This Veterans Day, the America’s Work Force Union Podcast welcomed Dan Wiley, National Commander of the American Legion, as one of our featured guests. Wiley reflected on his military background, the long-standing advocacy work of the Legion and the ongoing “Be the One” campaign to combat veteran suicide.
Wiley began by recounting his personal journey from his Kansas farming roots to the Air Force. He discussed his initial reluctance and eventual motivation to serve—driven in part by a desire to continue his education and honor his family’s military legacy. He shared stories about his role at Malmstrom Air Force Base in Montana, where he humorously dubbed himself an “inbound missile catcher,” while working in command administration. Wiley also described his professional growth from attorney to municipal and then district judge, presiding over challenging cases and underscoring the importance of serving communities, whether in local courts or national veterans organizations.
Wiley then explained the Legion’s instrumental role in creating the Veterans Bureau (now Veterans Affairs), writing the original GI Bill of Rights and championing healthcare for veterans exposed to Agent Orange and burn pits. The Legion, through persistent advocacy, has shaped key social policies for veterans and continues to hold the government accountable for upholding its obligations to those who served, he said.
Finally, Wiley discussed “Be the One,” the Legion’s campaign to end veteran suicide. Wiley urged listeners to visit betheone.org, explaining how the organization offers training for both veterans and civilians in recognizing mental health crises and providing immediate support. He emphasized that veteran suicide remains a critical challenge, with as many as 22 veterans lost daily. As National Commander, Wiley reiterated the Legion’s promise: they have veterans’ backs, advocating and providing resources with unwavering commitment for over a century, regardless of membership status.
For more from Wiley on the American Legion, listen to the full episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast above.