Veterans' Voices - Episode 14

In this powerful episode of Veterans’ Voices, host Matty Sargent sits down with Lieutenant Commander (Ret.) John Pucillo of the United States Navy for an inspiring and deeply personal conversation about service, sacrifice, and continuing the mission at home. A Marlborough native, John shares his journey, enlisting right out of high school into the Navy’s elite Explosive Ordnance Disposal community, transitioning from enlisted to officer, and leading EOD teams in combat. He recounts being wounded by an IED in Iraq in 2006, losing his leg, and making the remarkable decision to remain on active duty for 12 more years before retiring in 2018. John also reflects on his Paralympic sailing experience and his ongoing commitment to supporting fellow veterans who may be struggling in “limbo” with benefits and services. The episode also honors Marlborough’s own Emile Danjou , who perished aboard the USS Dorchester in 1943, and highlights A Day to Benefit Veterans, John’s growing grassroots effort to support local veterans through collaboration, community engagement, and direct impact. This is a moving and meaningful conversation about resilience, leadership, and ensuring no veteran is left behind.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jBAxvOQJKZw