What are the best pair of cold weather boots out there?

I loved my Matterhorns. Never, ever had any complaints with them.

Sorry to hear you are 'stuck' at Drum. I've only had (still do) my CW issue boots. Crappy socks will make any footwear feel much less comfortable. I spent money on good, thicker moisture wick socks for these. There is also spray to temporarily make the boots water resistant.
I can't speak on aftermarket boots b/c I didn't make much during my time.

Tora Bora. Crampon compatible, warm. If the fashion police are on block leave, Asolo fugitives are a solid pair. Now, before the "everyone gets a trophy" crowd join forces with the AR670-1 masochists, I realize not all units willl use them or allow them. Having spent some long hours in some very bitterly cold environments, I think common sense and preventing cold weather injury is worth more than draconian uniformity.