'It's history': Local army captain uses decades long 'family tradition' to recruit

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Veterans Day is this Sunday -- a time to stop and thank all of those who have served and continue to serve our country.

For many in our Armed Forces, both active and retired, that service is part of a long-standing family tradition that goes back generations.

For Captain Matthew King, joining the Army equated to joining the family business.

"It's pride. It's a family tradition," King said.

Members of his family have served the United States since the Revolution.

"My great-grandfather served in the 20s in the Navy, my other grandfather was at Pearl Harbor in 1941, uncles fought in the war too. My father was younger in the Vietnam era," King said.

After graduating from Appalachian State, where he met his wife, King began an Army career that would take him all over the world, serving in South Korea, the Philippines, and Afghanistan.

"It was an ideal career. I've enjoyed every minute of it," King said.

Now back at home, the Gaston County native swerves as Army Recruiting Company Commander in Charlotte, recruiting men and women to join the Army and Army Reserve to represent their hometowns with the same pride he always has.

"It's history. It means a lot to carry on that legacy and make career out of this," King said.

King also works with the USO of North Carolina in the Piedmont area to help active duty service members and their families to make sure they always have the support they need.

Every year, the Southern Christmas Show partners with the USO for a special Veterans Day observation day they call "Hero Day."

This Monday, Nov. 12, all active military and veterans get one free admission to the show at the park expo and conference center. You just have to show your military ID on Monday.

Hours will also be extended.

For more information, click here.

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