Dylan Hawkins | CH-47 pilot to VR&E

Dylan Hawkins | CH-47 pilot to VR&E

Author: Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center February 8, 2025 Duration: 2:04:13

CH-47 pilot Dylan Hawkins tells us about his experience with the Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) program. This is a VA benefit separate from the GI bill that enables veterans to not only attend college, but to have a job lined up upon completion. Along the way, we hear about his journey from being a Victoria's Secret employee, to an infantryman, to finally a chinook pilot.


The Vantage Point, presented by the Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center, moves beyond the familiar narratives of military service to explore the rich, complex lives veterans lead long after their uniform comes off. This podcast is a space for conversation where the unique perspective forged by service meets the broader human experience. Episodes delve into the cultural touchstones, philosophical questions, and personal passions that define a life, from the books and films that resonate deeply to the ongoing education and hobbies that provide purpose. We talk about reintegration, family, and navigating civilian society, but we do so through the lens of lived experience and thoughtful dialogue. The goal is not just to share stories but to connect them to universal themes of resilience, curiosity, and community. By giving voice to veterans in all their diversity, The Vantage Point aims to foster understanding and highlight the multifaceted contributions of military families to the fabric of our culture. You'll hear honest discussions that are sometimes challenging, often uplifting, and always grounded in the distinct vantage point earned through service. Tune in for a podcast that honors the past while actively engaging with the present, exploring the leisure, learning, and philosophical threads that weave together a meaningful life after duty.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 52

The Vantage Point
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