"The Last to Fall from Hero Street" wins Best Documentary at Northwest Illinois Film Festival 2026

We are excited to announce that "The Last to Fall from Hero Street: John Munos' Story" won BEST DOCUMENTARY at the Northwest Illinois Film Festival!

"We are incredibly proud to showcase talented filmmakers like Kelly and Tammy Rundle of Fourth Wall Films who bring unique stories to life and enrich the independent film community," Gary Camarano, Northwest Illinois Film Festival Executive Director said.

Fourth Wall Films' "The Last to Fall from Hero Street," (Part 9 in the multi-part documentary series) tells the story of PFC John S. Muños who grew up in a boxcar home on 2nd Street (now named Hero Street) in Silvis, Illinois. He married his sweetheart, Mary Beserra, three months before he entered the Army on January 15, 1951. An ill-timed furlough allowed him to visit his wife and family one last time before deployment, but it also sealed his fate. He served in the Korean War with Co. F of the 38th Regimental Combat Team, Second Infantry Division. On August 27, 1951, at age 23, John was among 740 Americans killed in the Battle of Bloody Ridge. His body was never recovered. Interviews with family members, friends, veterans, community leaders and historians are combined with vintage photos, original photography by Ray Congrove, film, and archival materials, and to tell an unforgettable story of American courage, character and perseverance. 

The documentary features the critically-acclaimed new song "Hero Street" by musician David G. Smith, released on his new album. Visit https://davidgsmithmusic.com/ for more information.

Only a block and a half long, the street lost six young men in World War II and two in the Korean War, more than any other street in America.  Hero Street, as it is now known, has provided over 150 service members since World War II.

“Hero Street”, a documentary series by Emmy® Award-winning filmmakers Kelly and Tammy Rundle, explores the compelling true story of eight Mexican-America heroes: Tony Pompa, Frank Sandoval, William Sandoval, Claro Solis, Peter Masias, Joseph Sandoval, Joseph Gomez and John S. Muños.

"The Last to Fall from Hero Street" can be ordered on DVD by clicking HERE. 
The film will soon be available to stream. Check back soon for news