In this inspiring episode of Clarksville Conversations, host Charlie Koon sits down with Major General (Retired) Walt Lord and Edgar Maldonado from Austin Peay State University’s Military and Veterans Affairs division to explore the deep bond between APSU, Fort Campbell, and the region’s thriving military community. Together, they discuss why Clarksville is unlike other military towns and how APSU continues to serve as a home base for thousands of military-affiliated students.

Lord and Maldonado share the significance of Veterans Day and explain why APSU extends the celebration into a full Veterans Week dedicated to honoring service members. Maldonado also opens up about his own service in both the Marine Corps and the Army, reflecting on the powerful sense of camaraderie veterans carry with them throughout life. The conversation drives home one message: veterans aren’t broken—they’re part of a strong, supportive tribe that always looks out for one another.