In Memory of U.S. Army Private
Matthew David Good Shield
Porcupine, South Dakota
Shannon County
July 29, 1924-June 6, 1944
Killed in Action at Tor River, New Guinea
Matthew David Good Shield was born on July 29, 1924 at Porcupine, South Dakota. His parents were Philip and Helen (Eagle Bear) Good Shield. He lived in Porcupine and attended school at both Porcupine Day School and Oglala Community School in Pine Ridge, South Dakota. His interests included playing basketball and riding horses. Matthew was known as helpful, not only to his family, but also to the rest of the community. He loved taking care of horses and gardening.
Matthew was drafted into the Army his sophomore year in high school at the age of 18. He trained at Camp Robertson, California. He was stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. He was a Private in Company D, 76th Infantry Battalion. He was sent overseas to New Guinea during World War II.
In a letter to his sister, Matthew wrote, “It is hot…too hot here. We will be going into the war zone soon.” Matthew was wounded in battle and died at Tor River, New Guinea on June 6, 1944. Matthew was awarded the Purple Heart that his family graciously accepted. Survivors included his mother and father, two sisters and two brothers. Matthew is loved and will be remembered. The American Legion Post #294 in Porcupine is named for Matthew Good Shield.
This entry was respectfully submitted by Nikki Blackbear, 11th grade, Crazy Horse School, Wanblee, South Dakota, March 20, 2002. Information for this entry was provided by Ms. Violette Good Crow, Porcupine, South Dakota.
