Keirsten Lyons strives to highlight the stories of nearly 400 military members who have died since 9/11.

As Washington State Fallen Heroes Project director, Lyons volunteers in that role toward projects to honor them and support their families, along with veterans. She listens when they talk about loss.

The Spokane mom shows up with genuine empathy. One of the fallen heroes is her son, Jacob “Jake” Hess, a Marine sergeant who died Jan. 1, 2014 , in Afghanistan. He was 22.

“She’s compassionate to all, genuine and authentic; she feels with you,” said Tammie Maple, who nominated Lyons for Woman of the Year.

“I think that’s why she’s so good with veterans and families. She doesn’t overlook anybody. She takes the time to listen. You feel seen and heard with her. You feel for her, her story

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