PODCAST · society
Heroes Have Wings
by Jason Santiago
This podcast gives a voice to the unsung heroes of Army Aviation, the aviators, crew chiefs, and flight medics, who put it all on the line in the heat of battle. It’s their chance to share raw, untold stories of courage, sacrifice, and unbreakable will. From their beginnings to the battlefields, you’ll hear about the hardships, the moments of doubt, and how they overcame impossible odds to save lives. These warriors didn’t just fight for survival, they put others above themselves, embodying the true spirit of heroism.
Episodes
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Heroes Reunited: Season 1 Warriors Reflect on Battle, Brotherhood & Life
Season 1 brought together some of the most powerful stories of courage, trauma, leadership, and brotherhood ever shared on this podcast. Now, for the first time, we reunite four warriors from Season 1 and bring them back into one room to reflect on the battles that shaped them, the bonds that…
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Green Beret, Pilot, and Breaking Mental Health Stigma: Nick O’Kelly's Journey
S3, EP6 - From the strict confines of a small household in Western Washington to the unforgiving crucible of Special Forces training, Nick O’Kelly forged a path few dare to walk. A Green Beret, a 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment pilot, and now the author of Stigma: Break the Silence,...
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Saving Lives in Combat, Building Futures Today: Carlos Morales
From a tough upbringing in California to saving lives on the battlefield, Carlos Morales is the definition of grit, growth, and grace under fire. He didn’t just serve, he transformed into a warrior of compassion, becoming a flight medic with the power to bring soldiers home alive. With over 11...
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Surviving a Crash, to the Distinguished Flying Cross: Michael Connelly
Michael Connelly was born into the Army life an Army brat with Superman as his hero and the world as his backyard. But his path to the cockpit wasn’t easy. He survived a helicopter crash in flight school, then went on to earn the Distinguished Flying Cross for heroics in combat. He’s commanded…
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Valor in the Sky: Andrew Six and the Distinguished Flying Cross
Today, we’re honored to feature Andrew Six, a soldier whose journey from a humble upbringing as one of nine siblings to becoming a distinguished Army flight medic is nothing short of inspiring. From surviving a life-altering attack in Afghanistan to earning the Distinguished Flying Cross…
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Forged in War: Ryan Travis on Faith, Fire, and Command
From the wild outdoors of Montana to commanding troops in the most dangerous corners of the world, LTC (Ret.) Ryan Travis is a warrior forged by combat and driven by faith, family, and country. Over a 22-year Army career, spanning from engineer to aviator, combat commander to West Point…
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Joie Bier: Leading with Fire from Crew Chief to Combat Commander
From a tiny town in Kansas to the frontlines of global conflict, Joie Bier shattered every expectation put in front of her. She didn’t just join the Army, she kicked down doors in a male-dominated world, rising from an Apache Helicopter Crew Chief to a Combat Company Commander with 22 years of...
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James Tully: Built Different, Forged in War, Driven by Purpose
Today’s guest is a quiet giant, one of those warriors who didn’t ask for recognition, but earned it every damn day. James Tully served 22 years in the U.S. Army, rising from the ground up, PV1 to Master Sergeant, holding the line with unwavering discipline, humility, and grit. A leader in the…
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Elizabeth Bradley: War, Loss, and the Fight to Rise Again
From the cold streets of upstate New York to the unforgiving terrain of combat zones, Elizabeth Bradley has walked through the fire and never flinched. She didn’t just serve, she commanded respect, honor, and impact with every mission. As a combat medic and logistics soldier, Elizabeth carried…
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Stephen Barton
Today’s guest is living proof that where you start doesn't define where you're going. Marcus “Stephen” Barton grew up in the chaos, abuse, addiction, broken homes, and the kind of pain most people don’t make it through. But instead of becoming a product of his environment, he became a soldier, a...
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Joe Wonacott
Today’s guest is proof that the road to becoming a warrior isn’t always straight, and that’s exactly what makes his story powerful. Joe Wonacott grew up in small-town Paradise, California, the black sheep in a blue-collar family. But when most would settle, he decided to rise. He became a...
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Audrey Ramos
Today’s guest is a warrior of the highest order, not just for what she did in uniform, but for what she’s endured outside of it. Audrey Ramos served over 20 years in the U.S. Army, standing tall through the chaos of combat, deployments, and personal storms that would’ve broken most people in…
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Silent Battles & Relentless Fatherhood: Phil Calcese's Fight to Be Seen
Today’s guest is a warrior built from resilience, sharpened by adversity, and driven by one mission, to never quit. From growing up in the grind of Chicago, bouncing between six schools, to 22 years of elite military service, Phil Calcese has worn many uniforms, but he's always shown up, no…
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Justin Horton
Today, we’re bringing on a man who’s lived it, bled it, and damn sure earned the right to speak on it. Justin Horton grew up chasing dreams most kids couldn’t imagine until he put on the uniform and answered the call. From Fort Rucker to the sands of Afghanistan, Justin carried more than gear… he...
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Combat Redeemed: Adam Montavon on Surviving War & Winning Life
Welcome back to Heroes Have Wings, where real warriors share their battles, victories, and the lessons that shape them. Today’s guest, Adam Montavon, is a man who’s lived through the fire, served with honor, and fought his own wars both on and off the battlefield. From a small-town upbringing in...
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Ervin Bier
Welcome back to Heroes Have Wings, where we bring you the raw and real stories of warriors who’ve given everything to serve, protect, and lead. Today, we sit down with Ervin Bier, a man who’s lived a life of resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication. From growing up in Wisconsin and…
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John Keutmann: Leading Under Fire in Afghanistan’s Frontlines
Welcome to another epic episode of Heroes Have Wings, where we honor the extraordinary lives of those who’ve gone above and beyond. Today’s guest, Johnny Keutmann, has a story that’ll leave you inspired. Born in Germany, Johnny’s journey took him across continents, Texas, England, Vegas, before…
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Jessica Brewington
Ladies and gentlemen, today’s guest is the definition of resilience, grit, and compassion. She grew up in a small Wisconsin farm town, walking miles through fields just to wash dishes as a kid, proving early on that life was never going to outwork her. From those humble beginnings, Jessica...
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Silent Valor: Dereck Bible on Combat, Grit, and Growth
Welcome back to Heroes Have Wings, where we bring you the raw, unfiltered stories of warriors who’ve given everything for something bigger than themselves. Today’s guest, Dereck Bible, is no exception. Raised in small-town Texas, he grew up in a time before cell phones and social media, where…
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Matthew Cole
Welcome to Heroes Have Wings, where we bring you the raw, unfiltered stories of those who’ve walked through fire and lived to tell the tale. Today, we’ve got a guest who defines resilience, adaptability, and straight-up grit, Matt Cole. From growing up as the oldest of eight in Lima, Ohio, to...
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Sean Jones
Welcome back to Heroes Have Wings, where the stories of warriors, leaders, and relentless fighters take flight. Today’s guest, Sean Jones, is the definition of resilience, a Jack of All Trades who’s walked the path of grit, loyalty, and service. Growing up in Zion, Illinois, Sean took on high...
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James Shields on the Harsh Truth: The Army Won’t Love You Back
Welcome back to Heroes Have Wings, where we bring you the stories of warriors who’ve dedicated their lives to service, sacrifice, and resilience. Today’s guest, Jimmy Shields, is no exception. A man forged in discipline, he grew up as the oldest of six in the MDW area, mastering the art of…
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John Thomas
Welcome to Heroes Have Wings, where we uncover the untold stories of those who’ve led with grit and heart. Today’s guest, John Thomas, is a testament to resilience, leadership, and never backing down from a challenge. Born in small-town Kentucky, John grew up in tough conditions, but he rose…
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Jon King
Welcome to Heroes Have Wings, where we showcase stories of resilience, leadership, and determination. Today’s guest, Jon King, is a force to be reckoned with, a man who’s rewritten the rulebook of what’s possible. From growing up in a small two-bedroom house in Arkansas to serving in both the Air...
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Jack Dingus: Measured Response, Combat Fear & Leaving a Legacy
Welcome to Heroes Have Wings, where extraordinary stories soar. Today’s guest, Jack Dingus, is the epitome of dedication, resilience, and perspective. Born in Southern West Virginia as the youngest of five, Jack grew up mastering outdoor sports before embarking on an illustrious career spanning...
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Troy Halfhill
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…
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Jonathan "Penny" Penaloza
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...
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Duane Taylor (Two Part Series, 2 of 2)
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,...
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Duane Taylor (Two Part Series, 1 of 2)
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,...
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Cory McElhatton
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…
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Rahkeem Francis (Three Part Series, 3 of 3)
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...
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Rahkeem Francis (Three Part Series, 2 of 3)
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...
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Rahkeem Francis (Three Part Series, 1 of 3)
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...
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James Halchishick
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…
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Sam Pemberton
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...
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From Battlefield to Broadcast: Jason Santiago’s New Mission Begins
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...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
This podcast gives a voice to the unsung heroes of Army Aviation, the aviators, crew chiefs, and flight medics, who put it all on the line in the heat of battle. It’s their chance to share raw, untold stories of courage, sacrifice, and unbreakable will. From their beginnings to the battlefields, you’ll hear about the hardships, the moments of doubt, and how they overcame impossible odds to save lives. These warriors didn’t just fight for survival, they put others above themselves, embodying the true spirit of heroism.
HOSTED BY
Jason Santiago
CATEGORIES
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Heroes Have Wings have?
Heroes Have Wings currently has 36 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Heroes Have Wings about?
This podcast gives a voice to the unsung heroes of Army Aviation, the aviators, crew chiefs, and flight medics, who put it all on the line in the heat of battle. It’s their chance to share raw, untold stories of courage, sacrifice, and unbreakable will. From their beginnings to the battlefields,...
How often does Heroes Have Wings release new episodes?
Heroes Have Wings has 36 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Heroes Have Wings?
You can listen to Heroes Have Wings on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Heroes Have Wings?
Heroes Have Wings is created and hosted by Jason Santiago.
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