Eric Greitens was educated in Missouri's public schools, where he demonstrated an early aptitude for academics, earning him the prestigious Angier B. Duke Scholarship to attend Duke University. At Duke, he pursued studies in ethics, philosophy, and public policy, disciplines that would shape his future endeavors and leadership style.Following his undergraduate education, he was selected as both a Rhodes Scholar and a Truman Scholar, which led him to the University of Oxford. There, he earned a master's degree in 1998 and completed a Ph.D. in 2000. His doctoral thesis, titled "Children First," focused on how international humanitarian organizations can most effectively serve children affected by war.
Eric's commitment to global humanitarian efforts began early in his career. He volunteered in various capacities as a humanitarian worker, documentary photographer, and researcher. His work took him to some of the world's most challenging environments, including Rwanda, Cambodia, Albania, Mexico, India, Bosnia, and Bolivia. In these regions, he engaged with communities affected by conflict, poverty, and disaster, applying his academic insights to real-world crises.
He also served with distinction as a United States Navy SEAL officer. During the Global War on Terrorism, he deployed four times to critical regions such as Afghanistan, Southeast Asia, the Horn of Africa, and Iraq. His leadership roles included serving as the Commander of a Mark V Special Operations Craft Detachment, leading a Joint Special Operations Task Unit, and commanding an al Qaeda Targeting Cell. These experiences not only honed his skills as a military leader but also deepened his understanding of global security issues.In 2005, Eric Greitens was appointed by President George W. Bush to serve as a White House Fellow, a role that further broadened his perspective on national and international policy. His military career was marked by numerous awards, including the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal, Navy Commendation Medal, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Purple Heart, and the Bronze Star. In 2011, the Association of the United States Navy recognized him as the Navy Reserve Junior Line Officer of the Year.
After returning from Iraq in 2007, he chose to channel his experiences and leadership into helping others, particularly fellow veterans. He donated his combat pay to establish The Mission Continues, a national organization that empowers returning wounded veterans to continue serving their communities in meaningful ways. As the CEO of The Mission Continues, he gained recognition as an innovative leader, earning accolades from various organizations. Major League Baseball and PEOPLE Magazine named him an "All-Star Among Us," and the National Conference on Citizenship honored him as the "Citizen Soldier of the Year." In 2008, President Bush awarded him the President's Volunteer Service Award.Eric's dedication to veterans and his innovative approach to leadership earned him a place on TIME magazine's list of the 100 most influential people in the world in 2013. The following year, Fortune magazine recognized him as one of the 50 most outstanding leaders in the world.
In addition to his work in public service and the military, he is an accomplished author. His first book, Strength & Compassion, was honored as ForeWord Magazine's Photography Book of the Year and won the Grand Prize at the New York Book Festival. His second book, The Heart and the Fist: The Education of a Humanitarian, the Making of a Navy SEAL, became a New York Times Bestseller, sharing his journey from humanitarian work to military service. His third book, The Warrior's Heart, was recognized as one of the Best Teen Books of 2012 by Barnes & Noble and Kirkus Reviews. His fourth book, Resilience, also achieved New York Times Bestseller status, further cementing his reputation as a thoughtful and impactful writer.
Eric Greitens has also excelled in athletics, achieving significant milestones in various sports. He is a sub-3 hour marathon runner and won the Shamrock Marathon at Camp Fallujah, Iraq. As a boxer, he earned two Oxford Boxing Blues and a Gold Medal at the BUSA National Boxing Championships. His martial arts accomplishments include holding a 2nd Dan Black Belt in Taekwondo and being the USNTF National Black Belt Champion in Sparring. Additionally, he holds a 1st Dan in Hojutsu, the martial art of the firearm, and has twice won Gold Medals at the USA Track and Field National Masters Championships in the 4x100 and 4x400 Relay. His athletic prowess extended to the international stage. He represented the United States at the Masters Track and Field World Championships, showcasing his dedication and discipline across multiple disciplines.
In 2016, he was elected Governor of Missouri, a role in which he sought to bring his leadership experience and commitment to service to the state's highest office. His tenure as Governor was recognized for its focus on leadership, and his contributions led to his induction into the American Academy of Achievement.Eric Greitens' journey, from his education in Missouri's public schools to his achievements in the military, humanitarian work, and public service, reflects a life dedicated to service, leadership, and continuous self-improvement.