Matthew was fascinated with history, particularly World War II. His admiration for the people who served before him were an inspiration to join the Army immediately following high school graduation.

He thrived during basic training, finding community and camaraderie with his fellow recruits.

His journey of service lead him to the infantry, where he thrived. He took great pride in serving his country on the front lines.

Matthew was leading his squad on patrol through a field in Kandahar province, one of the most dangerous regions in Afghanistan.

Suddenly, they came under fire. They took cover in a nearby compound. While trying to return fire and lead his team to safety, Krumwiede stepped on an IED.

The platoon's medic rushed to Matthew’s aid, securing tourniquets to his severed limbs. He flatlined while being medevac'd to the hospital.

The next thing Matthew remembers is waking up in the military hospital, where he was confronted with the full extent of his reality:

Both of his legs were gone.

He would spend close to a year in the hospital, first in intensive care, then the burn unit, and eventually rehab facility.

Since his injury, he has endured almost 50 surgeries.

“I had waves of anxiety, anger and defeat and it took a long, long time to process everything,” Krumwiede said.