August 20, 2026 – Operation Healing Heroes Foundation founder Jay Garstecki, the son and grandson of veterans, carries a deep and abiding respect for those who have worn our nation’s uniform. Dedicated to honoring the legacy of World War II veterans - revered as “the Greatest Generation” - Garstecki is committed to preserving their remarkable life stories for the generations that follow. Along with Discovery Channel film crew members Javier Villarreal and Keith Anderson, Garstecki visited Joe D. White American Legion Post 291 in Steinhatchee to record the 100th episode of "Operation Healing Heroes," a Discovery Channel program that captures the voices, memories, humor and patriotic spirit of veterans whose service and sacrifice continue to inspire.

The day’s honored guests were Charles “Bud” Quandt, 99, Navy, accompanied by Post 291 Vice Commander Jimmy Dietrich; George Pittman Sr., 100, Air Force, accompanied by Post 234 Commander Will Hicks; Ray Decant, 101, Navy, accompanied by Post 57 Commander Bill Huggins and Nina Pollard; and Howard Mautner, 102, Army Air Corps, accompanied by Brian Lange of Veterans Helping Veterans USA and Pam Driggers, battalion chief with Ocala Fire & Rescue.

Garstecki guided the veterans through both group and individual conversations, creating a meaningful opportunity to honor their service, preserve their stories and celebrate the enduring patriotism they represent. During the group interview, each veteran reflected on the motivations, decisions and experiences that led him to serve his country - memories rooted in duty, courage and love of nation.

When Garstecki asked, “Would you do it again?” their answer was united and unwavering: “Yes.” In that simple response was a powerful reminder of the devotion, sacrifice and steadfast pride that define America’s veterans.

Following the group interview, the veterans and their companions shared a meal provided by the Post 291 Canteen, enjoying a welcome pause for camaraderie, conversation and fellowship before continuing with individual interviews.

The day concluded with one-on-one interviews, giving Garstecki a chance to explore each veteran’s story more deeply. Along the way, the veterans shared service-era anecdotes that brought plenty of laughter - proof that a good story still reports for duty.