Matthew Drinkwalter

Born in Billings, Montana, and raised in the quiet community of Lockwood, United States Army Specialist Matthew Drinkwalter grew up surrounded by the rugged beauty of the outdoors and the warmth of a close-knit family. His childhood was filled with camping trips, hunting excursions, fishing adventures, and weekends spent in church—moments that shaped his character and instilled in him a deep sense of faith, discipline, and love for nature. 

Drinkwalter thrived in athletics, particularly track and field, earning a scholarship to Fresno State where he pursued both sport and scholarship. But his life took a profound turn on September 11, 2001. Sitting in a college classroom in Missoula, Montana, he watched the world change and made a decision that would define his future: he enlisted in the United States Army. 

After graduating with a degree in criminology and interning with the U.S. Marshals, Drinkwalter joined the elite ranks of the 3rd Ranger Battalion, Charlie Company, Third Platoon. He served in line squads, weapons squads, and Site Security Teams, embracing the intensity, camaraderie, and purpose of special operations. His dream was to retire from the military and join the ATF—a path cut short by the toll of combat. 

Drinkwalter’s service came at a steep cost. His deployment was fast-tracked, with little time to recover between missions. He endured multiple traumatic brain injuries from blasts and collisions, toxic exposures, and the relentless strain of combat. These injuries led to a cascade of complications: cognitive disorders, memory loss, migraines, PTSD, and physical ailments including degenerative disc disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and hearing loss. Despite the pain, surgeries, and limitations, Drinkwalter never lost his will to fight. 

His recovery has been long and grueling, marked by moments of despair and resilience. But everything changed when he met Darci, the woman he credits with saving his life. They married in July 2008 and built a life together in Montana, raising three children—Owen, Wyatt, and Maci. Drinkwalter’s family is the center of his world. With the unwavering support of Darci, his parents, in-laws, and siblings, Matthew found strength in family and faith. 

Today, Drinkwalter finds peace in the mountains, joy in his children’s laughter, and purpose in community involvement. The support from Tunnel to Towers has lifted a heavy financial burden, giving him the independence and space he needs to heal and thrive. His smart home is more than a structure—it’s a symbol of hope, freedom, and the ability to pay it forward. 

Though life didn’t unfold as he once imagined, United States Army Specialist Matthew Drinkwalter chooses to stay in the fight. He finds beauty in the life he was given and continues to live with courage, grace, and gratitude. His story is a testament to the enduring spirit of a soldier, a father, a husband, and a hero. 

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has provided United States Army Specialist Matthew Drinkwalter with a mortgage-free smart home through the Smart Home Program.