In this heartfelt episode of Baskis 360, host Steve Baskis welcomes two passionate advocates for veterans—April Heard and Amy Eifling—from the Welcome Home Alliance for Veterans in Montrose, Colorado. April, the Executive Director and an Army veteran, and Amy, the Volunteer Coordinator and a Marine Corps veteran, share deeply moving stories of community support, personal transformation, and the unique challenges faced by veterans returning to civilian life.

Listeners will hear powerful reflections on moral injury, military sexual trauma (MST), housing insecurity, and the impact of peer-to-peer camaraderie. From music therapy retreats that turn veterans' stories into songs to annual events like the Blue Jean Ball and Memorial Day cookouts, April and Amy illustrate how their nonprofit uplifts veterans through meaningful connections and tailored resources.

As a community-based organization unaffiliated with federal entities, the Welcome Home Alliance thrives thanks to the generosity and support of individuals who care. To learn more about their programs or to get involved, visit their website at https://www.whafv.org. If this episode inspires you to support their mission, consider making a contribution at https://www.whafv.org/donate.html

Whether you're a veteran, a family member, or a community supporter, this conversation reminds us of the healing power of empathy, music, and volunteerism—and the difference a dedicated team can make.

In this special episode of the Baskis 360 Podcast, host Steve Baskis sits down with Les Williams and Jay Bob Bruce, two key leaders behind the Montrose Veterans Memorial Coalition (MVMC). They discuss the vision behind the Montrose Veterans Memorial, the progress made so far, and the challenges of bringing this lasting tribute to life.

The memorial will feature laser-engraved granite panels depicting military history from World War I through the Global War on Terror, creating a space for reflection, remembrance, and education. Les and Jay Bob share details about the new memorial location, the construction timeline, and how the local community, businesses, and donors can contribute to the project.

How You Can Support the Memorial:

• Donate or purchase a memorial brick to honor a veteran at MontroseVMC.us

• Contact MVMC for more information at (970) 765-2210

This episode highlights the emotional impact of building a veterans memorial and why it’s essential to preserve the stories of those who have served. Tune in to learn more about how you can get involved in making this tribute a reality.

Just a quick update for everyone. Happy New Year! Check out my personal blog if you get the chance. Find it at this link: https://baskis.com