[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 130 (Thursday, September 10, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1254]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             HONORING THE SERVICE OF CAPTAIN MATTHEW ROLAND

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. ANDY BARR

                              of kentucky

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 10, 2015

  Mr. BARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a true American 
hero, Air Force Captain Matthew D. Roland, from Lexington, Kentucky. 
Captain Roland gave his life in service to his country when he was 
killed in Afghanistan on August 26, 2015.
  Captain Roland graduated in 2006 from Lexington Catholic High School, 
where he was a member of the National Honor Society and ran cross 
country. He was recognized as a born leader, motivated and dedicated to 
all that he did. Roland was also an Eagle Scout. He earned an 
appointment to the United States Air Force Academy, where he graduated 
in 2010.
  Captain Roland was a special tactics officer at the 23rd Special 
Tactics Squadron in Afghanistan. He completed the rigorous special 
tactics training program in 2012, then was a team leader who supervised 
combat preparedness training for a thirty five member team. He deployed 
three times in his five years of service, serving in many locations 
around the world.
  Colonel Wolfe Davidson, 24th Special Operations commander, described 
Roland and fellow hero Forrest as ``incredible warriors who not only 
volunteered to join our nation's Special Operations Forces, but earned 
their way to the tip of the spear in defense of our nation.''
  Captain Roland is survived by his parents, retired Air Force Colonel 
Mark Roland and Barbara Roland, and his sister, Erica.
  The tragic loss of this brave man is felt by all who knew him. Along 
with a grateful nation, I honor his legacy, embrace his family, and say 
thank you for his ultimate sacrifice for American freedom.

                          ____________________