Lake Forest Area University Lowers Flag for Alumni Killed in Afghanistan [WATCH]

LAKE FOREST, CA — Orange County continues to mourn the loss of their own, U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Matthew V. Thompson, this morning at Concordia University.

An alumnae of the university, the formal "flag-lowering" ceremony was held at an Orange County university Monday, to honor an alumni killed in Afghanistan. He graduated with a B. A. in Theological Studies in 2011, according to report.

The university lowered its flag to half staff as taps is played at 7 a.m. Christ College Dean Steve Mueller, and prayers offered by campus Pastor Quinton Anderson.

Army Staff Sgt. Matthew V. Thompson was killed last Tuesday in Helmand Province. The Special Forces soldier was 28 years old, an Irvine resident, and an alumnus of Concordia University in Irvine.

"He walked in looking like a surfer," Mueller said of the first time he met Thompson. "Always likable, caring, and seeking adventure."

Mueller added a personal note. "He came to Concordia thinking he wanted to be a pastor. I would like to go and meet other people and see how I will serve.

"There is nothing I can say about Matt that is more important than his faith," Mueller said. "He lived confidently and boldly. He has been a blessing to our country, and to all who knew him."

Thompson is the second American soldier to die this year in Afghanistan, where about 10,000 U.S. troops are assisting the local forces oust Taliban guerrillas.

Milwaukee television station WTMJ reports that Thompson had spoken with his wife in Minnesota two nights before he was killed, and said he was going on a dangerous mission. Rachel Thompson had met him at Concordia, and they married five years ago.

The solemn service on his campus grounds reminded of Thompson's faith, as well as his contributions to his country.

U. S. Army Photo