C. Robert Secrist

C. Robert Secrist

C. Robert Secrist

Brigadier General C. Robert Secrist, USA (Ret.), served in the Army National Guard for 43 years, beginning as an enlisted soldier and rising through the ranks to brigadier general. After being commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Corps of Engineers in 1960, he transitioned to Field Artillery, where he held numerous leadership positions, including battalion commander and Assistant Division Commander for the 38th Infantry Division. His distinguished military career earned him multiple accolades, including the Legion of Merit. In 1982, General Secrist became the first Michigan National Guard officer to attend the U.S. Army War College. He was recognized for outstanding leadership with the General McDonald Award and oversaw units that received the General Eisenhower Trophy and Superior Unit Awards. Alongside his military service, Secrist had a prolific academic career, serving as a mathematics professor at Kellogg Community College for over 45 years. His contributions to education and his community, including veteran advocacy, highlight a life dedicated to service and leadership.