Firefighter Matthew Callahan, age 38, of the Watertown Fire Department, passed away on August 20, 2025, due to occupational cancer. Born and raised in Reading, Massachusetts, Matt dedicated his life to serving others with courage, compassion, and professionalism.

Matt began his career in emergency services as an EMT and paramedic with Cataldo and Atlantic Ambulance Company, later serving as a trainer and educator at Cataldo’s Paramedic/EMT Education Center, where he mentored future first responders. In 2017, he was hired by the Watertown Fire Department and graduated from the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy in 2018.

Throughout his career, Matt’s bravery and selflessness were formally recognized. He received a Special Citizen Citation from the Salem Police Department in 2017 and company citation awards in 2021 and 2023 for acts of great distinction and heroism in saving human lives. He is remembered as a skilled firefighter and medic, devoted son and brother, and a kindhearted soul whose service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.