MIC Unplugged: Los Angeles
MIC Unplugged: Los Angeles is a special Black History Month edition of the MIC Unplugged series brought to you by National University and presented in partnership with BLK Ops Foundation. This one-night gathering brings together veterans, service members, spouses, and the military-connected community to celebrate leadership, education and culture.
Emceed by Army veteran and comedian Thom Tran, the evening will begin with drinks, food, and meaningful connection before transitioning into a fireside chat with four exceptional trailblazers.
Assia Lau'ren is an Army veteran who served as both a Field Artillery and Military Intelligence Officer with the 173rd Airborne Brigade and 10th Special Forces Group. Following her military service, she pursued a career in film and storytelling, producing creative work that explores transformation, healing, and life beyond the uniform.
Dr. Saul E. Lankster is a decorated Civil Rights Movement foot soldier who received the Congressional Gold Medal for his work in Selma, Alabama, and is also honored for his service in Viet Nam. Recruited as a young college student by the late Congressman John Lewis, Saul marched, learned, and was jailed alongside leaders including Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Andrew Young, and Dick Gregory. After returning from Vietnam, he went on to integrate the Compton Fire Department in 1967, later serving as a Compton Police Officer, detective, and three-time elected president of the Compton Police Officers Association.
Chuol Deng served in the U.S. Army Special Forces, beginning his career as a CBRN specialist before earning his Green Beret and serving as a Senior Special Forces Communications Sergeant with 3rd Special Forces Group. His deployments across Afghanistan and Pakistan reflect a career rooted in leadership, operational excellence, and service in complex environments.
Mark Greene is a former Navy SEAL, author, and speaker whose path to service followed early setbacks and reinvention. After completing two master’s degrees, he now shares his story with audiences nationwide, offering insight into resilience, leadership, and purpose.
Together, Assia, Saul, Chuol, and Mark represent excellence across military service, creative expression, and leadership beyond uniform. In honor of Black History Month and brought to you by National University, this conversation celebrates not only their individual achievements, but the enduring legacy, leadership, and contributions of Black service members and veterans—past, present, and future.
Following the fireside discussion, guests will be treated to a 20-minute stand up comedy show by Thom Tran before heading back downstairs from the theater to enjoy more drinks, food and camaraderie before wrapping up the evening.
Hosted at Post 43, MIC Unplugged: Los Angeles offers a relaxed, premium atmosphere with cocktails, light fare, and opportunities to connect with people who value substance, community, and impact.
Date: Feb 28th
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM Pacific
Location: Hollywood American Legion Post 43 at 2035 Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90068
Food & Drinks: Light fare and drinks provided