Join STARRS & Stripes podcast with host CDR Al Palmer, US Navy ret, for an inspiring conversation with leaders of the Calvert Task Group: Naval Academy graduates Captain Tom Burbage, US Navy ret, and Lieutenant Commander Bruce Davey, US Navy ret, as they all share their remarkable journeys shaped by deep-rooted family legacies in military service.

From Burbage’s childhood dreams sparked by naval officers to his impactful career at Lockheed Martin, and Davey’s exhilarating experience flying with the Blue Angels and his transition to a successful aviation consultancy, as well as Palmer’s career as a F-4 “Wild Weasel” in the Air Force to becoming a Naval aviator, you’ll find their stories and insights interesting. This episode explores the lasting influence of the “Greatest Generation” on military and societal values, and the ever-present need for readiness in the face of evolving domestic and global threats.

Covered in this episode are the pressing issues of today’s military recruitment and retention challenges amidst shifting cultural landscapes. Burbage and Davey discuss the erosion of the elite, motivating culture that once drew recruits into the armed forces, and how financial incentives alone are not enough to maintain a capable and motivated force.

Drawing parallels to team sports, they emphasize the importance of fostering a sense of belonging, purpose, and responsibility to a higher cause beyond self. Also highlighted is the critical need for strong leadership and support from organizations such as STARRS and the Calvert Task Group to uphold the standards and effectiveness of our military.

Finally, they reflect on the evolving perspectives of veterans and the move from casual socializing to active engagement working on restoring the military by removing the divisive politicization and ant-American ideology in the armed forces. This is the focus of Calvert Task Group’s new book, “Don’t Give Up the Ship: Woke Politics are Endangering Our Military and Our Nation,” which consists of powerful essays on the topic written by its members.

This episode talks about the collaborative efforts of STARRS, Calvert Task Group and the MacArthur Society, and their impactful actions and influence. With insights into maintaining military strength and unity, this episode reinforces the necessity of strong leadership and the elimination of corrosive elements to ensure operational effectiveness. Tune in to hear the compelling stories and valuable lessons from three naval aviators dedicated to preserving the legacy and integrity of military service.

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0:12 Military Service and Generational Legacy
9:01 Strength and Unity in Military Culture
22:36 Recruiting and Retention in the Military
27:50 Cultural Shift in Military Recruitment
41:20 Evolving Veteran Perspectives and Actions
48:49 Maintaining Military Strength and Focus