Griffin graduates from war college

WASHINGTON — Lt. Gov. Tim Griffin graduated from the Army War College in Carlisle Barracks, Pa., Friday, earning a master’s degree in strategic studies.

The school, 100 miles north of Washington, has a long list of illustrious alumni, including President Dwight Eisenhower, Gen. George Patton, Gen. Omar Bradley and Gen. Norman Schwarzkopf.

Griffin, who was designated a distinguished graduate, earned the degree over a 27-month period. The Little Rock Republican spent roughly a month on campus; the rest of the studies were accomplished via distance learning.

In addition to holding elected office, Griffin serves in the U.S. Army Reserve and has attained the rank of lieutenant colonel.

Like most of the other graduates, he was wearing his uniform when he received his diploma.

“There are a few civilians that come from government primarily [and] a few international fellows, but by and large you’re talking about lieutenant colonels and colonels from all the different services,” Griffin said.

Griffin, who has served in the Reserve for two decades, served in Iraq with the 101st Airborne Division. The former congressman is also a former member of the U.S. House Armed Services Committee.

The degree increases the chances of advancement, he said.

“You have to have this sort of education or its equivalent to be promoted to one-star general. That is a requirement. As a practical matter, it is often really needed to make full bird colonel. I’m lieutenant colonel and I’m trying to make it to the next rank and so this was really important for me as a part of that journey,” he said.