America's Frontlines Podcast 17 July 2026

In this episode of America’s Frontlines: Colonel Denny and Matt tackle a fundamental question: Should America's military colleges be teaching warfighting—or politics? They examine Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's efforts to refocus professional military education on leadership, strategy, merit, combat readiness, and preparing the next generation of officers to fight and win the nation's wars. Colonel Denny also reviews some of the week's biggest headlines, offering his perspective on the stories that are shaping America and affecting our daily lives. As always, he lightens the conversation with another round of his trademark humor and well-timed one-liners. Our featured guest is Congressman and retired Marine Lieutenant General Jack Bergman. He joins Colonel Denny for an in-depth discussion on the evolving situation in the Middle East, America's national security priorities, and other pressing issues facing the nation. We also continue our tradition of revisiting key moments in military history—including the victories, the setbacks, and the hard-earned lessons that continue to shape America's armed forces and help keep our nation strong. Rounding out the program is former Marine and retired Border Patrol agent Gil Maza, who returns to discuss America's border security, current immigration challenges, and observations from his recent travels throughout Europe, offering an interesting comparison between European and American approaches to security and border enforcement.