Heroes Have Wings

Welcome back to Heroes Have Wings, where we spotlight the extraordinary journeys of those who’ve dedicated their lives to service and resilience. Today’s guest, Troy Halfhill, is a testament to what it means to push beyond the ordinary. Born and raised in Bradner, Ohio, Troy grew up immersed in the values of hard work and adventure, earning the rank of Eagle Scout before embarking on a 21-year car...

Welcome to another episode of Heroes Have Wings, where we spotlight ordinary people doing extraordinary things. Today, I’m honored to introduce Jonathan "Penny" Penaloza, a man whose journey defines resilience, dedication, and service. Born in Italy to Colombian and Venezuelan parents, and having called Puerto Rico and Central Florida home, Penny’s story is as global as it is inspiring. A 14-year...

Welcome back to Heroes Have Wings, where we dig deep into the lives of warriors who’ve pushed the limits and redefined courage. Today, we’re honored to introduce Duane Taylor—a legend who served 22 years and packed a lifetime of heroism into every moment. Born and raised in small-town Havana, Illinois, Duane took on some of the Army’s toughest challenges. From earning the titles of Ranger, Airborn...

Welcome back to Heroes Have Wings, where we dig deep into the lives of warriors who’ve pushed the limits and redefined courage. Today, we’re honored to introduce Duane Taylor—a legend who served 22 years and packed a lifetime of heroism into every moment. Born and raised in small-town Havana, Illinois, Duane took on some of the Army’s toughest challenges. From earning the titles of Ranger, Airborn...

Welcome back to Heroes Have Wings, where we bring you the raw and real stories of resilience, grit, and redemption. Today’s guest is Cory McElhatton, a man whose life is defined by courage and the relentless pursuit of truth. Growing up in the small town of Kewaskum, Wisconsin, Cory is the youngest of four and a proud product of family roots and Midwest values. He served with unwavering loyalty in...

Welcome to another powerful episode of Heroes Have Wings, where we dive into the stories of those who’ve served on the frontlines and made it their mission to leave no one behind. Today, we’re honored to have Rahkeem Francis on the show—a man whose journey from New York City’s Bronx and Queens to the Emergency Department is nothing short of extraordinary. Rahkeem is a 12-year Army veteran, who pro...

Welcome to another powerful episode of Heroes Have Wings, where we dive into the stories of those who’ve served on the frontlines and made it their mission to leave no one behind. Today, we’re honored to have Rahkeem Francis on the show—a man whose journey from New York City’s Bronx and Queens to the Emergency Department is nothing short of extraordinary. Rahkeem is a 12-year Army veteran, who pro...

Welcome to another powerful episode of Heroes Have Wings, where we dive into the stories of those who’ve served on the frontlines and made it their mission to leave no one behind. Today, we’re honored to have Rahkeem Francis on the show—a man whose journey from New York City’s Bronx and Queens to the Emergency Department is nothing short of extraordinary. Rahkeem is a 12-year Army veteran, who pro...

Welcome to another powerful episode of Heroes Have Wings, where we dive into the lives of leaders who’ve not just walked the path but paved the way for others. Today, we’ve got an absolute legend joining us—Jamie Halchishick. Retired Army Aviation Command Sergeant Major with 30 years of service, a college graduate with a master’s degree from the University of Texas, and co-founder of Map Your Jour...

Sam Pemberton: A man who’s walked the walk and now talks the talk of service, family, and leadership. This is not just your average guest. Sam is an Army brat who’s lived all over the world, from Germany to Italy, Ft. Bragg to Tampa and that global experience shaped a leader who’s spent over two decades serving his country. First, he suited up in the Army from 2001 to 2011, then seamlessly transit...

Welcome to Heroes Have Wings, a podcast where grit meets grace and real stories take flight. I’m Jason Santiago, a former Blackhawk pilot, U.S. Army veteran, and a man forged by hardship. Raised by a single mother in Bridgeport, Connecticut, I overcame the pain of losing my father and brother and rose above a childhood marked by struggle. After 15 years of military service, over 1,000 flight hours...