Matthew was a son of William and Matilda Hagan of Aughavey, Coagh, and educated at Tamlaght National School. He joined the North Irish Horse in the early months of the war and went to France, where he took part in some heavy engagements for 18 months. He was invalided home suffering from pleurisy. After spending some time in Hospital he returned to his unit and volunteered again for overseas service. In late 1917 the North Irish Horse were temporarily disbanded and in January 1918 he was transferred to the Staffordshire Yeomanry. He contracted malaria while serving in Palestine and died on 17th October 1918, aged 24.

This Cemetery is located on Jalloul, in the Assas Area which is to the west of the Forest of Pines. The cemetery is next to a French cemetery and near to an electricity company and is divided into two seperate sections for First World War and Second World War burials, on opposite sides of the road. GPS Co-ordinates: 33.869765, 35.505313 (or +33° 52' 11.15" N, +35° 30' 19.13" E)