Tactically Acquired
Welcome to Tactically Acquired Our goal is to document military connected living history in a fun and easy environment. We will capture the stories of our active duty, guard, reservists, veterans, ROTC and their families. Sharing their stories, adventures, and journeys across the military life cycle. The podcast is for anyone interested in joining the military, has been a part of the military, or who wishes to learn more about military life. In addition, we want to bridge the growing military-civilian divide through education. This is “unfiltered” meaning we will go over the good, the bad, and yes, maybe even the...
PFC Jamie Richey , NKU Army ROTC

On this episode of Tactically Acquired, we sat down with Private First-Class Cadet Jamie Richey. Cadet Richey is an outstanding member of the Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) at Northern Kentucky University, where she pursues a Biological Sciences major with a Chemistry minor on the Biochemistry and Pre-Veterinary Medicine track. In addition to her academic achievements, Cadet Richey serves in the Kentucky National Guard through the Simultaneous Membership Program (SMP). This prestigious program allows her to gain valuable leadership experience while preparing to commission as an Officer in the United States Army upon graduation. We honor Cadet Jamie...
Captain Jonathan Wilgus, NKU Army ROTC

On this episode of Tactically Acquired, we sat down with Army Officer Captain Jonathan Wilgus, the program manager and instructor for the NKU Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC). He shares valuable insights about the ROTC program, offering tips and guidance for those interested in joining. Captain Wilgus brings a wealth of experience, having graduated from an ROTC program himself and served in the Michigan National Guard. He also discusses his current role as an Active-Duty officer, his professional skills, and the impact of the ROTC program at NKU and Xavier University.
Tactically Acquired is grateful to be...
George Forrest

On this episode of Tactically Acquired, we have our special guest interviewer Ms. Melanie Hall the Fall 2024 MSW Intern for the Veterans Resource Station sit down with her close friend Army Air Corp and Air Force Veteran Mr. George Forrest. George joined the service in 1945 and discusses his living history with the ups and downs of being in the service during this timeframe. He also discusses his usage of the "new" GI Bill* to receive his Juris Doctorate, and many other amazing stories. Don't miss this episode or any of our episodes - subscribe today!
Alexander Mumma

On this episode of Tactically Acquired, we sat down with Marine Corp Officer Mr. Alexander Mumma. Alex is utilizing the Military Skill Bridge Program to intern with Blue North as he is transitioning out of the Marine Corp. He shares many great tips and tools for others about the program, and the process of accomplishing. He also discussed his transitions from corporate life to the Marine Corp, and the transition back to the civilian mindset. Also, he discusses Officer Candidate School, his motivation to serve, and much more.
Tactically Acquired is grateful to be sp...
Mr. Don Medley and Mr. Paul Terry

On this episode of Tactically Acquired, we partnered with Campbell Media to produce a special episode featuring Vietnam Combat Veterans Paul Terry and Don Medley sharing their living histories. "I fired - he fired; he about fell on me (we were that close to each other) ... I have to live with that" Paul Terry, Vietnam Veteran. "Catkiller, you have been hit --- heavy flames and black smoke coming from your plane" Don Medley, Vietnam Veteran. Plus, other incredible stories from two living veteran legends.
Tactically Acquired is grateful to be sponsored by the Kentucky Army National Guard...
Grayson Beckham - Building a Future

On this episode of Tactically Acquired, learn how to navigate the government, be a mover, a shaker, and leader with Mr. Grayson Beckham who joins us in studio to discuss his unique and very cool experience at Boys State and Boys Nation. He takes us through what Boys and Girls State and Nation are, how to be selected, how to acquire potential funding, the advantages of accomplishing, when you can accomplish, and the benefits of completing such a life-growing experience. This fascinating episode also discusses his plans for the future, alumni, and many other topics.
Tactically Acquired i...
Getting to know The Veterans Cemetery - North in Williamstown Kentucky

On this episode of Tactically Acquired, we are doing a throwback episode on the Veterans Cemetery - North, in Williamstown Kentucky. Learn about burial benefits and about the award-winning cemetery here in Northern Kentucky.
Tactically Acquired is grateful to be sponsored by the Kentucky Army National Guard learn more by contacting SSG Moertle at jason.a.moertle.mil@army.mil or 502-871-2656.
Our goal is to document military connected living history in a fun and easy environment. We will capture the stories of our active duty, guard, reservists, veterans, ROTC, their families, and...
Breaking Down Educational Benefits

On this episode of Tactically Acquired, we are doing a throwback episode that originally aired on the Veterans Resource Station Webinar. Several students have asked us to do a podcast on the basics of educational benefits. We will cover the most popular benefits and give tips and tools to being successful in using them here at Northern Kentucky University. See the video aspect or schedule and appointment on our website https://inside.nku.edu/veterans.html
Tactically Acquired is grateful to be sponsored by the Kentucky Army National Guard learn more by contacting SSG Moertle at jason...
Rey Centeno - No Warriors Left Behind

On this episode of Tactically Acquired, we are doing a throwback episode that originally aired on Veterans In Bars Getting Bourbon, an award-winning public access show. Today's special guest is Navy Veteran Rey Centeno, who explains the purpose behind his development of his phone app - No Warriors Left Behind. Learn about Rey's Living History and a little about bourbon as we discuss, the importance of camaraderie, and transition support. This special episode is on Veteran Suicide Awareness Month; if you are in the military or a veteran and need immediate support, dial 988, then Press 1 to connect to the...
The founders of Norse VETS

On this episode of Tactically Acquired we have the founders of the Student Organization N.K.U. Vets later renamed to NORSE Vets to discuss their involvement, commitment and the reasons for starting this support military, veteran, and family group at Northern Kentucky University. Learn about the history of NORSE VETS, each participants military stories, transition struggles, and the comradery still driven by this amazing and visionary group. Please join us as we sit with Dave Merriss, Jesse Neack, Ian Kirst, Brad Barker and Jeremy Lovell.
Tactically Acquired is grateful to be sponsored by the Kentucky Army...
Tom Eagles - Vietnam Veteran Part 3

On this episode of Tactically Acquired Rusty and Kevin discuss the importance of memorializing veteran history and finish the oral history of his father, Master Chief Tom "Doc" Eagles who was a 30 year combat veteran, Marine Corpsman, and Catholic monk. Please join us as we listen to the original oral history with "Doc" Eagles and his wife Karin from October 2015.
Tactically Acquired is grateful to be sponsored by the Kentucky Army National Guard learn more by contacting SSG Moertle at jason.a.moertle.mil@army.mil or 502-871-2656.
Our goal is to document military...
Tom Eagles - Vietnam Veteran Part 2

On this episode of Tactically Acquired we finally get to hear our producer Professor Kevin Eagles as he discusses the second part (of three) of the oral history of his father, Master Chief Tom "Doc" Eagles who was a 30 year combat veteran, Marine Corpsman, and Catholic monk. Please join us as we listen to the original oral history with "Doc" Eagles and his wife Karin from October 2015.
Tactically Acquired is grateful to be sponsored by the Kentucky Army National Guard learn more by contacting SSG Moertle at jason.a.moertle.mil@army.mil or 502-871-2656.
<...Tom Eagles - Vietnam Veteran Part 1

On this episode of Tactically Acquired we finally get to hear our producer Professor Kevin Eagles as he discusses an oral history of his father, Master Chief Tom "Doc" Eagles who was a 30 year combat veteran, Marine Corpsman, and Catholic monk. Please join us as we listen to the original oral history with "Doc" Eagles and his wife Karin from October 2015.
Tactically Acquired is grateful to be sponsored by the Kentucky Army National Guard learn more by contacting SSG Moertle at jason.a.moertle.mil@army.mil or 502-871-2656.
Our goal is to document...
Paul & Patti Fellinger - Vietnam Veteran Episode

On this episode of Tactically Acquired we partnered with People Working Cooperatively on their special episodes called “Welcome Home: Thanking Our Vietnam Veterans” aired on Waycross Community Media. This is the second of four shows we will share as released documenting several Vietnam Veteran living histories. Please join us as we sit down with Paul & Patti Fellinger on their military journey. An amazing episode from the Army Soldier and the Spouse perspective during this time in American History.
Tactically Acquired is grateful to be sponsored by the Kentucky Army National Guard learn more by contacting SSG Moertle at j...
Carolyn Downing - A Living History

On this episode of Tactically Acquired we sat down with Army Reserves Veteran and NKU Student Carolyn Downing. Carolyn is also graduating this semester, and is heading to Officer Candidate School (OCS) for the Marine Corp in just a few weeks. She shared many great tips and tools for student soldiers, and the process of OCS. She also discussed the difficulty of being a women in the military and her motivation to continue to serve as an officer. She also provides some great advice to those thinking of joining the service.
Tactically Acquired is grateful to be...
Richard Bevington - Vietnam Veteran Episode

On this episode of Tactically Acquired we partnered with People Working Cooperatively on their special episodes called “Welcome Home: Thanking Our Vietnam Veterans” aired on Waycross Community Media. This is one of four shows we will share as released documenting several Vietnam Veteran living histories. Please join us as we sit down with Army Ranger Richard Bevington as he shares his military journey.
Tactically Acquired is grateful to be sponsored by the Kentucky Army National Guard learn more by contacting SSG Moertle at jason.a.moertle.mil@army.mil or 502-871-2656.
Our goal is to docu...
Will Vestring - A Living History - Part 2

On this episode of Tactically Acquired we continue our conversation with Army Veteran and NKU student William Vestring. Join us as Will shares vulnerable details of his addiction and how he prevails and excels in this new chapter of his life. We go over in detail his unique educational experiences using Chapter 31 Veteran Readiness and Employment benefits for his third time! He is a model for resiliency, and tenacity in every aspect of his life.
Tactically Acquired is grateful to be sponsored by the Kentucky Army National Guard learn more by contacting SSG Moertle at jason.a.m...
Will Vestring - A Living History - Part 1

On this episode of Tactically Acquired we start our conversation with Army Veteran and NKU student William Vestring. Join us as we discuss his journey, being stationed in Korea, being a veteran and using Chapter 31 Veteran Readiness and Employment benefits. He also shares his tips and tools on transition and college. On episode two – next week, Will shares his struggles after transition with addiction, and his journey to success.
Tactically Acquired is grateful to be sponsored by the Kentucky Army National Guard learn more by contacting SSG Moertle at jason.a.moertle.mil@army.mil or 502-871-26...
Jessica Young - A Living History - Part 2

On this episode of Tactically Acquired we continue our conversations with Army Veteran, Army Spouse and NKU student Jessica Young. Join us as we discuss her journey, her experiences in Korea, being a veteran and spouse, her Chapter 31 Veteran Readiness and Employment benefits. She also shares her tips and tools on transition and college. Tactically Acquired is grateful to be sponsored by the Kentucky Army National Guard learn more by contacting SSG Moertle at jason.a.moertle.mil@army.mil or 502-871-2656.
Show Description: Our goal is to document military connected living history in a fun...
Jessica Young - A Living History

On this episode of Tactically Acquired we have Army Veteran, Army Spouse and NKU student Jessica Young. Join us as we discuss her journey, her experiences in Korea, being a veteran and spouse, her Chapter 31 Veteran Readiness and Employment benefits. She also shares her tips and tools on transition and college. Tactically Acquired is grateful to be sponsored by the Kentucky Army National Guard learn more by contacting SSG Moertle at jason.a.moertle.mil@army.mil or 502-871-2656.
Our goal is to document military connected living history in a fun and easy environment. We will...
Ian Kirst - A Living History - Part 2

On this episode of Tactically Acquired we have Army Veteran and NKU alum Ian Kirst. Join us as we discuss his journey, how he got into, the joint forces school and his mission as an EOD officer in the Army. He also shares his transition success tips. Tactically Acquired is grateful to now be sponsored by the Kentucky Army National Guard learn more by contacting SSG Moertle at jason.a.moertle.mil@army.mil or 502-871-2656.
Our goal is to document military connected living history in a fun and easy environment. We will capture the stories...
Ian Kirst - A Living History - Part 1

On this episode of Tactically Acquired we have Army Veteran and NKU alum Ian Kirst. Join us as we discuss his journey, how he got into, the joint forces school and his mission as an EOD officer in the Army. He also shares his transition success tips. Tactically Acquired is grateful to now be sponsored by the Kentucky Army National Guard learn more by contacting SSG Moertle at jason.a.moertle.mil@army.mil or 502-871-2656.
Our goal is to document military connected living history in a fun and easy environment. We will capture the stories...
Chelsea Benton - A Living History

On this episode of Tactically Acquired we have Army Veteran and NKU staff member Chelsea Benton. Join us as we discuss her journey, how she balanced school with being a soldier in the KY Army National Guard, how she ended up at NKU and other success tips. Sponsored by the Kentucky Army National Guard learn more at: by contacting: jason.a.moertle.mil@army.mil or calling 502-871-2656
Our goal is to document military connected living history in a fun and easy environment. We will capture the stories of our active duty, guard, reservists, veterans, ROTC...
Summer Special - Kentucky Vet Club

On this special summer episode of Tactically Acquired I met up with three of the Kentucky Veteran’s Club leadership team (Cory Bowling (USMC & KY Army National Guard), Thomas “Doc” Rierdon (US Navy) & Kyle Wade (USMC & NKU Alumni)), to learn its and their history, their service transition and all they accomplish for our military, veterans, first responders and their families.
Our goal is to document military connected living history in a fun and easy environment. We will capture the stories of our active duty, guard, reservists, veterans, ROTC, their families, and community partners. Sharing their stories, adventures, and jou...
Dale Adams - Summer Special

On this special summer episode of Tactically Acquired I sat down with retired NKU Director of Disability Services (now the Office of Student Accessibility) Mr. Dale Adams, to learn its history at Northern Kentucky University (NKU) and the work he completed to make the campus more accessible for everyone. Also, he discusses some of the challenges, the unique way he involved leadership and some student success stories. A great and interesting discussion on the history at NKU with one of its visionary leaders.
Show Description: Our goal is to document military connected living history in a f...
Summer Special: “Johnny” Sayers

On this special summer episode of Tactically Acquired I sat down with retired Police Chief and Army Veteran Mr. John “Johnny” Sayers. We discuss his living history and adventures as a 50+ year police officer and his time in the service. He tells some wonderful, funny stories and provides some great advice on being a cop, addressing the police, handling people, and living life.
Our goal is to document military connected living history in a fun and easy environment. We will capture the stories of our active duty, guard, reservists, veterans, ROTC and their families. Sharing their st...
Steve Wieland - A Living History

On this episode of Tactically Acquired I am with Steve Wieland who is a United States Army and Air Force officer, veteran and a ROTC graduate. Enjoy his living history on how he went from Army to the Air Force. His adventures with the early computer systems, working with government civilian employees, why it’s a bad idea to upset a two-star, his analogy on transition (black and white versus gray), how the “oath of office” never leaves you, and how family is key. Plus other great stories and advice.
Our goal is to document military connected living...
Dr. Robbin C Higgins, US Army Retired, Lieutenant Colonel - A Living History

On this episode of Tactically Acquired I am with Lt Col Robbin Higgins who is a United States Army retired officer, and a Northern Kentucky University (NKU) alumni with a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership. Enjoy her amazing journey on how a shy country girl from Falmouth Kentucky can accomplish 28+ years of military service as she discusses her “Private Benjamin” moment with her TI (Training Instructor) and mother. Also, how she commissioned (“prove a girl can do it”), her numerous adventures overseas to include Afghanistan, Germany, Korea, Saudi Arabia, Alaska (OCONUS) and Hawaii (OCONUS). Moreover, her educational experience with NKU...
VA – Elks – The Barracks Project Mash

On this episode of Tactically Acquired I sat down with several veterans during a special event sponsored by The Barracks Projects and Newport Elks Lodge 273 for the Cincinnati VA Medical Center-Fort Thomas. Listen to these veterans tell a piece of their story, along with providing some sage advice for other veterans, transitioning service members and even those thinking about military service. Moreover, learn more about The Barracks Project and this amazing event.
Our goal is to document military connected living history in a fun and easy environment. We will capture the stories of our active duty, guard, re...
Lieutenant Emily O’Connor - A Living History

On this episode of Tactically Acquired I sat down with Army National Guard, and current Northern Kentucky University (NKU) Graduate student Lieutenant (Lt) Emily O’Connor. On this special episode featuring Women’s History Month, Lt O’Connor discuss her journey to becoming an officer (enlisted, then ROTC), how she ended up as a NKU Graduate Student, her mentors, some hard truth about being a female in the military, leadership, her influences as a professional woman, and her involvement in the Nancy and David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center.
Our goal is to document military connected living history in a fun...
Senator Chris McDaniel

On this episode of Tactically Acquired I sat down with Army Veteran, NKU Alum, and current Kentucky State Senator Chris McDaniel. Senator McDaniel discusses his time at the Citadel (arriving at the age of 16), why he was called “baby” airborne (#standup – hookup), his time as an Army Infantry Officer, the reasons behind going to NKU’s MBA program, how he got into politics (#who is they), and tips and tools for transition and life success.
Our goal is to document military connected living history in a fun and easy environment. We will capture the stories of our activ...
Womens History Mashup

On this episode of Tactically Acquired we took a few highlights from Specialist Audrey Rowland and Dr. Karen O’Connell’s episodes and smash them for a Special edition for Women’s History Month. Listen as the ladies talk about their unique deployments, and highlights of their military career.
Our goal is to document military connected living history in a fun and easy environment. We will capture the stories of our active duty, guard, reservists, veterans, ROTC and their families. Sharing their stories, adventures, and journeys across the military life cycle.
The podcast is...
Mark Wright & Joe Cross – Living History

On this episode of Tactically Acquired we have a few members from the Latonia, Kentucky Post 6093 of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) joining us to discuss their service times in the a United States Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corp. Listen as they discuss their journey through basic training (and not being able to march), deployments, submarine time, struggles of transitioning out of the service, the excitement of combat, comradery, and much more!
Our goal is to document military connected living history in a fun and easy environment. We will capture the stori...
Will Love - A Living History

On this episode of Tactically Acquired we have a United States Navy Veteran, Northern Kentucky University (NKU) Police Officer, and an Alum joining us to discuss his journey through basic training, traveling the Pacific Realm on an aircraft carrier (flying onto a ship), being a “Shellback,” transitioning out of the service, “iron sharpens iron” and how he arrived at NKU. Plus, plenty of great tips for school, life and career success.
Our goal is to document military connected living history in a fun and easy environment. We will capture the stories of our active duty, guard, reser...
Bryan Sisk - A Living History

Northern Kentucky University (NKU) Doctorate of Nursing Alum, and Army Retired Mustang Bryan Sisk joins us to discuss his journey through the enlisted and officer rank, transitioning out of the service, importance of family and why he choose to get his Doctorate at NKU. Lots of great advice for life and career success.
Our goal is to document military connected living history in a fun and easy environment. We will capture the stories of our active duty, guard, reservists, veterans, ROTC and their families. Sharing their stories, adventures, and journeys across the military life cycle. The podcast is for...
Nate Walther - A Living History

Northern Kentucky University student, and Kentucky Army National Guard service member, and Reserve Officer Training Corp (ROTC) cadet Nate Walther’s joins us in studio to discuss navigating these multiple roles, going through basic training, and the ROTC program. Learn about the no contract trial program, and the Kentucky National Guard tuition scholarships. Cadet Walther’s is in the International Studies program with a minor in Psychology.
Our goal is to document military connected living history in a fun and easy environment. We will capture the stories of our active duty, guard, reservists, veterans, ROTC and their families. ...
Mark Moore - A Living History

Navy and Army veteran Mark Moore joins us in studio to discuss life in the Navy on an Aircraft Carrier (multiple), earning is Shellback (not a filthy WOG), his transition into civilian life, why he joined the Army to be a Scout, how he ended up working for the DAV as a National Service Officer, and his support of NKU faculty, staff, students and the community.
Show Description: Our goal is to document military connected living history in a fun and easy environment. We will capture the stories of our active duty, guard, reservists, veterans, ROTC a...
Mark Moore - A Living History

****Please note: this weeks originally edited episode became corrupted and we have had to publish the whole 51 minute interview until next week when we can re-edit the episode. Thank you for your patience and we'll have the edited episode out to you in a couple of days.****
Navy and Army veteran Mark Moore joins us in studio to discuss life in the Navy on an Aircraft Carrier (multiple), earning is Shellback (not a filthy WOG), his transition into civilian life, why he joined the Army to be a Scout, how he ended up working for the DAV as...
Jesse Naeck - A Living History - Part 2

The second of a two-part series, Combat Army veteran and NKU alum Jesse Neack joins us in studio to discuss being part of the initial invasion force into Iraq, his combat injuries, the medical care, service member transition and the upcoming movie he is promoting “MVP” the real battle begins when the uniform comes off.” Don’t miss this one!
*****Breaking Update: The MVP film on February 13, 2023 has received a limited amount of donated tickets and are available. All requests must be made by email address to Jesse.neack@gmail.com with the following subject title “MVP ticket requ...
Jesse Naeck - A Living History - Part 1

The first of a two-part series, Combat Army veteran and NKU alum Jesse Neack joins us in studio to discuss life as an Airborne Infantry soldier, Ranger School (with General Petraeus “endorsement”), earning the Thailand jump wings, and being part of the initial invasion force into Iraq.
Our goal is to document military connected living history in a fun and easy environment. We will capture the stories of our active duty, guard, reservists, veterans, ROTC and their families. Sharing their stories, adventures, and journeys across the military life cycle.
The podcast is for anyone i...