The wife of fallen Baton Rouge Police officer and Marine Matthew Gerald offered a touching tribute Friday to her husband.
You can read the tribute below.
My blue-eyed rock was a hero before I knew him. He began his commitment to our country in 1994, achieving rank of corporal in the U.S. Marines and the rank of specialist in the Army. During those 11 years, Matt was awarded numerous medals, commendation, ribbons and badges. Following three tours of duty in Iraq, he returned home.
In the midst of his transition from soldier to civilian, our paths crossed – it was February 13, 2010, in an unlikely place… the Spanish Town Parade. Immediately I admired his bright, blue eyes and his laid back disposition. His heart for me never wavered despite the fact that I was a single mom. I was grateful to find a “good” man that respected and accepted who I was and was willing to pursue a relationship with my daughter and myself. Although it was challenging at times, he made the growth of our relationship appear effortless. Over the course of the following two years, we navigated some rough waters and persevered through several storms. As Matt continued to search for and find his calling as a civilian, we faced obstacles I felt were too large to overcome. My warrior fought hard for us both – as I had often given up the fight. Thankfully, he always pushed on and was victorious; he got us back on track.
Ultimately, the only thing stronger than his love for the red, white and blue, was his love for us. The pinnacle of our journey led us to a red, white and blue wedding July 7, 2010 – just after his favorite holiday, Independence Day. Not surprising, the momentous occasion of our daughter’s birth was on May 23, 2013, just before his second favorite holiday, Memorial Day.
Easily absorbed in the care and responsibility of a baby and a kindergartner, I failed to notice how low and distant my husband had become. Always loyal to his family, he continued to search for his life’s purpose and began to travel down an uncertain path that year. By the grace of God, our marriage was being restored and our love strengthened. Although we continued to Walk by Faith and I relentlessly prayed for us all, we still seemed to struggle with distance in our marriage. When Matt answered the call to become a police officer, my prayers were answered our marriage was made anew – as only God can do.
The love Matt had for the police department was beyond words. His uniforms and unit were pristine, his smile was a constant and his pride was infectious.
My heart is heavy but the admiration and pride I feel gives me the strength I need to carry on.
Fallen but not forgotten.
8211 will continue to bridge the gap and foster peace in the country he lived, loved and died for..
Your Medal of Valor is well-deserved.
My protector, my lover, my best friend.
You will remain in my heart forever.
All my love,
Dechia
Officer “Button”… your legacy will live on