VFW Podcast 64: Over There! Recapping the Far East Outreach Mission

Rob Couture and Brittany Dymond Murray are joined by VFW Washington Office leaders Ryan Gallucci, Mike Figlioli, and Joy Craig for a discussion on overseas military support, Memorial Day remembrance, and key legislative priorities impacting veterans. Joy Craig reflects on her recent overseas visit alongside VFW Commander-in-Chief Carol Whitmore through Taiwan, South Korea, and Japan, where they met with VFW Posts, military leadership, service members, and families. The team discusses challenges facing troops and veterans stationed abroad, including healthcare access, spouse employment, childcare shortages, and transportation issues, while highlighting the importance of VFW advocacy in the Indo-Pacific region. The episode also covers upcoming Memorial Day events, the VFW Day of Service at the Korean War Veterans Memorial, and updates on major legislative efforts such as the Major Richard Star Act and the fight against predatory “claim shark” companies. Through candid conversation and passionate advocacy, the episode highlights the VFW’s continued commitment to serving veterans at home and overseas. Featured Guests: Ryan Gallucci – Executive Director, VFW Washington Office Mike Figlioli – Director of Operations / Chief of Staff, VFW Washington Office Joy Craig – Associate Director, VFW National Legislative Service Episode Highlights: 00:00 Intro and Roll Call 3:18 Overseas visit to Taiwan, Korea, and Japan 13:13 Challenges facing military families abroad 31:21 VFW expands veteran claims support in Korea 35:36 Memorial Day traditions and remembrance 42:13 VFW Day of Service at the Korean War Memorial 47:45 Upcoming hearings and advocacy priorities 50:14 Claim sharks and the Guard Act update 53:36 Major Richard Star Act momentum grows 1:12:25 Closing remarks and Good of the Order