About the Show:
“Once I learned that they’d give me trophies and awards and scholarships for saying words, I thought, that’s in my wheelhouse.”
- Aaron Mankin
About the Guest:
Aaron Mankin is a highly-recognized Marine veteran and motivational speaker. Hailing from Rogers, Arkansas, Aaron served as a combat correspondent during the Iraq War. His life drastically changed following a severe injury from an IED explosion in 2005. Aaron has since undergone nearly 70 surgeries to aid his recovery and has become a prominent figure in veteran advocacy. His story and efforts in public speaking focus on resilience, recovery, and supporting fellow veterans. Aaron’s dedication to sharing his experience and raising awareness about veterans’ issues has had a significant impact, helping to launch initiatives like Operation Mend at UCLA for facial reconstruction for wounded service members.
Episode Summary:
In this heartfelt Veterans Day episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast, host Randy Wilburn engages with Aaron Mankin, a Marine veteran with an inspiring story of bravery and perseverance. Aaron, who grew up in Rogers, Arkansas, chose to serve as a Marine combat correspondent following the events of 9/11. His military career took a dramatic turn in 2005 when he was severely injured by an IED explosion in Iraq. Despite his traumatic injuries and enduring over 70 surgeries, Aaron has emerged as a beacon of resilience and hope, dedicating his life to advocating for veterans’ issues.
Aaron shares his powerful journey, detailing the events leading to his injury, the intense recovery process, and the support systems that helped him rebuild his life. He discusses the importance of mental and physical resilience, the role of family and fellow veterans in his recovery, and his transition into advocacy work. Aaron emphasizes the need for continued community support for veterans, encouraging listeners to educate themselves and get involved with veteran initiatives. His story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of a supportive community.
Key Takeaways:
- Aaron Mankin emphasizes the significance of education and involvement in veterans’ issues to better support and understand their challenges.
- The Marine Corps prepared Aaron for resilience, which played a crucial role in his recovery and future advocacy work.
- Aaron’s belief in the mantra “scars are not forever” reflects his journey from physical and emotional recovery to finding a renewed purpose.
- Community and camaraderie within veterans’ support groups were pivotal in Aaron’s recovery and transition into civilian life.
- Aaron urges the community to support veterans actively and not just through words, but with meaningful actions and contributions.
All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast.
Important Links and Mentions on the Show:
Tune in to KUAF 91.3 FM to listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast on Ozarks at Large every Tuesday at 12 Noon and 7 PM CST. And, check us out on their podcast as well.
This episode is sponsored by:
Signature Bank of Arkansas “Community Banking at its Best!”
Northwest Arkansas Council – “Life Works Here!”
ONBoardNWA.com HyperLocal Jobs in NWA
Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.
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Listening to this episode offers an inspiring glimpse into the life of a decorated veteran who has turned his personal hardships into opportunities for advocacy and communal support. With stories that resonate far beyond the battlefield, Aaron Mankin’s journey is a poignant reminder of the enduring strength of our veterans. Don’t miss this unique and emotional Veterans Day special on the I Am Northwest Arkansas podcast. Stay tuned for more enlightening stories in future episodes.