Soldier's body returns to MacDill

As the casket was lowered from the chartered aircraft, Largo native, Staff Sergeant Matthew Sitton's family watched at MacDill Air Force Base Friday.

He was in Afghanistan, due home in just about a month, when his 21-year-old widow says she got the news. 

Her husband, who was on his fourth deployment, was dead and his body had been flown home from Dover Air Force Base for his family to have one last goodbye.

He left behind not only a wife, but also his 9-month-old son, Brodey. Shortly after receiving the news, Sarah conducted a press conference earlier this week.  There she talked about her last conversation with her husband was one of excitement. 

She said as they talked through the internet, they dreamed about the day their family would be together again. 

That day, would never come for Sarah and her son though.  She says she finds solace in knowing that he husband died doing what he loved.  She said he knew the dangers of his job, but was willing to sacrifice for his nation.

A family friend has set up a scholarship fund for baby Brodey.  If you would like to contribute, ask for the Brodey Steven Sitton fund at UBS Financial Services in St. Petersburg.  Donations can also be mailed to:  UBS Financial Services 150 2nd Avenue North, St. Petersburg, FL 33701.