Fun Fact Friday: The "Other" Matthew Seifer
A quick Google search of your name may reveal another person (or several people depending on how common your name is) who shares your name, which can lead to some fascinating (or horrifying) facts about these name doppelgangers. But what are the odds that the person who shares the same name as you also has common interests and backgrounds?
You already know "our" Matthew Seifer, the lead investigator at Radius Investigations , but there is another Matthew Seifer, with a similar and rich history in the military and law enforcement.
Who is the "other" Matthew Seifer?
Matthew "Matty" Seifer, from Hull, Massachusetts, had a long career as an agent enforcing federal drug laws. Seifer graduated from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy with a degree in Pharmaceutical Chemistry in 1930. In 1941, Matthew began his career as an agent for the Federal Bureau of Narcotics in Boston, which is known today as the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Shortly after starting as an agent, Seifer took a reprieve and served in the US Navy as a Pharmacist Mate during World War II, from 1944-45. He was eligible for deferment in the draft, yet proudly chose to serve his country. Upon his return from deployment, he was transferred to New York from Boston.
Seifer has been described as a "living legend" for his 33 years working for the Federal Bureau of Narcotics/Drug Enforcement Agency. Throughout his career, he held numerous posts and responsibilities, and he became an expert on narcotic intelligence. He was a vital resource for law enforcement agencies, who could go to him for answers and consulting, during a time when the narcotics world was changing and challenging. Matthew retired from the agency in 1977 at the age of 69. Even well after his retirement, Seifer's history with the DEA was treasured. He was invited in 1999 to cut the ribbon to mark the opening of the new DEA Museum in Washington DC.
Matthew Seifer was one of the founding members of the New England Narcotic Enforcement Officers' Association in Massachusetts. This organization serves as a resource for education and intelligence for law enforcement and the community in addressing organized crime and drug trafficking. In 2006, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the New England Narcotic Enforcement Officers Association in recognition of his dedication to the organization, law enforcement, and the greater community. He worked with the NENEOA throughout his life and became the oldest member of the association. In January 2012, he passed away at the remarkable age of 103.
Matty Seifer spent his lifetime serving the country, law enforcement, and the local community, imparting valuable intelligence on federal drug law. His family and friends recount his love to share his stories, memories, and wisdom to his loved ones, including 9 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and 1 great-great-grandchild. Seifer left behind a legacy of service; We are grateful and honored to have the chance to learn about Seifer's history. It is amazing to think that we found such a remarkable gentleman through a Google search using our lead investigator's name.
Sources: Matthew Seifer Obituary-Boston Globe
