybe, maybe we're smart like that. Who knows?
- [59:03]
Steve Gruber
This is Jim.
- [59:04]
iHeart Advertising Announcer
Hello.
- [59:04]
Steve Gruber
Jim started advertising with iHeartRadio way back in April and now I have customers out the door. And this is Sarah.
- [59:11]
Colonel Derek Harvey
Hi.
- [59:12]
Steve Gruber
She started putting a portion of her marketing dollars in podcasting back in June.
- [59:16]
Colonel Derek Harvey
Business is booming.
- [59:17]
Steve Gruber
That's why I'm working on a Saturday. Want to be like Jim and Sarah. It's easy. All you have to do is own or manage a business and reach out to Iheartra. Get started today at 844-844-IHEART or iheartadvertising.com.
- [59:33]
iHeart Advertising Announcer
This is an iheart podcast.