Sgt. Matthew Taylor was 25 years old and was sent to Iraq after he served two tours in Afghanistan, where he was awarded a Bronze Star Medal in 2007.

Sixty-one days before he was scheduled to come home, Taylor called his daughter to wish her a happy fifth birthday. The next day, he was killed in Baghdad while on patrol. Taylor left behind his wife, Randi Taylor, as well as his three daughters, Ryann, 5, Raegan, 2, and Raina, 6 months.

Charles Wyke-Smith, who works with Matthew Taylor's father, attended the funeral and started to plan a benefit for the fallen soldier.

What started as a low-key idea was soon organized into a major event, involving donations from local bands, print studios and a catering company.

And thus, the Rock for a Hero benefit concert was born. It will take place Saturday at the Music Farm.

In the beginning stages of planning the event, Wyke-Smith called Marshall Lowe of All In Entertainment and explained what he wanted to do.

After that, the Music Farm donated its venue space. Scott Elliot of Knight Press donated the design and printing of the T-shirts for sale and Nelson Printing did 1,000 fliers. In addition, Dish and Design Catering Company donated food.

"We've had an awesome response, it's just incredible. It's very inspiring to see how generous people are," Wyke-Smith said.

Rock for a Hero will feature entertainment by The Plainfield Project, Mental Note and Henry's Attic. Mark Bryan, guitarist from Hootie and the Blowfish, will MC the event and perform music from his new album, "End of the Front."

Individuals and organizations can sponsor the event for between $50 to $1,000. All the proceeds from the night will go directly to the Matthew Taylor Family Fund. Donation checks can be made to the Matthew Taylor Family Fund at any NBSC branch.

The show is $10. VIP tickets, for $25, include a pre-show meet and greet with Mark Bryan as well as hors d'oeuvres and drink service in the VIP access area.

"This is an all-ages event. My 77-year-old father-in-law will be there as well as my 11-year-old daughter," Wyke-Smith said.