1ST SGT. MARK MATTHEWS: THE BUFFALO SOLDIER DEFINED BY PASSION AND SERVICE
A life of service looks differently for everyone but Veteran 1st Sgt. Mark Matthews had one of the most unique experiences in the history of the U.S. military. From watching the world transform massively due to technology to dealing with multiple racial barriers and more, throughout his 111 years on this Earth, Matthews had a journey unlike any other.
1st Sgt. Mark Matthews: A Life of Service
Army Veteran 1st Sgt. Mark Matthews served his nation in multiple wars, beginning in the American Indian Wars, ending after World War II, and encompassing every conflict in between.
Matthews rode horses and fought in the Pacific Theatre, watching Soldiers move from riding horseback to manning armored tanks.
His life was one filled with plenty of change and evolving needs from a nation still working to gain footing on the world stage.
However, it was his upbringing that would lay the foundation for Matthews to overcome every obstacle while effectively serving in the Army.
Horseback Riding in Ohio
Matthews may have been born in Alabama but it was his upbringing in Mansfield, Ohio that would provide the opportunity to develop his skills with horses.
Beginning from an early age, Matthews would even deliver newspapers using a pony before he ever enlisted and as a teenager, the 10th Cavalry Regiment met with him while he held a job working at a racetrack in Kentucky.
Despite only being 15 years old, Matthews lied about his age and joined the Army when he found out they were riding around on horses everywhere.
As times were different back then, verifying one’s age was nothing like modern practices and in 1910 at the age of 16, Matthews was sent to his first duty station.
Buffalo Soldiers and Military Service
By the time Matthews became a Soldier, most of the Plains Wars with Native Americans was over; however, there were still scouts helping with the remaining efforts.
This would only bolster the skills of Matthews, as he worked alongside the Natives, learning their horse riding techniques. Matthews served as a Buffalo Soldier during this time.
Matthews also built a notable reputation as an excellent marksman while stationed at Fort Huachuca, Arizona.
Later, he was called upon to join General Pershing’s expedition into Mexico to hunt Pancho Villa.
His military career continued during World War I, by guarding the U.S.-Mexico border, clashing with Mexican forces and German advisors near Nogales.
However, he would always be tied to horses with his duties evolving over time because of his experience and expertise.
Matthews was transferred to Fort Myer, Virginia, in 1931, where he escorted King George VI, performed horse shows to sell war bonds, cared for Eleanor Roosevelt’s horses, and even played polo.
While he wasn’t able to train with the Tuskegee Airmen due to his age, Matthews still fought in World War II, seeing combat at the Battle of Saipan. It was during this time that he rose to the rank of first sergeant.
Matthews was everything you'd want in a warfighter, showing his dedication, skill, and nobility on and off the battlefield.
Furthermore, while serving as a Buffalo Soldier, he played in the drum and bugle corps, and even secretly performed "Taps" at funerals in Arlington since Black Soldiers weren’t allowed at white burials.
1st Sgt. Mark Matthews Forged a Unique Legacy
While the last Buffalo Soldier units disbanded in 1951, Matthews was just getting started.
Despite maintaining his health, time is undefeated, and he passed away, but managed to live until September 6, 2005, at the age of 111, after a sudden sickness due to pneumonia.
1st Sgt. Mark Matthews dealt with racial barriers we can’t 100% understand while facing the harsh terrains and battlefields that come with war. His legacy is one of duty, service, and maximizing your passion with the opportunities you’re met with.
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