Matthew was born at Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota, where his father served as a colonel in the U.S. Air Force. As a military child, he experienced frequent moves, living in South Dakota, Texas, New Mexico, and Kentucky. In 2002, he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout. He went on to graduate in 2006 from Lexington Catholic High School in Lexington, Kentucky, where he stood out as a dedicated student-athlete, especially in cross country.

He entered the United States Air Force Academy and graduated in 2010 with a degree in aeronautical engineering. A dedicated leader, he served as captain of the Academy’s Sandhurst team his senior year. After commissioning, he completed the demanding two-year Special Tactics Officer training and earned the red beret in June 2012. Assigned to the 23rd Special Tactics Squadron at Hurlburt Field, Florida, he deployed three times—once to Africa and twice to Afghanistan—leading reconnaissance, strike, and recovery missions. On August 26, 2015, while driving the lead vehicle in a convoy near Camp Antonik, Helmand Province, he identified an insider attack and reversed his vehicle to shield his teammates. Though mortally wounded, his actions saved many lives. He was posthumously awarded the Silver Star.

His legacy lives on through those who knew and served with him. The Matthew Roland Foundation, established by his family, funds scholarships at Lexington Catholic High School, supports the Academy’s Sandhurst team, and provides leadership opportunities for teens from Gold Star families.