Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"I played HS football with Major Schram in Brookfield, WI. He was a year younger than me. We weren't more than football teammates but I remember the man as a tough, hard nosed guy.
It seems apparent those who knew him during his service to our country saw the same toughness.
His bravery humbles me.
Some of his teammates called him Tex.

I wanted him to know that I have not forgotten him, his family or his sacrifice.

RIP Matt"
Stephen S Tetzlaff of Brookfield, WI USA

"We're a few months from the 20th anniversary of our good friend's death. May 2023. I wanted to leave a short note. I served with MAJ Schram as a 1LT in the desert of Iraq in 2003. I was the Transportation Support Operations Officer (SPO-TRANS) for the 142nd Corps Support Battalion (CSB), Commanded by LTC Mark Olinger. Due to reasons of proper Southern kindness and timeliness: I will not clarify why I was the senior Transportation Officer on a Battalion Staff as a Lieutenant. Fortunately! - this allowed me the privilege to work directly with Matt. My first impression of MAJ Schram was that his priority was ensuring that those Soldiers who were exposed to the adversary, regardless of Military Occupationally Specialty (MOS), were equipped and knowledgeable for success. He and I worked closely for a reasonable time as we prepared our units for mission and movement. I can clearly see in my mind-eye to this day, the moment my Battalion Commander informed me of MAJ Schram's death. It was - hard in the chest - literally breathtaking - incomprehensible - deniable -confusing. >>>>>>In this space I wrote and re-wrote a sentence to explain what I felt; as a loss of innocence at that moment; and how unimportant that feeling was given the loss of Matt - I couldn't get the sentence to be complete so I wrote the aforementioned text<<<<<"
Robert S Kennedy of McLean, VA (formerly MAJ, USAR)

"I served with MAJ Schram at Al Asad Air Base in the Anbar Province in 2003. On numerous occasions we conducted briefings for the Squadron command, he on his area of expertise and I on intelligence matters. We came to appreciate each other's human and often humorous approaches to dealing with serious issues. I regarded him has a kind and thoughtful person and was always pleased to see him. I will never forget the day I went to squadron headquarters and received word of the attack that took his life within the preceding hour. It came like a punch to the heart. For lack of a better term, it seemed obscene to have knowledge of his passing while his family and friends back home were as yet unaware of what had happened, knowing that in the next day or two the devastating news would change their lives forever. Nearly 20 years have passed since that day. I can only hope that his loved ones have found healing, peace, and the comforting assurance that they will be with him again after this mortal journey. His memory lives on with me and the others who served with him."
Richard Manwaring, CW3, USA (Ret.) of Highlands Ranch, CO

"It was an honor and a privilege to say your name today as part of a remembrance circle for our fallen heroes. Thank you for your service and dedication to this great nation and your soldiers you led."

"My hero, I remember my first mission with you. You had me hyped and ready to go. Sadly missed forever. Brave rifles"
SSG Whatley of Colorado Springs

"To my hero and my ghost,Maj Matthew Schram. I wassupposed to to go out that day and I was supposed to be the first, but due to my ineptitude as a first time convoy commander, I had my vehicle lined up incorrectly. You being the consummate professional that you were, decided to move out first. I have always wondered what would have happened if I was at all competent and had my vehicle lined up correctly. Then my convoy would have went first being able to bring much more fireower to bear and you would still be alive today. I have never told anyone this to this day but it has been a very bad last couple of days for me and when I read this I thought maybe it was a sign to get it off of my chest"
Mike M of Springfield Mo

"I still remember when I first met you sir. Brave Rifles...Veterans."

"I remember you on this day. Still to this day I remember shaking your hand on that day, and telling you good luck and see you when you get back Sir, well that never happened. I have not forgot about you, and everyday I hope you watch me from above and see how I raise my kids not to forget either. BRAVE RIFLES!"
SFC WILLIAM MILLION of FORT RUCKER, AL

"Brave Rifles, Sir!"
Niyo Hollander, SGT Scalpel Troop, Muleskinner Squadron, 3d US Cavalry (Ret) of Los Lunas, NM USA

"From my brief encounters with Major Schram at NTC 2001 while I was attached to Support Squadron S3 TOC as their Squadron Chemical NCO, I found him to be a superb officer and an awesome leader, a good listener and someone who had a great passion in being a soldier. When ever I needed something that required his support from Regiment S4 for Support Squadron, he was there with a smile on his face and a can-do attitude. If you also ask for something that was impossible, he would give you the back of his shirt to make it happen. From my many travels as enlisted soldier officers like these does-not grow on trees. We could use more officers like these. Sir, god-bless and rest in peace."
Ralph Klinestiver SSG, USA (Retired) of Macomb, Michigan USA

"Remembering and honoring a great friend and soldier, who spent time with us in Germany making my kids, then 6 & 9,laugh. Now that my 21yr old son Troy, joined you in heaven (on 8/8/13) I hope the two of you got to reunite for more smiles. Even after 11 years, Mat will always be remembered and lives on in our hearts."
Ina Thompson of Virginia, USA

"Maj. Schram,
On today, the 10th anniversary of your death I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy. After reading the reflections left here by the soldiers who served with you all I can say is that I wish that I had had the privilege of serving with you when I was in the Military.

Brave Rifles!"

"1/11/2013

I met Mat in Vicenza, Italy in '95 where we were both at Caserma Ederle taking Italian at the U o Maryland with Prof. Frank Niccoll. A kind soul, great soldier (by ALL accounts), and a very real, genuine, nice guy. Shared some good times with friends over some good Italian food and wine. Obviously, still missed nearly 10 years on."
Mark Santaw of Woodbridge, VA USA

"I served with Maj. Schram..i was a private in the 3rd Cav and was in a quick reaction force (qrf) I met him in n.t.c. Because I had a job to guard him..we had a 113 we would go places in out there..we basicly lived with each other for.a lil in that vehicle..he seemed to be very smart about things probly had a lot of people to take care of..i just had to I served with Maj. Schram..i was a private in the 3rd Cav and was in a quick reaction force (qrf) I met him in n.t.c. Because I had a job to guard him..we had a 113 we would go places in out there..we basicly lived with each other for.a lil in that vehicle..he seemed to be very smart about things probly had a lot of people to take care of..i just had to take care of him..so the day his convoy was ambushed take care of him..so the day his convoy was ambushed and he got hit with a rpg and blew my friend vandyke out the humv I I felt bad I wasnt there on that mission..if I was there with u I promise it would not of happened exacly like that..rip 2u..and wish I was there to fight with u....peace"
josh crawford of quantico,va usa

"Its taken me some time. May 26, 2003 visits me pretty often. My missions were to patrol the roads day in and day out. Maj Schram was there for our briefs and our plans of action for each of our scheduled patrols. That day sticks with me not just because of the loss of a great leader and man but because I was within enough range (or should I say a spot on base that was able to hear the calls on radio that was not being picked up from the TOC). I wish we could have been closer or even already outside of base to be able to respond. Your calls WERE pushed forward and a plan was put in place to get there. Im deeply sorry that all I could do was relay your calls but they did get pushed up and maybe just maybe it helped protect the remainder of your group. Callsign Shamrock 2B - 94th MP CO."
SSG Joseph Ross of Boston, Mass

"To the family of MAJ Schram, I like many, still mourn his passing. He was the first I had known personally to be among the fallen. He remains in my memories as a kind and humorous soul. He is not forgotten."
Troy Fuhrman of Cascade, CO

"I left a message almost 8 years ago to Major Schram's Family. To this day I still think of what a wonderful Officer he was and how much of a difference he made to our unit and more then likely every other unit he served in. Tomorrow is memorial day and I try and give a moment to him every year along with others that were lost while I served and ones my husband served with.
Major Mat Schram you will never be forgotten no matter how many years go by! Thank you for serving and thank you for making a difference."
Kate Wahl Former 3rd ACR of Silverdale WA

"CPT SCHRAM was a great young leader I seved with him while with the 574th"
SSG O'Neal, roger of Fort Leonard Wood,MO

"still remembering all i served with looking and thing of be strong"
SGT DeRoche of rehoboth MA

"ersfrfw"

"You are still remembered. Thank you for your service."
SFC Manuel Venegas of Ft Detrick, Maryland

"I miss you, I remember the four hour talk we had the night prior to May 26 when I went to HQ to get my convoy briefing. I always pray for you and your family!"
CW3 Christopher Bartin (ret) of Colorado Springs

"I didnt know MAJ Mathew E Schram but I remember my first Space A flight with my 3 yr old daughter & my 6 mo old daughter...I will never 4get his name bc that was the flight he went home on...I remember reading the Army Times & read bout the 4 soldiers to incl him & knew they were Fort Carson soldiers...I was loaded last since I was the only 1 with children & so I was right there near him & can see his name. I told my daughter he was a hero & he was now @ peace she was very mature @ a young age & had so much pride for soldiers even tho she worried for her own father @ that time she had the upmost respect for those soldiers on the flight we were all quiet & praying...my trip was to go c my brother who's name is Matthew also...graduate high school & all I could think about was this flight I took & I had prayed as every1 on that flight did that his family had strength & support. I know it sounds crazy but I will always remember him."
Christine Aleman of Fort Carson, CO

"Hay Brother, I know it has taken me a long time to finaly get around to doing this. You are missed by many, I can't believe that it has been 6 years. I still cry when I think of those days. You are not forgoten."
RIFLES 4 of Colorado

"As a commander he was a great guy i was proud to be under his command,1998 at 574 supply Co.Mannheim,Germany RIP SIR may God have you under his wing. HOAH!"
SGT.Ortiz, E. of Clearwater, Florida

"I did not know Major Schram but was given his name as the person I was running for when the base I am stationed on did a "Run for the Fallen". I looked up his name and came upon this site. I just wanted his family and loved ones to know that even 6 years later Major Schram, and all the others that have gone before and after, are not forgotten! My thoughts are prayers go out to you."
Laurie A. Kennedy, GM1, USCG of Kings Bay, GA

"Please Excuse the delay in my response. I too have been grieving the loss of Matt.

Matt and I shared laughs and smiles in the shade of Iraq (which is hard to find!). He was a very special man, and an excellent officer. I remember he always told me (back at Carson) that I should smile if I enjoy what I'm doing with the Army.

I was there the morning he died. He fought bravely to keep his driver and fellow convoy soldiers alive. They were ambushed from the right side, and had no chance. He did not have to go out that morning, but only did so because he cared about his soldiers, and wanted to check on them.

I remember the radio call that morning. We were all worried about who they were talking about. We were all pierced to the heart when we found out it was Matt.

I choose not to share any more details......except to say that Matt did NOT die in Vain! He paid the ultimate price for our freedom, even thou that morning he did not have that as his plan.

If you want more info, please contact me at Firtkos@aol.com

Steven"
Steven Firtko of Ft.. Carson, Colorado

"I was stationed with MAJ Schram when he was 2LT Schram in the 574th S&S Company in Mannheim. I remember how squared away he was then; all of his accomplishments do not surprise me at all...Throughout my 20 year career (retired) he is one of the people that i have never forgotten......His family will forever be in my prayers."
Mark A. Carpenter of Fayetteville, North Carolina/USA

"January 28, 2008
To the family of Maj. Mathew E. Schram:
Mathew 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

"To the family of Mathew Schram,
I knew Matt when he was stationed in Vicenza, and he had made quite a name for himself as a singer... I remember a summer night at the Cavazzale town festival, when he surprised everyone with his rendition of IO VAGABONDO, he got so many cheers from the locals he had to perform several encore. He sang beautifully, and his good looks and american accent made him an instant local rockstar!
Matt, every time I listen to that song on the radio I say a little prayer for you, and I pray that you will look over my husband who is in Iraq right now. Farewell my friend, I miss you."
Sara of Vicenza, Italy

"Maj. Schram,
Sir, I would like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

"Brave Rifles"(3rd ACR Motto)"

"To the family of:Mathew E. Schram I am so sorry for the loss of your love one. My heart cries out for you in your grief and you have my thoughts and prayers. He died a hero defending freedom. May you have the peace and understanding that only comes from God. Prayerfully we will all 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 11677 Brown Bridge Rd., Covington, GA 30016. (770)787-1015. Your friend in Jesus Christ, Polly Ballew Covington,Ga"

"I served my fist assignment as a 2LT under MAJ Schram in the 574th Supply Company, Germany. MAJ Schram was a great leader and friend. He truly loved being a soldier. I still think of him often and attribute alot of my success as an officer from what I learned from him. God Bless you, Sir"
CPT Kimberlyn Burns-Brown of Fort Knox, Ky

"Mathew Schram was my Company Commander while I was stationed in 574th Supply Co. in Germany. I was very saddened by the news of his passing. He was a GREAT guy! He was a Soldiers Commander, he was a model Soldier. He was also a sports enthusiast (Die-hard Green Bay Packers fan). I learned many things from him. Rest in peace MAJ Schram for your work on earth is done! God Bless you!"
Roger A. Riggle (SGT Riggle) of Fort Lee, VA

"Matty, your name came up the other day in a conversation with The Hook, and I was inspired to look you up on the net.

I'll always blame you for making me late to my wife's 30 Birthday Party at il Trattoria Al Cavallino in Creazzo... You wanted to go, didn't know where it was, and had to finish up your USR brief before you could leave. But you were such a great guy that I waited for you, and my wife still chews my 4th-pt. of contact whenever she thinks about it (I don't think she knows it was all your fault).

But I've forgiven you for the two beers you left in my freezer that exploded and poured out all over the kitchen when I opened it later...

Bro, I've not once rolled out of the ECP on patrol and not thought of you (and I've never thought of you and not cursed The Don, for had you armored doors you'd still be alive). I only hope if I'm ever called I will have the strength and courage to fight onto the objective and complete the mission as you did. As written on the monument at the 82d museum; John 15:13.

I'll see you on the last jump, Ranger."

"MAJ MATHEW SCHRAM WAS MY COMPANY COMMANDER IN 574TH SUPPLY COMPANY IN MANNHEIM GERMANY 1998. I WAS IN IRAQ ANACONDA WHEN I HEARD THE BAD NEWS. YOU ARE A TRUE HEROE SIR AND WE WILL NEVER FORGET."
MARVIN LAZO of SCHWEINFURT GERMANY

"I just wanted to say, that I met Matt in the summer of 94 on a cruise and we became friends...we wrote letters and exchanged phone calls while I was in college in Kansas and he even sent me a Whitewater swearshirt for my birthday. It was such a long time ago, but I have never forgotten him. In fact, I was just telling the story to a friend in the Navy and decided to do a google search to see if there was anything out there on him. I was so shocked and sorry to see that he was killed. But he touched many people in so many ways when he knew them and I just wanted to send my condolences to his close friends and family. He was a very special person. And God bless all those sacrificing for our freedom."
Shannon Trotter of Ft. Lauderdale, FL USA

"To the Family of MAJ Mathew Schram:
We have constructed a memorial to the service men and women from Wisconsin and Illinois who have died in Iraq which includes, as of 6/20/05, 111 crosses and Stars of David. We would like your permission to put MAJ Schram's name on one of them. We have called our display "Arlington MidWest." It is our expression of mourning for the indescribable loss you have suffered for our country.

If you would like us to do this, please email martypres33@yahoo.com.

We invite you to come to visit Arlington MidWest. I can send you directions and some pictures by email.

"As long as we live, they too will live;
for they are now a part of us, as we remember them." Anonymous"
Marty Preston of Wisconsin Dells, WI

"I was in the 574th from 1986 to 1988, so I did not know Maj Schram. I still would to send My condolences to the family. God bless the families of all the troops."
Tim Holloway of Washington DC

"I was a student at UW-Whitewater during the same time Mat was. We lived in the same Quad, he was in Tutt Hall and I was in Wells. My roommates, Tom Sisson and Dan Foss, were both in ROTC. Dan and I talked on the phone the day Mat’s death was reported. A couple days later, I spoke with Jim Palmershiem, a Schram family friend who at the time was living in Texas.



I have been a newspaper editor in western Wisconsin since graduating from UW-Whitewater in 1990. I wrote about Mat in my column the week of his death.



Until now, I never new the exact details of what happened the day Mat died. It can be read in its entirety at www.blackfive.net/main/2004/05/one_year.html
I was interested in the fact that Matt’s orders and actions that day saved many lives and that the only one injured by his order was himself. He gave his life for his fellow soldiers. Many of them returned home due to him.



I have always been proud of being a UW-W graduate. It was a tight-knit community when I attended and remains so today.



Mat has left a legacy by his actions. Two years after his death, I still think about him and his sacrifice. I know his family and friends still hurt. He is not forgotten.



Matt Johnson

Managing editor

Vernon County Broadcaster

Viroqua, Wis.

UW-W Class of 1990"
Matt Johnson of Viroqua, Wis.

"To the family of Mathew E. Schram:

The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Memorial Day Sunday worship service at 11:00 a.m. on 29 May. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the neighboring states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one.

I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, U.S. Army Chaplain, LTC Kenneth L. Beale, Jr. will preach a message entitled “Remembering Our Freedom.” A former Soldier and country music songwriter and performer “Rockie” will pay a special musical tribute. At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and place poppies at each of the crosses. An honor guard squad will be on hand to fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played.

As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (612/970-7866) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans’ name and the number of persons attending. If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.

Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Administrative Assistant
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:info@fortsnellingmcf.org
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org"

"I met MAJ Schram in Ar-Ramadi, Iraq right after the 3 ACR RSS established operations in the Ar-Ramadi Palace. As a logistics planner for the 3D COSCOM - we were in charge of coordinating logistics from our log base in Balad to the RSS and onward to the ACR. MAJ Schram quickly became a very good friend that I could consult for both professional and personal advise. Everyone should know that he was one of the best officers I've ever served with in the military. His professionalism and tactical knowledge made a lasting impact on me in someone I want to be like. I will NEVER forget the man, soldier, and hero that gave the ultimate sacrifice so that my kids can grow up in a safer world. I love you sir - thanks for all the advise - I'll follow-up on that one major suggestion you gave me - I know it will work! Thanks for everything - BRAVE RIFLES!!"
CPT Jason Utton of Wiesbaden, Germany

"Mat & I were basketball teammates and best friends in grade school. He was part of a very nice family. I enjoyed the time we were able to spend together
during those formative years. His dad, Earl, is a high quality human being."
Greg Wacker of Chicago, IL / USA

"Dear Family Members,

We went to a Patriot Day Memorial on 9-12-04. The event was dedicated to remembering those who lost their lives on 9-11, honoring the brave men and women who tried to rescue them, and honoring each one of our brave military men and women who have lost their lives since. It was a huge display of flags; the section devoted to the military personnel had a name plate for every military man and woman with a flag flying over each name plate. The sponsors of the display gave us the opportunity to buy one of these flags. Since we did not have the privilege of knowing any of these brave men and women, we asked for a flag honoring a Major. We were given Major Mathew Schram’s name plate and flag. We looked on the internet to find out some information about Major Schram and found this site, so we decided to leave a message for you. We want you to know how very much we appreciate the ultimate sacrifice he has given for our country, and how honored we are to have the flag that flew over his name. He will always be remembered."
Roger & Judy Bell of Salem, Oregon

"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.
At the beginning of the year and when it ends, 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

"On the year aniversary of the death of my best friend in college Mathew E. Schram. Over the past year I have thought of the memories that we had shared in college. The first two years of college and living on 4th floor Tutt Hall will always have joyous memories. I visited Mat's home in Brookfield and he visited mine in Beloit. I was always hoping to get in touch with Mat, but other things always came up. After the first two years in college Mat and I went in different paths. Mat join ROTC and I joined a fraternity. I will never forget the day that Mat came to visit me at the fraternity house, as I was cramming for a test that was going to take place in an hour. I remember that it had been so long, since I had talked to Mat that the test didn't really matter to me. Friends always, miss you. Eric Paulson"
Eric Paulson of Beloit, WI

"Mat was a friend to me and I will always think of him as the most dedicated, perfect soldier I have ever met. I will never forget him. My new-born nephew was named after him. My best wishes to the family,friends and fellow soldiers who knew and loved him."
Laura Kurzyna of Centennial, Colorado

"We Will NEVER FORGET !"
Please KNOW so many people share your sadness, and we are remembering your family in your loss and your deep grief. Your HERO, Mathew will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you. Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

"Major Schram was in charge of the warehouse that I worked at. He became my friend on the spur ride and someone that I could always look up to. Major Schram is the greatest officer I have ever known and probably will be as long as I am in. No one can compare to his dedication, thoughtfulness and discipline. I spoke to him the day before he died and we laughed and talked about the past. He was wearing both his stetson and spurs right in the middle of the chow hall. He taught me that the military has everything to offer if you just go after it. One day I will pin on gold bars and know he is the reason I decided to go that route. To the Schrams, I hope you savor every happy memory. He was a wonderful man and an excellent leader"
SGT Wahl of Fort Carson CO

"Major Schram, goodbye soldier and thank you. You are my hero."
Bill of Houston, Texas

"I would like to extend my greatest condolences to the family or Maj Schram. I was onboard one of the Blackhawk helicopters that responded to the call for help after his convoy had been attacked. I would like you to know that he gave his life honorably for his fellow soldiers and his country. I was never able to meet him, but I will NEVER forget him."
3rd ACR

"My condolences to the Schram family.
His service and commitment will never be forgotten.
God bless your family and God bless America."
Steve Schram(unrelated) of Milwaukee, WI U.S.A.

"Thank you Mathew Schram, 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 was MAJ Schrams driver in the 574th S&S CO. In Manheim Germany I learned so much from him he was not only my Commander but my friend also I was deeply saddend when I found out. Even though I lost contact with MAJ Schram about a year and a half ago I still employ what I have learned from this great leader in my everyday life. He will be greatly missed."
SGT Jamie Blackburn of Elizabethtown,Kenyucky

"I am short of words, I was just looking thru the S’s on the list of Fallen Soldiers. My older brother is also serving in Iraq. My heart stopped when I saw Matt, Matt and lived on the same floor in the dormitory at Wisc. Whitewater. We had a lot in common and became very good friends, he was ROTC - I was in the Army Reserves. We moved off campus and shared an apt. until I relocated to Texas. Matt was a class act all the way. Even at 19 years old, Matt was unwavering in his discipline and certain of his direction. I owe a lot to Matt, being around him one couldn’t help but absorb some of his character and ideals. I remember in college, Matt loved to watch “Crossfire” everynight, he was a fan of Novak. Matt was one of a kind, He matured way before the rest of us."
Lee Allen Seidel of Dallas, TX

"I had the privelege of being Mat's classmate at CGSC for a year. He was an engaging and thoughtful officer who was held in high regard by his peers. My deepest condolences not only to his family, but his soldiers on his loss. His memory will certainly live on in the lives that he touched, may God rest his soul. He was a fine soldier and a good man."
Maj. Tim Gauthier of Fort Lewis, Washington

"I was Major Schram's assistant while he was assigned to the Battalion S4 of HHD 7th Transportation on Ft. Brag. Not only was he the best officer I had ever had the opportunity to work with, was a great friend. He had the ability to separate work and the correction his soldiers needed from understanding and friendship he shared with us. He showed us disapline and careing. He truely loved the military but had not been one of the officers who had grown hard. He was a wonderful caring person. When he left our duty assignment he took the time to write each of us letters of referral which we could use when we left the military. He even took the time to write wonderful praise to our parents and have them signed by his superior. Of all the people I met in the military he was the best. I will never forget all that he made me become. I wish his family sweet peace in knowing what a fine man he was."
Pamela Schulz of Raleigh, NC

"I'm very honored to have served my Maj Schram in Mannheim, Germany from 1995-1998. He was my Company Commander and I was his Administrative Sergeant. MAJ Schram was the only one I knew that deployed to Iraq and had contact with him while he deployed. His last email said he just touched down in the desert and will have limited capability to his computer but will keep me up to date. On June 3, I had to find out the hard way of his passing by watching NBC Nightly News. I soon as I found out, I was on the phone contacting MAJ Schram's 574th Supply Company's soldiers. He will be missed."
Jennifer Collins (Soto) of Tampa, Fl

"From the soldiers that served under and beside you. Maj. Mathew E. Schram will not be forgotten, he was a great Company Commander in Mannheim, Germany and will be missed by all the lives he touched."
Mark W. Swayne of Fort Irwin, Ca

"To the family and friends of Maj. Mathew Schram:
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 Mathew 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 Maj. Mathew Schram:
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 Mathew, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera, of Powder Springs, Georgia