General Sir Rupert Smith KCB DSO OBE QGM retired from the British Army in January 2002 having enlisted in 1962. He served in East and South Africa, Arabia, the Caribbean, Europe, and Malaysia. His last appointment was Deputy Supreme Commander Allied Powers Europe. Prior to that he was the General Officer Commanding in Northern Ireland; Commander UNPROFOR in Sarajevo; and General Officer Commanding 1 (UK) Armoured Division, in the Gulf War1990-91.
Since leaving the service he has taught at various staff colleges and universities, and been consulted by governments, NGO’s and commercial organisations. His book “The Utility of Force” was published in September 2005.