Living Honorees
These three plaques honor members of the Military Memorial Museum who are not only recognized for their extraordinary service, but who continue to serve the Ardmore community today. During my visit, I had the privilege of speaking with each of them. Their voices, their stories, and their ongoing commitment to veterans shaped my understanding of the museum in ways no display ever could. This section preserves their service, their presence, and the living history they carry forward every day.
Rear Admiral Hull’s career spans oceans, coastlines, scientific discovery, and national leadership. When I spoke with him at the museum, I was struck by the quiet humility behind a lifetime of extraordinary accomplishment. He has commanded ships, shaped national mapping standards, represented the United States internationally, and guided NOAA’s charting and geodetic services. Yet in person, he is warm, grounded, and deeply committed to the community he now serves. His leadership continues today through his work with the Carter County Veterans Council and the Military Memorial Museum.
Teaser Quote
“Service doesn’t end when you retire — it just changes shape.”
WO2 Matlack’s 41 years of service reflect a lifetime of dedication to soldiers, readiness, and the unseen work that keeps units functioning. Speaking with him at the museum, I felt the steadiness and kindness that defined his career — the kind of presence that holds a unit together. His service carried him from tank crewman to Bosnia, from supply excellence to personnel leadership, and his impact is still felt across generations of Oklahoma Guardsmen. Today, he continues to serve as a leader, volunteer, and historian within the museum community.
Teaser Quote
“You take care of your people — that’s the job, no matter the rank.”
MSGT Nelson’s story is one of strength, precision, and unwavering commitment. From recruiting to logistics, from Ardmore to the Pentagon, from stateside service to deployment in Southeast Asia, her career reflects both courage and mastery. When I met her, she spoke with the clarity of someone who has carried responsibility at the highest levels — and who continues to carry it now. As the Veterans Service Representative for the region, she is a lifeline for countless veterans navigating the systems that shape their lives. Her service did not end with her uniform; it simply evolved.
Teaser Quote
“Every veteran deserves someone who will fight for them — that’s my mission now.”