M. B. Etheredge

Colonel Etheredge returned to the classroom in 1951 to teach at his alma mater, Sam Houston State University, as a professor in the education department. He also founded the Army ROTC program, became a member of the university's athletic hall of honor, retired as a full professor in 1978 and was later recognized as a distinguished alumnus of the school.

Etheredge represented San Jacinto and Walker Counties in the Texas House of Representatives from January 14, 1947 to August 29, 1951. Under his leadership as chairman of the House Education Committee the Gilmer-Aiken bills were passed.

M. B. Etheredge was born in Weldon, Texas and at an early age determined to attend college, he left home and worked so that he could graduate from an accredited high school. In 1937 he received a biology degree from Sam Houston State Teachers College, where he served as both president of the senior class and as captain of the track team. Following his graduation from college, he began his career in public education as a teacher in Sugar Land and in 1941, at the age of 26, Etheredge became the youngest school superintendent in the state when he accepted a position in Damon. One year later, Etheredge volunteered for the United States Army and during his tours of duty in Africa, Italy, and France, he distinguished himself as one of the most highly decorated Americans to serve in World War II. At the conclusion of the war, he continued his career in the military, attaining the rank of lieutenant colonel during his meritorious service in the Texas National Guard. Colonel Etheredge also returned to school receiving his master's degree from Sam Houston State Teachers College in 1947 and pursuing postgraduate studies as a Peabody scholar at The University of Texas at Austin.

M. B. Etheredge (June 7, 1915 – May 15, 2014) was an American soldier who was awarded the Texas Legislative Medal of Honor by the Texas Legislature for his actions during battle in World War II. House Concurrent Resolution No. 27 conferring the honor was adopted by both the House and Senate in May 2003 and approved by Governor Rick Perry in June 2003.