The Citadel community is mourning the loss of a distinguished alumnus and former president, Lt. Gen. Claudius “Bud” Watts III, USAF (Ret.), Citadel Class of 1958, who passed away over the weekend. The news of his passing was confirmed by a spokesperson for the college.
A native of Cheraw, South Carolina, Bud Watts was a man of many accomplishments and talents, leaving an indelible mark in various fields throughout his life, including the military, academia, finance, and public service. Citadel President Gen. Glenn Walters expressed his condolences and paid tribute to Watts, highlighting his unwavering support for the institution.
“Bud served and led with distinction in the military, academia, finance, and public service. Throughout his life, Bud was a proud alumnus and supporter of The Citadel,” President Walters stated.
Watts’s journey with The Citadel began when he attended the college on a full ROTC scholarship. His commitment to duty and excellence led him to a distinguished career in the United States Air Force, where he served as an officer and accumulated an impressive 7,000 flight hours as a Command Pilot.
During his service in the Air Force, Lt. Gen. Watts undertook 276 missions in the challenging and tumultuous theater of Vietnam. His valor and dedication were recognized with numerous prestigious awards, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, which he received three times for his extraordinary contributions. Additionally, Watts was honored with several other gallantry and combat awards during his time in the military. Notably, he was presented with the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the highest non-combat award in the nation, in recognition of his outstanding service.
In 1989, after a distinguished career in the Air Force, Watts transitioned to civilian life to become the 17th president of The Citadel. He assumed the role with the same dedication and passion that had marked his military service. Lt. Gen. Watts served as president of the college for seven impactful years before retiring from the position in 1996.
President Walters acknowledged the emotional challenges that The Citadel community has faced recently, with significant losses occurring both before and after Parents’ Weekend celebrations. He emphasized the importance of recognizing individuals like Lt. Gen. Watts, whose unwavering commitment and dedication have played a vital role in the continued success and growth of the institution.
“At an institution that has stood resolutely for over 180 years, we could easily forget that it is only because of the efforts of Citadel family members like Lt. Gen. Watts who, through sustained hard work and dedication to The Citadel, have ensured that this institution not only survives but thrives as we teach discipline, leadership, and academics to new cadets and students. May his example – and those who have gone before him – guide us all,” President Walters stated.
As the Citadel family reflects on the legacy of Lt. Gen. Claudius “Bud” Watts III, they remember a true Citadel icon whose contributions have left an enduring impact on the institution and the lives of countless individuals he touched throughout his remarkable journey.