MATHENY IV, CHARLES

Charles E. Matheny IV was born on March 12, 1982 in San Diego California, but was raised in Stanwood WA where he enlisted into the United States Army in August 2001, shortly after graduating from Arlington High School a year earlier.  

Charles, an only child, came from a military family so it came as no surprise when he followed his family lineage of service to our nation. His parents, both grandfathers, and his great-grandfather all served in the Army. 

At the age of 15, his father quickly fell ill and suffered from a heart attack. Knowing he didn’t have long, he threw Charles the keys to the car, not even knowing if he could drive, and with a cool head and a heavy foot, Charles got his dad to the hospital in time to receive life saving treatment.  

SGT Matheny was a mechanic and stationed at Fort Hood, Texas where he was assigned to the 704th Support Battalion, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division. 

As a boy, SGT Matheny enjoyed war movies and had a passion for cars. Being an Army mechanic seemed to fit. “I’m living every boy’s dream. I get to play on tanks,” he said.  

During his first deployment, SGT Matheny injured his knee and returned to Fort Hood, where he eventually received surgery for a torn ligament. However, he re-enlisted and returned to Iraq in November 2005. 

Chuck Matheny, SGT Matheny’s father said “Charlie always volunteered for the toughest duty...he had put himself into the worst of it." SGT Matheny was hand-selected to be in instructor, teaching the Iraqi Army to take over in one of the toughest parts of Baghdad. According to his father, just after Charles death, “there is no worse assignment right now, than that area." 

SGT Matheny IV was killed during his second tour on 18 February 2006, just three weeks before his 24th birthday, when an Improvised Explosive Device detonated by his vehicle in Baghdad Iraq. SGT Matheny was set to get out of the Army in August 2006. He is laid to rest at Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent WA.  

The Washington State Fallen Heroes Project proudly remembers SGT Charles E. Matheny IV for his service, sacrifice, and commitment to our nation. His life continues to inspire all who learn his story.