COL Matthew J. Van Wagenen Deputy Commander – Support COL Matthew Van Wagenen commissioned as an Armor 2LT in 1991 upon graduation from the Marquette University ROTC program in Milwaukee, WI. He is a graduate of the Armor Officer Basic Course, Armor Officer Advanced Course and the United States Army Command and General Staff College where he earned a Master’s Degree in Military Arts and Science. He was also an Army War College Fellow assigned to the George C. Marshall Center for Security Studies in Garmisch, Germany. COL Van Wagenen most recently served as the Commander, Task Force Southeast in Gardez City, Paktiya Province, Afghanistan from April to August 2017 after serving as the Executive Officer to the Director of the Army Staff from June 2016 through April 2017. Prior to his assignment at the Pentagon, COL Van Wagenen commanded the 3rd ABCT, 1CD at FT Hood, TX from June 2014 to March 2016. Before taking his Brigade Command, he deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom as CJ3 for Regional Command East from April 2012 to April 2013. He also served as the G3 for 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kansas from December 2010 to March 2012. Prior to this COL Van Wagenen commanded 4th Squadron 4th Cavalry of the 1st Armor Brigade Combat Team, Fort Riley, Kansas. He also deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in Ar Ramadi, Anbar Province as the Task Force Executive Officer for 1st Battalion 37th Armored Regiment from 06-07. Prior to this Col Van Wagenen served as Observer/Controller at the Joint Multi-National Readiness Center from 1999-2003. He has also served as the Commander of A Co, 1-64 Armor and as a Brigade Planner for the 3rd Infantry Division at Ft. Stewart, GA. As a Lieutenant he was a Troop Executive Officer and  Tank Platoon Officer in Germany, assigned to the 70th Armor and 4th Cavalry Regiment. COL Van Wagenen’s decorations include the Legion of Merit (3OLC), Bronze Star (with V-device and 2OLC), Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (3OLC), Combat Action Badge, Parachutist Badge and Air Assault Badge. COL Van Wagenen is married to Dr. Stefanie Van Wagenen. They have two children; Isabelle (13), and David (11).