🎙️ Episode 7 – Honoring SGT Andy Southard: Ashley’s Story

In this powerful and emotional episode of Gold Star Stories, host Nick Letendre sits down with Ashley Southard — a mother, a widow, and a woman rebuilding life in the aftermath of unimaginable loss. Her husband, Sergeant Andy Southard, a Black Hawk crew chief with the 160th SOAR, was killed during a training mission over the Mediterranean in November 2023.

Ashley shares the kind of story that lives in the quiet — the knock at the door, the stocking that fell from the mantle, the weight of public grief, and the burden of sudden decisions no spouse ever expects to make. She speaks openly about trauma, anger, media pressure, and the loneliness of being seen only as a widow — not a person still breathing, still trying, still here.

We also discuss family dynamics after loss, forgotten siblings in the grieving process, and the power of saying the things no one else dares to say out loud. Ashley’s courage in telling her story is matched only by her love for Andy and her desire to keep his memory alive for their daughter — and for all of us.

Say their name: Sergeant Andy Southard.

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📌 Follow Ashley on TikTok: @FromtheAshhh

📌 Follow the show: @USAGoldStarStories

🎧 Support the mission or learn more at GoldStarStoriesUSA.com

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In this episode of Gold Star Stories, host Nick Letendre speaks with Ami Neiberger, sister of Specialist Christopher Neiberger, who was killed in Iraq just days after his 22nd birthday. Ami shares her brother’s story — from his thoughtful nature and love of history, to the devastating moment her family was notified — and offers raw, deeply insightful reflections on grief, sibling loss, and building community through tragedy.

You’ll also hear an emotional toast to Chris and an honest discussion about the challenges of being a Gold Star family in today’s world.

Say Their Name: Specialist Christopher Neiberger

🎙️ 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.

💬 If this conversation moves you, please consider supporting Gold Star Stories by buying us a coffee at the link below. Every contribution helps us continue honoring these incredible families.

🔗 Support Us: BuyMeACoffee.com/GoldStarStories

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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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