Navajo County hosts veterans on podcast, highlights veterans court and local VA care

On a Veterans Day episode of "Shooting Straight with Brad and David," Navajo County Attorney Brad Carlon hosted county law-enforcement veterans who described how military service shaped their careers and highlighted local supports for veterans, including the county's veterans court and Show Low VA services.

Brad Carlon, the Navajo County attorney, opened the program and introduced Deputy Chief Bruce Tucker and four veteran guests for a conversation about service and transition. "We're here to talk about Veterans Day, and recognizing all of you," Tucker said, thanking county employees who are veterans.

Deputy Hudson, who joined the Army at 17 and later used the GI Bill to earn a computer science degree, said the military "gives young people perspective." "You're able to go and meet all walks of life. You get to travel the world," he said, adding that service gives veterans "nuance" that helps them "analyze problems in a healthier way" when they return to civilian policing.

Sgt. Chisholm said he was advised during an oral board to join the military for life experience before returning to law enforcement; that path led him to a career that included time in corrections and later the sheriff's office. "It gave me something to do," he said of service and noted family members who followed similar paths.

Clint Metheny, a brigade judge advocate who joined the Army Reserve at about age 31 after a civilian legal career, described the professional opportunities in military law. Metheny said judge advocates can practice operational law, fiscal law and other specialties "you don't typically get when you're just a practitioner of criminal law," and that those roles can sharpen legal skills useful in civilian work.

The show also focused on transition supports and treatment for trauma. Deputy Hudson, who said he is a Purple Heart recipient, urged veterans who are struggling to be candid with themselves and trusted contacts and to seek help. He described his experience using local VA services as positive: "I can say nothing but great things about my VA experience coming through the Show Low VA. It was smooth. I've gotten care. I've gotten appointments and analytics, and they're incredible," he said.

Metheny explained the county's veterans court as a coordinated effort that brings together multiple organizations to provide services to veterans. "Veterans court is great because it's actually a group of different organizations that all want to provide services to veterans," he said, listing the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Arizona Department of Veterans Services, the VFW, the American Legion, Veterans Hall of Fame, Nation's Finest and Community Bridges among partners the court leverages in a rural county setting.

Hosts and guests emphasized both the practical benefits of military service — such as use of the GI Bill and preexisting marching and customs that ease police academy entry — and the need to connect veterans to services for trauma and reentry. The program closed with thanks to veterans and a reminder that county officials see and will assist veterans who reach out.

No formal vote or county action occurred during the broadcast; the episode was a discussion and public-information segment.