MG James A. Grimsley, Jr., USA
Class of 1942
Hometown: Florence, SC
- Grimsley was the 16th President of The Citadel (1980-1989) and designated as President Emeritus (1 of 3 Presidents so honored) after retiring in 1989. His presidency was noteworthy for re-establishing many traditional values of the Corps of Cadets. During his presidency, academic programs and faculty quality were strengthened through a series of major initiatives, bringing national recognition and unprecedented enrollment applications. Among these were development of a core curriculum, an honors program and establishment of six academic department chairs with distinguished professors.
- Grimsley's Army career spanned thirty-three years and included combat service in World War II, in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater as a rifle company commander in the 77th Infantry Division, and in Vietnam (two tours) with the U.S. Military Advisory Group and the 1st Infantry Division as a brigade commander. With assignments spread equally among troop duty and senior level staff positions, including other overseas tours in Germany, France, and the Philippines, he advanced through the grades to Major General and completed his career as the Director of Security Assistance Plans and Policy in the Office of the Secretary of Defense.
- Grimsley Received 35 major decorations during his active duty Army career, including 2 Silver Stars for gallantry, 4 Bronze Stars for valor, and 3 Purple Hearts.