BATAVIA, OH, USA
U.S. Army
SSG, 724TH TRANSPORTATION COMPANY, BARTONVILLE, IL
NORTH OF ABU GHURAYB, IRAQ 03/21/2008
Born on July 13, 1987 in Batavia, Ohio, Matt was a 2001 graduate of Glen Este High School in Union Township, Clermont County, Ohio. Matt played high school football, after graduation, he enrolled at University of Cincinnati using a scholarship he’d received from winning a writing competition and pursued studies in Aerospace Engineering (but later switched to Nutritional Science.).
While fulfilling his monthly obligations as a reservist, Matt worked at a Sam’s Club Warehouse store to help pay for continued courses at the University of Cincinnati. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Glen Este.
After being captured and missing for several years, Matt’s remains were found and returned to his family in Ohio where he is buried. He was promoted several times while categorized as “Missing’ eventually resulting with the rank of Staff Sergeant (SSG).
He was awarded the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Meritorious Service Medal, POW Medal, and Good Conduct Medal.