United by Remembrance – A Community Without Borders
No matter where we live, what pace we run, or the paths we take to get here, our wear blue community is always connected. As Cowtown Half Marathon weekend approaches, runners, families, and volunteers will be traveling from across the country to gather in Fort Worth, all united in purpose. The distance between us may be great, but the bonds of remembrance and honor are even greater.
This weekend is more than just a race; it’s a homecoming for those who have found healing, purpose, and support through running. The wear blue community is made up of individuals from all walks of life, yet we are all brought together by the common mission of honoring those who have served and sacrificed. Whether you're running, cheering, or supporting from afar, you are a vital part of this journey. Let’s lace up, stand together, and remind the world that love and remembrance know no boundaries.
Kelly Barnes
Mother of CW2 Shane Barnes
United States Army
10 November 2023
Meet Kelly
Kelly runs for her son, Shane, who was inspired to serve in the military from a young age, following in the footsteps of his family’s legacy in the Air Force and law enforcement. He pursued his dream through ROTC and flight school, aiming to serve in the 160th SOAR airborne division.
A devoted husband and father, Shane balanced high-impact missions with precious moments spent with their two young daughters, celebrating tea parties, visiting pumpkin patches, and attending community festivals.
Kelly honors Shane’s commitment to service, his love for family, and his strength, using her training on Shane’s treadmill to channel her grief into personal growth. Each step she takes is a tribute to him, helping her through this challenging time.
Favorite post-run snack: Rocky road ice cream on a sugar cone
Proudest running achievement: Running alongside my 6 year old granddaughter in a 5K, when she was awarded 2nd place in her age group
Share a favorite memory with your loved one: Dancing with Shane at his wedding. We were joined by my husband, my other son, and Shane’s wife as we welcomed Samantha into “Team Barnes.”
Meet Laura
Laura runs for her late husband, Brian, a beacon of love, kindness, and laughter. With his warm smile and gentle spirit, he made others feel seen and cherished, always stepping up to lighten their burdens. Brian had an incredible ability to transform the mundane into the extraordinary, revealing beauty in life’s smallest moments.
Brian’s passion for helping others was matched by his deep commitment to honoring those who never returned home. This personal mission inspired Laura to take part in this race. She carries not just her own dreams, but also the dreams of those who sacrificed everything.
Running in honor of Brian is about embodying his courage and carrying his legacy forward. For every battle he fought, Laura gives her all, as a testament to the love Brian showed to all. This journey isn’t just about crossing a finish line; it’s about honoring lives lived, celebrating laughter shared, and the beautiful connections that hold us all together.
Favorite post-run snack: Protein shake
Proudest running achievement: Completing 2 full marathons
Share a favorite memory with your loved one: When we got lost hiking
Laura Brockway
Wife of SGT Brian Brockway
United States Army
7 June 2021
Marina Hoiden
Wife of COL Timothy Hoiden
United States Army
10 November 2018
Meet Marina
Marina runs for her late husband, Timothy. Tim, originally from Texas, was a passionate football fan, drummer, and Pre-Med/Biology student at Stephen F. Austin University. After college, he joined the US Army, where he spent 26 years as a respected officer and mentor. Tim loved mentoring soldiers and always prioritized his family, balancing his career with active involvement in his children's lives through sports, school, and outdoor activities.
Marina strives to model resilience and perseverance for her children, just as Tim did throughout his life.
For Marina, running is a way to honor Tim’s memory and continue his legacy of service, leadership, and family commitment. Each step she takes is a tribute to Tim, his impact on those around him, and his unwavering dedication to his country and family.
Favorite post-run snack: Chips and salsa
Favorite running memory: Seeing my son complete a marathon with wear blue in San Francisco
Share a favorite memory with your loved one: When Tim supported me throughout my running journey
For the fallen. For the fighting. For the families.
These runners, along with so many others, represent the spirit and purpose of wear blue: run to remember. With every step, every tribute, and every shared memory, they help preserve the legacies of our fallen service members. Our community—runners, volunteers, and supporters—comes together to bridge the divide between military and civilian life, creating a space for remembrance, healing, and unity. Through their dedication, we honor those who gave everything and ensure their stories continue to inspire future generations.
With just five days until the Cowtown Half Marathon, let's rally behind our wear blue athletes! Send them encouragement and cheer them on as they take purposeful steps in honor of our nation's heroes.
