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Sgt. Matthew L. Deckard
Sgt. Matthew L. Deckard
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Matthew L. Deckard Obituary
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Judy Gill Clark
May 26, 2025
Matt, we still think of you; you are not forgotten. We have not ceased from praying for your family.
Jude
Angela Deckard
December 1, 2024
Dearest Matt,
Today would have been our 30th wedding anniversary. I often wonder how our lives would have turned out if you were still here. I hope as you watch us from above I have made you proud. Happy Heavenly Anniversary! Love, Angela
NIKI VASCIL
May 9, 2023
I was honored to run the Indy Mini this past weekend with Matthew's "The Gold Mile" bib on my back, Thank you for your service
Angela Deckard
September 16, 2019
We think of you always and will love and miss you forever! ❤ Angela, MaKayla. Matthew and Austin
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October 16, 2014
Always in our hearts.
We love you, Angela, MaKayla, Matt and Austin.
Peggy Childers
September 16, 2013
To the family and friends of Sgt. Matthew L. Deckard:
Always remembering Matthew. "Some gave all."
November 3, 2012
In memory of Matthew Deckard.
Peggy Childers
September 16, 2011
To the family and friends of Sgt. Matthew L. Deckard:
Please accept my remembrance of Matthew on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Peggy Childers
September 16, 2010
To the family and friends of Sgt. Matthew L. Deckard:
Remembering Matthew on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
armybeef68
July 4, 2010
All gave some...some gave all
SPC David Harrison Ford IV 16 Sep 2005
SGT Matthew L. Deckard 16 Sep 2005
1SGT Alan N. Gifford 16 Sep 2005
SSG Paul R. Marek WIA 16 Sep 2005
SGT Victor M. Cortes III 29 May 2005
SGT Jerry L. Bonifacio Jr 10 Oct 2005
CPT Michael J. Mackinnon 27 Oct 2005
SPC Jose A. Rubio Hernandez 24 Mar 2008
SSG Christopher M. Hake 24 Mar 2008
PVT George Delgado 24 Mar 2008
PFC Andrew J. Habsieger 24 Mar 2008
SGT Steve A. McCoy 10 Jun 2008 WIA 23 Mar 2008
PV2 Joshua C. Schichtl WIA 06 Jan 2008
SFC Aaron D. Cornelius WIA 15 Apr 2008
SGT Mario A. Ojeda Jr WIA 05 May 2008
3rd Infantry Division
4th Brigade
4-64 Armor Battalion
You will NEVER be forgotten....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7-ys7UaRRQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M0SAtlv7gtw
brieaunna deckard
June 29, 2010
hey uncle matt this is brieaunna u may not know me or anything but im your brothers kid nd my dad misses u so much my dads stilll upset about u been gone its hard on him he lost my mom nd than u a year atfer that its crazy nd it hurts him so much but imma stick up for my da through anything he is proud of u nd he loves u oh so very much we all do. i know ur looking downn on my dad nd our prays are with u just know my daddys pruod of his younger brother nd he love u with all his heart nd he would do anything to bring you back my dads a good man nd u nd me both know at.
Cassie Gill
May 10, 2010
Happy Birthday Matt. Our memories never fade and our hearts will never heal. You are sadly missed today and every day.
We Love You,
Mom, Dad & Lachelle
Mom & Dad
December 26, 2009
Merry Christmas Matt. We've finally been able to see the kids and we have had a great time with them. Kay is as pretty as ever and Noah is turning into a fine young man, just like his dad.Austin is doing good and is so full of love. We will keep your legacy alive with them and photos of you will always be proudly displayed here at home for them to see and be able to remember. Thanks for looking after all of us and being our guardian. Love Ya..
Michelle Best
September 26, 2009
Hey Matt,
This is your sister missing and loving you so very much. Matthew things are going so well and life is so much better for me you would be so proud of me. I know you know because Heaven allows for to see all of us. We haven't seen the kids but we should be able to soon. I know they miss their daddy so much. They may not realize or understand yet but they have the BEST angel looking down on them and protecting them. Matthew I love and miss you and I'll see when I get to Heaven.
I Love You With All My Heart,
Michelle
Cassie Gill
September 26, 2009
Matt,
Four years ago today was your funeral. I miss you every day and I know the pain of losing you will never go away.I promise you son, that you will never be forgotten and you will always be honored with diginity and respect as a Fallen Hero. I love you and miss you but I truly know that you are in Heaven and you are happy. I will see you when it is my time. I miss you and love you with all my heart. It is so hard for a mom to loose her baby son even though you grew up to be a wonderful adult. Your friends have spoken so highly of you and you grew up to be a great soldier and wonderful person.
I Love you,
Mom
Sgt. Matthew L. Deckard Memorial Monument
Glenn Gill
September 16, 2009
Hey Matt,
Though it has been four years, it seems like only yesterday. As we visited your monument this morning we could feel your presence. As you know, so much has happened since that unforgettable day and over the past year, we know that you have had a hand in all the good that has come our way. John is here now as well as "Cap" and many of your other comrades. Though some have chose to forget and let memories of you slip silently into the night, you can be assured that we will never forget. We wish that you could have returned and followed thru with your plans. Man, the smile that we would have seen on your face! Anyways, bless you on this day and every day in the future. You are sadly missed but we know you are soaring high and forever free.
Always in our hearts and minds,never to be forgotten,we love you.
Mom, Dad & Lachelle
July 2, 2009
Matt
Just sitting here thinking of you,don't know what to say but we love and miss you. one day we will see you again and give you the biggest hug.
Love Dad and Cindy
Kenna Larra
May 30, 2009
”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,450 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna
Cozette Haggerty
February 18, 2009
Re: Sgt Matthew L. Deckard, KIA 9/16/05
Hello,
I represent PRAYER SHAWLS 4 FALLEN SOLDIERS (PS4FS), an organization that since October 2007 has sent over 2,700 prayer shawls to military families who have lost a loved one. We are an organization of over 238 groups from all over the country. We make every effort to reach families even when post cards are returned after they have moved. Would you kindly send me a contact email/address so that we may send a prayer shawl to the family? Thank you!
Cozette Haggerty, Prayer Shawls 4 Fallen Soldiers
Email: [email protected]
Website Address: http://webpages.charter.net/ps4fs/shawls
Glenn Gill
December 25, 2008
Merry Christmas Matt. You are very much missed today as every day. We love you.
Mom,Dad & Lachelle
In Memory of Matthew ~ (Debra Estep)
September 16, 2008
Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.
The Wind on The Downs
“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”
(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )
Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….
“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”
I did not know Matthew, but I am remembering
his service. He is my hero. !
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The Other Side
i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.
can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.
i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side
the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)
“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008
The Other Side –
(To hear the song)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol
Sincerely,
Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom SSgt Vince – Lackland AFB
Proud Air Force MIL SrA Dana – Randolph AFB
Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55
Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b
Glenn Gill
September 15, 2008
Well our hero, it's been three years but seems like only yesterday. WE will never forget you and you will always be honored and missed by us. Always in our hearts, minds and prayers. Love ya Matt.
Mom, Dad & Lachelle.
Jen
August 30, 2008
Matt please hold my niece close and tell her we love her and we love you. R.I.P.
Jen
August 10, 2008
hey just wanted to stop by and say that u are not and will never be forgotten.we love and miss you.
Pam Johnson
May 11, 2008
Just wanted to say "Happy Birthday" to you Matt" and hope you seen how much fun we had when Angie and the kids were here for Easter.
Love,
Aunt Pam
Angela
May 10, 2008
Happy Birthday...We love and miss you so very much...
Your loving family: Angela, MaKayla, Matthew, Austin, Cassie, Glenn, LaChelle...
Marcie Jaramillo
May 10, 2008
We love you Matthew eacgh and every day. We think about you all the time and know you are watching over dad and and everybody else.
Love you baby sister
Marcie Jaramillo (Deckard)
jen childers
May 10, 2008
Happy Birthday to a true hero.
Jen
May 9, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you Sgt Deckard!
Angela
February 3, 2008
I Love You Baby With All My Heart and Soul. Always and Forever Your Loving Wife...
August 16, 2007
There is nothing that I can say or do to take away the pain or bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer you and your family my heart felt condolences. I also offer you my prayers that in time the pain will easy and the memories of your HERO will carry you through each day and night. I want to thank your HERO, for his/her selfless act of becoming a member of the armed forces, his/her willingness to defend the United States of America, all that we hold sacred and for the sacrifice that will forever be etched in the memories of all those who knew him/her. Though tears can never bring him/her back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that he/she made and our sorrow at his/her passing. I believe for every fallen HERO there is a star shining brightly up above to remind us of the precious gift we were given.
Your mission on earth is complete and you are now a member of GOD’s Heavenly armed forces. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the HEROES who have passed before.
I made a special promise to LE RON A. WILSON, a dear family friend who joined the Army with three other friends, one of whom is my son (Le Ron was killed in action on 07/06/07 at the age of 18) on the day he was laid to rest as I touched his coffin, that I would never forget him nor would I forget those that gave their lives for our country before him, with him and after him and so when I came across www.legacy.com, I thought what a great way to keep my promise to Le Ron, so I will continue to leave tributes in each guest book until the day there is no longer the need to leave these tributes to a FALLEN HERO.
REST IN PEACE, HERO, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!
PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Currently stationed in Germany
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)
July 23, 2007
Thank you for the sacrifice made by Sgt Deckard and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!
michelle best
April 25, 2007
matthew this is your sister again, i love and miss you so much. i want you to know i think about you everyday. i cant wait to see you in heaven when i get there. love,
michelle
Jessica Pavillard
January 22, 2007
Dear Deckard Family,
Though I did not know your fallen hero, I found his bio and had to say thank you to you. I myself am an Army wife, I know what it feels like to send my loved one to be in harm's way. I know how it feel to wait for endless days, waiting for phone calls and emails, the sleep that won't come and the nightmares that do. On that part, I am your sister. I was lucky, my husband came home alright. I know it is not much that separate us. One road. One IED. One turn. Not much, really... Tears fill my eyes when I think of you, how you must feel. I have no words to tell you how my heart goes out to you. I want to tell you thank you. Thank you for those sleepless nights, those bad days where you didn't know where he was, what he was doing and then he would call and everything would be alright~ for a few days~ because if it hadn't been for you, he wouldn't have been able to be who he was, wouldn't have been able to be strong and brave. He wouldn't have had a reason. Thank you for loving him, without that, he might not have wanted to be the man he was, might not have been in the place he was, and he might not have bothered to be a hero. But he was. He couldn't have done that without you. You were his reason. You were his life. What a wonderful thing! Thank you to his parents~ Thank you for being such great teachers, thank you for listening to him, for being there, for scolding him when he needed it, for loving him when he was difficult, for grounding him when he needed that, and for loving him all the time. You taught him courage, you taught him greatness. You taught him to be the man he was, the good man, the great father, the strong soldier, and the loving husband. He was a reflection of your love. Be proud of yourself, he was such a reflection of goodness, that people who never knew him~ like me~ cry for him and for you~ what a thing that is! Tears flow down my cheeks as I think of you, dear hero's Mother... my son is a senior this year, he plans to enlist this summer, and I can't imagine your pain. I wish there were some way that I could wave a magic wand and make you whole again, but I can't, of course. I can only tell you that your son will be remembered as a hero. That you did a wonderful job as his mother, that you have a piece of him with you always in your heart, in your grandchildren, in your mirror too. I send you my heart, dear ladies, family of this fallen hero, his wife, his mother, his sisters, and I thank you for him. He was a hero. He was strong and brave, he made a difference. If not for you, he could not have been the strong light he was. Surely the world was a better place because he was in it and it is a little dimmer because he is not longer in it... I have no doubt he is in the Angel on your shoulder now, and he will be remembered by those who never knew him, like me, he gave all. In a world of few heroes, he was one. He was loved. That is apparent from your sweet words to him. I am so sorry for your loss. I send you sympathy from one military family to another, with my heart and my thanks...
lachelle best
January 1, 2007
hey uncle matt happy new year i love you and miss you
Jeff Dunkleman
December 30, 2006
Well we made it across the burm from Kuwait waiting for the order to go and then waiting for the orders to go home. Through some tough times.
In Honor of our Fallen Hero
December 17, 2006
Lachelle Best
September 17, 2006
Hey uncle Matt, I can not believe that today is a year. Yesterday when we were at your resting place in Harlan, the bugs were biting me and they really hurt, but then mommy asked you could make them stop and they did so now I know that you are watching over us. I love you so much.
Glenn & Cassie Gill
September 17, 2006
Hey Matt,
A year has passed and it only feels like yesterday.
The saying, " You don't raise Heroes, you raise sons, and if you treat them like sons, they'll turn out to be Heroes" is the most appropriate quote that echoes through our minds on this anniversary of being notified of the sacrifice you made for all of us one year ago today.
We have, and will always, be proud of you.
The black butterfly with the blue tipped wings that appeared from nowhere, that circled each of us before floating away as we visited your final resting place yesterday will remain as yet another wonderful memory that we have been left with. We know that you were smiling as you looked down on us.
A loved one lives forever in the hearts of those that cared.
A loved one lives forever in the memories that were shared.
We all love and miss you so very much.
We love you son,
Mom & Dad
Garnet Jenkins
September 16, 2006
Paying tribute to Sgt. Matthew L. Deckard on the anniversary of the day, he gave his life for our Country and for Freedom, with a Multitude of Thanks, for his Dedication and Service.
Rest In Peace Young Hero, in God's Mighty Hands and may God's Loving Grace and comfort continue to be with the Deckard family.
Those who Made the Ultimate Sacrifice, So Many and So Young, Shall NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.
My brother among them. KIA-Vietnam 1967.
Sincerely Hope that you continue to feel the thoughts of caring and support that surround you each day, as this Country mourns with you, for someone very precious to you, who is a Hero to all of us.
May the memories of your loved one live in your heart always.
Softly and slowly....
Time heals...
Pam Johnson
September 15, 2006
Matt,
Tomorrow will be 1 year since you journied into Heaven. You are still thought of and loved every day by those who had the honor of knowing you.
"Greater love has no one than this,
than to lay down his life for his friends."
~John 15:13~
"To live in the hearts
of those you leave behind
is never to die"
Missing you!
Love,
Aunt Pam & family
Christina Rhys
August 5, 2006
You have my deepest sympathies and my greatest respect. The ultimate sacrifice that your loved one gave means that my loved ones may continue to live in a USA that is a little safer from another terrorist attack.
God Bless you. You have all of my support and prayers.
Angela Deckard
July 4, 2006
I Love You So Much Matt.
Your Loving Wife...
John Vernon
June 30, 2006
Hey buddy,
there is not a day that goes by that i dont think of you and Ford and 1sgt.
you were a good friend and a great leader. the fact that there are still people posting here is proof that you will not be forgotten. i remember when we got top tank and just barley beat sgt Wilson, man he was mad lol. well i will miss you buddy.
lachelle best
June 20, 2006
hey uncle matt i miss you so much wish you were with us love ya
Angela Deckard
June 18, 2006
Happy Fathers Day Daddy. We wish so much that you were here with us today and everyday.
We Love You So Much,
Makayla, Noah and Austin
ROBYN GARSIDE
June 8, 2006
MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS. I HAVE JUST LEARNED OF YOUR GREAT LOSS AND WISH TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES. PLEASE KNOW THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE OUT HERE WHO DO CARE AND YOUR HERO WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. THERE JUST AREN'T ENOUGH WORDS HERE ON EARTH TO EASE YOUR SORROW I KNOW. HOLD TIGHT TO YOUR TREASURED MEMORIES THAT HIS SPECIAL SMILE MAY CONTINUE TO SHINE ON FOR YOUR LITTLE ONES. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. STAY STRONG AND GODSPEED. SEMPER FI
A PROUD MARINE MOM
Michelle Best
May 14, 2006
Matt this is your sister missing you very much. I wrote to you on your birthday last year and never sent it off. I wish that I did because there were so many things in that letter that I wanted you to know, especially of how proud I was of you. But I know now that your in heaven you can read that letter even though I didn't send it off. Matthew I think about you everyday. I will never be the same. I keep your picture on my television in my living room so I can see you everyday. I have the best memories of childhood with you and Micheal,we had so much fun growing up together. I hope your kids are as close as we were,if they are I know thier childhood will be as loving as ours were as siblings.
Angi and the kids has left us with memories of you forever that we'll be able to see grow that makes me happy and hopefully someday soon we'll all be close to think about you together and watch you grow through your kids. I can't wait to tell your kids how we played as kids.Matthew Lynn Deckard I love you so much, you left too soon, I can't wait to see you in heaven because I know your there.Now I know we all have an angel in heaven watching over us.
Matt I love and miss you so much, your sister Michelle
May 10, 2006
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADDY!!!
We Love and Miss You So Much.
MaKayla, Noah & Austin
May 10, 2006
Matt,
Wishing you were here on this Very Special Day and Everyday.
Happy Birthday, My Love...
Your Loving Wife, Angela
Cassie Gill
May 10, 2006
Dear Matt,
Today is your birthday and you turned 30 years old in Heaven. I know there will be a special birthday party there for you today because this is your first birthday in Heaven.
I have all my memories of you growing up, but for me, you grew up too fast and left this Earth too soon.
Today you should be celebrating your birthday with Angie and your babies, eating pizza and hot wings.
Our lives have been changed forever and we all miss you so much. I know that I will never be at peace until I can see and hug you again.My beautiful son, I miss you and love you with all my heart.
If my tears could build a stairway, and my memories a lane, I would walk right up to Heaven, and bring you home again.
Mom
Charles Weaver
April 19, 2006
Angie, Makayla, Noah, and Austin,
I can not tell you how sorry I am that your husband and father never came home from Iraq with the rest of battalion. I know that you miss him alot. I also miss him and wish he was here. Your dad and husband was a good man. I will always remember him and consider him a friend. During the time I spent with your father at
4-64 I came to like him alot. He always talked about his family and he loved his soldiers. I will always cherish the time I got to spend with him. Mr. and Mrs. Gill you brought him up well and he brings great honor to you, Angie and his children. Be very proud of him and know that I and my fellow "Tuskers" will never forget him. Angie, if you ever need anything you know my family and I will always be there for you and the kids. Makayla, Noah, and Austin, your dad loved you and was very proud of you guys. When the time comes that you want to talk about your dad with someone besides your family let me know. Be good for your mother. Make your father proud. I am proud to have served with your dad. It will always be the greatest honor to me that I was able to escort him to his final resting place. You guys will always be in my thoughts and prayers.
Angela Deckard
April 18, 2006
I LOVE YOU WITH ALL MY HEART AND SOUL...
Your Loving Wife, Angela
jarrid lott
April 14, 2006
I'm sorry I couldnt go back with Mat to Iraq . Maybe things would have been different. Mat tried to get me to stay in the army but I didnt want to leave my family again. now he has left his for good. he was a great guy and I had a hell of time working out with him. I'm sorry I wasnt there for you man. I carry my guilt forever.
Matt on his M1A1
March 29, 2006
Matt in Iraq
March 29, 2006
Angela Deckard
March 19, 2006
Matt, We are missing you so much. Everyday is so unbearable without you here with us. Your boys are having such a hard time without you and so is your Princess. We love you so much.I found an email that you had wrote to me while you were home for R&R, Im so thankful for your suprises.You are My Heart and Soul Forever,I love you, Shorty...
Tom Gugliuzza-Smith
February 14, 2006
My heartfelt sympathy to the Deckard family in the loss of Matthew. I did not know Matthew, but my heart is broken and I am sadden for your loss of such a fine young man and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers.
I send each of you a hug from the most inner part of my heart.
Love and Peace
Tom
To live in the hearts
of those you leave behind
is never to die"
~Robert Orr~
Glenn & Cassie Gill
December 25, 2005
Today is Christmas Matt and we know you are having a most wonderful Christmas in Heaven.
We know that if we could see you now,
we wouldn't shed a tear,
though we may not understand why you are no longer here.
We know that you have beheld our Fathers face
and you've touched our Saviors hand and all of the Heavens angels rejoiced as you entered the promised land.
We know that beyond the gates of pearl you've walked on the golden streets.
We know you've touched the walls of jasper and dipped your foot in the crystal sea.
We know the beauty is beyond words that nothing could compare,
and someday we'll meet you there.
Let Jesus be your guide because His Word will show you the way.
Please don't cry because we will meet again someday.
We Love and Miss you so much Matt.
Blessings on this day,
Mom, Dad and Lachelle
SFC .(RET)Cecil H. Greenwell
December 19, 2005
I WOULD LIKE TO EXPRESS MY SORROW TO THE FAMILY OF SGT DECKARD FOR YOUR LOSS. I WAS SGT DECKARD'S INSTRUCTOR AT THE NCO ACADEMY AT FT STEWART.I REMEMBER SGT DECKARD AND THE REST OF HIS SQUAD QUITE WELL. I REMEMBER THEM ALL AS A "SPIRITED BUNCH". IN THOSE DAYS, INSTRUCTORS CARRIED WOODEN WALKING STICKS, TO USE IN THE FIELD.THAT SQUAD GAVE ME ONE THEY HAND CARVED AND ALL SIGNED AS A GIFT. THEY WERE THE BEST( AND MY FAVORITE) SQUAD THAT I TAUGHT IN THE FOUR YEARS I WAS THERE. I WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER THEIR LAUGHTER AND SPIRIT. I AM A FORMER TANKER WITH 4-64 ARMOR, SO I UNDERSTAND THE DIFFICULT JOB SGT DECKARD DID EVERY DAY.. MAY GOD BLESS HIM AND HIS FAMILY
Cassie Gill
November 24, 2005
Thankful for the Memories...
I'm thankful for your smile
I'm thankful for you laugh
I'm thankful for your big blue eyes
I'm thankful for the way you sat Indian Style..just like me
I'm thankful for the way you held your shoulders
I'm thankful for Our Special Talks
I'm thankful that I can still hear your voice calling out Mom
But most of all, I'm thankful for your hugs that I can still feel today.
I love and miss you with all my heart.
Love,
Mom
Marcie Jaramillo(Deckard)
October 18, 2005
Matthew it's me Marcie I just wanted to say that your Dad was given your ribbions and medals today, I have to say you accomplished alot on your tour of duty. He also received a American flag. I think Dad had gotten the appreaction he deserves for being a good Father that he is. Well still Love you and we will carry you in hearts forever... Love always your baby sister Marcie Jaramillo(Deckard)
Travis Nelson
October 6, 2005
To the family of Sgt Matthew Deckard,
I am so sorry for the loss of your loved one. Sgt Deckard as I knew him was a great friend and an excellent nco. I will miss him dearly as will the rest of the platoon. It has been an honor and a privelege to serve beside our fallen brother and I will always cherish the memories I have of him.
Sincerely,
Travis Nelson
Leo Jaramillo
October 3, 2005
My name is "Leo" BM2 Jaramillo is my military name, I am married to to Marcie, Matthew's sister. I don't know what to say, I never knew him nor met him, however I have heard a lot about him before he passed. I send my most sincere condolences and respects to the Deckards specifically the Deckard side of the family, one day you will all meet again, thank you Sgt Deckard we are all proud of you...
Very Respectfully
BM2(SW)JARAMILLO
Amber Colwell
October 2, 2005
I am with Soldiers Angels. I want you to know that each and every soldier we have over there is cherished and each life lost is a tragedy. I am very sorry for everything you are going through now. Please feel free to lean on soldier Angels if you need anything. Take care.
Marianne & Butch Nave
September 30, 2005
We were very sad about your loss. Our prayers are said for your family
Adolfo and Alexandra Marrero
September 30, 2005
To the Family of Sgt. Matthew Deckard
I DONT KNOW HOW MANY TIMES I HAVE TOLD YOU THAT I DONT HAVE WORDS, I STILL DONT HAVE ANY.
BUT I CAN TELL YOU HE WAS A GREAT MAN, LOVING DAD AND HUSBAND. MY HUSBAND SAID HOW HE WAS ALWAYS TALKING ABOUT HIS WIFE AND KIDS, AND HOW MUCH HE LOVED THEM.
MY HUSBAND HAD THE HONOR TO WORK WITH SGT. DECKARD AND I HAD THE HONOR OF KNOWING HIM TRUE MY HUSBAND AND THERE WORK. SGT. DECKARD ALWAYS SMILED AND I ASKED HIM BEFORE " DONT YOU HAVE PROBLEMS, WHY ARE YOU ALWAYS SMILING" HE DID NOT SAY ANYTHING HE JUST SMILED.
I WILL REMEMBER HIM SMILING! AND WHEN I SEE HIM AGAIN IN HEAVEN I GUESS HE WILL BE SMILING.
WE ARE HONORED TO HAVE KNOWN SGT. MATTHEW DECKARD OUR HERO
ANGIE,MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR KIDS ALWAYS
CASSI , THANK YOU FOR RAISING A FINE HUSBAND ,FATHER SON AND SOLDIER. MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR HUSBAND.
I AM LOOKING FORWARD OF MEETING MY "SMILING" HERO IN HEAVEN
LOVE AND PRAYERS TO THE ENTIRE FAMILY
THE MARRERO FAMILY
Randall Boler
September 30, 2005
Im still here in Iraq and my heart goes out to Derkard's family and friends, we will stay here until the end, he's a great man and we will all miss him 3ID for life, HHC 703D FSB Ft Stewart Ga, Camp Falcon Iraq, God Bless
Chad, Lynn, Matthew and Michael Deckard
September 29, 2005
Amanda G
September 29, 2005
I never knew this hero but as I write this the tears stream down my cheeks. I am a Soldiers Angel and I proudly support our men and women serving for our country. May God be with the family of this gentleman as they grieve. May God forever hold Sgt. Deckard in his arms. Take solace in the fact that you will see him again one day. If any of the family needs anything please contact us at Soldiers Angels. Bless you all.
Cassie Gill
September 29, 2005
Dear Matt,
You will always be my baby. My fondest memories of you are when you would place your chubby little hands on my face and give me a kiss and a hug.
You loved your Big Wheels Matt....going through three of them and a Green Machine. I would watch you peddle as fast as you could, those chubby little legs working as fast as they would, and then spinning out at the end of each run with the look of a thrilled child in your face. I should have known there was a reason you loved those things so much because when you grew up, you traded them for a bigger toy, a M-1 Tank.
I am so proud that you had grown into a fine young man. I will pass on the memories of your childhood to your children. Your wife Angie will pass on to your children the memories of your adulthood.
Matt, I can not tell you enough how much I miss you. I am also so proud that you grew up to be a wonderful husband, father and Hero. My heart breaks for the loss of you, but my memories will never fade.
I Love You,
Mom
andrea bogner
September 29, 2005
Sgt. Matthew L. Deckard,
Thank you so much for your sacrafice for our nation. You payed the ultimate price for our freedom and for that you truly are a national treasure.
JUNE & GENE KLINE
September 28, 2005
MATT, WE NEVER GOT TO MEET YOU BUT I KNOW SOMEDAY IN HEAVEN WE WILL. YOU ARE A HERO TO ALL OF US. GOD WILL WATCH OVER YOUR WIFE AND THREE CHILDREN, WE WILL PRAY FOR THEM EVERYDAY. YOU LIVE ON IN THE HEARTS OF YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS. REST IN PEACE IN HEAVEN MATT. SOMEDAY WE WILL MEET YOU THERE.
Rosalie Mormile
September 28, 2005
Am sorry for your lost and I hope that your family fines peace in the thought that there are many people that our praying and crying with you.
Marcie Jaramillo(Deckard)
September 27, 2005
Matt I love you and will miss you dearly, this has really hit hard at home...it is hard for dad, but he is proud of you and always will be..he loves you very much...We all do You are a true Deckard one of a kind...I will show my daughter pictures of you and tell her how much of a hero you are...I wish you could have met her,Joslyn Jaramillo is her name and she will be two sept 30, she is great, but as you know I too was in the military and lived so far away..My husband BM2 leonard Jaramillo sends his deepest respect, even though he doesn't know you he knew enough by how much we talked about you. We love you Matt and you will always be in our hearts and your legacy will go on with yours three kids and I wish them well and to be strong because they had my brother Matthew Deckard as their father...May you rest in Peace in Heaven....
Love always Your baby sister..
Marcie K Jaramillo(Deckard)
I Love You
I wish someday I will get to meet you little ones Take care and I wish you three well and you all had a wounderful daddy!!!!
Angela Deckard
September 27, 2005
My husband, my soulmate, my best friend. We have been apart of each other so long. I don't know how to go on without you baby. Always remember our love will last for eternity. I love you, Always and Forever. Shorty
Daniele Dennis
September 27, 2005
my thoughts and prayers are with the family. no words can say how sorry I am for your loss. God bless
Marti Trussell
September 27, 2005
I would like to express my deepest sympathy to the family of Sgt. Matthew L. Deckard. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Matthew is a hero and will live on forever in your hearts and memories. Matthew has helped to make the world a safer place for my family and yours. God bless you. A Soldiers Angel
Margaret Nesmith
September 27, 2005
To the family and friends of Sgt. Matthew Deckard my deepest sympathies. May your special memories of him keep him forever with you.
Soldiers' Angel
Aunt Pam
September 27, 2005
We thought of you with love today
But that is nothing new.
We thought about you yesterday
And days before that too.
We think of you in silence
We often speak your name.
Now all we have are memories
And your picture in a frame.
Your memory is our keepsake
With which we'll never part
God has you in His keeping
We have you in our Heart.
Nicole Lischka
September 27, 2005
To the family of Sgt. Matthew L. Deckard. You are in my thoughts and prayers through this difficult time. I am very sorry for your loss. May God bless you.
From the Soldiers Angels,
valerie deckard
September 27, 2005
We all are going to miss you very much. You were a very brave man and I will always respect that. The Deckard's will always be proud for what you did. We loved you very much and always will. One day we will all be together again!!! God bless you Matt. Love always, your sister, Valerie
Cindie Walker
September 27, 2005
Our deepest sympathy to the family of Matt Deckard.
I do want you to know, that we support everyone of our soldiers out there fighting for not only our country, but for us. It's truely a blessing to be able to be a part of their lives.
Cindy Deckard
September 27, 2005
Matthew we will always love and miss you, We may not have seen alot of each other but it didn't mean we didn't love you, We love and think about you all the time.We will always have a special place in our hearts for you. Love your "Dad" and stepmother Cindy and your brother and sisters Valerie,Marcie and Chad Deckard
Childers Jennifer
September 27, 2005
Matt was my cousin's husband. He was a great man, there will never be another like him. His kids adored him and he them. I always thought the world of Matt, he was a good guy. He fit in with our family perfectly and it is truly a honor to say that he was part of my family. I don't think there were many people who knew him that didn't like him. As for me and my family we loved him and will surely miss him.
roger gill,jr
September 26, 2005
THE SACRIFICE OF A HERO IS GREATER THAN ANYTHING ELSE I CAN IMAGINE.MATTS LOVE FOR HIS FAMILY AND COUNTRY WILL FOREVER BE HIS LEGACY.YOU CAN NOT FIND MANY MEN WHO WILL SERVE OTHERS BY MAKING THE ULTMATE SACRIFICE,BUT MATT IS ONE OF THESE MEN.THANK-YOU MATT!YOUR MEMORY WILL NOT BE FORGOTTEN.
Esther Gill
September 25, 2005
Go with God
Your Job on Earth is done!
DIANE LARSEN
September 25, 2005
SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT MATTHEW DYING! GOD BLESS THE ONES HE LEFT BEHIND ! DIANE
Eileen and Bill Jeker
September 24, 2005
Our sincere deepest condolences are extended to the family of another fallen hero from two very grateful Americans. Matthew, may you rest in peace.
CH (CPT) Peter Johnson
September 24, 2005
SGT Mat Deckard I counted it a supreme honor to have served with you. You were a great soldier, a great American, and a great man. My sincere prayers are with your family. I'll see you again. Rest now in the arms of God, and may He continue to shower your family with His mercy.
Mandy Dubson
September 23, 2005
I came accross this poem the other day and I thought of you Matt...
If I knew it would be the last time
That I'd see you fall asleep,
I would tuck you in more tightly
and pray the Lord, your soul to keep
If I knew it would be the last time
that I see you walk out the door,
I would give you a hug a kiss
and call you back for one more.
If I knew it would be the last time
I'd hear your voice lifted up in praise,
I would video tape each action and word,
so I could play them back day after day
If I knew it would be the last time,
I could spare an extra minute
to stop and say "I love you,"
instead of assuming you would know I do
If I knew it would be the last time
I would be there to share your day,
Well I'm sure you'll have so many more,
so I can let just this one slip away
For surely there's always tomorrow
to make up for a oversight,
and we always get a second chance
to make everything just right
There will always be another chance
to say our "Anything I can do?"
But just in case I might be wrong,
and today is all I get,
I'd like to say how much I love you
and I hope we never forget
Tomorrow is not promised to anyone,
young or old alike,
And today may be the last chance
you get to hold your loved one tight
so if you're waiting for tomorrow,
why not do it today?
For if tomorrow never comes,
you'll surely regret the day
That you didn't take that extra time
for a smile, hug, or a kiss
and you were too busy to grant someone,
what turned out to be their one last wish
So hold your loved ones close today,
and whisper in their ear,
Tell them how much you love them
and that you'll always hold them dear
Take time to say "I'm sorry,"
"Please forgive me," "Thank you," or
"It's okay"
And if tomorrow never comes,
you'll have no regrets about today!
You will be missed by most and remembered by All!
Cynthia A & Roger E Gill, Sr.
September 23, 2005
I can not begin to tell you how sorry we are for the loss of your husband, Angie and your son Glenn & Cassie. We do want you to know how much we love you all and will continue to keep all of you in our prayers.
The sacrifice that you have been asked to pay for our freedom is tremendous. We are so honored by Matt's love for his country and willingness to serve and protect us all.
Thank you Matt, the greatest gift a man could do is to lay down his life for friends or family and that you have done. We are truly honored to have you for our great-nephew and will look forward to the day of our reunion in heaven.
God bless you Angie in the days, weeks and months ahead.
Larry and Lola Cross
September 23, 2005
Our deepest sympathy to the family of Matt Deckard.
May God wrap you all in the peace and comfort of His arms, and help you through the days ahead.
Clinton Comley
September 23, 2005
To the family of Sgt. Deckard,
My brother, Marine LCpl. Chase Comley was taken from us on August 6. Though I do not know your family, I do know your pain and I am sorry for your loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
Virginia Williams
September 23, 2005
Even though we have never met, I wanted to share a poem with you.
You see I lost my only son when he was one month away from his 22nd birthday. That was in 1980. I know the pain and the sorrow that you feel.
I know in time the awful hurting inside of you will heal. I know right now it’s hard to Imagine that life can even go on. I can’t imagine anything worse then losing a child.
I am a Christian and I know that God’s strength saw me and my husband through. There were many days we just didn’t want to go on, but He was always there to help us.
I hope you will not take offence by receiving this. I only mean it to help and
let you know that I care. I will keep you in my prayers.
May God bless you in a very special way, as He took a very special person from this world to be with Him. I thank God every day for men like your son who are willing to fight for our freedom and the freedom of oppressed nations. I know Matthew has made a difference in every life he has touched.
Remember, John 3:16 says “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should nor perish but have everlasting life.”
At Death of a Child
“I’ll lend you for a little while
A child of mine,” He said.
“For you to love the while he lives
And mourn when he is dead.
It may be six or seven years, or
Twenty two or three,
But will you ’til I call him back,
Take care of him for Me?
He’ll bring his charms to gladden you,
And should his days be brief,
You’ll have his lovely memories
As solace for your grief.
I cannot promise he will stay,
Since all from earth return,
But there are lessons taught down there
I want this child to learn.
I’ve looked this wide world over
In my search for teachers true,
And from the throngs that crowd life’s lane,
I have selected you.
Now will you give all your love,
Nor think the labor vain,
Nor hate me when I come to call
To take him back again?”
I fancy that I heard them say,
“Dear Lord, Thy will be done.
For all the joy this child shall bring,
The risk of grief we’ll run;
We’ll shelter him with tenderness,
We’ll love him while we may,
And for the happiness we’ve known
Forever grateful stay.
But should the angels call for him,
Much sooner then we’ve planned,
We’ll brave the bitter grief that comes
And try to understand.”
-Edgar Albert Guest
September 22, 2005
In Honor of Matt
September 22, 2005
Lachelle Best
September 21, 2005
Matt was my uncle I remember when he had come down when my aunt had died.At my aunts funeral I was crying and my uncle Matt had said come here.I went back there and he put me on his lap and said I love you.I did not want him to go back home because I was scared I would never see him agin.But we went down to see him for new years.He told us that he was going back to the Iraq. He had told my papaw glenn that he had a dream that he was not coming back.The last thing I heard him say to me was I love you and take care of mamaw and papaw I said dont worry uncel Matt you will come back I love you.Now to this day that same thing he told me replayes over and over in my head.But I know my uncle Matt died for my country to make it more safe for me.But I still cant beleive he is dead.He is up in heaven with my aunt mia,i can live with that.
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