🎙️ Episode 5 - Mallory Crabtree: A Gold Star Daughter’s Journey

Welcome back to Gold Star Stories, hosted by Nick Letendre. Today, we are honored to sit down with Mallory Crabtree, daughter of Sergeant First Class Daniel B. Crabtree, a brave Green Beret who gave everything for his country when Mallory was just 17 months old.

Mallory’s perspective is unique — growing up shaped by her father’s legacy rather than direct memories. She shares how her family, community, and her father’s brothers-in-arms helped keep his spirit alive, and how her own journey into public speaking has become a powerful tribute to his sacrifice.

We talk candidly about grief, growing up different, finding true friendships, and the urgent need for Gold Star family awareness. This episode is a heartfelt reminder of why preserving these stories matters.

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Timestamps:

0:00 - Introduction and support message

3:14 - Mallory’s early life and her father’s legacy

5:21 - Learning what it means to be a Gold Star daughter

9:26 - The day Mallory’s mother was notified

13:57 - Finding connection through the Gold Star community

17:22 - Honoring SFC Crabtree: Jump events and memorials

21:00 - Raising awareness about Gold Star families

24:12 - Growing up differently, finding real friendships

27:36 - Future hopes and final reflections

Say Their Name:

Sergeant First Class Daniel B. Crabtree 🇺🇸

Special Thanks:

To Danielle Medal of Satellite Beach, Florida — thank you for believing in our mission and supporting the creation of this podcast.

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