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PFC Matthew Alan Sandberg
December 18, 1987 - October 9, 2008 Matthew Sandberg enlisted in the U.S. Army on Oct 11, 2007, and completed basic combat training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. He completed his advanced individual training at Fort Bliss, Texas, as a transportation specialist, and served as a heavy vehicle driver for the battalion. He had just completed specialized training in preparation for an upcoming deployment. Matthew was slated to go with his battalion to Iraq later in 2008 when, on October 9th of that year, an accident happened at Fort Hood. Matthew was ground guiding a military vehicle at the post’s rail yard, when he was crushed by a rack assembly. He died at the scene. Unfortunately some of our Heroes lose their lives due to accidents, which is so difficult to accept, but according to his mother Pamela England, it probably happens more than we realize. Matthew Alan Sandberg was born in Longmont, Colorado. He attended Outward Bound in Colorado and Job Corps in Darby, Montana. He attended Full Circle of Lake County and was a member of Boogie Down Productions. He graduated from Lake County High School in 2008 through the Colorado Mountain College Door Program. Matthew was an amateur mycologist. He very much enjoyed snowboarding, four-wheeling, fishing, hunting, basketball and football. His medals and awards include the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon. Our hearts go out to Matthew's family, friends, and Army brothers & sisters for this incredible loss. By all accounts he was a wonderful young man, very admired and missed by many. I have been in contact with Matthew’s mother, Pamela quite a bit and am so warmed by this wonderful, strong, and spiritual woman. It was my honor to paint Matthew for her. Portrait sponsored by: |