A Basketball Invitation Brought Him Back To Service

Retired Army colonel Jim Tenpenny endured barracks hazing as a new paratrooper in Italy, then carried a different standard into battalion command. He told a private that driving the vehicle meant taking responsibility for everyone inside. As a colonel, he still requested formal counseling from his own boss. The Danny Li Podcast features defining moments from U.S. military veterans, senior military leaders, and national security professionals. Each episode explores military leadership, service, duty, sacrifice, veteran identity, camaraderie, and the transition to civilian life - preserving the experiences and lessons that keep veterans connected to the values, purpose, and identity shaped through military service. Want a brief weekly email when new episodes go live?