Community Supports Family Amid Loss of Local Hero
Operational security limited what Curtis could share with his family regarding his military role, particularly during the recent conflict that began on February 28, when the United States and Israel initiated offensive operations against Iran. His parents heard from him just prior to his final mission.
“He wasn’t permitted to disclose too many specifics about his location or activities,” Matt noted. “So, he provided a simplified account of the situation in our community instead.”
The community rallied around Curtis’s family, offering comfort in a time of grief. He is survived by his wife, Mary, and his sister, Jessica. Residents in Wilmington, Ohio, have been providing an outpouring of support through flowers and plentiful meals, including homemade chicken noodle soup, ribs, quiche, salads, breads, and peaches.
One community group even decided to plant a tree in their garden in Curtis’s honor, a testament to his enduring legacy. He was regarded as one of Wilmington’s prominent figures, excelling academically with a strong memory that served him well. A graduate with honors from both local high school and the University of Cincinnati, Curtis earned a degree in aerospace engineering. He and Mary were high school sweethearts; his mother recollects that he proposed to her while they were hiking in Utah.
“He was an incredibly friendly and outgoing person,” Matt described. “His remarkable ability to absorb and recall information was striking. He was genuinely curious, often researching various topics, and could engage anyone in conversation. It was common for people to ask him, ‘How did you know that?’
From a young age, Curtis had a fascination with airplanes. His grandmother even crafted a quilt adorned with images of aircraft, which he cherished throughout his childhood. He could identify planes soaring overhead just by glancing at the sky.
After enlisting in 2015, Curtis underwent basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas. His last position was as part of an air refueling squadron stationed at Rickenbacker Air National Guard Base near Columbus.
During a gathering in Dover last week, dignitaries expressed their condolences to Curtis’s family, commending them on raising such a remarkable young man. “He was at the top of his class in high school, college, and during all of his military training. The team at Rickenbacker Base recognized his exceptionally bright future,” Lisa shared.
President Trump attended two dignified transfer ceremonies, reflecting on the messages he received from families, including Curtis’s. On March 7, he conveyed that their sentiments were clear: they believed this war was worthy of fighting and winning.
In a response to a request for comment, White House Press Secretary Olivia Wales stated, “President Trump and all Americans mourn our fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. They represent the finest of our nation, and the President is committed to honoring their service as part of Operation Epic Fury.” At Dover Air Force Base, the President shared his condolences with the grieving families, emphasizing their bravery in the face of danger.
In the wake of these losses, Hegseth held a press conference emphasizing the universal determination expressed by every family present: “Go all the way. Let’s honor their sacrifice. Don’t get upset. Don’t stop until the job is done.” During his time at Dover, Hegseth committed to respecting Gold Star families and acknowledged the painful conversations he had with each one.
In light of the ongoing conflict, Matt conveyed his trust in military leaders, stating, “I believe they know what they’re doing and are operating for a just cause. Although the full scope of information is not available to us, I sincerely hope it will all prove worthwhile.”
Reflecting on their profound loss, Lisa expressed the unbearable pain of losing a child, stating, “We loved him for 30 years. No family should have to endure this grief. He will always be that little boy playing with planes in our backyard.”
With heartfelt sentiments resonating through the community, Lisa mentioned, “While neighbors have tied black ribbons around their mailboxes in remembrance, I would have preferred a yellow ribbon,” signifying hope and support for the service members still deployed.
