In this special Memorial Day episode of Big Blend Radio, we honor our nation’s heroes and spotlight Military Appreciation Month with travel writer and editor Kris Grant. She shares the deep military and naval aviation history of Coronado, California, highlighting its connection to naval aviation, Navy SEAL training, and legendary figures like Glenn Curtiss.

The conversation explores life on a naval base, the evolution of military aviation, and the cultural significance of Coronado—from the festive Independence Day Parade to the historic and famously haunted Hotel del Coronado.

Kris also shares insights on other fascinating military history destinations, including:

• Dayton, Ohio – A hub of aviation heritage with the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force

• Hammondsport and Corning, New York – Home to the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum and the scenic Finger Lakes region

🎧 Listen in for inspiring stories that commemorate service and preserve the legacy of America’s military past.

🔗 Websites & Resources:

• Coronado Magazine & Coronado Eagle/Journal: https://www.coronadonewsca.com/

• Visit Coronado, California: https://discovercoronado.com/

• Glenn H. Curtiss Museum (Hammondsport, NY): https://glennhcurtissmuseum.org/

• Explore Corning & the Finger Lakes: https://exploresteuben.com/

• Destination Dayton (Visitor Info): https://www.destinationdayton.org/

• National Museum of the U.S. Air Force: https://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/

• National Aviation Heritage Area: https://www.nps.gov/daav/index.htm

• International Food Wine Travel Writers Association: https://ifwtwa.org/

In this heartfelt episode of Big Blend Radio, we honor Memorial Day and Military Appreciation Month by exploring the deep connections formed through acts of kindness—especially within the military community. The conversation also highlights how travel can deepen our understanding of military history and sacrifice.

Guests Joelle Machia and Ryan Slough, founders of the Wanderers Compass travel blog, share their inspiring story of meeting through the nonprofit organization Soldiers’ Angels. They discuss the emotional bonds built through care packages, letters, and food, and how small gestures can create lasting impacts for both soldiers and supporters. Follow their adventures: https://www.wandererscompass.com/

Innkeepers Steve & Karen Wilson of The Lion & The Rose Bed & Breakfast in Asheville, North Carolina, and Tiffany Bertram of Tiffany’s Bed & Breakfast in Hot Springs, Arkansas, share how they honor veterans through initiatives like baking for troops and offering free stays for veterans in November. They also discuss veteran support efforts and historical military sites within their communities. Learn more about their inns: https://www.lion-rose.com/ https://www.tiffanysbedandbreakfast.com/

Through moving personal stories and thoughtful conversations, this episode shines a light on the power of giving, the importance of remembrance, and the many meaningful ways we can support those who serve.

00:00 – Introduction to Wanderer's Compass and Military Appreciation 03:05 – The Journey of Connection through Soldiers’ Angels 05:59 – The Impact of Food and Care Packages 09:08 – Building Bonds: From Soldiers to Family 12:05 – The Ripple Effect of Kindness and Compassion 15:03 – The Importance of Communication and Understanding 18:12 – Volunteering and Supporting Veterans 21:06 – The Role of Community in Veteran Support 23:52 – Personal Stories and Emotional Connections 27:13 – Encouraging Engagement with Veterans 30:02 – Conclusion: The Power of Giving and Connection 38:32 – The Impact of Travel on Understanding History 41:53 – Visiting War Memorials: A Personal Journey 44:52 – The Importance of Learning Real History 48:21 – Reflections on War and Its Consequences 54:11 – Exploring Turkey: A New Adventure 56:52 – Connecting with Innkeepers: A Tribute to Veterans 01:06:04 – Honoring Military History and Service 01:09:46 – Community Support for Veterans 01:12:39 – Understanding Sacrifice and Service 01:20:17 – Exploring Family History and Genealogy 01:26:14 – Baking for Troops and Community Engagement

🔗 Keep up with Big Blend Radio’s network of shows: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork