Rolland V. Heiser

Lieutenant general Rolland Valentine Heiser (25 April 192516 June 2016), was a United States Army officer who served in the Vietnam War.

Military career Heiser graduated from Western Military Academy in Alton, Illinois in 1943 and served as an enlisted man in the United States Army from 1943 to 1944. He received his bachelor's degree from the United States Military Academy in 1947, and his master's degree from George Washington University in 1965.

While in South Korea, he was instrumental in founding the Korea Military Academy. He served in South Vietnam as senior adviser Military Assistance Command, Vietnam, Training Directorate from 1967 to 1968.

In May 1974 he assumed command of the 1st Armored Division remaining in the role until August 1975.

Decorations His decorations included the Distinguished Service Medal (2), Defense Superior Service Medal and Legion of Merit (3).

Later life He resided in Sarasota, Florida.

He was a member of the New College of Florida Board of Trustees, and served as president of the New College Foundation, a position he held for 22 years. He was instrumental in raising over $25 million in funds for the college and restoring its financial health. Later serving on the Florida Board of Governors, Heiser successfully opposed the establishment of a chiropractic college at Florida State University, deeming it an unnecessary imposition on limited educational resources.

He died on 16 June 2016 and was buried at Sarasota National Cemetery.