Fred J. Mattingly was born on April 21, 1892, in Pleasant Hill, Missouri. He later made his home in Stoughton, Wisconsin, where he would become a prominent figure in both veteran affairs and public service.

Growing up during a period of rapid national change, Mattingly developed a strong sense of duty that would define his life in both military and civilian roles.

With the United States’ entry into World War I, Mattingly served as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army, assigned to the famed 32nd “Red Arrow” Division in a Military Police capacity.

The 32nd Division saw intense combat across France and earned a reputation for breaking through every German line it encountered. Mattingly’s service reflected discipline, leadership, and dedication during one of the most significant conflicts of the 20th century.

In 1919, returning veterans organized what would become American Legion Post 59 in Stoughton, Wisconsin, named for Otis Sampson.

Fred J. Mattingly was selected as the first Commander, a role that placed him at the forefront of shaping the Post’s identity and mission. His leadership helped establish:

• A strong foundation for veteran support

• A lasting culture of patriotism and service

• A connection between veterans and the Stoughton community

His influence is still felt at Post 59 today.

Following his military service, Mattingly entered federal service as a revenuer, an officer responsible for enforcing federal tax laws—particularly those related to alcohol, tobacco, and other regulated goods.

During the early 20th century—especially throughout the Prohibition era (1920–1933)—this role was both critical and challenging. Revenuers operated under the authority of what would become the Bureau of Internal Revenue (now the IRS), and their duties often included:

• Investigating illegal distilleries and bootlegging operations

• Enforcing federal taxation and revenue laws

• Working closely with federal and local law enforcement

• Upholding compliance during a time of widespread resistance to alcohol restrictions

Serving as a revenuer required integrity, courage, and resilience, as officers frequently faced dangerous situations while combating organized illicit activity.

Mattingly’s work in this role reflects his continued commitment to public service and law enforcement beyond his military career.

Mattingly remained active in the Stoughton community, serving as an alderman representing the Fourth Ward. His involvement in local government demonstrated his ongoing dedication to improving his community and supporting its citizens.

Like many veterans of his era, he carried his leadership from the battlefield into civic life.

Fred J. Mattingly passed away on December 16, 1976, in Tomah, Wisconsin. He is buried at Roselawn Memorial Park in Monona, Wisconsin.

He lived a long life marked by service—to his country, his community, and the rule of law.

Fred J. Mattingly stands as a foundational figure in Stoughton’s veteran history:

• First Commander of American Legion Post 59 (1919)

• Officer in the 32nd “Red Arrow” Division, World War I

• Federal revenuer during a pivotal era in U.S. law enforcement history

• Stoughton alderman and community leader

His life represents a continuum of service—from war, to federal enforcement, to local leadership.

“Commander Fred J. Mattingly – From the battlefields of World War I to the front lines of federal service, his leadership helped build both a nation and a community.”