Fort Benning community saddened by passing of retired Command Sgt. Maj. Eddie Roberts

By Maj. Gen. Robert BrownJuly 11, 2011

retired Command Sgt. Maj. Eddie Roberts
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

FORT BENNING GA. - It is with heartfelt sadness that the Fort Benning community expresses condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of retired Command Sergeant Major Eddie Roberts.

There are countless people who come and go throughout one’s life, but very few who left such a lasting impression in the lives of so many. Eddie Roberts was certainly one of those “few,” a man who not only left an indelible mark, but one who also inspired others with his charismatic energy and dedication to his country and community as evidenced by his selfless service.

Eddie was a Soldier’s Soldier " an Airborne Ranger, an Infantryman, a leader " who served his country with honor and distinction for more than 30 years, while wearing the uniform of our Army. An incredibly dedicated Soldier, Command Sergeant Major Roberts excelled in every challenge he ever faced. He was a highly decorated, proven combat leader who fought fearlessly through two tours in Vietnam, receiving two awards of the Purple Heart. During his life, he received numerous military distinguished service awards on a local and national level, including the “Sergeant Major of the Army William Bainbridge Noncommissioned Officer Distinguished Service Award” for his selfless service to Soldiers and their Families. This prestigious award was presented to Command Sergeant Major Roberts by the Association of the U.S. Army. In 1998, Eddie was also one of the first recipients of the “Primicerius level of the Order of St. Maurice,” the highest award given by the National Infantry Association and the Chief of Infantry.

The awards he received were emblematic of how he embodied the Army ethic, consistently choosing the harder right over the easier wrong in everything he did. His combat skills and experience proved invaluable as he transitioned from technician to teacher, serving at Fort Benning numerous times as an instructor and later as both a battalion and a brigade command sergeant major. Eddie mentored, taught and inspired fellow Soldiers with his powerful personality and laser-focused leadership skill, daily setting the highest standard of excellence in all of his endeavors.

His service to his country extended beyond the gates of Fort Benning and its Soldiers into the Columbus community he proudly called home during his military career and into retirement. In Columbus, Eddie remained a tireless advocate for Soldiers and their families during his retirement, becoming a key member in many civic organizations in the area.

Eddie led his life with passion and vigor. He was a true patriot and one of America’s finest. Even more so, Eddie was a man who will be deeply missed by both communities " military and civilian. As we all gather in friendship to honor this fine Soldier " a true American hero " we will forever share the bond created by the life and legacy of Eddie Roberts.

One Force, One Fight!

Major General Robert Brown

MCoE Commanding General