The Dawson Family

Meet the Dawson family on Military Makeover with Montel®, a veteran family whose story reflects courage and sacrifice. Matthew Dawson grew up between Georgia and Florida, guided by family and inspired by his Uncle Chuckie, an Army Infantry veteran of the Vietnam War. When he later watched the film Stop-Loss, the story struck a chord. He enlisted soon after, convinced that his decision to serve might allow another soldier the chance to return home. He entered the Army as an Infantryman and rose to the rank of Sergeant before being medically boarded and honorably discharged. His years in uniform included deployments to Iraq from 2009 to 2010 and Afghanistan from 2011 to 2012. In Iraq, Matthew was part of an air reaction force, assigned to secure high-value targets. In Afghanistan, stationed at Combat Outpost Siahchoy, he endured the intensity of life in RC South, where his unit shrank significantly due to the toll of combat. Matthew’s time overseas included moments of unimaginable reality. On one patrol, he witnessed an ANA soldier step on an IED, losing his leg and hand. Hours later, he found himself staring at an ant carrying away a fragment of the soldier’s flesh, a haunting reminder of what life and sacrifice meant on the battlefield. In another incident, he survived a grenade blast that left him with shrapnel wounds across his body, a traumatic brain injury, and injuries that continue to affect him. For his service, Matthew has received numerous awards, including the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Star, Iraq Campaign Medal with two Campaign Stars, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal (second award), Army Achievement Medal (second award), Meritorious Unit Commendation, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, NATO Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge, and multiple ribbons recognizing his dedication. Now a foreman at a custom welding and fabrication shop, Matthew continues to push forward while managing ongoing injuries that include PTSD, back and hip pain, hearing loss, and nerve damage caused by shrapnel still present in his body. At his side is his partner, Christina Jacome. The two have known each other since childhood, reconnected as young adults, and have built a life together over the past 12 years. Christina grew up in Lake Worth, Florida, and today cares for their children while also creating organic products sold at local markets. She is a steady source of support as Matthew navigates the effects of his service. Together, they are raising two children: Dante (10), who loves video games and playing outside, and Celestina (2), who enjoys nature, the beach, and family time. The Dawson family shares a love of the outdoors. They spend time backpacking, fishing, hiking, golfing, and enjoying the Florida sunshine. Their home in Lake Worth provides the foundation for their life, but like so many veteran families, they face challenges that cannot be carried alone. Through Military Makeover with Montel, the Dawsons will receive the support of community and partners who wish to honor Matthew’s courage and the sacrifices made by his family. Together, they will help create a renewed home, one that reflects the family’s journey, eases their daily challenges, and celebrates their future with comfort, care, and hope.