Scud

Pyro was my student (Cadet, ERAU ROTC Prescott) and I returned for his commissioning 23 years ago. He stood out as one of the brightest, kindest and most engaging people I'd ever known. Over the years, we stayed in touch and visited often; the last time being at his final role call at his AZ ANG unit last year. Remarkable but not surprising, the outpouring of admiration, respect and affection displayed by the standing room only crowd, many who'd traveled great distances, and included 2 General officers. An inspirational, larger-than-life type, he became a mentor to my son, taking him up in the -16 sim, giving him a tour of the flight line and ultimately guidance and advice throughout ROTC and UPT. We were able to attend the beautiful ceremony for Matt, and as expected, countless friends and fellow admirers came from all corners to pay their respects. Matt may have been a student at one point, but I probably learned more from him. Nickel on the grass