Pucino, Matthew Albert

Matthew Albert Pucino was a Staff Sergeant in the United States Army, assigned to Company B, 2nd Battalion, 20th Special Forces Group (Airborne), based in Glen Arm, Maryland. A native of Barnstable, Massachusetts, he was 34 years old at the time of his death. His service included deployments to the Philippines, the Horn of Africa, and Afghanistan.

On November 23, 2009, Pucino was killed by an improvised explosive device while on a mounted patrol in the village of Pashay Kala, Zabul province, Afghanistan. The attack occurred during a combat operation in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

Pucino's death came during a period of intense fighting in Afghanistan, eight years after the U.S.-led invasion. 2009 was the deadliest year for international forces in the conflict to that point, with a major troop surge underway to counter a resilient insurgency. Zabul province, bordering Pakistan, was a known transit area for insurgent fighters and materials.

Following his death, Pucino was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, and Meritorious Service Medal. His remains were returned to the United States, and a memorial service was held in Massachusetts. Fellow soldiers described him as a dedicated and skilled Special Forces engineer sergeant.

Pucino is remembered by his family, his unit, and veterans' organizations. A memorial motorcycle ride is held annually in his honor on Cape Cod. His name is inscribed on the Massachusetts Fallen Heroes Memorial in Boston's Seaport District.

Staff Sergeant Matthew Pucino was killed during Operation Enduring Freedom (2001–2014). The conflict concluded in December 2014. See the full roster of those killed in this conflict.

Among those documented in the same conflict: Andrews, Evander Earl, Edmunds, Jonn Joseph, Stonesifer, Kristofor Tif, Davis, Bryant Leroy.

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