Erie Resident Matt Summerell served in the Air National Guard for three years.

He comes from a family of service.

His brother served, along with his Dad and Grandfathers.

Matt's father, Staff Sgt. Richard Summerell of Franklin, Virginia, was killed in a plane crash on March 3, 2001.

Virginia Guard engineers and Florida aviators were returning home after completing a two-week military construction project.

Since that day, Matt has operated day by day.