Aug 17, 2026
While working as a non-commissioned officer (NCO) in the Army, VFW Post 467 member Jose Flores came to a powerful realization: “Every soldier has a story.”
According to Flores, an integral duty of an NCO is to wholly care for soldiers. Throughout his 30-year career in the Army, he had a chance to connect with and listen to the personal journeys of hundreds of troops, which inspired him to pursue work in amplifying veterans’ voices through broadcasting.
To keep close proximity to veterans so that he could support them, Flores wanted to join an organization that echoed his values. In 2003, he officially became a member of VFW Post 476 in Westminster, Maryland.
“Joining VFW gave me another avenue to stay connected with the veteran community,” Flores said. “It’s more than an organization. It’s a network of support, camaraderie and advocacy for all of those who served.”
Flores received VFW eligibility by serving with the 4th Battalion, 7th Air Defense Artillery Regiment in Dexheim, Germany, the 3rd Squadron, 6th “Heavy Cav” Regiment in Camp Humphreys, South Korea, and the United States Army Central Command in Saudi Arabia.
HELPING VETERANS FIND PURPOSE
When Flores “took off the uniform” in 2010, he says his service didn’t end — it evolved.
“I’ve seen the struggles many veterans face firsthand,” Flores said. “Transitioning, trying to find identity, dealing with mental health challenges and feeling like they’ve lost their mission. I know that feeling. And I know what it takes to fight through it.”
In 2017, Flores started his podcast, “Motivated Mindset with Jose Flores,” where veterans are invited to come and speak about their own experiences.
“The truth is that all of us have a story worth sharing,” Flores said. “Where we come from, what shaped us. Creating this podcast gave me a platform to amplify those voices, especially veterans. It allows them to share their journeys, their transitions, their challenges and their successes in a way that connects them with others.”
Flores also works closely with Military Broadcast Radio (MBR).
“Between my podcast and MBR, the mission remains the same: create space, build connections and tell real stories that matter,” Flores said.
The support for veterans does not end there. Flores also volunteers as an end-of-life doula, or hospice volunteer, at his local hospice to help support and be present for veterans and their families.
“We conduct ceremonies to recognize their service, where they’re presented with a certificate, a flag and a handmade quilt,” Flores added. “It’s not easy work and it can be emotionally heavy, but I truly feel that’s where I’m called to be.”
‘DON’T LOSE YOUR IDENTITY. REDEFINE IT’
Flores, like many veterans, struggled when transitioning back to civilian life and understands the inner conflict.
“I still remember what transition felt like,” he said. “It felt like I lost my identity and my sense of purpose. It was challenging. I missed my comrades and that sense of teamwork. That lifestyle becomes part of who you are.”
However, his advice for navigating transition is: “Don’t lose your identity — redefine it. You aren’t starting over; you’re evolving. Take the skills, discipline, leadership and resilience you gained in service and apply them to your next chapter, and remember this: Your service didn’t end, it just looks different now.”
This article is featured in the 2026 July/August issue of VFW magazine, and was written by Danny Cook, senior writer for VFW magazine.