Steven W. Gilland

Steven W. Gilland is a senior officer in the United States Army who currently serves as the Superintendent of the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York. A career infantry officer, he has held numerous command and staff positions, including leading the 3rd Infantry Division and serving in key roles during the Iraq War and the War in Afghanistan (2001–2021). His appointment as the 61st Superintendent of West Point in 2022 placed him at the helm of one of the nation's premier leadership institutions, responsible for educating and commissioning future officers for the U.S. Armed Forces.

Early life and education

Steven W. Gilland was born in Fayetteville, North Carolina, a community with deep ties to nearby Fort Bragg. He attended the United States Military Academy, graduating in 1988 and receiving his commission as a second lieutenant in the Infantry. His early military education was followed by advanced studies at the United States Army Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth and the School of Advanced Military Studies, also located at Fort Leavenworth. These institutions provided a foundation in tactical and operational art, preparing him for higher command. He further honed his strategic perspective at the National War College in Washington, D.C., an essential step for senior leaders in the United States Department of Defense.

Military career

Gilland's operational career spans several decades and multiple combat deployments. As a young officer, he served with the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg. He later commanded at every level, from rifle platoon leader to division commander. His command tours include leading the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division and later the storied 3rd Infantry Division at Fort Stewart, Georgia. During the Iraq War, he served on the staff of the Multi-National Force – Iraq in Baghdad. In the War in Afghanistan (2001–2021), he was the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations for United States Forces – Afghanistan and later the International Security Assistance Force. Prior to his assignment at West Point, he served as the Director of the Joint Staff at the Pentagon, working directly for the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Awards and decorations

Throughout his service, Gilland has been recognized with numerous personal and unit awards. His personal decorations include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the Army Distinguished Service Medal, and the Defense Superior Service Medal. For his service in combat zones, he has been awarded the Legion of Merit on two occasions and the Bronze Star Medal with two oak leaf clusters. He has also received the Meritorious Service Medal multiple times and the Army Commendation Medal. His unit awards, reflecting collective achievements, include the Valorous Unit Award and the Meritorious Unit Commendation. He is authorized to wear the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Expert Infantryman Badge, the Master Parachutist Badge, and the Ranger Tab.

Personal life

Gilland is married and has two children. His family has accompanied him to numerous duty stations across the United States and overseas, supporting his career in the United States Army. In his role as Superintendent of West Point, he and his wife are actively involved in the academy's community, engaging with the United States Corps of Cadets, faculty, and staff. His personal interests and community involvement are aligned with his commitment to developing leaders of character for the U.S. Armed Forces.

Category:United States Army generals Category:Superintendents of the United States Military Academy Category:United States Military Academy alumni Category:Living people