Nothing prepares you for losing a loved one to war.
“On paper, I thought I was ready. We had a will, I had powers of attorney, and we’d just re-done our mortgage. I had asked all the questions I knew to ask–gotten all of my ducks in a row before he deployed.”
But Krista Simpson Anderson, a Gold Star Spouse, knows there’s no checklist for what comes next. Today, she’s dedicated to walking with others through the same heartbreak.
Krista married Staff Sgt. Michael H. Simpson, a Green Beret, in 2008. Military service ran deep in his family, and in 2013, he deployed to Afghanistan, eager to put his training to work.
“He was pumped about the opportunity to go, to do what he loved. He wanted to serve, he was an 18-Bravo, he knew he was good at his job, and he was proud of that,” she said.
Twenty days later, an IED changed everything. The call came: Michael was in critical condition.
“I just remember being oddly prepared for that. I’m the kind of person that prepares for the worst but prays for the best–and it was the worst.”
Before Krista boarded the plane to Germany, doctors had determined Michael wouldn’t survive. She traveled with her Casualty Assistance Officer and a chaplain, meeting Michael’s family there.
Special Operations Command’s Warrior Care Program met them at the airport, ensuring they were supported at every step. Some stayed at the Fisher House, others in nearby apartments, spending precious days by his side.
Michael passed away five days later, leaving behind Krista and their two boys, just 3 and 1 years old.
“At that moment, I could have been in a room with a thousand people and still felt utterly alone—because my person wasn’t here.”
But she hadn’t expected the wave of support that followed. The Green Beret Foundation, Special Ops Warrior Foundation, USO, Fisher House, and Wear Blue: Run to Remember stepped in immediately.
“It was extraordinary. They never left my side. It felt like family.”
Inspired by that unwavering support, Krista founded The Unquiet Professional the same month her husband was laid to rest at Arlington, honoring Michael’s pride as a Green Beret and his dedication to the Special Forces.
Tonprofit provides casualty support, education about preparedness, emergency support, and empowering programs for veterans and families.
“My kids get to know their dad died a hero. It doesn’t make it less sad, but we focus on how he lived, not just how he died. We’re part of the 1% who serve—most people don’t understand that greatness. Our job is to help families carry it forward.”
