Mat Best, a former U.S. Army Ranger and Special Forces operator, has redefined military media with his unique blend of humor, wit, and tactical expertise. Born in El Paso, Texas, Best quickly rose through the ranks in the military, serving multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. After leaving the Special Forces, he began creating entertaining and informative videos about his military experiences, which gained a massive following on social media. Co-founding Article 15 Clothing, Best’s irreverent designs and engaging content have connected veterans and civilians alike. Through his media work, Best has opened up conversations about PTSD, veteran suicide, and other important issues, leaving a lasting impact on the military community.
The Tactical Mind of Mat Best: How a Former Soldier Redefined Military Media
Mat Best is not your average military veteran. With a background as a former U.S. Army Ranger and Special Forces operator, Best has dedicated his post-service life to redefining military media in a way that resonates with veterans and civilians alike. His unique blend of humor, wit, and tactical expertise has made him one of the most influential figures in the military community.
Early Life and Military Career
Mat Best was born in El Paso, Texas, and raised in Santa Barbara, California. He enlisted in the Army in 2004 and quickly rose through the ranks, eventually becoming a member of the elite 75th Ranger Regiment. Best’s time in the Rangers was marked by multiple deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, where he honed his skills in combat and leadership.
After leaving the Rangers, Best joined the Special Forces, where he continued to excel in tactical operations. However, it was during this time that he began to develop a passion for media and entertainment. Best began creating funny and informative videos about his experiences in the military, which quickly gained a following on social media and YouTube.
Redefining Military Media
In 2012, Best co-founded Article 15 Clothing, a lifestyle brand that caters to the military community. The brand quickly gained popularity for its humorous, irreverent designs that poked fun at military stereotypes. Best’s media presence also grew, with his videos garnering millions of views and establishing him as a leading voice in the veteran community.
One of the key aspects of Best’s success is his ability to blend humor with serious subject matter. His videos often tackle difficult topics such as PTSD, veteran suicide, and the challenges of civilian life after the military, but with a lighthearted and relatable approach. This unique mix of entertainment and education has helped Best connect with a wide audience and break down barriers between civilians and the military.
Best’s tactical expertise also plays a significant role in his media content. His videos often feature realistic training scenarios, weapon demonstrations, and tactical tips that resonate with military and law enforcement professionals. By sharing his knowledge and experience in a way that is engaging and accessible, Best has established himself as a trusted source of information in the military community.
Legacy and Influence
Mat Best’s impact on military media cannot be overstated. Through his work with Article 15 Clothing, his YouTube channel, and his various social media platforms, Best has created a space where veterans and civilians can come together to laugh, learn, and support each other. His openness about his own struggles with PTSD and his advocacy for mental health awareness have helped to destigmatize these issues within the military community.
In addition to his media work, Best is also an accomplished author, with several books on military life and leadership to his name. He continues to be a sought-after speaker at military events and conferences, where he shares his insights on leadership, teamwork, and resilience.
Overall, Mat Best’s tactical mind and innovative approach to military media have had a lasting impact on the way veterans are perceived and understood in popular culture. By blending humor, authenticity, and tactical expertise, Best has redefined what it means to be a veteran in the digital age.