Constable Matthew Arnold was a big man with a big smile and a big heart.
A son. A brother. A friend. A police officer.
A hero.
The triplet, the older brother by just minutes, was honoured by a sea of blue standing shoulder to shoulder at the Brisbane service to honour the two officers killed on duty on December 12.
Senior Sergeant Laura Harriss fought back the tears as she delivered a moving eulogy for Const Arnold who she said served the community with honour.
Const Arnold was born to serve and to be a leader, the service heard.
After graduating the police academy in 2020, he was remembered as an exceptional member of the QPS destined for a distinguished career.
"From a young age Matt would go on to dedicate his life in the service of others," Sen Sgt Harriss said.
"He was also a protector, a leader and a big brother to all those who knew him. He was a big man with an even bigger heart.
"So filled with love for everyone around him."
At school, the young Matt soon learned that his smile and charisma would be the secret to winning hearts - and he used them relentlessly.
"He realised there were two ways to get through high school. The first option was a dedication to study.
"The second was charm. He chose the latter."
He was remembered as a natural leader who inspired love and loyalty as he fulfilled a lifelong dream to serve and protect his community.
"Matt was so proud to be a police officer. And it was clear he found his true passion and purpose.
"We are so proud of the man he became. Matt, you deserved so much more from the public you lived to protect.
"You are a hero and will never be forgotten. May your name and memory never leave the mind of others. We love you always. We love you forever."
The final words from Const Arnold's too-short life are his own, from a heartfelt message he wrote to his parents that was read at the service.
"Thank you, for everything," he wrote.
"I may be gone someday, soon perhaps. But just know that I will never leave you. I will cherish every moment we've had together in my heart forever."
