HOLLEY, MATTHEW

​Matthew J. Holley was born on September 19, 1984, in San Diego California to John and Stacey Holley and was one week shy of turning 17 when the 9/11 attacks occurred and it weighed heavily on him. Coming from a long line of military service, including both John and Stacey, it was a natural fit for Matthew to join the Army as he wanted to serve something greater than himself.   

Growing up, Matthew was an incredibly bright, talented and patriotic man. He was a three-time AAU national champion in karate, and extremely talented artist. Prior to his passing, Matthew has asked his family to send him crayons so he could teach Iraqi children how to draw.  

Specialist Holley joined the United States Army and became a medic. Referred to as “Doc” by his fellow Soldiers, SPC Holley was the medic for 1st Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) at Fort Campbell Kentucky. To note, both of his parents are veterans of the 101st Airborne Division.  

SPC Holley, along with four other Soldiers, were killed by a homemade Improvised Explosive Device (IED) on November 15, 2005 in Taji Iraq. His awards include the Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart.  

While SPC Holley may no longer be with us, his legacy continues to live on. Once John heard that SPC Holley would be brought back home to San Diego via commercial airliner with no honor guard to greet him, just baggage handlers taking him off like the other luggage, and putting him on a cart and driving off, he simply stated “that is not going to happen with my son. That is not how my son is coming home.” After many phone calls, including those to the local Congressman and Senator, there was an honor guard from the 101st Airborne at Fort Campbell on the tarmac to properly greet him. However, as a result the Holley Provision was passed into law by President Bush which mandates our fallen heroes returning from any theater of combat would not be flown commercially and stowed with the baggage, and an honor guard would be there to meet each flight. This allows for contracted jets to fly into regional airports making it easier on the families, and providing the honor and respect out heroes deserve. 

John and Stacey Holley wrote a book titled “Medals, Flags, and Memories” the true story of the Holley Provision and an American family’s sacrifice in the War on Terror.  

The Washington State Fallen Heroes Project proudly remembers SPC Matthew J. Holley for his service, sacrifice, and commitment to our nation. His life continues to inspire all who learn his story.