WCVB Raises $420,000 on Veterans Day
Date Posted: 11/13/2020
Hearst’s WCVB Boston raised over $420,000 on Veterans Day for Home Base, a Red Sox Foundation and Massachusetts General Hospital Program that helps at-risk veterans and military families. The event ran from 6:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. and featured live cut-ins and stories from military families about the care they have received from Home Base. Special appearances included recording artist and U.S. Marine Corps veteran Shaggy, Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh, and Brigadier General Jack Hammond (Ret.), who serves as the Executive Director of Home Base.
Beasley’s WXKB-FM Ft. Meyers, Fla., Morning Personality and Army Veteran Jason “Big Mama” Jones partnered with Waterman Broadcasting’s ABC affiliate WZVN on Veterans Day to raise awareness and support for Home Base Southwest Florida Veteran and Family Care. The XXX raised will provide important support services for veterans and their families in Southwest Florida.
Salem’s Phoenix cluster (KKNT-AM, KPX-AM, KXXT-AM) is the media sponsor for The East Valley Veteran’s Parade on November 11. The stations have sponsored the event for five consecutive years and are proud to provide the community with the opportunity to show their support for veterans, active military, and their families.
Pamplin Broadcasting’s KPAM-AM Portland, Ore., raised $51,000 for “Operation Helping Our Heroes” on November 15. The Clark County Veterans Assistance Center will use the funds to help active military, veterans, and their families obtain benefits and services.
Sun Broadcasting’s WFSX-FM Ft. Myers, Fla., hand-delivered over 80,000 Christmas cards to American troops serving overseas on December 7. The station encouraged listeners to donate Christmas cards for the 4th annual “10,000 for the Troops” promotion. Station host Drew Steele broadcast live from Ramstein Air Base in Germany while delivering the cards.
Entercom Philadelphia and the Travis Manion Foundation’s “
Hearst’s ABC affiliate WCVB-TV Boston raised more than $300,000 in its “
American General Media’s KERN-AM Bakersfield, Calif., and host Ralph Bailey presented Honor Flight Kern County with a check for $29,200 to help send 14 local veterans to Washington, D.C., where they will visit memorials honoring their service. The check was presented on Veteran’s Day, November 11.
iHeartMedia’s WRKO-AM Boston raised over $230,000 on November 8 during a radiothon to benefit the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) in Massachusetts. WRKO personalities encouraged listeners to support DAV programs, which include a homeless shelter and transportation assistance. Since 2016, the DAV Radiothon has raised over $600,000.
Hubbard’s ABC affiliate KSTP-TV St. Paul, Minn., conducted a 
Hearst’s ABC affiliate WISN-TV Milwaukee raised $59,000 during the “Honor Flight 50: A Mission of Thanks” telethon on May 29. The funds will help send local 120 veterans on a “Stars and Stripes Honor Flight” to Washington D.C. to visit the World War II, Vietnam War, Korean War, Air Force, Marine Corps War, and 9-11 memorials.
Graham’s NBC affiliate KPRC-TV Houston spent Military Appreciation Month saluting the service and sacrifice of service members through on-air and digital campaigns featuring active-duty and veteran military members as well as their families. Houston-area veterans were asked to speak out on topics like their reasons for enlisting, life lessons learned and veteran-based issues that they would like to address. The campaign encouraged viewers to send care packages consisting of new and unused personal hygiene items, unworn socks, snacks, reading materials and any other items that would lift the spirits of the brave men and women serving in combat zones and overseas.
Fox-owned WJZY-TV Charlotte spent 18 months searching for a kidney donor for Army veteran Edmund Baines. WJZY told his story on air and nationally via social media. After many failed matches, Baines received a life-saving kidney last June. He recently 
Salem Media Group’s KRLA-AM Los Angeles and the Rose Bowl Legacy foundation hosted its second annual “
Scripps-owned ABC affiliate KNXV-TV Phoenix and Sanderson Ford and Lincoln teamed up to salute brave Arizona veterans who after serving the country, are now serving the community. KNXV-TV issued a call for nominations to honor veterans who have gone above the call of duty in military volunteerism or activism. From almost 300 entries, a committee of community members helped finalize five honorees: 
Beasley’s WMGK-FM Philadelphia raised $143,000 during its annual “John DeBella Annual Radiothon” on June 15 to benefit the local Veterans Multi-Service Center (VMC). In 10 years, WMGK has raised over $1 million for local veterans. The station also conducted a series of online auctions that included front row tickets to see the Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, Jimmy Buffett, Billy Joel, and Ozzy Osbourne.
Hubbard’s WIL-FM St. Louis afternoon team Stacey and Jonah raised $31,000 in the “
Cox Media Group’s CBS affiliate WJAX-TV Jacksonville, Fla., spent $12,000 to wipe out crushing medical debt for local military families. WJAX also started the #RIPVetDebt campaign, in partnership with the non-profit RIP Medical Debt, to continue addressing the issue. Viewers and local businesses joined the cause. Efforts by WJAX have paid off more than $3.3 million dollars in local medical debt for veterans.
KDVR addressed the needs of Colorado’s nearly 500,000 veterans and active-duty service members in 2017 through the “FOX31 Problem Solvers: Serving Those Who Serve” initiative. The station produced five half-hour documentaries on Colorado veterans and launched the “Hero of the Month” program, which recognizes veterans, active-duty service members, military family members and volunteers. The station also formed the “Serving Those Who Serve” Advisory Board, which meets quarterly to bring local non-profit veterans organizations together to share ideas and resources and to advise the station on military issues that should be covered.
WOWO’s annual “Penny Pitch” campaign has been providing grants to individuals and not-for-profit organizations serving Northeast Indiana since 1948. The initiative aims to help those who are either disadvantaged or physically handicapped by supporting charities that have a similar mission. In 2017, the campaign raised more than $200,000 for The Shepherd’s House, which provides temporary housing for homeless military veterans living with addictions. The Shepherd’s House recently had its federal funding denied but the station generated enough money to keep the facility open for nearly six more months.
Scripps’ WTMJ-AM Milwaukee raised $54,000 on February 27 for Honor Flights, allowing 150 Vietnam veterans to visit Washington, D.C., to see the Vietnam War memorial. Afternoon host John Mercure led a three-week on-air campaign to raise funds, that culminated in three-hour radiothon and a pre-game fundraising party with the Milwaukee Bucks where guests met Vietnam veterans. “The WTMJ Cares campaign led by John Mercure is another example of how live, local radio impacts people and a community,” said Vice President and General Manager Tom Langmyer.
Fox-owned WJZY-TV Charlotte shared the story of a Vietnam War Marine veteran with a Purple Heart who nearly froze to death in his house when the temperatures dipped into the teens. After the story aired, a viewer paid the oil company enough to keep his heat on throughout the winter and a local grocery store donated a refrigerator full of food and supplies because his was empty. WJZY focuses on “getting results” and has dedicated a 
Impact Radio Group’s KQBL-FM Boise recently helped a veteran in need through their work with local veteran services organization The Tillery Fund. KQBL-FM invites listeners to nominate military families and veterans in need through the “Adopt-A-BULL Family for Christmas” program. This year, they found a medically retired veteran in his early 30s, who is married with three young children and faces a six-month backlog while waiting for disability paychecks. The family relies solely on a wood-burning stove for heat, but they were out of wood. Immediately after KQBL-FM personalities Kevin and Brenda shared his story, they heard that a nearby vacant property had five trees that had already been cut down. The property owner happily agreed to donate the wood. Two days later, 50 volunteers spent four hours to cut and deliver 15 cords of wood, which can keep the family warm for more than two years. Watch the video 
Entercom’s WRKO-AM Boston raised $90,000 on Veterans Day, November 11, for the Disabled American Veterans (DAV). On-air personalities shared inspirational stories from veterans of all ages. The funds support DAV’s transportation program that helps veterans keep their medical appointments.
Lenawee Broadcasting’s WLEN-FM Adrian, MI., hosted their 12th annual “Thank a Vet” day on November 10 to raise funds and awareness for veterans in need in Lenawee County. In just 12 hours, WLEN-FM raised over $32,000 for the “Veterans Dire Needs Fund.” The funds are distributed throughout the year to local veterans for assistance with rent, mortgage payments to avoid foreclosure, utility bills, rental facilities to store possessions when they are displaced, transportation stipends and for items like clothes needed for employment.
Beasley Media Group’s WCSX-FM Detroit is assisting veterans find jobs through its “
Salem Media Group’s KRLA-AM Los Angeles partnered with Rose Bowl Legacy on the first “Military Spouse Day of Pampering” on July 4. Twenty women were selected from community nominations and from various local military support groups to attend the day of pampering in the Rose Bowl suites. The ladies received gift bags with lotions, free passes to any show at the Alex Theater, passes to tour the Battleship Iowa, hair products and a yoga mat.
CBS Radio recently launched 
Beasley’s WMGK-FM Philadelphia raised $154,000 for local veterans during the live broadcast of the “John DeBella Veterans Radiothon,” held June 16. This year, WMGK also conducted a series of online auctions that included front row tickets to a Jimmy Buffett concert, autographed items and experiences with national recording artists such as Roger Waters, The Who, Joe Walsh, Peter Frampton and Joan Jett. All funds benefit the Veterans Multi-Service Center (VMC) in Philadelphia. In 10 years, WMGK-FM has raised over $1 million through the radiothon.
Hubbard Broadcasting’s WARH-FM St. Louis and Spencer’s Neighborhood collected several dozen suits as part of the “Boots to Suits” campaign, held June 3 - 4. The fundraiser collected suits for local veterans returning to the workforce from deployment and were donated to “Dress for Success Midwest.”
CBS Radio’s WIP-FM, KYW-AM, WPHT-AM, WXTU-FM, WTDY-FM and WOGL-FM partnered with the 
Forum Communication’s WDAY-AM Fargo, N.D. launched a new show, “Heroes of the Heartland.” Host Master Sgt. Eric Marts discusses issues related to veterans, the military and their families. It also builds awareness of the non-profit “Homes for our Troops,” which builds and provides homes for veterans mortgage-free. Marts started the show five years ago, following his discharge from the U.S. Army after he an IED in Iraq caused brain injury, blindness, and damage to his arms, neck and back.
TEGNA’s NBC affiliate KUSA-TV Denver raised more than $187,000 a 14-hour telethon for the Rocky Mountain Honor Flight on 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. Rocky Mountain Honor Flight takes veterans, their guardians and medical personnel to the U.S. Capitol to see memorials dedicated to their service. Each three-day trip costs $60,000. Honor Flight accepts applications from service veterans of all American wars, but gives preference to World War II veterans and veterans with terminal illnesses.
Cumulus’ WMAL-AM Washington, D.C. raised a record $491,000 in its 13th annual radiothon, held December 2 – 3 to benefit the Fisher House Foundation. The Fisher House Foundation provides homes away from home for the families of injured servicemen and women while their partners are undergoing treatment and rehabilitation. “I remain in awe of WMAL listeners,” said WMAL Program Director and VP of News Talk for Cumulus. “They have generously donated some $5.4 million over the last 13 years in support of this wonderful organization and its mission.”
CBS Radio’s KMLE-FM Phoenix morning show hosts Chris Matthews and Nina D., along with Packages From Home, asked area residents to write 53,000 “Thank You” letters to the troops this holiday season in the third annual “Chris & Nina’s Big Thank You.” Packages From Home provides food, personal care, and recreational items to deployed American troops, at no cost to them. “Being away from your family and friends for the holidays is tough,” said Nina D. “We cannot thank the KMLE Nation enough for getting in the holiday spirit and writing letters to our troops. We truly have the best listeners.”
TEGNA’s NBC affiliate WCSH Portland, ME, raised $96,000 in its first-ever telethon to help local veterans go to Washington, D.C. to see the war memorials through the Honor Flight program. The money will provide at least 138 veterans with an all-expenses paid trip to visit the memorials created in their honor. Priority is given to seniors, World War ll veterans and those who may be terminally ill.
“I always felt like a nobody, but after the trip in June 2016, I felt like a very special somebody” said WWII veteran Theodore Perry.
Saga Communications’ KIOA-FM Des Moines raised over $112,000 for the American Legion of Iowa with its "Vets of Valor" radiothon on November 11. All money raised directly benefits the legion and local veterans in need. “Iowans never fail to leave me stunned by their generosity,” said KIOA Brand Manager Alan White. “With the help of our loyal listeners, we vastly outraised last year’s total.”
Media General’s ABC affiliate WTNH-TV New Haven, Conn. partnered with Til Duty is Done and the Mohegan Sun on the second annual “
Entercom’s WRKO-FM Boston raised $71,000 for the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) during a nine-hour 
Hearst Television’s WMUR-TV Manchester, NH aired “Home Base Veteran’s Day Special” on November 11 from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. The broadcast aimed to educate the local community about the invisible wounds of war in an effort to reduce stigma. The broadcast included personal testimony from veterans.
Hawaii News Now (HNN) Honolulu produced and aired a 
iHeartMedia’s WHO-AM Des Moines afternoon drive talk host Simon Conway raised a record $22,000 on October 7 for The Puppy Jake Foundation, far surpassing last year’s total of $6,000. The Puppy Jake Foundation acquires, raises and trains service dogs for physically and mentally wounded veterans. Since the beginning of 2016, they have given 11 service dogs to wounded veterans, with nine more “graduates” scheduled to receive their diplomas in March 2017. “I was speechless … for about two seconds,” joked Conway. “People drove long distances, handed over huge sums of money and donated enough to acquire, train and ultimately hand over a service dog to a wounded Veteran for free!”
iHeartMedia’s WEBG-FM Chicago BIG 95.5 hosted a 
Sinclair’s ABC affiliate WJLA-TV Washington, DC investigated the recall of 70 million Takata airbags that could malfunction and send deadly shrapnel into drivers and passengers. Two years into the recall, Senior Investigative Reporter Lisa Fletcher uncovered critical new information from former Takata employees that raised questions about the safety of the replacement airbags and whether a recall of the recall is needed. View the 
The Bobby Bones Show raised $20,000 through “America Strong” t-shirts sales, in order to purchase an all-terrain tracked wheel chair for former U.S. Marine Sgt. Kirstie Ennis. On the morning show, Ennis had shared the story of how she lost her leg serving as a helicopter door gunner in the military.
TEGNA’s NBC affiliate KARE-TV Minneapolis aired “KARE 11 Investigates: MN hospitals turn away veterans because VA fails to pay bills.” KARE found evidence that hospitals in Minnesota and across the nation are refusing to participate in the existing $10 billion VA “Choice” program because the VA does not paying its bills. An independent commission has since called for “urgent reforms” in medical care for veterans, including more options for private health care outside traditional VA hospitals.
Cox Media’s Fox affiliate WFXT-TV Boston aired "Veterans’ Records, Medicine, Mishandled" on June 6. Veterans’ protected health information, lab results, doctors’ notes and medicine were mishandled 37 times by the VA Boston Healthcare System in the last three years. In one case, a disabled veteran requested three years of medical records, but was sent someone else’s files. Massachusetts lawmakers are now calling for federal reform.
TEGNA’s NBC affiliate KARE-TV Minneapolis aired 
American General Media’s KKDG-FM Durango, Colo. raised over $29,000 in less than 24 hours for the family of U.S. Navy Blue Angel pilot, Captain Jeff Kuss, who was killed on June 2. KKDG-FM shared information onair, online and on social media, directing listeners to the 
Capitol Broadcasting’s NBC affiliate WRAL-TV Raleigh aired an 
Scripps’ WTMJ-AM Milwaukee sponsored two “Stars and Stripes Honor Flights” that flew 140 veterans from Milwaukee to Washington D.C. in May. During “WTMJ’s Operation Parallel,” afternoon host John Mercure talked with veterans about what a trip to their war memorial would mean to them. Operation Parallel’s two radiothons raised $250,000 to fund the flights. “We are humbled by the absolutely incredible support of WTMJ Radio,” said Stars and Stripes Honor Flight Vice President for Public Relations Karyn Roelke. “Many of our veterans have already told us that, aside from their wedding day and the birth of their children, their Honor Flight day was the best day they have ever had.”
iHeartMedia’s WGIR-AM/FM Manchester, N.H. raised $156,000 for Veterans Count, an organization that provides financial assistance, services and resources to New Hampshire veterans, service members and their families. On-air personality Jack Heath hosted the 12-hour radiothon, which featured interviews with service members, ranging from World War II veterans to those who currently serve.
Media General’s ABC affiliate WTNH-TV New Haven, Conn. sponsored an expo, career fair and concert for veterans on Veterans Day, Nov. 11. The workshop gave advice on resumes, interviews and professional attire to prepare veterans for the career fair. The expo included art, massage and music therapy, yoga and a veteran art auction. 
The Wisconsin Broadcasters Association (WBA) partnered with Iraq veteran and WI Department of Veteran Affairs employee Dan Buttery on "Operation Welcome Home." Buttery has spent six years raising money for a Fisher House in Milwaukee. Fisher House offers free lodging for military families while a loved one receives medical treatment. Broadcaters’ support for his efforts include: 
Syndicated radio hosts Armstrong & Getty raised $544,000 for Fisher House in a drive held Nov. 9-13, bringing the drive’s four-year total to $2.2 million. The Fisher House Foundation provides a free "home away from home" for families while their loved ones receive medical care at a military or VA medical center.
E.W. Scripps’ WTMJ-AM Milwaukee raised funds to send Korean War veterans from Milwaukee to Washington, D.C. to visit their memorial. Many of the local veterans have never visited the Korean War memorial. Host John Mercure aimed to raise $100,000 to pay for two flights. Listen to 
Westwood One News produced an 11-part original series for Veterans Day. Features included: an Iraq and Afghanistan veteran, now in college, discussing differences between military and student life; a West Point graduate sharing what he learned from leading soldiers during two tours in Iraq; a website encouraging people to volunteer on Veterans Day; a female Marine addressing women-specific military issues; Rep. Martha McSally (R-Ariz.), a retired Air Force attack pilot and squadron commander, talking about challenges with dealing with the Department of Veterans Affairs; a former Army officer providing examples of how World War II veterans re-entered civilian life; an American Legion post manager explaining the benefits of joining veterans’ groups; and a consultant who helps companies hire servicemen and women addressing the veteran employment picture.
Tribune Broadcasting produced an hour-long documentary, "Untold Stories: Saluting Our Vietnam Veterans," for stations to air from Nov. 7-15. It features POW Colonel Murphy Neal Jones, war correspondent Joe Galloway, and information on PTSD. Stations also aired segments on local veterans. “We asked our award-winning journalists across the country to help give voice to the stories of our Vietnam Vets and the result is a compelling and poignant [hour-long documentary] and special series in every one of our markets,” 
Lenawee Broadcasting’s WLEN-FM Adrian, Mich. raised $22,000 in the 10th annual "Thank a Vet" day, November 11. The funds support the Housing Help of Lenawee’s Veterans Dire Needs Fund, which assists local veterans with rent, mortgage payments to avoid foreclosure, utility bills, storage rental facilities when they are displaced, transportation stipends and simple items such as boots. To date, the event has raised more than $100,000.
E.W. Scripps’ ABC affiliate KNXV-TV Phoenix raised $1 million in its 14th annual "
Raycom Media’s NBC affiliate KPLC-TV Lake Charles, La., hosted a "Blue Friday" campaign on August 28. The initiative raised $51,000 to support the family of fallen Louisiana State Senior Trooper Steven Vincent. KPLC also promoted other fundraisers, which brought in a total of $100,000 for his wife and son. KPLC aired 
Cumulus Media’s NASH-FM Newark, NJ held its annual Salute the Troops event on August 26. The event, which thanks members of the military, opened with a performance of the national anthem by a member of the Navy with overand featured 30 active Army members on stage.
NBC owned-and-operated KXAS-TV Ft. Worth and The Dallas Morning News won the 2015 Gannett Foundation Al Neuharth Award for Investigative Journalism, recognizing the creative use of digital tools. Their entry, “Injured Heroes, Broken Promises,” investigated the Army’s "Warrior Transition Units.” The units should help service members with physical and psychological wounds adjust to civilian life, but the journalists found allegations of harassment in documents obtained through the Freedom of Information Act. After seeing the reports, U.S. Senator John Cornyn wrote a letter to the Secretary of the Army, calling the issues raised by the series "highly disturbing." Within nine days, the Army ordered training to address the matter.
Cumulus Media’s WABC-AM New York host Rita Cosby and Sonoma Media Group’s KSRO-AM Santa Rosa, Calif. host Melanie Morgan hosted Move America Forward’s 8th annual "Troopathon" on June 25, which raised $280,000 to send care packages to U.S. troops in Afghanistan. Guests included Geraldo Rivera, Joe Theismann, Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity, Mark Levin, Dennis Miller, Adam Corolla, Ted Nugent, Tony Orlando and Nancy Grace. Watch the broadcast 
Cumulus Media’s KARN-AM Little Rock personality Doc Washburn hosted a three-hour special, A Hero’s Best Medicine, to raise awareness of the Fisher House Foundation. Radio stations that aired the program over Memorial Day weekend included WMAL-AM Washington, D.C.; CBS Radio’s WCCO-AM Minneapolis, Minn.; Cumulus Media’s WBAP-AM and KLIF-AM Dallas, iHeartMedia’s KHOW-AM Denver; WHAS-AM Louisville, Ky. and KSTE-AM Sacramento, Calif.; Cox Media Group’s WSB-AM Atlanta; Bonneville’s KTAR-AM Phoenix, Ariz.; Greater Media’s WBT-AM Charlotte; E.W. Scripps’ KQTH-AM Tucson, Ariz.; Midwest Communications WHBL-AM Sheboygan, Wis.; and Townsquare Media’s KPEL-AM Lafayette, La.
Cumulus Media’s KSFO-AM San Francisco raised $136,000 over Memorial Day weekend for the Fisher House Foundation, which provides no-cost housing and support for families of wounded warriors while they receive treatment at military and VA hospitals. The KSFO Morning Show’s live broadcast from the Palo Alto Fisher House on May 22 featured interviews with soldiers and their families who have used Fisher House services. In the past five years, KSFO has raised more than $600,000 for Fisher House.
CBS Radio’s WYCD-FM Detroit helped Army Reservist John Deline III surprise his wife on Feb. 23. After Deline returned early from an overseas deployment to Afghanistan and Kuwait, he reached out to the station to inquire about surprising his wife, Kathy, with tickets to a Garth Brooks concert. An on-air personality from WYCD-FM went to Kathy’s workplace with a bouquet of flowers, the concert tickets - and her husband. Click 
iHeartMedia owned KTRH-AM and NBC Affiliate KPRC-TV Houston, Tex. host Matt Patrick was recognized for his efforts in his annual Radiothon for Fisher House. Fisher House Manager Frank Kelley presented the awards for his service to Patrick. The talk show host’s Radiothon held on Veteran’s Day weekend raised $40,000.
CBS Radio’s WIAD-FM Washington, D.C. partnered with Wreaths Across America to cover “Section 60” and other portions of the Arlington National Cemetery with a holiday wreath for each grave. “Section 60” is the final resting place for many Iraq and Afghanistan service members. When WIAD-FM announced that Wreaths Across America was more than 35,000 wreaths short of their goal, hundreds of citizens of D.C. helped fill the gap within three days. The wreaths are all handmade locally through the help of many volunteers.
Lincoln Financial Media’s KSON-FM San Diego, Calif. Annual Cards for Troops set a goal of collecting 10,000 holiday cards for military members stationed abroad. The far surpassed that goal and collected a total of 30,000 cards. The United States Organization, Inc., (USO) a nonprofit that works to benefit troops and their families, distributed the cards. Watch the video 
Cumulus Media’s WMAL-AM Washington, D.C. raised a record $350,000 to benefit Fisher House during its two-day radiothon. Over the last 11 years, WMAL-AM has raised more than $4.5 million to support the families of local veterans who are recovering from illness and injury. Fisher House has more than 50 group homes across America that provide a comfortable place for families to live while staying close to their recovering veterans.
Emmis Communications’ Austin, Texas stations KLBJ-AM/FM, KBPA-FM, KLZT-FM and KGSR-FM participated in Chuy’s Parade, which collected thousands of toys. KLBJ-AM’s "Operation Thank You" raised $19,000 for the Texas National Guard Family Support Foundation, which assists families with a household member deployed during the holidays. KLZT-FM raised $146,000 for Dell Children’s Medical Center during and also helped distribute more than 1,000 Thanksgiving meals through El Buen Samaritano’s "Hands for Hope" mission.
Lenawee Broadcasting Company’s WLEN-FM Adrian, Mich. raised $20,000 for the "Veterans Dire Needs Fund" at the Housing Help of Lenawee during its annual Thank a Vet Day. The money will be distributed over the course of the year to assist veterans with rent, mortgage payments, utility bills, storage rentals, and transportation stipends. More than $80,000 has been raised in the event’s history to support Lenawee County veterans.
Cumulus Media’s WMAL-AM Washington D.C. collected a record amount of $350,000 during the station’s annual Radiothon. The two-day event benefited the Fisher House. Over the past 11 years, WMAL listeners have donated more than $4.5 million for the charity. Fisher House supports wounded warriors and their families. There are more than 50 locations across the country that provide these heroes’ families with housing as their loved ones recover.
WHO-AM Des Moines, Iowa, host Simon Conway held a drive-thru BBQ for the Puppy Jake Foundation, which acquires, raises and trains service dogs for wounded military veterans. In two hours, WHO-AM served 800 sandwiches and raised more than $4,000. "Also on hand were dogs - lots of them - including the first dog to have been given to a veteran, Puppy Jake himself ..." Conway said.
Seventy iHeartMedia radio stations broadcast The Concert for Valor, held on Veterans Day at the National Mall in Washington, D.C. More than 100,000 people attended the free concert to honor the courage and sacrifice of veterans and their families. Performers included Jack Black, The Black Keys, Bryan Cranston, Eminem, Jamie Foxx, Dave Grohl, Jennifer Hudson, Jessie J., George Lopez, Metallica, John Oliver, Rihanna, Bruce Springsteen and Carrie Underwood.
iHeartMedia’s KLAC-AM Los Angeles raised over $170,000 in under 10 hours during its 7th annual Paralyzed Veterans of America Radiothon. Since its inception, the event has raised close to $1 million.
Journal Broadcast Group’s KQTH-FM Tucson, Ariz., raised over $121,000 on Oct. 29 to build a Fisher House at the Southern Arizona Veterans Administration Health Care Center. Fisher House provides locations for military and veterans’ families to stay at no cost while a loved one receives medical treatment.
Raycom Media’s NBC Affiliate WAVE-TV Louisville, Ky. surprised a local family with two military parents with a bedroom makeover. The station surprised the Roberts family with a new playground, a complete bedroom makeover - filled with new toys and furniture – and a new dishwasher. Both parents have served in the National Guard for over ten years.
Entercom’s KAMX-AM Austin afternoon host Jay Styles recently completed the "Mix 94.7 and Jay Styles Courage Walk" to raise money for Wounded Warrior Project and veterans who are battling post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Jay 
Greater Media’s WMGK-FM Bala Cynwyd, Penn., hosted the eighth annual John DeBella Veterans Radiothon to benefit local veterans through the Veterans Multi-Service Center (VMC). The day-long event featured a series of auctions and appearances from athletes, celebrities and musicians. In total, the benefit raised more than $144,000. Over the past eight years, the radiothon has raised more than $644,000 for the VMC.
The Wisconsin Broadcasters Association (WBA) hosted a special event in the Wisconsin State Capitol rotunda on June 6 to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the D-Day landings at Normandy and to recognize the sacrifices of Wisconsin’s veterans from that day and others. WBA partnered with the six Wisconsin Honor Flight Hubs and the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs to mark the important day. The event featured presentations on behalf of the state to World War II veterans, including those who fought on D-Day. Honorees shared their personal accounts from World War II. WAB produced an hour-long program with all the event highlights, as well as an hour-long documentary, "They Fought for Freedom," which highlighted all six Wisconsin Honor Flight Hubs and Wisconsin’s World War II veterans.
Greater Media’s WRIF-FM Detroit partnered with ABC Harley Davidson and Made in Detroit to host the first annual Biker Bash. The event kicked off with a Charity Ride to Biker Bash beginning in Waterford, Mich. The proceeds benefitted Ted Nugent’s Kamp for Kids and Freedom’s Angels, which recognizes the incredible sacrifice military members and their families make for America. There were around 300 bikes that participated in the Charity Ride. The Biker Bash was followed by a live performance by Ted Nugent later that evening.
Cumulus Media’s KSFO-AM San Francisco’s morning show with Brian Sussman and Katie Green and weekend talent, Spencer Hughes and Ethan Bearman, held a live broadcast from the Fisher House in Palo Alto during Memorial Day weekend. The three-day fundraiser featured interviews with U.S. military personnel and their families who benefit from the Fisher House Foundation’s services. Throughout the weekend, KSFO-AM raised $111,000 for the organization which supports American veterans, active military and their families.
Clear Channel’s WACO-FM Waco, Texas, morning program, The Zack and Jim Morning Show, broadcast live from Afghanistan for a week in February to show support for members of the military who are stationed overseas. The show featured exclusive interviews with servicemen and women and listeners’ shout-outs of appreciation. This trip marked the fourth time WACO-FM’s hosts have traveled to a war zone to show appreciation for American men and women in uniform.
London Broadcasting’s KIII-TV Corpus Christi partnered with the USO and the Black Chamber of Commerce to host the third annual Diaper Drive to support military families with small children. Hundreds of items including diapers, wipes and other infant hygiene products were collected during the 13-hour drive. Video from the event is available 
Clear Channel’s KFYI-AM Phoenix hosts an ongoing campaign, “My Military Hero,” to salute a local member of the military or their family and thank them personally for their service. Each month, KFYI’s afternoon host Mike Broomhead recognizes someone on air, features them on a digital billboard in the Phoenix metro area and gives them a $500 Visa gift card. One of KFYI-AM’s heroes, Sgt. First Class Cory Remsburg, recently joined the First Lady at the State of the Union address.
Greater Media’s WMGK-FM Philadelphia partnered with a local tree farm and a furniture store to make the holidays a little brighter for active duty families in the Philadelphia area, by providing them with a free Christmas tree. Families were able to request a tree on the WMGK-FM website. On December 14, local military families were invited to pick up their trees and enjoy a holiday hayride, light display, a visit with live reindeer and have their photo taken with Santa Claus.
On November 8, WLEN-FM Adrian, Mich., hosted the 8th annual "Thank a Vet" day to assist local veterans with their rent, mortgage payments to avoid foreclosure, utility bills, rental facilities and transportation stipends. The 12-hour radiothon raised more than $18,500, and all the proceeds were giving to the Housing Help of Lenawee County, to be distributed to local veterans. To date, the event has raised more than $60,000 for veterans in Lenawee County.
Gannett’s CBS affiliate WUSA-TV Washington teamed up with the USO of Metropolitan Washington to host the fourth annual Turkey for Troops campaign to raise money to thank military families during the holiday season. WUSA-TV held a phone bank during the 5 p.m., 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. newscasts on Veterans Day. Viewers were invited to call in with donations. In total, more than $100,000 was raised, enough money to buy 2,000 dinners for families of six.
Syndicated radio program "The Bert Show" held the Big Thank You campaign to collect cards for military men and women serving in the armed forces, to ensure they received a thank you note from an American this Thanksgiving. This year the initiative collected 250,000 letters. Over the past four years, the syndicated radio show has collected and distributed more than 1.1 million letters.
Alpha Broadcasting’s WUBB-FM Hilton Head Island, S.C.’s morning show "Tim Leary & The Morning Showgram" hosted a benefit concert to support Wounded Warriors and Sua Sponte, an organization that helps wounded Army Rangers returning from deployment. The event raised $6,500. "It was humbling not only to see the crowd coming out to support this event in the rain, but to actually talk to the soldiers, some of whom have just returned from overseas," said WUBB-FM’s host Tim Leary.
Premiere Networks-syndicated Hollywood Hamilton and his wife Marina raised $10,000 for the Wounded Warrior project by biking 350 miles from D.C. to Pittsburgh. "Some of you who personally know us might think, ’There is no way he could possibly go six days without an Xbox’ or ’His wife Marina could never live without a hair dryer,’" Hamilton said. "For those reasons, along with both of us being stubborn and the possibility that we may break up somewhere along the way, we will only be collecting these thoughtful donations based on the miles we cover."
Greater Media’s WMGK-FM Bala Cynwyd, Penn., hosted the 7th annual John DeBella Veterans Radiothon benefiting local veterans through the Philadelphia Veterans Multi-Service & Education Centers. WMGK-FM’s host John DeBella broadcast live for 12 hours and raised more than $92,000. Listeners made online and call-in donations. Many of the listeners that called attributed their donation to a former or current member of the military in their life.
Emmis Communication-owned KFTK-FM St. Louis’s "Dave Glover Show," along with the Marc Bulger Foundation, raised $15,000 to purchase an all-terrain wheelchair for triple amputee Marine Cpl. Justin McLoud during an annual D-Day Event. Marine Cpl. Justin McLoud was left injured after an IED blast in Afghanistan during his third deployment in December 2010. An avid outdoorsman, Justin desired an all-terrain wheelchair to participate in hunting, fishing and other outdoor activities that he enjoyed prior to his injury. On-air personality Dave Glover and the Marc Bulger Foundation have partnered to raise more than $1 million to help wounded veterans and other military organizations.
Townsquare Media’s WGRD-FM Grand Rapids, Mich., staged a mission dubbed Producer Joe’s Hobo Truth Brigade. Producer Joe got Rudy, who sat at a busy corner with a cardboard sign that read "Homeless Vet," to admit he never served in the military. Producer Joe then held a cardboard sign that said "LIAR" with an arrow pointing at Rudy. Joe returned the next day to panhandle as a fundraiser for the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans. He collected $1,085, which the station matched to produce a total of $2,170.
Entercom’s KISW-FM Seattle’s afternoon show, "The Men’s Room," partnered with Elysian Brewing to create a beer called Mens Room Original Red in 2009. Based on the beer’s success, KISW-FM and Elysian Brewing have donated $300,000 to Puget Sound Fisher House and Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) Fisher Houses. Fisher House programs honor and assist veterans and active military personnel.
Clear Channel Media and Entertainment plans to spend $75 million on iHeartRadio’s 
For the second year in a row, Beasley Broadcast Group’s WKXC-FM Augusta, Ga., partnered with several local businesses for Operation Hand Warmer, a drive to collect hand warmers and other items for troops serving overseas in Afghanistan. Listeners dropped off donations at the local businesses, and after less than a week, over 20,000 hand warmers and other rations had been collected and packed for delivery. This year’s operation surpassed the previous by more than 5,000 items.
Greater Media’s WMGK-FM Philadelphia held its first Combat Comedy event to benefit Philadelphia area veterans on March 1, featuring comedian Jim Breuer. The comedy show raised $10,000, and all the proceeds went to the Philadelphia Veterans Multi-Service Education Center, which provides services to military veterans by eliminating barriers for successful transition and addressing needs for independent reintegration into their community.
Cape Cod Broadcasting’s WKPE-FM Cape Country 103.9in South Yarmouth, Mass. partnered with the Cape Cod Melody Tent to organize a military food drive for the 
Sean Hannity’s Holiday Concert Salute to the Troops, produced by Townsquare Media, will hit four cities in November and December; New York, Pittsburgh, Atlanta and Washington, D.C. The concerts will benefit the Freedom Alliance Scholarship Fund, designated for children of U.S. service members who have been killed or permanently disabled in an operational mission or training accident. Hannity has raised over $8 million for the Freedom Alliance Scholarship Fund in the last eight years. 
NCAB Hosts Celebration for Vietnam Vets
In a partnership with the USO North Carolina, the North Carolina Association of Broadcasters hosted the Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Celebration at the Charlotte Motor Speedway. Nearly 70,000 people attended the day-long event. Veterans, their families and community members were invited to enjoy a day of entertainment, including The Charlie Daniels Band, George Clinton and the 82nd Airborne Division "All-American" Chorus. The Department of Veterans Affairs also provided health assessments for veterans. The event was covered live by radio and TV stations across North Carolina.
Emmis Communications Corporation’s WQHT-FM New York and the VetransAid Foundation provided over 150 free tickets for veterans to attend the station’s Summer Jam 2012. The VetransAid Foundation raises funds and awareness for veterans’ causes. WQHT-FM donated a portion of the Summer Jam 2012 proceeds to the Hip Hop Has a Heart Foundation. "Every war has a soundtrack and for so many soldiers, the sounds of the hip hop community lifted our spirits and gave us a much needed distraction we could bond around," said Iraq war veteran and VetransAid Foundation Advisor Mikey Piro.
Greater Media’s WTKK-FM Boston raised over $100,000 in its 5th Annual Fisher House Radiothon. The proceeds help to build Fisher Houses across the country, allowing families of wounded and ill veterans can be close to their loved ones during their hospitalization in a comfortable, home-like environment. "From Afghanistan to Yemen, we send our troops into harm’s way every day. When harm does come, the Fisher House lets us take care of them," said Michael Graham. On air guests included Fisher House families, Senator Scott Brown, several actors, comedians and athletes.
Journal Broadcasting Group’s KFDI-FM Wichita’s "Christmas in a Box" holiday campaign delivered approximately 500 packages to American troops from Kansas serving in Afghanistan, Korea and Africa. The packages were filled with snacks, toiletries, entertainment items, holiday decorations and letters of support from home. Listeners submitted names of loved ones who are deployed. The station also hosted a benefit concert to cover shipping costs.
Lenawee Broadcasting’s WLEN-FM’s 7th Annual Thank a Vet Day raised over $10,000 for homeless veterans in Lenawee County, Mich., to be distributed through the Lenawee Emergency and Affordable Housing Corporation. WLEN-FM staff, local veterans’ organizations and area business people stood outside to collect money and gift cards. WLEN-FM also worked with the National Guard to hand out boxes to be filled and mailed to currently deployed service people. To date, the event has raised over $50,000.
Filling a 26-foot truck from front to back with items needed by deployed U.S. soldiers was the kick-off event for KFKA-AM in Greeley, Colo., to begin an AdoptaPlatoon effort in northern Colorado. AdoptaPlatoon is a nonprofit national organization to support our troops, which local groups can use as a foundation for similar activities. KFKA’s September 2007 "Stuff-A-Truck" multi day event involved organizing collection sites in businesses throughout the community with heavy foot traffic and planting a moving truck near a busy intersection, where the station broadcast live, asking listeners to make donations and interviewing military and AdoptaPlatoon organizers. In addition to the 15,264 pounds of material donations made as of December 2007, more than $11,000 has been raised for postage to send the supplies. KFKA is following "Stuff-A-Truck" with a "Stuff-A-Store" event, and offers continual support to AdoptaPlatoon through the station’s Web site, where information about needed items and collection centers is readily available. A recent letter from a company commander best summed up the impact of the effort: "My troopers’ deployment is finally drawing to a close and hopefully, they leave knowing two things: One, they have done an outstanding job here; and two, America loves and supports them. They should take the credit for the first, and you for the second."
Musicians, dignitaries, actors and citizens joined WMZQ-FM in Rockville, Md., for the American Freedom Festival. The fourth annual Veterans Day celebration honored our military while raising both awareness and funds for veterans’ organizations. The event, which was hosted by WMZQ Morning Show team Brian and Jenni, attracted 3,400 people. Proceeds went to the American Freedom Foundation, which has a goal of giving $1 million in support to veterans each year. The day of patriotic fun included concerts by country singers Martina McBride and Darryl Worley. The station jumpstarted enthusiasm before the festival with 200 minutes of promotional announcements and seven emails blasts to its database of 45,000 listeners. On-air interviews with McBride and retired Army Sgt. Maj. Jack Tilley, co-chair of the American Freedom Foundation, also helped spotlight the all-American event. "WMZQ has just been tremendous," said Tilley. "They have helped us educate people about the needs of veterans not only in the D.C. area but nationally. They are real patriots." With the station’s help, the event is expected to draw even larger crowds next year.
When the Illinois Army National Guard HHD 33rd Military Battalion was deployed to Iraq, WJBC-AM in Bloomington, Ill., and Operation Porchlight cared for the soldiers’ families back home. Providing a proper send-off, WJBC covered the battalion’s deployment on the air, sending broadcast teams along on the highway to make sure the soldiers knew how much the community cared. During the battalion’s deployment, WBJC encouraged more than $10,000 worth of donations for the soldiers’ families by running stories and hosting a donation link from the station Web site. The station also worked with the military to coordinate interviews with the soldiers overseas, which provided listeners with a firsthand account of the emotional strain and sacrifice felt both by the soldiers and their loved ones. When the battalion returned home in the fall of 2007, WBJC helped organize a community-wide "Operation Porchlight Welcome Home Parade." After being escorted through two adjacent communities in convertibles, the soldiers were greeted by their families and dignitaries at the Illinois National Guard Armory. WJBC set up 14 broadcasts on the parade route and provided four hours of continuous coverage. The station also printed up and gave away "Welcome Home 33rd" buttons, conducted more than 30 on-air interviews with soldiers and military, and ran hundreds of promotions for the event. Seven thousand community members waving American flags and holding "Welcome Home" banners greeted the soldiers upon their return. WJBC is winner of the 2008 National Association of Broadcasters Crystal Award.
It was a Veterans Day to remember for 150 local World War II veterans who spent the day in Washington, D.C., because of the efforts of WPDE-TV in Myrtle Beach, S.C. For many of the men and women, it was their first and only chance to see the National World War II Memorial. To make the trip possible, the station held a day-long telethon, which raised $20,300 – enough to cover the entire cost of the trip. The station ran public service announcements, promotional mentions and news stories about the fundraiser, as well as interviews with veterans about what the anticipated trip meant to them. While in D.C., the WPDE news crew captured the emotion, awe and appreciation of the veterans at the memorial and shared it with viewers through live cut-ins every 30 minutes throughout the day. The station continued with the veterans’ stories through follow-up interviews once they returned to South Carolina. In an area with a high population of veterans, being able to contribute to the event was personal for many, including WPDE’s Billy Huggins who donated in honor and remembrance of his five uncles who served in WWII but did not live long enough to see the memorial finished.
Knowing that last December was the first Christmas away from home for more than 800 local soldiers, KLRC-FM in Siloam Springs, Ark., got involved with the inaugural "Stockings for Soldiers" holiday drive to make sure the 101st Airborne Division 3-187 Infantry Battalion received a bit of Christmas cheer. In addition to airing promotional spots, the morning show broadcast an interview with Elizabeth Dubbell-Beck from "Stockings for Soldiers," whose husband, Major Will Beck, is currently serving in Iraq. Instructions on how to participate were posted on the station Web site, and KLRC staff handed out stockings to get listeners involved during a two-hour live broadcast from a local bookstore. After weeks of promotion, the campaign goal of stuffing 800 stockings was more than doubled. Servicemen and women overseas received a total of 2,000 filled stockings. "People want to give, and KLRC gave them a positive outlet to do just that," said Dubbell-Beck. "Friends, families, companies, schools and civic groups all rallied together to make sure these troops had a blessed Christmas morning. Thank you, KLRC, for your positive difference and for supporting our troops."
January marks "Remember a Soldier" month on Hubbard Television’s KSTP-TV St. Paul, Minn. This month, the station supported the Veterans of Foreign War, a program that provides calling cards to deployed soldiers and hospitalized troops. In recent years, the program has grown to include two monthly free call days in which deployed military service members can call the United States, Germany and Italy. More than 4 million phone calls have been placed since the start of the program. 
Greater Media-Owned WTKK-FM Boston’s radio personalities Michael Graham and Jay Severin held an eight hour radio-thon, raising nearly $70,000 in donations for Fisher House Boston, a home away from home for New England families of wounded and ill veterans. Fisher Houses and the Fisher House Foundation play a crucial role in helping veterans recover from serious wounds and enable family members to be close to their loved ones during their hospitalization. WTKK-FM’s live broadcast featured stories from troops and their families, along with guest appearances from Sens. John Kerry and Scott Brown, Captain Chelsey "Sully" Sullenberger, Gary Sinise, Rudy Guiliani and others.
Capitol Broadcasting’s WRAL-TV Raleigh, N.C., has launched a community-wide project called the Triangle Flight of Honor. In partnership with the North Carolina Automobile Dealers’ Assocation (NCADA), WRAL-TV is diligently working to ensure World War II veterans in the Triangle region have the opportunity to take a free flight to Washington, D.C., to visit the memorials created in their honor. WRAL-TV’s support of the Triangle Flight of Honor includes extensive flight coverage and news stories about many of these unsung heroes, a comprehensive 
Cape Cod Broadcasting’s WKPE-FM 
Lenawee Broadcasting Company-owned WLEN-FM Adrian, Mich.’s annual "Thank a Vet" fundraiser raised over $8,100 in 11 hours. WLEN-FM’s effort was part of the community’s broader campaign to help the homeless throughout the month of November. All donations went to the "Veterans Dire Needs" fund through the Lenawee Emergency Affordable Housing Corporation (LEAHC), a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization that provides emergency, transitional and permanent housing support programs for the those in need within the community.
More than 216,000 North Carolina residents served in Vietnam and 1,600 made the ultimate sacrifice. The USO of North Carolina and Charlotte Motor Speedway, with support from the North Carolina Association of Broadcasters, honored their service with an incredible Vietnam Veterans Homecoming Celebration. 
Greater Media’s WTKK-FM Boston helped the Fisher House build "homes away from home" for the families of wounded American troops. WTKK-FM’s 4th annual Fisher House Radiothon raised over $120,000 for Fisher House, which enables family members to be close to their loved ones during hospitalization in a safe, home-like environment. The Fisher House Foundation helps family members of hospitalized active-duty service members and veterans of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Additionally, the Foundation plays a crucial role in helping veterans recover from serious wounds.
NAB Crystal Award finalists and NAB’s Public Service division joined Operation Interdependence for a packing party at NAB Show last month. The event was a great success, with numerous broadcasters, exhibitors and conference attendees assembling more than 500 civilian rations for service members stationed overseas. The Crystal Award finalists collected hundreds of t-shirts, candy, sports equipment, personalized cards of encouragement and other items for the packing party. Six service members based at nearby Nellis Air Force Base assisted in the packaging of individual rations. All participants were invited to sign a banner thanking America’s military men and women for their service to our country.
Entertainment Industry Launches ’Got Your 6’
Numerous entertainment companies including ABC, CBS Corp., NBCUniversal, Fox Audience Strategy and the Entertainment Industries Council recently launched the "Got Your 6" campaign to assist veterans in their transition from military service to civilian life. Got Your Six is a military expression that means, "I’ve got your back, and you’ve got mine." The campaign is based on six pillars – jobs, education, health, housing, family and leadership – to help veterans reintegrate into civilian society. The new campaign will span numerous media platforms, and the message will be woven into future television and movie scripts. A public service announcement campaign featuring several celebrities has also been developed. For more information about the Got Your 6 spots, 