Source: Art DeGroat, 785-532-0369, degroata@k-state.edu.
News release prepared by: Greg Tammen, 785-532-2535, media@k-state.edu

Friday, June 18, 2010

MILITARY AFFAIRS DIRECTOR AT K-STATE RECEIVES HONOR FROM THE ASSOCIATION OF THE UNITED STATES ARMY

MANHATTAN -- Retired Army Lt. Col. Art DeGroat, director of military affairs at Kansas State University, has received the Lt. Gen. Robert H. Forman Award for Distinguished Service from the Association of the United States Army.

The award was presented by retired Army Col. Bob Ulin at the recent Greater Kansas City Army 235th Birthday Celebration at the Westin Crown Center.

"I was honored and humbled," DeGroat said.

DeGroat was recognized for his work in leading the growth of the Fort Riley-Central Kansas Chapter of the Association of the U.S. Army as its president; his work in building and directing the K-State Military Affairs enterprise; co-founding the nonprofit foundation, Noble Cause USA; and his support for the care of wounded warriors in the Kansas-Missouri area.

The Forman award is given annually to a member of the national association of the U.S. Army who has distinguished himself for service above all others in a nine-state geographical region. The award's namesake, Forman, attended the celebration event.

DeGroat's said his acceptance remarks were on the need for retired military leaders to continue serving the country at a time of persistent conflict and about the profound personal reward such a service brings.

"I also pledged that I would continue to serve in the spirit and at level of Lt. Gen. Forman," DeGroat said.

"Personally, I am inspired and motivated by being selected for this award," DeGroat said. "It gives me additional strength to continue my work, persevere through tough challenges and try to build a larger community of leaders willing to support our nation's military."

DeGroat is currently serving his third year as president of the Fort Riley-Central Kansas Chapter of the Association of the U.S. Army.