We will share more of Matthew's story here -- for now, here is a piece shared at Matthew's memorial.  The video above is a piece filmed and reported by by the Oregonian. You can read more on Oregonlive in an article just released, titled "The life and death of an Oregon Guardsman illustrates a national tragedy."

Matthew Michael Brennan was born on February 3, 1989 in Escondido, Ca. to Michael and Maria Brennan. The family moved to Oregon when Matt was 6 years old. He was raised with his seven siblings, Scott, Jared, Christina, Ariel, Aiden, Sophia, and Isabella. Matt attended Wilsonville Elementary School and Tualatin High School. He graduated in 2007 from the Oregon Youth Challenge Program (OYCP).

In 2009, Matt enlisted in the Oregon National Guard. He was activated in 2010 and shipped out to the Middle East where he served honorably as an infantryman for 11 months, defending his nation's freedom. Matt was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal with campaign star, Army Service Ribbon, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Air Force Training Ribbon, and the Combat Infantryman Badge.

Matt felt great pride in serving his country, and always carried that sense of honor with him wherever he went.


In Loving Memory of Matthew M. Brennan

The funeral service for Matthew was held Monday, July 25, 2011 at 1:00 pm at Lincoln Memorial Park & Funeral Home
11801 Se Mount Scott Blvd, Portland, OR 97086 | (503) 771-1117

Matthew was laid to rest on Monday, July 25, 2011 at 2:00 pm at Willamette National Cemetery
11800 SE Mount Scott Blvd, Portland, OR 97086

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