In this episode of "Veterans to Success," host Joe engages in a heartfelt conversation with Bob Jordan, a former Navy intelligence specialist and now a pastor and author. Bob shares his extraordinary journey, beginning with the influence of his World War II veteran parents and his early aspirations in agriculture and law enforcement. He discusses his decision to enlist in the military at the age of 34, motivated by a desire to serve and gain worldly experience, particularly after the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. Bob reflects on his military career, including five tours in Afghanistan, and the emotional and physical challenges he faced upon retirement. He emphasises the importance of faith, community support, and the transformative power of helping others, particularly through his nonprofit organization, Bright Future Philanthropy Corporation, which focuses on aiding vulnerable populations in Afghanistan.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

1. Influence of Family Background: Growing up with parents who were World War II veterans instilled a strong sense of patriotism and service. This background shaped the speaker's values and aspirations throughout life.

2. Late Military Enlistment: Joining the military at the age of 34 was a significant decision influenced by the desire to serve and gain worldly experience, especially after the 1993 World Trade Center bombing.

3. Transition to Civilian Life: The transition from military to civilian life can be challenging, marked by feelings of loss and the need to address unresolved emotional and physical issues. Seeking help and relying on family and faith were crucial during this period.

4. Importance of Community and Support: Engaging in programs like Celebrate Recovery and having mentors and supportive family members played a vital role in the speaker's healing and personal growth after leaving the military.

5. Commitment to Helping Others: Establishing the Bright Future Philanthropy Corporation reflects a commitment to extending humanity and providing assistance to vulnerable populations, particularly children in Afghanistan, demonstrating a desire to give back and make a positive impact.

BEST MOMENTS

"I realised that where I was in that little hamlet, there was no real future for agriculture in the degree of the scale that I was farming."

"I had my military career was I gained rank very, very quickly. I reached the top rank in the enlisted as an enlisted person, E9, which in the Navy is the master chief."

"What was the point where you thought, you know what, I'm going to join the military? And what prompted you?"

"I just wanted to be where I thought that the Lord directed me to be, and I did so unreservedly."

"I tell people this, my wife and I are very down-to-earth people. And so I say, because of our good fortune, we have everything we need, so we try to satisfy the wants of others."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsjoeoconnor/

https://www.facebook.com/The1Transformer

https://www.instagram.com/the1transformer/

HOST BIO

Joe O'Connor is a resilient business entrepreneur and Financial Adviser dedicated to supporting business owners and veterans in their transition to civilian life. Despite facing life-threatening challenges at a young age, Joe defied the odds and embarked on a remarkable journey. From excelling as a Combat Engineer and Physical Training Instructor in the Royal Engineers to starting his own business as a Financial Adviser, Joe has displayed unwavering determination.

After rejoining the Army as a reservist in the Bomb Disposal Unit, Joe reached the rank of Sergeant before transferring to the SAS, where he endured a severe injury and was medically discharged. Undeterred, he resumed his role as an IFA and founded a charity that aids injured veterans and their families.

Joe's charity is currently finalizing plans for a training center and 23 Lodges, aiming to provide vital support for veterans transitioning to civilian life while addressing stress, anxiety, and PTSD. Today, Joe's mission is to unite business owners and veterans, helping them unleash their full potential for success.