Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"I have 4 names on my refrigerator. Four names of fallen soldiers I had the opportunity to serve with. Four names that bring sadness to my heart each year and a sense loss. Four names that stretch into dozens and dozens of family members and probably hundreds of fellow comrades, a shining example of the lives touched. Your name tops my list as you were the first. You will not be forgotten Johnny. I am honored to have served with you and called you friend."
SSG(R) Susan Stewart of Grove City, Ohio

""Let the first act of every morning be to make the following resolve for the day:

- I shall not fear anyone on Earth.
- I shall fear only God.
- I shall not bear ill will toward anyone.
- I shall not submit to injustice from anyone.
- I shall conquer untruth by truth. And in resisting untruth, I shall put up with all suffering.”
¯ Mahatma Gandhi""
jeffrey k. Heck USAF 82-86 of columbus ohio

"7/31/14 Thank you for your service and sacrafice. My condolences to your friends and family."
Jeffrey K. Heck USAF 82-86 of Columbus, Ohio

"Hermano miss you man! I remember running with you on kolekole path! great mornings man...You were a great friend and mentor..."
CW4 Rob Castro

"There are no words that can describe CWO Mata, he was one of the greatest Warrant Officer there was. I served with him in Hawaii, 84th ENG. It has taken me this long to say something. We met up again at Camp Pennsylvania, right before going into Iraq. He congratulated me on my promotion and said, "Never forget where you came from SGT, take care of your soldiers and they will take care of you in return." I took his advice and told him to take care, that we would cross paths again. Chief you will be greatly missed and everybody who served with you at the 84th Eng say, "NEVER DAUNTED!""
Kris Molina of Austin, Texas

"I served under SGT Mata as a young PFC with HHC 299th ENG out of Fort Carson. SGT Mata was a true leader of Soldiers. Although I only served under him for about 2 yrs, he left a lasting impression and I just recently learned of his passing and it saddened me to hear about it. It is evident as I have seen a post from an old roommate that SGT Mata was respected by all those within the Track Section and beyond. My most sincere thoughts and praysers go out to his family.

MAJ Curtis Edwards"

"Johnny, I can't believe that so much time has gone by, but nevertheless you are still with me and I thank you for watching over me from above. I will always remember you my friend, and I always tell your story to every junior Warrant Officer as part of my mentorship to them. You are an excellent example of what a "Quiet Professional" really is. I miss you Johnny!!!

Your friend "Chuy""
CW4 Jesus M. Palomino of Camp Humphreys, South Korea

""We miss u Johnny V. Mata""
Kariza Contreras of Pecos,Texas

"I served with CW2 Mata in 84th Engineers, in the BMO office. I previously met him when no other officer in our Battalion would, re-enlist me on the USS Arizona on Memorial Day, 10 years from this day. When no one wanted to take their time away and be in high visibility as we were because of the significant day. CW2 Mata, said he was thrilled to do it and would be a honor. But it was my honor to of have him done it. A few months later I was assigned as the Battalion Master Driver and work along with him in the same office. We both left Hawaii around the same time and our office had thrown us a going away party, He was going to Fort Bliss and I was going to Korea. It was the last night I was to be with him.
I was actually at my moms, the last few days of my mid tour leave from Korea, when I heard of the CW2 Mata's passing I was in distraught and deeply saddened.
I know you have been one of my angels looking out for me in my last 3 tours in Iraq. I miss you Johnny, and want to thank you again for standing up when others wouldn't.
For the family of Mr. Mata, my condolences and if you would like the photos of him re-enlisting me and the photos of our last night together, please by all means contact me."
SSG Alejandro Donner of Fort Hood, TX

"HE was one great man and his daughter is cool to"
Gilbert Ray Rodriquez of Odessa, Texas

"JOHNNY, THANK YOU FOR BEING PART OF MY LIFE!!! I'LL MISS YOU MY FRIEND..."
J.MACHUCA of AUSTIN,TX

"I served under Sgt Mata he was my squad leader in 1993-1994 in the 299th engineer battalion Ft Carson colorado i know its been awhile sinsce he left us but will always remember how all of us young privates loooked up to him and thought of him as the best sgt you are and will always be the best god bless your family and friends we all love you for sacrifice you made for us love you Dion L Garcia"
Dion L Garcia of Surprise Arizona

"I knew him as "Mr. Mata". I went to middle school in Pecos with his son Eric, then had moved back to El Paso for high school when I had seen Eric show up in the middle of the semester to my science class. I recognized him immediatley. Especially since he was proudly wearing his purple and gold "Pecos Eagles" jacket. My school was the maroon and gold "Andress Eagles", so I thought that was kinda funny. From then on we started hanging out alot, considering he was new to El Paso and I was pretty much the only guy in school he knew at the time. The Matas used to stay in an apartment on the eastside while they were having their house built in the Northeast in the upper North Hills neighborhood. In that apartment is where I first met Mr. Mata. He had came home shortly after my arrival in his BDU's and I remember standing up to shake his hand and thinking, "Thats a big dude". I always remembered him being in real good shape. Im not exactly sure when it was when we first met...maybe late 2001 or early 2002. I would go on trips with them to visit Pecos and constantly stay the night at Erics house in North Hills after they had finally moved in. I had my own personal issues goin on with my family so I ended up moving back to pecos with my dad. Mr. Mata had already been deployed to Iraq and was gone what seemed like a mere couple months at the time. Im having trouble remembering. On the evening I was leaving back to Pecos, I remember people from the Department of the Army had already showed up to Eric's house when I had rung the doorbell. I remember Eric answering and I heard his mom crying in the kitchen. Because of the uncertainty at the time, he had told me that they were told something had happened and Mr. Mata was M.I.A. I stayed for a short period of time and said my final goodbyes. I would constantly keep in touch with Eric from Pecos. A couple of weeks or maybe a month or so went by when I finally heard the news that Mr. Mata's status went from M.I.A. to K.I.A. Even though I hoped for the best, it seemed like it didnt mean anything because he still wasn't gonna come back. I felt like crap and Eric, even though he didnt wanna show it or maybe was just in shock, took it real bad. The family vigil and funeral were held in Pecos. I attended both and tried to help support as much as I could. I felt like I was apart of the family, you kno? I basically met everybody. I remember feeling angry at Al Qaeda and always told myself that when I join the Army and get sent to Iraq, Im gonna kill those Mother F*****s who killed Mr. Mata. I enlisted in the United States Army on September 10, 2004 as an Infantryman and left for basic training on January 05, 2005 in Ft. Benning, GA. After completion, I was stationed in Ft. Lewis, WA to 3rd Plt. Ghost Troop, 2nd Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment. We were re-flagged in June of 2006 and in early April 2007 my unit, 3rd Platoon C-Co. 2-23 Infantry, a part of 4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division left for combat operations in support of General Patreaus's surge plan in Baghdad as well as ongoing operations in the support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. I had taken a short leave right before deploying and found Eric, now living in Pecos with his G-ma. We spent an evening hanging out and even went back to his G-Ma's house. A couple of his uncles were there and for a min it got a little emotional. Especially when Eric told them I was in the Army and was on my way to Iraq. It clearly brought back memories of Mr. Mata and it was deffinatley still painful for them, even nearly 4 years after his death. Eric's uncle gave me a picture of Mr. Mata in uniform when he was still an NCO and I carried it with me the whole 15 months in Iraq. I felt like he finally got the chance to comlete his tour of duty and returned home. All through me and that little picture. Till this day I feel like I've done my duty in not only mine or my country's, but also in his honor. I've lost contact with Eric since the last time I've seen him. I think he's still in Pecos. I remember that last night on leave before I left Pecos. Eric finally let out his emotions. Maybe with the help of the Coronas we had been drinking, lol! But it turned out to be a pretty tearful goodbye. He kept telling me how he didnt want me to go and that he didnt want something to happen to me or even die. Maybe subconsciously he was telling me what he never got to tell his dad. I dont know. But I made it back to the states on June 03, 2008 and on April 26, 2009 was honorably discharged from the Army and am currently back in El Paso. I did it Mr. Mata! And it was all for you and your family......."
SGT Raymoundo J. Mora Jr. C-co. 2-23 Inf 4/2 ID (SBCT) of El Paso, TX

"I recall the day we at the 84th found out about what happened. I am deeply sorry for your family's loss. It is quite a bit later but I have never forgot CWO Mata. He helped me through a tough time before. I knew him to be a great soldier and man. His family can be truly proud. I was and still am shocked. Your family will always be in my prayers and I will tell my children about you."
Adam Butusov of La Grange, IL

"I WOULD LIKE TO THANK EVERYONE WHO HAS LEFT A MESSAGE FOR MY FAMILY. MY NAME IS ROSA SALINAS AND JOHNNY IS MY BROTHER. IT HELPS US HEAL EVERYTIME WE READ SOMETHING SO PROFOUND AS THE WORDS YOU ALL LEAVE FOR US TO READ. PLEASE KNOW THAT WE APPRECIATE EVERYONE WHO STILL REMEMBERS JOHNNY. MUCH LOVE TO ALL!"
ROSA SALINAS of PECOS, TX US

"My condolences to the family of Johnny Mata. I had the pleasure of serving with him in the 84th EN Bn BMO office. I have and will always miss him."
Pete Wolff of Ft. Knox, KY

"hey to my aunt this is dorothy please call us or email us please love you guys xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo"
dorothy mata of hemet ca

"To all the heros family that died that day ora long time ago. We will always remeber you as a hero for ever and beyond. WE LOVE YOU GUYS THANKS FOR PRTECTING US YOUR THE BEST ."
Dorothy l mata of hemet ca

"To the family of Johnn v mata he was a great father and uncle and a great friend. He was always their if you needed to talk. like I said to my and sister mary m mata he was born a hero and died one.And he will always be a hero in my eyes and heart. I LOVE YOU UNCLE JOHNNY"
Dorothy l mata of hemet ca

"To Nanci li and fam. I never came around because I couldn't. I still can't. Heck...I get misty w/this message and its been a long time. I was deployed at the same time, different place but same region. I'm proud of Johnny and look at this site when things get hard for me. Sometimes...it's hard to look. May everything be well for you and yours. Con amor."
TOMAS P. MATA, USAF of Kadena, Japan

"Remembering with you the life of someone so dear."
Shirley Billingsley of Huntsville, AL

"I am the sister of Spc. Robert Ray Arsiaga KIA April 4,2004 in Iraq. Through all the pain and tragedy I have found a new sister in Rosa Salinas Johnny's sister. I admire their strength and perserverence. I will always carry his name in my heart. I love you Rosa thank you for showing every little bit matters"
Angel of Midland, TX

"May 28, 2007 (Memorial Day)
To the family of Johnny Villareal Mata. Johnny gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org"
Peggy Childers of Carson City, NV

"I am proud to have served under the leadership of Chief Mata. Chief Mata was always professional, very intelligent and most of all he listen to soldiers and he helped soldiers. I am glad I was in Shop Office, I had come to know a great man. I like to take some time to thank you. Before Chief Mata left to go to Iraq, I had asked him could he give me a Letter of Recommendation because I was transitioning out of the military. I thought he forgot to write it, one of his last request was for me to receive my Letter of Recommendation and his wife, bless her heart made sure she found me. Chief Mata believed in me and he made me feel I could do anything I wanted to in life if I put my mind to it. I miss you Chief Mata may your soul rest in peace. Specialist Barden."
Selena Barden of Bloomfield, NJ USA

"My sincere sympathy to the Mata family...I knew CW2 Johnny Mata when he was assigned to 84th En Bn at Schofield Barracks prior to him PCSing to Ft. Bliss...he helped me with my car when I couldn’t get the alternator to work...so odd...I still remember that day...then I remember hearing about his death several months later...it has been over 4 years…and from time to time I still think of him and the other soldiers from 84th En Bn that lost their lives. Like SSG Oscar Medina who served with Johnny at Schofield Barracks also and later lost his life in Iraq in May 2004 from an RPG attack.

May God bring you and your family comfort and ease your sorrows about Johnny, he was a great person and it was an honor to know him and serve with him.

Respectfully,"
SFC Bing Michael Yee (Ret.) of Austin, TX

"To the Mata Family:
Johnny Was a great person, and Eric a good friend. Stephanie... I miss you, and Nanci I wish you the best.You and Sharon got along well, and so did Johnny and my dad( Travis Smith) I miss y'all.I miss talking to y'all."
Tiffany Smith of New Braunfels, Tx

"To Aunt Nanci, Eric and Stephani,
I am deeply sorry for the loss of your husband/dad. He was a great man. He was kind,funny,loving man. I love you guys."
Mary Mata of Hemet, California

"What a handsome brave soldier. I have a son Johnny Mata.
I also have a son Thaddeus
who is now fighting in Iraq with the 82nd Airborne..
God bless the family of this worthy hero.
Be assured he lives in honored glory in the hearts of those he left behind.
He rests now in God."
Barbara of Colorado

"To Johnny,

I was a young Soldier when I heard about you and what happened in Iraq. Though we never met in person, your spirit was with me as I too left for Iraq. It inspired me to come home and tell my story about Iraq to many others. Thank you for your service so that others may live....Salama leekum, Allahu Akbar (Peace unto you, God is Great)"
Pedro A of El Paso, Texas

"CWO Villareal Mata,
Sir, I would like to say thank you to you and the other soldiers from your convoy who were killed in that ambush for your service and sacrifice. I am from El Paso and remember watching the Memorial Service for you and your fellow soldiers on television-it was very moving. And to your family, I wish to extend my deeepsest sympathy."
Mike C. of El Paso, TX

"God bless, Johnny Mata. A hero and a loved man. By looking at this memorial page, I can see the love and respect. Johnny, you live on in the hearts of of those that loved you. We thank you. We honor you. We salute you! Now, rest in God's arms and pray for us here. Veronica Mata-Herrera COLORADO sister of a U.S soldier (Thaddeus Mata)"
Veronica Mata Herrera of Colorado

"THE FINAL
INSPECTION

The Soldier stood and faced God,
Which must always come to pass.
He hoped his shoes were shining,
Just as brightly as his brass.


"Step forward now, Soldier,
How shall I deal with you?
Have you always turned the other cheek?
To My Church have you been true?"


The Soldier squared his shoulders and said,
"No, Lord, I guess I ain't.
Because those of us who carry guns,
Can't always be a saint.


I've had to work most Sundays,
And at times my talk was tough.
And sometimes I've been violent,
Because the world is awfully rough.


But, I never took a penny,
That wasn't mine to keep...
Though I worked a lot of overtime,
When the bills got just too steep.


And I never passed a cry for help,
Though at times I shook with fear.
And sometimes, God, forgive me,
I've wept unmanly tears.


I know I don't deserve a place,
Among the people here.
They never wanted me around,
Except to calm their fears.


If you've a place for me here, Lord,
It needn't be so grand.
I never expected or had too much,
But if you don't, I'll understand.


There was a silence all around the throne,
Where the saints had often trod.
As the Soldier waited quietly,
For the judgment of his God.


"Step forward now, you Soldier,
You've borne your burdens well.
Walk peacefully on Heaven's streets,
You've done your time in Hell."

~Author Unknown~

Rest Easy Brother In Arms"
RA of El Paso, TX

"Sgt Mata, that was the name and rank that I knew him by. I was stationed with him in Ft. Carson, CO, 299th EN. As a Combat Engineer, we always remember our fellow engineers and hardly ever the support personnel that are attached to us. Sergeant Mata was different, he went out of his way to make sure that B-131 was fixed. I knew that if he was going to look at it, it was going to get fix. When I saw the name, I did recognized it but the rank did not catch my attention. I left the 299th back in 95 but somehow this soldier's can do attitude always stuck with me. He was the stick that I would measured the rest of the mechanics that later on worked on my vehicles. At this time, I can not remember a single mechanic's name for they did not measured up to his standards. Sgt.(CW) Mata, I know that the big Engineer in the sky has welcome you in his arms, you are not gone, just that you are clearing the way for the rest of us."
Rene Colocho of Lincoln, Ne

"R.I.P. my fellow solder on the 3 year annivesary, WE WILL NEVER FORGET."
adam mcmurdy of mv. ca

"Johnny,

It has almost been 3 years since I last saw you. I constantly remember when you came by to tell me that you were going in, and to get parts that you needed to keep you in the fight. Johnny, I have not told this to anyone, but I have missed you very much since that day, and up to date I still can't believe that you are gone. You may be gone physically, but your spirit and memories of you still remain, and I will never let you go my Friend!
You keep on trucking, and no matter what you will always be on my mind.

Sincerely,

Chuy"
CW3 Palomino, Jesus M. of 35th ADA BDE, Osan Air Base, South Korea

"To the family of:Johnny Villareal Mata I am so sorry for the loss of your love one. He died a hero defending freedom. May you have the peace and understanding that only comes from God. Prayerfully, we will meet in Heaven one day where we will rest in the arms of Jesus. If you need prayer or need someone to talk to, please call or write my pastor: Rev. John Pearrell, Gateway Community Church, 11677 Brown Bridge Rd., Covington, GA 30016. (770)787-1015. Your friend in Jesus Christ,"
Polly Ballew of Covington, Ga

"To the Mata Family:
I send my condolences and my prayers to you with deppest sorrow. I was one of the subordinates of Chief Mata. He was the greatest leader and role model that anyone can have. One can only wish to be like him, as professional, as hard working, and as fair. He will never be forgotten and always remembered to make one as great as possibly close to what he was."
Imperial of El Paso, Texas

"My condolences go out to the Mata Family. Johnny Mata was my first squad leader after basic training and AIT. We were assigned to the 299th Engineer Battalion at Ft. Carson, Colorado from 1993-95. At the time Johnny was a Sgt(E-5). He led by example and taught me traits that I will use for the rest of my life such as integrity, professionalism, determination, and consistency. He will always be in my memories."
Anthony Howard of Colorado Springs, CO

"I have always been proud of my cousin.Even though we didn't see each other often then holidays;at least we knew it was for the right resons.He always knew he was going to help out the poor peaple in Iraq but to have help theme and honoer us;was a bigger job that he had hope for.He wouldn't of done it diffrent."
Paul Mata CHavarria of Houston,Tx U.S.A

"Chief Mata was my BMO in the 84th Engineer Battalion Hawaii. Chief Mata was a great man , somone everyone respected and looked up to. i remember speaking with him as we were both PCSing from hawaii and i remember him telling me he was going to Ft. Bliss TX, i remember saying how it would be a nice relaxing assignment. was i wrong. i was in Iraq the same time as Chief mata and i remember some of the other guys in the unit who knew chief Mata telling me he was missing in action with the 507th and how i worried about his safty every day and not caring for my personal safty, i just wanted him to return home to his family.. Thanks Chief Mata , you and Oscar Medina will always be in my heart and i will never forget the both of you... you both have made me a better man and soldier .....The World is a lesser place without you and oscar medina.."
Drill Seargeant Money of Fort Leonard Wood, MO..

"SSG Mata, You were my First NCO in the Army. When I first found out about the loss of my NCO I hurt but, then I remeber what you told me "Never let my dreams and goals be taken away". You will always be remebered. Never Forgotten."
SSG Troy L. Price/ 3rd ACR FORT CARSON of Hanau, Germany 3-58th AVN REGT

""My prayers and condolences to the family of Chief Mata"

I served with him in 84th Engineers Honolulu Hawaii. Chief Mata is an oustanding officer willing to go beyond your expectation.He is dedicated to severed his country and fellow soldiers. Our Battalion in Hawaii recieved a Presidential Unit Citation because of Chief Mata's hardwork and dedication. Thank you, Cheif Mata we will never forget your ultimate sacrifice.

"NEVER DAUNTED"
-SGT Soliva-"
Christopher Soliva of Plano,Texas/USA

"CWO Mata is a real hero. He has served our country well. He'll live forever!"
CW2 (RET) Bienvenido Gonzalez of Newark NJ

"One day my husband SSG Oscar Medina went to this site to leave you his message. I remember how broken he was when Chief Mata died. He wanted to go so bad to Iraq and be a hero just like him. And he did, he died like your husband died. I'm heartbroken... more then I ever thought I could be...
I feel with you ... because I know the pain ... I just want you to know ... you are not alone."
Beate Medina of Wahiawa, HI

"My prayers go out to the family of CWO Johnny Villareal Mata, My thanks to you and your family for the ultimate sacrifice that you made, you will never be forgotten and your family will always be in my prayers, now you belong to a bigger Army the Army of God so continue to serve him as you did, I salute you, God Bless You from your brother in arms. Until we meet again"
1SG (RET) Manuel Mata Jr. of Spring Lake, NC

"To the friends and family of Johnny Villareal Mata,
I am terriablely sorry for your loss you have. Johnny most of been a hardworker. i read about him that he managed to complete over 100 college semester hours and eared his Associates degree I think that wonderful. He sounded like a smart person. He'll be missed by many."
7th grade stundent of Barker Middle School

"My Friend SSG Oscar Medina wrote he knew he would see you again someday, unfortunatley someday came too soon, Oscar was killed in Iraq, hope both you boys are havin a damn fine party cause you both deserve it."
Cowboy of Honolulu HI

"Not a day goes by that we do not think about and remember our brave American patriots, especially those who have gone above and beyond. Thank you and God bless."
Mike Villarreal of Chesapeake, Virginia, USA

"In loving Memory..Its been a year..

At the rising of the sun and at its going down, We remember them.
At the blowing of the wind and in the chill of Winter, We remember them.
At the opening of buds and in the rebirth of Spring, We remember them.
At the blueness of the skies and in the warmth of Summer, We remember them.
At the rustling of leaves and the beauty of Autumn, We remember them.

As long as we live, they too will live;
for they are now a part of us, as we remember them.
Rest in Peace Dear Soldier!!! We will NEVER FORGET!"
The Grogan Family of Lakeland, TN

"My Uncle's name is Johnny Mata. He is a career soldier who served in Japan during the Korean war. My family considers him a true Hero. I can only imagine your lose but I thank the Lord for people like Johnny Villareal Mata. He is a true hero.
Psalm 116:15 -- "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.""
Kathy Mata of Ft. Worth, TX USA

"We Will NEVER FORGET !" As the first anniversary of the death of your loved one arrives;
Please KNOW so many people share your sadness, and we are remembering all your family and loved ones in your loss and your deep grief. Your HERO, Johnny, will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you. Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

"Warrant Officer Mata, goodbye soldier and thank you. You are my hero."
Bill of Houston, Texas

"Rest in eternal peace brave soldier!"
Dan and Meg Manninen of San Antonio, Texas

"Thank you Johnny Mata, you will not be forgotten. Your bravery goes beyond words. I want to express my deepest gratitude for your sacrifice. To the family and friends, my prayers and deep condolences in your loss. May God strengthen you from knowing that fellow Americans and people around the world care about you and grieve with you in your loss. God bless you all. A very appreciative fellow American,"
Leo Titus of Grayslake, Illinios

"i served with CW Mata in Med Troop 3rd ACR. he is one of the best leaders that i have seen. I rember him staying in the motorpool untill 2am to get a job done and be right back at work at 6am. He always had a smile on his. we always joked around. he never asked you to do anything he wouldnt do. johnny mata was a great man and leader. his passing is a great loss to the soldiers, the army, and anyone that knew him and i will never forget him or what he stood for."
sgt chris burns of baghdad iraq/ft riley, ks

"To the Mata family,
my sincere condolences."
Vincent Mata of No. Hollywood, Ca

"To the Mata family,
my sincere condolences."
Vincent Mata of No. Hollywood, Ca

"It breaks my heart to see that we are missing such an outstanding soldier in the United States Army. I, too, had the pleasure of working with Chief Mata in Hawaii. It all hits so close to home. From this fallen soldier, we should all give everything we can to our loved ones because we don't know when their last day could be. God bless, he's in the Army of God now,...."
SPC Guice of Fort Hodd, TX

"To the Mata family:
I know there are no words to ease the pain of losing your husband/father. Take comfort in knowing Chief Mata died with pride, making sure your world would be a better place. Know that he would not have done this if he did not have an incredible amount of love in his heart for you. May God continue to bless and keep you."
SSG Michelle Murray of Fort Bliss, TX

"My deepest sympathy goes out to the family and friends of John. It's so very hard to lose too soon those we love. May God and time ease your pain. John is a hero and will not be forgotten. God Bless and keep you."
Kellie of Montana

"my deepest sympathies to the family"
mario mata of aurora,illinois

"to the mata family my deepest thoughts and prayers, my name is SSG Medina i had the pleasure to work with chief Mata in Hawaii he was my BMO chief when ever i had a problem chief was always there to gide and teach me the correct way of doing things, i was deployed to Alaska when i heard the news of his death it hit me extremly hard he was a very good friend and i know chief that one day i will see you again may God bless your family and this great country that you loved so much"
oscar medina of Schofield brks Hawaii

"To the family and friends of CWO Johnny Mata:
May God's grace be with you during your time of grief. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and we feel your loss and share in your sorrow. Bless Johnny for the sacrifice he has made to make a better life for the rest of us."
The Ford Family of Wells, Nevada

"To the family and friends of CWO Johnny Mata:
I am saddened by the loss of your loved one. He will always be remembered as a hero for fighting for freedom. I hope that this website will be a source of comfort and encouragement for you during this difficult time, and in the future as you recall the memories of Johnny, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera, of Powder Springs, Georgia

"“My condolences to the Mata family. I had the opportunity to serve with Johnny, while stationed at Fort Carson, Colorado. Johnny was Motor Sergeant and I was a Squad Leader in Ambulance Platoon as a result, we spent long days working collectively to maintain Medical Troop’s Ambulances. Johnny was an outstanding and unselfish leader who always accomplished the mission, and took care of his soldiers. Furthermore, Johnny was a true hero, and I’m thankful for knowing a great individual. GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY.”

gutierrezbenjamin@hotmail.com"
Benjamin Gutierrez Jr. of Phoenix, Arizona

"Johnny was a great soldier, man and father. I was lucky enought to work with him in Hawaii with the 84th Engineer Battalion. He always went the extra mile and was the hardest worker or all. God Bless you"
Frank Townsend of Honduras

"All of Pecos will miss you and Thank you for what you did for our family and friends. The world is a better place thanks to you and your fellow soldiers. Thanks again and God Bless your family."
LanDee Mills of Pecos,Tx

"God Bless this Special Angel...RIP Brave Soldier..."
The Taylors, USMC of NC

"To Nanci, Eric and Stephani,
We want to send you our heart felt sorrow for the loss of Johnny/your dad.
You may not remember us but we were stationed with you all at Ft. Carson. We lived across the street from you all. Harr Ave. We remember Johnny always saying to you Nanci, Love you baby (kiss Kiss Kiss)Johnny played softball with the Hispanic Team with Tony. Anyways we truly remember you all and we really hope and pray that you will find some peace in your hearts to know that Johnny truly was a hero to us all. God bless you all.
email, ramfam@hotmail.com
Nanci please find strength in the Lord for that is where you will also find Johnny."
SFC Jose (Tony) Ramirez & Lisa, Elizabeth, Jackie, and Tony Jr. of Tucson, AZ USA

""Johnny goes marching on" as a HERO
Hello my name is James Mata from San Diego California. Johnny Mata is a hero in my family and we will always know what he has done for our people here in the USA. I did not know the man but I do now and always will. I have a brother Thaddeus Mata who serves in the USA Army 82nd airborne. He is in Afganistan now and our prayers are with him but now with you too. Sincerely and respectfully"
James Mata of San Diego California U.S.of A.

"My condolences to the Mata family in your time of grief. I didn't know Johnny, but I have a son by that name,so this ordeal hit me close to home. For all I know he may have been my cousin. Thank you for your sacrifice. Gilbert Mata, Grand Junction, CO."
Gilbert Mata of Grand Junction,CO. USA

"Johnny Mata was originally from where I live now a little town named Pecos Texas.The town was less than 10,000 people so everyone here knows each other and it is so tragic something like this happend. Johnny is truly our hero and he will always be remembered. WE WANT ALL OF OUR SOLDIERS BACK AND WISH THEY COME BACK SAFELY...My condolences to the Mata family..."
Lupita Gonzalez of Pecos Texas USA

"I DIDNT EVEN KNOW JOHNNY, UNTILL SAUL GARCIA FROM EL PASO TOLD ME HE KNEW HIM AND IT IT FELT LIKE I NEW HIM. HE WAS A HERO. MAY GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY IN YOUR TIME OF GRIEF."
RENA WELLS of EL PASO,TX