On Friday, December 5th at approximately 8:30 PM, Matthew and his family were getting home from t-ball practice.  When he was taking off his uniform, he noticed smoke coming from his room.  His mother was in the kitchen and his grandparents were in the living room.  Matt and his grandfather rushed to get his little sister and the family exited the trailer just as the blaze began to grow.

"There's people that watch things happen and there's people who take action immediately.  In this case Matthew did just that," stated Fire Chief Sonny Mello, "Upon noticing the fire, Matthew immediately escorted his family out of the structure.  He didn't go back in for his toys.  Because of this brave act, we know that fire prevention works, and I commend Fire Marshal Rudy Cardona for that."

"It gives me great honor and privilege on behalf of the Eagle Pass Police Department to be here this morning to honor a hero today," added Chief Albert Guajardo, "They say that God has angels among us that take care of us everyday, angels that tell us that nothing is going to happen to us while we sleep at night.  Well Matthew you are an angel."    

"It's like stories you've heard of the Lord giving people gifts such as famous painters or musicians.  Then you have athletes who are sometimes painted as heroes," concluded Sheriff Tom Schmerber, " To me Matthew is a true hero.  Matthew your MY hero."