EVERY BOOT HAS A STORY

EVERY BOOT HAS A STORY is a companion narrative podcast to the Boot Memorial Hero & Remembrance Run, an annual living tribute held on historic Ford Island at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. While the physical memorial beautifully displays nearly 9,000 combat boots representing every American service member lost since September 11, 2001, the podcast serves as a digital extension of this sacred space. Each episode transitions a name and a photo on a boot into a living history. "Our mission is to foster community healing for grieving families, Gold Star communities, and veterans, ensuring no sacrifice fades and every loss is remembered." The show is hosted by Theresa Johnson, a military spouse for 36 years and the founder and CEO of the Boot Memorial. This work reflects her dedicated service at Fisher House locations in Hawaii and Fort Campbell, Kentucky, where she shared both the losses and celebrations of a tight-knit community. Her bond with this network is profoundly personal, shaped by deep connections with FALLEN HEREOS, their widows, and Gold Star parents as she shared in their collective grief. Creator & Producer: E. P. Mattson – A philanthropist, children's author, and advocate for Early Childhood Education, Early Literacy, and Community Health Education. Music by Drehz (Dwayne Andres) – A Honolulu-based producer, songwriter, and engineer known for his progressive, syncopated instrumental arrangements featured globally on major networks and shows like Dancing with the Stars, Dance Moms, and So You Think You Can Dance. This podcast is made possible by our sponsor, The Daniel Kahikina Akaka Family Foundation (DKAFF). Learn more at danakaka.org. Connect & Share Website: bootmemorial.org Submit a Story: If you have a story to share, reach out to the production team directly at everyboothasastory@gmail.com.