05/30/2026
Ranger Hall of Fame 2026.
Sergeant First Class Matthew Loren Rierson is inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame for extraordinary service, exceptional leadership, and a lifelong embodiment of the Ranger Creed. Throughout his distinguished career, he demonstrated remarkable courage, tactical mastery, and unwavering commitment to his fellow Rangers and the nation.
A veteran of the 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Sergeant First Class Rierson set the standard for Ranger noncommissioned officers through performance, discipline, and humility. Following his service in the Regiment, he continued to lead at the highest levels as an assault team leader with 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta, earning a reputation as a quiet professional whose excellence influenced formations far beyond his own.
During combat operations in Mogadishu in October 1993, Sergeant First Class Rierson participated in every mission conducted by Task Force Ranger. Over the course of October 3 and 4, he led his team during the initial assault, secured assigned objectives, and repeatedly fought through intense enemy fire to es**rt detainees and reinforce isolated friendly forces. His leadership, courage, and calm presence under fire provided critical relief to exhausted assault elements engaged in prolonged combat. For his actions, Matt was posthumously awarded the Silver Star.
Sergeant First Class Rierson’s legacy endures through the Rangers he inspired, the standards he set, and the example he provided of what it means to move further, faster, and fight harder. His induction into the Ranger Hall of Fame honors a Ranger whose life and service reflect the highest traditions of the Regiment and the United States Army.
