LTG Joseph M. Heiser, Jr., USA
Class of 1943
Hometown: Charleston, SC
- Heiser attended The Citadel from 1939-1941, leaving to enlist in the U.S. Army duringWWII. Heiser served his country in in three wars World War II, Korea, and Vietnam rising through the ranks from Private to Lt. General before retiring in 1973.
- Heiser served as Commanding General, 1st Logistical Command, Vietnam during the Vietnam War, and then served as U.S. Army Assistant Chief of Staff for Logistics during the final years of that war.
- As Deputy Chief of Staff (Logistics) Heiser directed the development of the Army's logistics system master plan to improve inventory and location accuracy, reduce supply response times and improve readiness rates. He was lauded by the US House Committee on Armed Services as "one of the most competent and knowledgeable logisticians ever to serve the U.S. Army." His career was characterized by professionalism of the highest order. His inspired leadership, competence, and devotion to duty profoundly affected the U.S. Army’s logistical effectiveness. He retired in 1973, and remained an active advisor on Ordnance matters.
- Heiser was honored by being named the first Honorary Colonel Emeritus of the Ordnance Corps and received the Society of Logistics Engineers' Founders Medal. He wrote two books, “A Soldier Supporting Soldiers” and “Logistic Support.”