Leroy Suddath facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Leroy Suddath
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| Birth name | Leroy Newton Suddath Jr. |
| Born | February 21, 1931 Savannah, Georgia, U.S. |
| Died | February 27, 2020 (aged 89) Savannah, Georgia, U.S. |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Service/ |
United States Army |
| Years of service | 1956–1988 |
| Rank | Major general |
| Commands held | 1st Special Operations Command |
| Battles/wars | Vietnam War Gulf War |
Leroy Newton Suddath Jr. (February 21, 1931 – February 27, 2020) was a brave American soldier. He became a high-ranking officer, known as a major general, in the United States Army. He joined the Army in 1956 after finishing his studies at the United States Military Academy. General Suddath led the 1st Special Operations Command before he retired in 1988.
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Early Life and Education
Leroy Suddath Jr. was born in Savannah, Georgia, on February 21, 1931. He was the youngest of five children. He went to several schools, including Savannah High School.
He was a talented basketball player. He even played basketball on a scholarship at Auburn University. Later, he attended the University of Georgia. In 1956, he graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point. After West Point, he became a second Lieutenant in the Army.
General Suddath continued his education throughout his career. He studied at important military colleges. These included the Command and General Staff College and the National War College. He also attended a special program at Harvard University.
Military Service and Achievements
General Suddath served his country for many years. He spent two and a half years fighting in the Vietnam War. During this time, he advised a Vietnamese airborne battalion. He also commanded a battalion of the First Infantry Division.
He showed great bravery in battle. He took part in eight major military campaigns. He received six awards for his courage. His awards included two Silver Star Medals. He also earned the Distinguished Flying Cross. These medals are given for exceptional bravery.
He was also recognized with the Master Parachutist Badge. This shows he was an expert at parachuting. He also earned the Ranger Tab and the Combat Infantry Badge. These badges show his skills as a combat soldier. In 2015, he was honored by being inducted into the Richmond Academy Hall of Fame.
Leading Special Operations
As a general, Suddath held several important leadership roles. He was the Assistant Division Commander for the 82nd Airborne Division. This division is famous for its paratroopers. He also served as the Provost Marshal General for the U.S. Army in Europe.
One of his most important roles was leading the U.S. Army Special Operations Command. This command includes many specialized units. These are groups like the Special Forces, Rangers, and Special Operations Aviation. They also include units for Psychological Operations and Civil Affairs.
Retirement and Later Life
General Suddath retired from the Army in 1988. After his military career, he worked as a consultant. He advised companies that worked with the defense industry. He also served as the President of VnVets, GP, Inc.
He was a member of the Savannah Golf Club. He also belonged to Saint John’s Episcopal Church. He was a member of several other groups, including the West Point Society of Savannah.
Leroy Suddath Jr. passed away on February 27, 2020. He was 89 years old.
