Airman First Class From 175th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron Dies While Snowboarding At Big Snow American Dream

December 13, 2022

EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ (BERGEN)– Tpr. II Charles Marchan of the New Jersey State Police, Public Information Unit said that on Thursday, December 8th at approximately 9:14 p.m., troopers responded to American Dream Big Snow for the report of an unresponsive male who was snowboarding. When troopers arrived, EMS was on scene providing first aid. He was then transported to an area hospital.

In a statement from Big Snow, we can confirm that our ski patrol responded to a guest incident last Thursday evening. First aid was administered, and the guest was transported to a local hospital for further care. In the interest of the guest’s privacy, no additional information will be provided. Our thoughts are with this guest’s family at this time.

The 175th Wing of the Maryland Air National Guard posted on Facebook, It is with a very heavy heart that we announce the loss of one of our own.

Airman First Class Peter R. Mathews was a traditional guardsman who served in the Maryland Air National Guard since 2020. He was a crew chief assigned to the 175th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, where he was currently serving on orders until his tragic passing off-duty.

Earlier this year, Mathews mobilized with his squadron and A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft from the 104th Fighter Squadron to support two U.S. Army Europe-led exercises in Eastern Europe: Swift Response and Defender Europe 22. He was awarded the Air Force Achievement Medal for his accomplishments during those exercises.

“Peter was genuinely an amazing person, and his smile lit up the room. If you had a chance to talk to him, you knew instantly he had a remarkable future and was destined for greatness,” said U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Jeffrey Golabiewski, 175th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron senior enlisted leader. “He was in the process of following in his father’s footsteps to become a pilot. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and anyone who knew Peter.”

Rest easy, Airman.

Obituary

Newsday Long Island was the first to report on the tragic incident and New Jersey 101.5