Matthew Martin Szymanski

1LT, United States Army

February 10, 1976 – June 15, 2014
Age – 38
Dearborn Heights, MI

Bosnia, Persian Gulf, and Operation Enduring Freedom

Became “One of 22 a Day” on June 15, 2014

Matthew began his career as an enlisted man, but became an officer later. He was a sniper and a UH-60 pilot.

Matthew retired from the US Military after 20 years of dedicated service. He was adventurous and loved God, country, family and friends.

1LT Matthew Martin Szymanski lost his battle June 15, 2014, in Three Forks, Montana. He was 38 years old.

He was remembered by fellow soldiers with the following words:

April 18, 2017
Just heard about Matt’s passing an hour ago, in complete shock right now. Matt was my stick buddy in flight school, we flew Huey’s together, great memories with him. Matt had a huge heart, always lightened the mood and was a loyal friend. I spoke to Matt a few years ago when he reached out me in California, he expressed how great things were for him so his passing leaves me with a heavy heart.

Matt, hopefully you found peace brother, you will be missed.
Thomas Lemmons

June 23, 2014
Where to begin brother……sorry for not being there more for you. You were a great friend whom I let distance get the best of our friendship. I remember some awesome times when we went on that 20+ mile road march through Bosnia, talking about life, dreams, past, future…. Also the times when you hurt your knee, and I brought you food daily….we would play video games and watch movies in your room on your projector. We watched four seasons straight of “The Shield”, still the greatest series I ever saw. You were different….unique….aggressive but patient, frustrated but confident. I hope your not in pain anymore. I also hope you know that you were NEVER a failure. Your character attributes in my mind outweighed your professional attributes. I’m not sure you realized that. I wish I would’ve told you that. I knew you held pain in, but didn’t realize how much. I know you would do things differently had you read half of these posts, but we love you. Keep smiling, and we will take care of your fiancé should she require it. Love ya brother, Tony Kruckeberg
Anthony Kruckeberg

June 22, 2014
Matt, or LT as I called, I’m sorry we lost touch over the past couple of years. I’m very, very saddened to hear of your passing. You always mad me laugh and I know how much you stuck up for your guys. It was an honor to have sent you to flight school and to have served with you. Thank you for all the wonderfully things you did throughout your life. You were a wonderful man who will be greatly missed. May you have now found peace. Many prayers for your loving family and friends.
SFC (R) Lisa Marie Duncan-Edwards