America's Frontlines Podcast 16 September 2026

In this episode of America’s Frontlines: America’s Army has a new civilian leader. Colonel Denny and Matt examine President Trump’s appointment of Adam Telle as Acting Secretary of the Army following the departure of Dan Driscoll. They look at the leadership change at the Pentagon and the questions it raises for Army modernization, acquisition reform, combat readiness, and—most importantly—the soldiers who will be called upon to fight America’s future wars. They also examine an increasingly dangerous global security environment—from President Trump’s military and economic pressure on Iran and continuing threats to critical Middle East energy routes, to renewed Russian attacks on Ukraine and the emergence of a new generation of lower-cost, increasingly autonomous combat drones. Together, these developments illustrate how quickly warfare is changing—and how traditional military power, economic pressure, and emerging technology are converging on the modern battlefield. As always, Colonel Denny delivers another round of his trademark humor and one-liners to lighten the mood along the way. Our featured guest is Dan Wallrath, founder of Operation Finally Home. What began in 2005 when Dan, a Texas homebuilder, helped modify the home of a wounded Marine at no cost to the family has grown into a nationwide nonprofit serving veterans, first responders, and surviving spouses. Dan joins Colonel Denny to discuss the organization’s mission and how it provides mortgage-free homes, home modifications, and transitional housing to help deserving heroes gain greater independence and, most importantly, a safe place to call home. Of course, we continue our regular journey through military history, revisiting significant events that occurred around this date and remembering the courage, sacrifice, victories, and difficult lessons that helped shape the country we love and continue to serve. Retired Coast Guard Chief Warrant Officer Roland Ashby returns with another installment of “Warrant Wisdom,” bringing more of his well-seasoned perspective and experience to help keep all of us a little sharper—and perhaps a little wiser. And we also hear from artist Pamela Alderman, who shares how she is using art to recognize, connect with, and honor America’s veterans. Pamela talks with Colonel Denny about her work with ArtPrize and how creativity and storytelling can provide another powerful way to ensure the experiences and sacrifices of our veterans are seen, heard, and remembered. From new leadership for America’s Army and a rapidly changing global battlefield to providing homes for our heroes, remembering our military history, and honoring veterans through art, this episode reminds us that supporting those who serve takes many forms—and that their stories and sacrifices should never be forgotten.