Honoring Gold Star Families, JFK’s Legacy, and America’s Veterans

In this special commemorative episode of World Footprints, we reflect on the courage, grief, and resilience that define the American spirit—from the families of fallen soldiers to the enduring legacy of President John F. Kennedy, and the heroism of World War II veterans. This evergreen tribute episode honors those who served and those who continue to carry their memories forward.

🎖 Gold Star Children: A Legacy of Loss and Healing Across Generations

We welcome award-winning filmmaker Mitty Mirrer, the creative force behind the powerful documentary Gold Star Children: Two Generations Sharing Loss and Healing. A Gold Star child herself, Mitty lost her father in Vietnam just one day after she was born. Her film—first aired on the Pentagon Channel and featured at national film festivals—bridges the stories of Gold Star children from the Vietnam War era with those grieving parents lost in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The film explores the mentoring and healing that occurs when two generations of loss come together in community, and it brings forward voices too often left out of the national conversation around military sacrifice.

🇺🇸 JFK Remembered: Reflections from the Saturday Evening Post Archives

As we honor service, we also revisit the moment that shook a nation: the assassination of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963. We’re joined by Jeff Nilsson, historian at The Saturday Evening Post, to explore how the magazine chronicled JFK’s life and leadership in a special commemorative issue shortly after his death.

Through rare insights and archival excerpts, Jeff shares how JFK was remembered by his peers and what his vision meant to the country during a time of great change. This segment offers both historical perspective and a deeper understanding of the values JFK stood for—values that continue to inspire.

🍬 The Candy Bomber: Col. Gail Halvorsen’s Legacy of Hope

We’re honored to welcome back one of our favorite guests: Ret. Col. Gail Halvorsen, the beloved “Candy Bomber” of the Berlin Airlift. During 1948–49, Col. Halvorsen piloted C-47s and C-54s, delivering food and supplies to a blockaded Berlin. He gained fame—and hearts worldwide—by dropping candy attached to handmade parachutes for German children below.

Known affectionately as “Uncle Wiggly Wings,” Col. Halvorsen’s story is one of compassion, ingenuity, and the power of small acts of kindness during wartime. His reflections on service and humanity are as relevant today as ever.

🎧 Listen Now

Tune in for this moving tribute to our nation’s heroes—those who served, those who sacrificed, and those who keep their legacies alive. Whether you’re observing Memorial Day, Veterans Day, or seeking stories of service and remembrance, this episode offers a timeless window into America’s enduring spirit.

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