Randy was a McCook High School graduate with the class of 2004. Defending our American freedoms, SGT Matheny gave the ultimate sacrifice near the outskirts of Baghdad, Iraq on February 4, 2007. At the time of Randy's untimely passing, he was assigned to the 1074th Transportation Companybased out of Sidney, NE.

Randy grew up in McCook. He was a best friend to many, myself included. He had a close circle of friends and always brought a smile to everyone he was around. He enjoyed rock music, the bass guitar, and riding BMX bikes in his younger days.

After high school, following in the footsteps of his brother, Paul, and sister, Karen, Randy decided to join the Nebraska Army National Guard to serve his country and community. The Nebraska National Guard gave Randy endless opportunities to advance his education and his professional career as an Army Motor Transport Operator (MOS 88M). Randy was ecstatic for his future!

Randy was so proud to wear the uniform and serve his country. By serving in the Army, he got the best of both worlds. SGT Matheny was able to follow his family members into the call for service, as well as follow in his father, Gary's, footsteps as a commercial motor transport operator.

My family still talks about when Randy returned from 88M transport training and would visit us walking tall with pride. He was the textbook example of an American citizen soldier.

Fifteen years have gone by since he was taken from us. For his family, the dust may have settled, and the years gone by, but the hurt and void never subsides.

Randy will not be forgotten. He made a lasting impression on this world in his short 20 years. Our everyday freedoms seem to be taken for granted daily, but let it be known, we would not collectively as citizens live the lives we have today if it wasn't for National heroes such as SGT Matheny.

May SGT Randy J. Matheny rest forever in peace. Thank you for your service and sacrifice. See you on the other side.

May God wrap his loving arms around his mother Jan; his father, Gary; his brother and sister, Paul and Karen; and all of those who are remembering Randy, not only today, but every day. The yellow ribbon does not expire.