In this episode, Sarah remembers those lost and shares how the military community shows up for one another, no matter the circumstances.

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In this deeply moving conversation, host Theresa sits down with her husband, Command Sergeant Major (Retired) Leon Johnson, for an honest and comforting look inside the heart of a military family. Entering the service as teenagers, they share their raw journey through Leon’s rise from a frontline medic and commanding teams, alongside Theresa's reality navigating the home front.

Together, they honor the friends they lost, discuss the emotional toll of multiple deployments, and reflect on how they protected their marriage while raising a family—including a son who followed in Leon's footsteps. This episode offers an eye-opening perspective, a soft place to land, and a powerful message of healing and hope for anyone navigating the unique struggles of the military community.

Join us for a heartfelt conversation about remembrance, unity, and the visual reminder that behind every boot is a name, a face, and a hero who will never be forgotten.

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On this episode, Theresa and Francine share their perspective on caring for children during deployments, shedding light on the unique challenges and vital support these military families need.

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If you have a story to share, reach out to everyboothasastory@gmail.com

In this episode, Theresa and Francine honors the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. They highlight the profound significance of the Boot Memorial, a striking display of nearly 9,000 combat boots lining historic Ford Island in Pearl Harbor. Because this moving tribute is on display for only one week, this fleeting moment is a deeply sacred, special time for families and friends to come together, walk among the boots, and honor the enduring legacy of their loved ones.

Join us for a heartfelt conversation about remembrance, unity, and the visual reminder that behind every boot is a name, a face, and a hero who will never be forgotten.

A STORY TO SHARE

If you have a story to share, reach out to everyboothasastory@gmail.com

In this episode, Theresa talks about Mark and how he spent the morning with friends.

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On this episode, Theresa shares with Sarah how the boots are protected and cared for on Ford Island.

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If you have a story to share, reach out to everyboothasastory@gmail.com

On this episode, we sit down with Sarah Schmitt to explore what it’s really like to grow up in a military family. Sarah opens up about the powerful touchpoints that anchored her to this community, giving her a unique lens on life. From deep-rooted traditions to personal sacrifices, she shares the moving, heartfelt stories behind the boots.

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On this episode, we sit down with Gold Star Mother Sheila Patton. Sheila honors the memory of her son Jimmy, who passed away in 2010 at the young age of 23. She shares moving stories of how Jimmy lived life to the absolute fullest

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On this episode, Theresa and Francine Love reflect on the meaningful connections they have built over the years. They share touching, personal accounts from loved ones who have shared the memories of the heroes they lost, highlighting the powerful stories behind the boots on display.

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If you have a story to share, reach out to everyboothasastory@gmail.com

Theresa reflects on the deep, unbreakable impact of the military community.

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If you have a story to share, reach out to everyboothasastory@gmail.com

A STORY TO SHARE

If you have a story to share, reach out to everyboothasastory@gmail.com

In this episode, Anita honors Max, a revered leader and a beautiful soul who left an undeniable mark on everyone he commanded.

Tune in to discover the legacy of one of the many beautiful souls we honor.

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Theresa reflects on the deep impact of losing a loved one and shares a comforting reminder for anyone walking through grief: you are not alone.

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If you have a story to share, reach out to everyboothasastory@gmail.com

Theresa shares the story on how a simple typo on a soldier's memorial boot tag turns into a beautiful celebration of his life. A surprise tribute—deeply personalized to match his favorite, vibrant style—shows the joyful lengths a community will go to honor a young man's memory.

Tune in to hear how a simple detail turned into an unforgettable, uplifting moment of healing for his family.

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On this episode, Theresa and Anita share how their journey began at the Fisher House in Hawaii. Driven by Theresa’s deep desire to honor Tim, the two came together to create the very first military boot display. This powerful tribute quickly captured the hearts of locals, inspiring the community to tighten its bonds and rally together in support. Today, that small initial tribute has grown into an enduring tradition that continues to honor FALLEN HEREOS and unite the community.

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Join us as Theresa opens up about the family friend whose life, service, and impact ultimately inspired her to turn grief into action and create this annual living tribute.

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If you have a story to share, reach out to everyboothasastory@gmail.com

Every Boot Has a Story is the 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.

This show is hosted by Theresa Johnson, the founder of the Boot Memorial, who will take you on a journey to meet loved ones as they share their stories.

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If you have a story to share, reach out to everyboothasastory@gmail.com