In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of the VET S.O.S. Podcast, we’re honored to sit down with Patriotic Kenny (Kenny Jary), a Navy veteran whose story exemplifies resilience, community, and a steadfast commitment to helping others. Kenny shares his remarkable journey, from serving aboard the USS Okinawa during the Cuban Missile Crisis to his transition to civilian life and an unexpected viral moment that changed everything.

After retiring from a 32-year career at Ford Motor Company, Kenny faced new challenges when a broken-down mobility scooter threatened his independence. Thanks to a TikTok GoFundMe campaign spearheaded by Amanda, a dedicated school teacher and now his “adopted daughter,” Kenny not only received a new scooter but gained a platform to give back to his fellow veterans. Thus, the Patriotic Kenny Foundation was born—a nonprofit dedicated to combating veteran isolation by providing mobility scooters to those in need.

With over 140 scooters donated across the country in just one year, Kenny reflects on the impact of the foundation, the importance of community, and his mission to ensure no veteran feels left behind. He also opens up about the challenges he faced transitioning out of the military without support programs and how that experience shaped his dedication to serving others. From 5K charity runs to school penny drives, Kenny and Amanda are finding creative ways to involve communities in their mission.

This episode is filled with laughter, touching stories, and Kenny’s signature optimism. He even shares some fun anecdotes about ice fishing, his love of bowling, and a bold prediction that his Minnesota Vikings are headed to the Super Bowl!

Key Topics:

- Kenny’s time aboard the USS Okinawa and the Cuban Missile Crisis

- Challenges of military-to-civilian transition in the 1960s

- The viral TikTok moment that sparked a movement

- The creation and rapid success of the Patriotic Kenny Foundation

- The importance of combating veteran isolation

- Fun and inspiring activities like the foundation’s annual 5K walk/scoot/run

- Kenny’s thoughts on staying active and living life to the fullest

Support Kenny’s Mission:

Visit www.patriotickenny.com to learn more about the foundation, donate, or get involved in supporting our veterans.

Join us for this unforgettable conversation, and remember: Don’t drown in the sea of transition—grab the VET S.O.S. lifeline!

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Event Date

Event Date: 2025-03-04

Start Time: 19:00:00 EST

End Time: 19:30:00 EST