Footprints - The Real Story of Buford Pusser

The RIFT Radio Podcast Network

Buford Pusser was the Sheriff of McNairy County, Tennessee, from 1964 to 1970 and Constable of Adamsville from 1970 to 1972. Pusser is known for his virtual one-man war on moonshining, prostitution and gambling, and other vices along the Mississippi–Tennessee state line. His efforts have inspired several books, songs, movies, and a TV series. The 1973 movie Walking Tall was based on Pusser's story. It was a combination of fact and Hollywood revisionism. This has since has had two direct sequels of its own in 1975 and 1977, plus a remake in 2004. Everyone seems to think that the events in the movies are accurate, but are they? Buford Pusser was portrayed as a hero, but who is he really? Tonight, Lisa is joined by Mike Elam, a man determined to find out the truth about who Buford Pusser is. Mike has interviewed some of the people involved in the story, as well as people who knew Buford well. He also has documents including autopsy reports. Listen in tonight and find out if Buford Pusser was walking tall or if he was falling short. Chat and phone lines will be open. Call in with questions or comments. 323-870-3877