CareSource Military & Veterans and Modern Warrior LIVE Highlight the Veteran Experience
CareSource Military & Veterans (CSMV) brought Modern Warrior LIVE (MWL), a powerful theatrical performance highlighting the veteran experience, to Dayton Ohio. Held at the National Museum of the United States Air Force, the event offered a moving tribute to the strength and resilience of veterans while sparking important conversations about mental health and post-traumatic growth.
Co-created by U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Jaymes Poling and internationally acclaimed musician Dominick Farinacci, Modern Warrior LIVE combined narrative storytelling and live music to explore Poling’s experiences during his three deployments in Afghanistan and his transition back to civilian life. Poling’s deeply personal account of war, trauma and healing resonated with the audience, offering insight into the emotional challenges faced by many veterans.
The live music, composed and performed by Farinacci along with a world-class ensemble, enhanced the emotional depth of the performance. The score incorporated diverse U.S. and global musical influences, creating a seamless and immersive backdrop for Poling’s story.
“Modern Warrior LIVE brings to light the emotional complexities of reintegrating into civilian life after service,” said Selene Martin, associate vice president of corporate affairs, CSMV. “Through art, music and storytelling, Modern Warrior LIVE gives a voice to veterans in a unique way that resonates with audience members. This performance is a catalyst for the conversation about mental health during and after service – a pillar of health care we are passionate about at CareSource Military & Veterans.”
The evening also featured a panel discussion with Poling, Farinacci, Bibb and Jennifer DeFrancesco, CEO of the Dayton VA Medical Center. The panel delved deeper into the themes of the performance, including the psychological toll of war and the journey of healing and growth. Dr. Cassie Barlow, President of Strategic Ohio Council for Higher Education, served as moderator.
Additionally, a nonprofit resource fair highlighted programs and services available to veterans and military families. Participating organizations included:
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Better Business Bureau Veterans Program
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Blue Star Families/Elizabeth Dole Foundation
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CareSource/CSMV
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Dayton VA
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Disabled American Veterans
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Greater Miami Valley My Veteran Community/Soche
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Greene County Veteran Services
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Montgomery County Veteran Services
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Ohio Department of Veteran Services
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United Way Vets Link
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WPAFB Airmen & Family Readiness
“We are grateful for partners like CareSource Military & Veterans for providing an incredible venue, full production and an audience ready to receive this emotionally raw experience,” said Poling. “This performance deepens awareness of the psychological toll of war, the challenges veterans face upon returning home and the potential for healing and growth. We hope the audience leaves inspired to advocate for increased resources for our veterans.”
Modern Warrior LIVE has been performed over 125 times across the country, reaching more than 10,000 veterans and 30,000 civilians. It has also connected more than 4,000 veterans to mental health service providers.
