Award of Excellence Puts Veteran Farmer in National Spotlight

The American Farm Bureau Federation announced the next recipient of an award that recognizes veterans or service members for excellence in farming or agriculture and positively impacting local communities. Retired Army Command Sgt. Maj. Matthew Rutter of South Carolina is the second recipient of the Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence presented by AFBF with support from Farm Credit. Rutter served 22 years in the Army, where his service included leading intelligence operations across Europe and the Middle East.

Drawing on his extensive experience in strategic planning, personnel development and training operations, Rutter co-founded the nonprofit Project Victory Gardens to help veterans transition to civilian life with renewed purpose and hands-on agricultural skills. He also developed Farmer Bootcamp, a nationally recognized training program for veterans interested in learning about agriculture, in addition to serving as founding president of the South Carolina Farmer Veteran Coalition.

“We’re honored to recognize Sgt. Maj. Matthew Rutter for his dedicated service to our nation and his continued leadership in agriculture and community engagement,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “Veterans and active-duty service members make tremendous sacrifices to protect our freedoms. It’s a privilege to spotlight their vital contributions to American agriculture.”

Rutter views agriculture as a platform for transforming lives and communities. Dozens of new veteran-led farms are scattered throughout South Carolina thanks to his support, encouragement and connections.

“We want to give as much exposure to South Carolina farmer veterans as possible,” Rutter said. “Farmer veterans are thriving, supporting the community, feeding the community and helping people know where their food comes from.” He plans to use part of the $10,000 cash prize for the award to establish an educational weekly “coffee and chores” program for veterans across the state.

AFBF will present Rutter with the Veteran Farmer Award of Excellence at the organization’s 2026 Convention in January, in Anaheim, California.