In 2002, Matthew enlisted in the Army and was able to complete the punishing courses necessary to become Special Forces Qualified. He was assigned to 5th Special Forces group, deploying twice to Iraq. After his second deployment to Iraq, Matthew worked for NEK Advanced Securities Group in the United States and deploying to combat zones on training projects.

Upon release from active duty, he joined the 20th Special Forces Group (Airborne) where he served with B/3/20th in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina. Shortly thereafter he transferred to B/2/20th Glen Arm, Maryland and deployed to Afghanistan. It is extremely difficult to sum up Matthew in a few sentences. He is larger than life.

Matthew is courageous and selfless and gave up everything to ensure all he held dear stayed protected. Matthew is highly intelligent with a great gift for humor. He could turn any bad situation into a positive one. Matthew is physically and mentally tough and never let anything stand in his way. Matthew is a great man and a true hero. I want people to know his name, and that he gave up his life.