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Matthew James Bowen
1972 - 2020
Matthew James Bowen
1972 - 2020
Obituary
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Matthew Bowen Obituary
CDR Matthew James Bowen, USN (Ret.), callsign “MATTY B” and “MAYOR” passed away on March 2, 2020 at home in Pensacola, FL. He was the former Commanding Officer of HT-8, 8Ball Skipper #56.
CDR Bowen was commissioned upon graduation from the United States Merchant Marine Academy in June, 1995. He reported to the USS WHIDBEY ISLAND (LSD-41) as M Division Officer, Legal Officer and Training Officer. His follow-on tour was as Plans and Training Officer at Amphibious Squadron SIX embarked on USS BATAAN (LHD-5).
Following transition to Naval Aviation, he completed Primary Flight Training at VT-6 and Advanced Helicopter Training at HT-18. CDR Bowen was designated as a Naval Aviator at NAS Whiting Field, Milton, FL on September 13, 2002. He was Navy Helicopter Designator Number 26723.
After qualification in the MH-60S at HC-3, he reported to HC-6 in Norfolk, VA. During this tour, HC-6 transitioned to HSC-26 as part of the Navy’s helicopter re-organization. While assigned to HSC-26 he deployed on USS DETROIT (AOE-4) and USNS ARTIC (TAOE-6) and served as Schedules Officer, Detachment Operations Officer, Detachment Assistant Officer-in-Charge and the Search and Rescue Officer.
CDR Bowen was then assigned to HSC-3 in San Diego, CA and to the MH-60R/S Fleet Introduction Team where he served as the HSC-23 Establishment Officer, HS-8 Transition Officer and Helicopter Manpower Officer. He reported to HS-10 and transitioned to the SH-60F/HH-60H prior to his Department Head tour at HS-8. After completing HS-8’s last deployment, he assisted in HS-8’s transition to HSC-8, returning to the MH-60S. While assigned to HSC-8 he served as Training Officer and Maintenance Officer and made the first ever MH-60R/S deployment as part of Carrier Air Wing NINE onboard USS JOHN C. STENNIS (CVN-74).
CDR Bowen returned to NAS Whiting Field to serve as HT-8 Executive Officer. He assumed command of the squadron in April 2013 and served as the Commanding Officer through May 2014.
Following his command tour, he reported to the USS BATAAN (LHD-5) as the Air Boss.
CDR Bowen’s shore tours have been as Flag Lieutenant to the Commander, Operational Test and Evaluation Force, Director of Personnel (J-1) for the Commander, Combined Joint Special Operations Air Component in Balad, Iraq, Deputy Executive Assistant to the Deputy Chief of Naval Operations (Communications and Networks), and Special Assistant and Speechwriter to the Vice Chief of Naval Operations in Washington, DC. Additionally, He is a graduate of the U.S. Naval War College with a Masters of Arts in National Security and Strategic Studies.
His personal awards include the Joint Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, five Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals, four Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals as well as numerous unit and campaign awards.
CDR Bowen was predeceased in 2000 by his father, Arthur Bowen, of Lake Placid, NY. He is survived by his loving mother Sally Ann Weaver (formerly Duprey of Saranac Lake, NY) currently of Jackson, NJ; his brother Mark of Lake Placid, his sister and nephew Deann and Brandon of Howell, NJ, and his stepfather Walter Weaver of Allenwood; as well as a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and hundreds of dear friends, both military and civilian.
CDR Bowen’s funeral was held Monday, 09 March at the Harper-Morris Memorial Chapel in Pensacola. Following the ceremony, he was laid to rest at Barrancas National Cemetery on NAS Pensacola.
Skipper flys on God’s Watch now.
Fair Winds and Following Seas CDR Bowen
41 Entries
Sally Ann Duprey (Mom)
April 14, 2024
....just another sad day of missing you, Matt. I know you are in blissful, glorious Heaven with our Divine Holy Father. I love you always. Until we meet again...
Allen Adkins
April 11, 2024
The Seinfeld of Kings Point...was looking back at SWOS Class 116, Section 2 photo from 1995...reminded me of our initial days in the Navy...so long ago. Sad to hear about Matt's passing - always brought a smile to everyone's face. Fair winds...
Sally Duprey
January 22, 2024
I MISS YOU SO MUCH MY DEARLY BELOVED CHILD...R.I.P. MATT, AND THANK YOU FOR YOUR HEAVENLY LOVE & GUIDANCE. I LOVE YOU. MOM
Aldo Sibi
December 16, 2023
I am taken back to learn my dear grade school friend has passed on. Matt and I were best of friends at Saint Dennis in Manasquan NJ. We lost touch, I can still remember my dad taking us both flying. Matt was a great man. Heart Broken and at a loss for words. I had been searching to try and re-connect. Only to find he has passed on. CAVU on your journey home my friend...Till we meet again!
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Mom
July 9, 2021
I miss you more 'n more with each new day, Matt. Love You Always.
Christine and Harry Brothers
September 6, 2020
Dear Sally and Walt,
The heartbreak is just unfathomable. Matt was a remarkable young man. We recall the many achievements you proudly related to us since the time he was a young boy.
I wish there was something we could say to help heal the pain. We are one with your grief.
Love you both.
Harry and Christine Brothers
Aaron App
August 24, 2020
Matt and I were deployed together in 2007. I was a Marine Ordnance-man, but was fascinated by helicopters. Matt was able to get my family and I in a 60 simulator when we got home. He always told me to chase the dream. I was just reaching out to him to let him know I just passed my commercial check ride only to find out that he is no longer with us. Mayor, thanks for being an inspiration and exceptional leader. Rest easy.
Jonathan Greenert
March 11, 2020
Matt and I served from 2009-2011 in the Vice Chief of Naval Operations office. He was a great speech writer, strategic and common sense thinker, astute communicator and the ultimate networker. We went to Kings Point, NY to visit the Merchant Marine Academy. Matt was treated as the proverbial rock star; it was crystal clear that he was destined for great things from his time at Kings Point. But, most importantly, Matt was a kind and decent person. A great listener. Calm. Ethical. Everyone of us who had the privilege to know Matt and serve with him are better for it. Rest In Peace; may God keep you. Jon
Colin Ivey
March 8, 2020
I first met Mayor as my XO at HT-8 in 2012. A more selfless leader I have not found in my time in the Navy, nor do I think I ever will. I was shocked and saddened to hear of his passing. His consistent mentorship and guidance through the years cant be replaced. Rest easy, Skipper Bowen.
Carl Luxhoj
March 8, 2020
CDR Bowen was mentor and friend to me in flight school. As the unofficial USMMA welcoming committee, he didn't hold my CGA status against me. When I had struggles in primary flight training, he was one of the few people who helped me persevere and move forward. Without his mentor ship and leadership, I may never have become a CG pilot. Thank you CDR, and I will try to pass on your lessons to ensure your legacy lives on.
David Schnell
March 7, 2020
I winged Matt at HT-18 in 2002 and Ill cherish the conversations and genuine friendship that we shared over the last 18 years. One of the nicest, most sincere guys I have ever met. Im truly saddened by this news and I hope that in time, the happy thoughts of Matt will outweigh the sadness that family and friends feel right now. Incredible guy.
Becki Petersen
March 7, 2020
Matt was a friend and mentor to my son, Geoff Petersen. Geoff used to dog sit for Matt when they lived in San Diego. Geoff spoke highly of Matt. When Geoff moved to Enid, OK, Matt drove from Ardmore, OK, where he was working, to Enid to join us for lunch. We enjoyed listening to Matt and Geoff talk Navy talk. I only met Matt a handful of times but he made me feel like we were lifelong friends. We lost a remarkable man away too early; God gained a remarkable man. Rest in peace Matt.
Harry Harris
March 7, 2020
Matt "Mayor" Bowen. Most fitting callsign, ever. We served together in the Pentagon where he brightened EVERYONE's day, from junior enlisted to admirals. Later, he was the CNO's speechwriter. Every person with whom he interacted became a better person. A generation of Navy and Marine Corps helo pilots owe their skill-sets to him. A leader in the air and on the ground; a man of courage and conviction; a wingman's wingman. He's flying on God's wing now.
Mike Herbst
March 7, 2020
The good Lord always takes the best too young. Your soul will live on forever in the memories of those you have touched with your leadership, demeanor and good grace. Fair winds and following seas Matty B. You will be missed.
Deb Catlin
March 6, 2020
There is not enough darkness in the world to dim the light of one small candle.
Matt has undoubtably taken his place (albeit too soon) with those who have gone before him; his father, Arthur, his many uncles whose service includes all branches, cousins, friends and brothers-in-arms.
He could not be anything other than who he became; a man of honor and of service.
My words are inadequate, and my tears minimally express the sadness that I feel.
The impact that Matt had on others is evident on what is shared here.
Pass it on - youll make him smile.
God Bless You, Matthew James ...
James Mason
March 6, 2020
To a great Sailor and a solid man, the world is a lesser place without you Matty B! -Buzz
Nathan Snipes
March 6, 2020
Rest easy Matty
SYOTOS
George Barton
March 6, 2020
Matt rest easy shipmate! You were a bright star! I was so happy for you when you transitioned to aviation and later went 60S. Will miss you!
Sherri Barber
March 6, 2020
Matt was my neighbor. I am shocked and saddened of his passing. I know how much he loved his fur babies, and I will miss their charge across the yard to say hello. I hope they are ok. I will miss seeing Matt's beautiful flowers he would plant each spring. He kept me motivated to keep up my yard seeing how beautiful he made his. I give my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. You will be missed Matt.
Jonathan Lushenko
March 6, 2020
Matt and I first met during deployment with JCS when he was a DH at HSC-8 and I was a JO at HSM-71. We kept in touch over the years and he was always a great friend and mentor. I'm deeply saddened to learn of his passing and will keep his memory alive by emulating the spirit in which he lived life and helped shape the lives of others.
Charles Talley
March 6, 2020
Sir, your energy always did wonders for my motivation during my time in the HTs. You are missed. Fair winds.
Collette Martin
March 6, 2020
CDR Bowen brought positivity with him wherever he went. When he asked "how are you?"; he really cared and wanted to know. It was an honor to know him. I extend my condolences to his immediate family.
Tricia Collins
March 6, 2020
I find it hard to believe you are not here anymore. You were one of the sweetest, caring and kindest people I have known. You had a great sense of humor and the love of your dogs was so special. You will be missed by so many people and I treasure the memories I have of you. RIP Matt.
Chris Barney
March 6, 2020
No words can express my deepest sympathy at this tragic moment, matty was a great man,rest easy Matt we have the watch, Fair winds, and Following seas.
Jim Shirley
March 5, 2020
I knew Matt as a Kings Point Midshipman. He was an eloquent speaker with a graceful manner, mature beyond his years. I was serious when I told him he had the potential to be the first Kings Pointer to become President of the United States. I reminded him of that the couple of times I saw him after he graduated. I am really sorry to hear of his loss. May God Bless those he left behind.
Ron Colyer
March 5, 2020
Matt was a student at HT-18 when I was the CO. When he came back as a CO himself, it was a real treat to see him again. An outstanding Naval Officer. He will be sorely missed, far too young..!
Kristina Cobb
March 5, 2020
I consider myself very fortunate to have known Matt. One of the best human beings I have ever met. A one in a million type of guy. He was someone you just loved to be around - genuinely kind, caring, intelligent, and funny. He had the type of eloquence that could capture a room. Whether it be a meal, wedding, doggie date, birthday, or baseball game- it was always better with Matt there. I am deeply saddened that he departed us so soon, but will cherish the memories. We are all better to have known him. Deepest condolences to his family.
Don Yearwood
March 5, 2020
I knew Matt as a midshipman and graduate. He was an outstanding individual and naval officer.
Kevin Staples
March 5, 2020
It was always an honor knowing you Mattie. You were the standard by which all fellow Kings Pointers strived to emulate. Fair winds and following seas, brother.
Jami Sanderson
March 5, 2020
I didn't know Matt well, but he was a volunteer "host" for some of the Blue Wahoos (AA-Twins) baseball players last season. He had 6-7 players living with him 5 months of last season and the players loved him. He and the dogs were the player's family away from home last season. I saw him at the Blue Wahoos games frequently and he was always cheerful and kind. When I told the players about Matt's passing, they were shocked, and all asked about Ace and Mattie, his sweet pups.
To his closest friends, you were lucky to have known him. Rest well, Matt and thank you for your sacrifices and service to our country.
Mike Cooper
March 5, 2020
Matt was always there when needed for everyone, just an overall nice person who cared about the people around him. Quick with a smile or laugh and the perfect person to cheer up a room. The world is a lesser place with you not around. I will always remember the good times we had at school. My deepest sympathies to your family. You will be missed
Richard Haley
March 5, 2020
Rest In Peace buddy! You were always a good friend to me. I learned so much from you as a pilot and leader in the wardroom. You will be missed!
Ryan Bell
March 5, 2020
It is nice to be important. It is more important to be nice. Matt Bowen told me that. His example and leadership serve as a founding cornerstone for those of us who had the privilege of knowing him. This world is dimmer with your departure Mayor, but your bright light is a legacy shouldered by countless individuals who will carry you in their hearts forever.
RAUL TECSON
March 5, 2020
RIP..SHIPMATE.
Maureen MacDowell
March 5, 2020
Freedom is our greatest asset.Matthew served his country well.May he be in peace and know he was loved by many.My deepest sympathies to my family.Love Maureen.
Abraham Beates
March 4, 2020
Mayor, you made coming into work at HT-8 as a student truly enjoyable! Your smile and attitude was infectious! A generation of helicopter pilots are better because of you. Thank you, and God bless.
Justin Sydlowski
March 4, 2020
The Mayor was by far the most generous and giving person I have ever met. He is the kind of person I aspire to be like one day. His personality and sense of humor was contagious, and he had a special way of making everyone in the room feel like they were special. He will be greatly missed, and I am a better person for have know Matt Bowen.
Bradley Parker
March 4, 2020
Fair winds and following seas. You brought a lot of joy and you'll be missed.
Jansen Hayhurst
March 4, 2020
Mayor I am at a loss of words upon hearing the news of your passing. You have always been a guiding light in my life. You took me under your wings of leadership through flight school and mentored me to ensure that I had the best chances and opportunities for success. You made every effort to remain in my life as I progressed in the fleet. While deployed you sent me care packages with Peanut butter when I told you there was none to be found in Afghanistan. You attended my wedding despite declining my offer to officiate it with your status as Commanding Officer being the officiating title. Its hard to imagine what struggles you may have been going through due to the dedication you always had to current events in my life. You never failed me as a leader or as a friend. Whether it was at the dog park, at gallery night, flight suit Friday, lunch, or during our many discussions about US and world history you made a profound mark in my life. Your guidance and friendship has forever transformed the leader and man that I am in my family and in life. I know that I echo these words through many as your charisma and servitude has reached so many of us. Thank you good servant. You have done your country, your family and your God well. Fair winds and following seas brother. I love you and you will forever be missed and in my thoughts.
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2276 Airport Blvd., Pensacola, FL 32504
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