Retired Army Officer
to Share Insights on Global War on Terror, Faith
OXFORD, Miss. – Maj. Gen. Robert Dees retired three years ago after 35 years in the U.S. Army and is spending his time traveling the world to share insights on global war and his Christian experience. His next stop is the University of Mississippi.
“We are a nation and a world at war, and this war is global, it is serious and it will last for a long time,” said Dees, who will be in Oxford Tuesday and Wednesday (Sept. 19-20). “We all have roles to play. This war has spiritual and religious components to it, so a whole nation of faith provides courage and hope. This is critical as we fight this war in the future.”
Dees is scheduled to speak to students, faculty and the general public during his two-day visit. While on campus, he plans to discuss current events related to Iran and Iraq and other issues related to terrorism.
On Tuesday, Dees is to conduct a roundtable discussion with the senior Reserved Office Training Core class, 4:45-6 p.m. in the Lyceum Boardroom, and a Campus Crusade for Christ meeting at 7:45 p.m. at Oxford-University Methodist Church.
Wednesday’s schedule includes a discussion on “Leading Yourself and Others” with CCC members and a public lecture at 5 p.m. in the Oxford Conference Center. The one-hour lecture is to be followed by a 30-minute Q-and-A session.
“Maj. Gen. Dees has a unique insight on the global war on terror, and I want him to share his insight with the general public and our cadets,” said Maj. Michael Harlow, UM assistant professor of military science and an Army ROTC training officer. “These young men will be lieutenants one day, and now they will get the opportunity to speak to an officer who has served at the highest ranks.”
Dees said he considers it a privilege to visit Ole Miss to discuss leadership, world events and other critical issues.
“I think it’s important that Americans be informed of the current situation, although it is not popular to talk about,” Dees said. “We as a nation and other freedom-loving nations of the world have challenging times ahead, and I know the people of Mississippi and the students of Ole Miss have strong backbones. They want to hear it like it is, and I know they’ll want to make a difference in our country as a result.”
After retiring from the Army in January 2003, Dees worked as an executive director at Microsoft Corp. for two years. He serves as executive director of Campus Crusade for Christ Military Ministries. He describes himself as a distinguished military leader of 35 years, a husband to a wonderful wife, a father to two kids and grandfather of five grandkids, and – most importantly – a follower of Jesus.
“There is a natural connection between these great challenges and faith,” Dees said. “I will offer a practical solution, a physical solution and a spiritual solution to these great challenges. I hope that listeners will leave better informed and be motivated to play their part.”
For more information on the military studies program at UM, go to http://www.armyrotc.com/edu/univms/index.htm