21st SW honors fallen Airman

A memorial service for Airman 1st Class Matthew Seidler took place at 1 p.m. today in the Peterson AFB auditorium.

Seidler's parents, Marc and Lauren Seidler, were in attendance, as well as about 600 other Airmen and civilians from across the nation.

A display of combat boots, rifle, helmet and dog tags was placed in the auditorium as friends and coworkers celebrated Seidler's life, honored his sacrifice and grieved his loss.

"When Matt arrived here at Peterson, he sought out every opportunity to train himself, to develop his EOD abilities and excel at every task," said Master Sgt. Paul Horton, EOD flight chief. "He challenged himself and his fellow Airmen and he put his all into everything he did. He did this because he never woke up and went into work. When he got out of bed, he chased after his dream- to be an amazing EOD tech, to stand alongside brothers, and to use his skills, strength and boundless energy to make a difference in this world."

Seidler was one of three EOD Airmen killed Jan. 5 during an improvised explosive device attack in Musa Qal'ah, Helmand province, Afghanistan.

"We want to take this time to remember Matt for all he was," said Col. Chris Crawford, 21st Space Wing commander. "He leaves a legacy of pride, integrity and courage, and we will never forget his sacrifice."

Also killed in the attack were Senior Airman Bryan R. Bell, 23, of Erie, Pa., and Tech. Sgt. Matthew S. Schwartz, 34, of Traverse City, Mich.

Seidler was laid to rest Jan. 17 in Arlington National Cemetery.