Let Freedom Ring!

In this powerful Fourth of July episode of Stories from the Road, Dick Foth sits down with long-time friend and decorated Army veteran, Sergeant Major Kirk Foster, to reflect on the meaning of freedom. From the quiet back porch in Fort Collins, Colorado, the two share stories of service, sacrifice, and legacy. Kirk recounts his journey from enlisting before 9/11 to becoming one of the most decorated soldiers since that day. He speaks about leadership, loss, faith, and what it means to fight for and uphold the freedoms we often take for granted. This heartfelt conversation reminds us all of the cost of liberty and the enduring hope found in service and faith.

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🔑 Key Topics:

• The true meaning of freedom
• Military service and 9/11
• Valor and humility in leadership
• Mentorship in today’s Army
• Faith, purpose, and legacy
• Lincoln’s timeless call to freedom

🪖 About the Guest:
Sergeant Major Kirk Foster is one of the most decorated soldiers since 9/11, with two Silver Stars, five Bronze Stars, and three Purple Hearts. He currently serves out of Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, where he mentors and trains the next generation of Army leaders. A man of deep faith, he shares how his relationship with Christ shapes his leadership and service.

📌 Notable Quotes:
“We have given you a republic—if you can keep it.” – Attributed to Benjamin Franklin
“I'd give them all back if I could have a couple of my buddies still be around.” – Kirk Foster
“You can be a lethal soldier, a good husband, a good father—and a follower of Christ.” – Kirk Foster

(00:00) Introduction

Dick sets the scene for this 4th of July episode and reflects on freedom through the Declaration of Independence and Constitution.

 

(03:00) A Life of Service Begins

Kirk Foster shares how he joined the Army at 18, just before the events of 9/11 changed everything.

 

(06:30) The Meaning of the Oath

Kirk talks about the lifelong significance of swearing to protect the Constitution.

 

(08:30) What Freedom Feels Like

From a back porch in Colorado, Dick and Kirk talk about the everyday blessings of freedom.

 

(10:00) Into Combat: The Early Deployments

Kirk discusses his fifth deployment to Ramadi, Iraq, at just 23 years old.

 

(11:30) Valor and Sacrifice

Kirk humbly reflects on earning 2 Silver Stars, 5 Bronze Stars, and 3 Purple Hearts—and what they really mean.

 

(13:30) Honoring the Fallen

Remembering those who didn’t make it back and the weight of that loss.

 

(15:45) Rising Through the Ranks

Kirk recounts his rise to Sergeant Major and the unexpected leadership path he followed.

 

(18:00) Mentorship & Influence

Kirk’s current work mentoring majors and colonels at Fort Leavenworth and shaping military leadership.

 

(21:30) Faith in the Trenches

How Kirk’s commitment to Christ informs his service, courage, and leadership.

 

(24:00) Gratitude &