News Search

ArticleS

Lackland remembers fallen agent

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Vincent Borden
  • 37th Training Wing Public Affairs Office
Lackland AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  On June 18, Airmen gathered in honor of Special Agent Matthew Kuglics. Instead of celebration, however, they paid tribute; instead of a steady drum beat, the sounds of memories and personal reflection filled the air.

Agent Kuglics, a member of the Office of Special Investigations, Detachment 352 here, was honored and remembered in a memorial ceremony at the Lackland AFB parade grounds. 

Originally from North Canton, Ohio, Agent Kuglics deployed to Kirkuk Regional Air Base, Iraq, in March in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. While assigned to the OSI Det. 41, he was killed in action June 5 in a vehicle by an improvised explosive.

He was 25 years old.

"In my entire Air Force career, I have never seen such a young Airman have such a big impact on everyone he came in contact with," said Special Agent Ronald Adams, Air Force OSI Det. 352 Antiterrorism Specialty Team special agent in charge. Agent Kuglics was assigned to AST while stationed at Lackland.

Agent Kuglics also volunteered to serve as a member of the Lackland Emergency Services Team, a group responsible for law enforcement duties such as hostage negotiation, sniper operations and high-risk warrant service. His team members were present to commemorate his service.

"(Making the team) is no easy task, and (Agent Kuglics) was very honored and humbled when we told him he made the team," Senior Master Sgt. Matt Harmatuk, 37th Security Forces Squadron operations superintendent told the Kuglics family. "But I can tell you, on behalf of the men here today, we are more privileged and honored that he worked with us."

A rifle drill demonstration by members of the Lackland Honor Guard, and a jump by Master Sgt. Greg Hericks and Tech. Sgt. Jason Attinger, members of the 342nd Training Squadron, followed the remarks. 

The event was attended by Agent Kuglic's family; Brig. Gen. Dana Simmons, Air Force OSI commander; Col. Eric Wilbur, 37th Training Wing vice commander; and many others, to remember the accomplishments and character of a man who gave his life in defense of this nation.