This Friday, I’m participating in the Joint Services Pass in Review ceremony with all three branches of MU ROTC. Each year, this important event reminds me of the many contributions Mizzou has made to our armed forces.

From Cadet to Command

We recently welcomed alumnus Major General Lance Curtis to campus for a special presentation on leadership and service, hosted by the College of Arts and Science. Major General Curtis has held multiple command and senior leadership positions and currently serves as Commanding General of US Army Transportation Command, overseeing the planning and delivery of military equipment and supplies around the world. He has completed operational deployments to Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria and Kuwait and is a Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart recipient, among many other distinctions.

Major General Curtis was commissioned from MU Army ROTC in 1992 and trained alongside two fellow cadets who now also hold high-ranking officer roles: Lieutenant General Steven Marks and Major General Martin Clay.

Lieutenant General Steven Marks recently assumed duties as the Vice Commander of US Special Operations Command and Director of the Defense Autonomous Warfare Group. Major General Martin Clay commands the 35th Infantry Division of the National Guard, overseeing brigades in six states including Missouri. Each provides an incredible example of courage and leadership to our community.

Military service is part of our earliest foundations as a land-grant university. We’re proud to continue that legacy of support for ROTC, veteran and active-duty students who dedicate themselves to protecting our country.

— Mun