About Me

I am a staff writer for Coffee or Die, an online and quarterly print magazine produced by Black Rifle Coffee Company. Prior to my role I worked as a freelance writer with a number of clients, most notably with The Filson Journal.

I write well-researched articles on military history, espionage, cops, and firefighters. In addition to my daily beat, I've contributed stories about military veterans who have since transitioned into running successful businesses and non-profits in order to give back to their communities.

Some of my stories older stories between 2018-2020 (newer can be found under writing section):

The Legend of Ed Loder: Boston Fire Department's Most Decorated Firefighter

One More Wave: The Navy SEALs Helping Disabled Veterans Heal With Custom Surfboards

One More Wave is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit that provides wounded and disabled military veterans surfing equipment and community. I interviewed the three Navy SEALs behind this incredible organization to learn more about how they are helping veterans and their own struggles after two decades of sustained combat.

The Legend of Jack Hemingway: OSS Commando, Fly Fisherman, POW, Writer

How A US Navy Sailor Founded A Fly Fishi

How Navy SEALs Are Using Skateboards And Art Therapy to Help Gold Star Families and Their Community

DJ and Cole, two former Navy SEALs and "Joey Nobody," a legendary tattoo artist and graphic designer, have combined their two passions of skateboarding and art to help their tight-knit community.

The Daring Exploits of Virginia Hall, World War II's Most Notorious Spy

In this historical feature I capture what it was like to operate as a spy during World War II.

To Hell And Back: The Epic Adventures of British Commando Freddy Spencer Chapman

A long-read feature that includes Chapman's heroism in Malaya during World War II before diving deeper into his arctic expeditions and legacy that celebrates his life in a unique way.

Fighting Communism With Candy: The Berlin Candy Bomber

A story that will tug on your heartstrings especially during the holiday season.

The Incredible True Story of How the Heir of Walmart Served in MACV-SOG in Vietnam

John T. Walton was once the 11th richest person in the world, but during the Vietnam War he served in one of the most elite special operations units in the world, famously known as MACV-SOG.

The Female War Reporter Who Parachuted Into Vietnam With French Commandos

Brigitte Friang was the epitome of living with spunk and writing with moxie. She is on my personal shortlist of historical heroes!

The Courier From Warsaw: Jan Jeziorański-Nowak's Fight For Polish Independence

The Polish Underground, escaping from Gestapo pursuers, black propaganda, hairy journeys as an emissary, underground highways, a fight for Poland's sovereignty and independence -- This is Jan Nowak.

How Coca-Cola Brought A Fresh Coke to the Front Lines of World War II

One of the great little known stories of World War II. Many businesses had to bring an "adapt or die" mindset to the restrictions of materials during the war and Coca Cola capitalized on it by supplying US soldiers with their irreplaceably refreshing and crisp beverages.

Resume

All other written work can be found under the Writing tab at the top of this page.

MATT FRATUS

Writer | Researcher | Podcaster

About Me

MATT FRATUS