First Sergeant Matthew Knipe, is a native of Ellendale, North Dakota. He moved to Spencer, Iowa at a young age. He graduated from Spencer High School, Spencer, Iowa in May 2008. Upon completion of High School, First Sergeant Knipe attended the University of Nebraska at Omaha and completed a Bachelor of Science Degree in Political Science. Following completion of his degree in Political Science, he attended Drake University and obtained a Master's Degree in Public Administration as well as a Juris Doctorate (law degree). He enlisted in the Marine Corps in August 2007 and went to recruit training at MCRD San Diego in February 2008. Upon completion of recruit training, Private Knipe reported to Fort Leonardwood, Missouri, for Basic Engineer Equipment Repair school where he was meritoriously promoted to Private First Class. Upon completion of school as the Honor Graduate PFC Knipe was meritoriously promoted
to Lance Corporal. Following completion of school, LCpl Knipe reported to his Home Training Center with Engineer Maintenance Company in Omaha, Nebraska. First Sergeant Knipe's formal military education includes Basic Engineer Equipment Repair Course, Platoon Leaders Course Juniors, Platoon Leaders Course Seniors, Senior Leaders Legal Course, and Professional Military Education Schools.
In December 2009, Lance Corporal Knipe was mobilized along with Combat Logistics Regiment 4 and was deployed to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom as a Heavy Equipment Mechanic and Shop QC. During his deployment, LCpl Knipe received a combat meritorious promotion to Corporal. Upon demobilization to the SMCR in October 2010, Cpl Knipe returned to Engineer Maintenance Company and held the following billets, Platoon Sergeant, Training Chief, Operations Chief, Detachment Gunnery Sergeant, and Senior Enlisted Advisor.
First Sergeant Knipe is presently serving as the Company First Sergeant for Weapons Company, 1st Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment, Perrysburg, OH.
First Sergeant Knipe's personal awards include: Navy Marine Corps Achievement Medal with two Gold Stars, Select Marine Corps Reserve Medal 4th Award. First Sergeant Knipe has also been the recipient of numerous Certificates of Commendation, Meritorious Masts, and Letters of Appreciation. He is also a recipient of the Attorney of the Year award in 2021 and was named the Best DUI Defense Attorney in Omaha, NE for 2023, 2024, and 2025.
First Sergeant Knipe is a member of the Iowa and Nebraska State Bar Associations, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers, and is licensed to practice law in all state and federal courts in both Iowa and Nebraska.