Sargent-at-Arms: Bob Sanderson

 Robert H. Sanderson is a dedicated public servant whose career is defined by a lifelong commitment to the safety of his community and country. Born and raised in Wisconsin, he began his military journey there by joining a specialized Army program in 1961 while still in high school. Serving through 1969, Bob remained in a state of constant readiness during high-tension eras like the Cuban Missile Crisis while assigned to Company A, Headquarters Battalion at Fort Leonard Wood. During his service, he achieved the rank of E4, earned a Sharpshooter (Rifle) qualification, and worked with the 8-inch Howitzer. His technical proficiency was further solidified in 1968 when he completed the Explosive Ordnance Reconnaissance course in Wisconsin before receiving his honorable discharge later that year.  While still serving in the Army in 1965, Bob moved to Springfield, Missouri, and began a distinguished 25-year career with the Springfield Police Department. Rising to the rank of Corporal, he was named Police Officer of the Year and received high honors in 1969 for his pivotal role in assisting with the capture of a desperate criminal. Within the Springfield department, he became a recognized training expert, serving as a training officer for the motorcycle operating course and receiving numerous other recognitions for his excellence in the line of duty. His professional reputation reached a prestigious peak when he was appointed Colonel, Aide-De-Camp, Commissioner’s Staff, for the Commonwealth of Kentucky for the State Police. A highly trained professional, he also earned certifications in defensive driving and death investigation.  Bob’s legacy of service continued as he joined the Central Taney County Fire Protection District, serving as a Lieutenant from 1990 to 2020. Over three decades as a firefighter, he received various accolades for his response to high-stakes emergencies, most notably the tragic Taney County jail fire in September 1992. Although the fire claimed four lives and left many injured, the toll would have been far more devastating if not for the rapid, heroic response of the fire department in rescuing those trapped. In 2010, Bob brought his passion for community to the American Legion, seeking to support fellow veterans with the same fervor he showed as an officer and firefighter. Since then, he has been a pillar of his Post, serving as Post Commander (2015–2016) and as Sergeant at Arms from 2017 through the present. Whether in military olive drab, police blue, or fire gear, the Honorable Robert H. Sanderson has spent over sixty years embodying the true spirit of a patriot and first responder.