15-TANGO to COVID-19 is a vivid, deeply personal memoir of resilience and perseverance across civilian life, military service, and nursing.
Kristin L. Smith traces her journey from a civilian helicopter pilot buried in debt, to a Black Hawk crew chief deployed to Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom—and later, to the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic as a nurse. From the shock of her flight school suddenly closing, to the intensity of working in a combat zone, to the exhaustion of hospital wards overwhelmed by crisis, Smith captures the physical, emotional, and moral weight of serving in extreme environments.
Through nonlinear storytelling, Smith examines her life as a civilian, soldier, nurse, and survivor. Each chapter is anchored by a central theme and offers practical insight into endurance and empowerment in the face of adversity.
At its core, this memoir is about steadfastness—choosing conviction over excuses and purpose over fear. It is written for veterans, healthcare workers, and anyone who has been told: “You can’t” yet keeps moving forward.
About the author
Kristin L. Smith is a nurse, veteran, and lifelong learner who grew up in a small military town in southern Idaho. Raised in a military family, she developed an early love of aviation and adventure—interests that continue to shape her life and work.
Kristin served in the Idaho Army National Guard as a 15T Black Hawk helicopter repairer and later became an RN, caring for patients through the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. Today, she works as a hospice nurse serving veterans and their families, a role that reflects her belief in compassion, dignity, and honor at every stage of life.
Outside of writing and nursing, Kristin enjoys hiking, reading, visiting the ocean, and learning new skills. She is especially drawn to experiences that challenge her perspective and encourage personal growth. She lives with her husband and daughter and continues to explore what it means to build a meaningful life across changing seasons and careers.
