Veteran Marine’s podcast preserves valor beyond the battlefield

Andrew Cox, 46, a retired Master Gunnery Sergeant with a storied 25-year career in the U.S. Marine Corps, isn’t content with leaving his legacy in the past.

Instead, he’s embarked on a new mission, one that honors the valor of veterans while preserving the crucial skills he believes are slipping away – the “lost arts” of leadership, teamwork, and resilience.

“The Lost Art” Podcast with Cox isn’t just a platform for storytelling; it’s a lifeline for veterans navigating the challenging transition to civilian life. As Cox crisscrosses the country in a motorhome with his wife, Karleen, and their two daughters, Madison and Tayla, his mission remains clear: to ensure that the bond forged in service endures long after the uniform is laid aside.

“I could only play my guitar and sing so much before I was looking for something more to do,” he said. “I was used to getting my hair cut every week and doing many other things before I retired. Now, I get to enjoy my days getting to do what I want.”

After writing and completing his first book (The Lost Art of Fishing Stories), Cox begin preparing a nation-wide campaign to get as many documented stories of our nations service men and women as possible.

“I want to continue the camaraderie I had on active duty where I learned the value of being part of a team and the friendships that result,” he said. “There is no other bond better than the bond of a warrior with fellow warriors. This bond can be lost once a veteran leaves active duty and I’m trying to give this special bond back to my fellow veterans.”

Cox, a former resident of Vian, grew up in a blended household of eight siblings with a stay-at-home mom and a father who was a preacher and Marine Corp veteran of the Korean War.

He went on to play the drums at church and school, attending Oklahoma State University on a music scholarship. After realizing that he no longer wanted to be a teacher, he enlisted in the Marine Corps and later auditioned for the Marine Music Program.

After being accepted into the program, he performed all over the world both as a drummer and a Drum Major, leading the band on the march.

Cox deployed to Iraq and wore many hats during his tenure. His journey took him from drummer to Drill Instructor, from performing for world leaders to saving lives on the battlefield, and has imbued him with a deep appreciation for the bonds forged in service.

At Camp Pendleton with the 1st Marine Division Band, he continued performing drums for world leaders including presidents, congressmen, and military leaders from around the globe.

In Iraq, he also had the opportunity to perform several times in country for dignitaries and the newly reformed Iraq Government.

“This appreciation turned into a mission after the father of one of my comrades died, never having an opportunity to share his wartime experience,” Cox said. “It spurred me into action, and after the deaths of my father and father-in-law whose stories also went untold, it gave me momentum.”

Now, with his podcast, Cox is ensuring that these bonds aren’t lost in the transition to civilian life.

Through unflinching veteran stories, insightful discussions on the “lost arts” cultivated in the military, and practical advice from experts, his podcast serves as a beacon of hope for veterans seeking connection, understanding, and support.

Launched in November 2023, the podcast has featured over 50 episodes of veterans from various wars like Vietnam, Desert Storm, Iraq, and Afghanistan.

“The impact has been profound. Many guest veterans find the experience therapeutic and that sharing their stories has fostered deeper family connections,” he said. “Family members express gratitude for hearing their loved one’s service experiences for the first time, and many veterans report a positive shift in their outlook after sharing their stories.”

Cox said each episode centers on a veteran’s journey, from pre-service life to enlistment, wartime experiences, and the challenges and triumphs of reintegration.

“These stories are raw, inspiring, and a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve,” he said.

The segments also feature what is called “Fireside chats with experts,” where they tackle critical issues that veterans face.

“Financial planning, healthcare navigation, mental health resources, and entrepreneurship are just a few of the topics covered by specialists who offer practical guidance and support,” Cox said.

For Cox, this isn’t just a passion project; it’s a duty – to honor the sacrifices of his fellow veterans, to bridge the gap between military and civilian life, and to preserve the invaluable experiences that shape our nation’s heroes.