Eric Greitens is a multifaceted individual whose life spans diverse fields, including military service, academia, politics, and nonprofit work. From his early years in St. Louis, Missouri, to his tumultuous tenure as the governor of Missouri, Greitens's journey is marked by notable achievements and significant controversies. This article delves into the life and career of Eric Greitens, providing a detailed account of his accomplishments, challenges, and ongoing influence.

Quick Info Table

Field	Details
Full Name	Eric Robert Greitens
Popular As	Eric Greitens
Occupations	Politician, Author, Navy SEAL
Age (as of 2024)	50 years
Date of Birth	April 10, 1974
Birthplace	St. Louis, Missouri
Nationality	American
Height	5'10"
Weight	180 lbs
net worth (2025)	Approx. $1.5 million
Salary	Variable
Spouse	Sheena Chestnut Greitens (ex-wife)
Children	2 Sons

Early Life

Eric Greitens's early life laid the foundation for his multifaceted career. Born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, Greitens's upbringing significantly influenced his future endeavors.

Childhood and Education

Born on April 10, 1974, in St. Louis, Missouri, Greitens attended Parkway North High School, where he excelled both academically and athletically. He pursued higher education at Duke University, majoring in ethics, philosophy, and public policy. His academic excellence earned him a prestigious Rhodes Scholarship to study at Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford.

Academic Achievements

At Oxford, Greitens obtained a doctorate in philosophy, focusing on humanitarian efforts and international affairs. His time at Oxford also allowed him to build connections and gain insights that would influence his career trajectory.

Military Career

Greitens's military career is one of the most distinguished aspects of his life. His service as a Navy SEAL brought him recognition and accolades, further establishing his reputation as a dedicated and courageous leader.

Navy SEAL Training and Deployments

Greitens joined the U.S. Navy in 2001 and completed the rigorous SEAL training. His deployments included assignments in Iraq, Afghanistan, the Horn of Africa, and Southeast Asia. His service was marked by bravery and leadership, earning him several military honors, including the Bronze Star and Purple Heart.

Humanitarian Efforts

During his military service, Greitens participated in numerous humanitarian missions. His experiences in war-torn regions inspired him to found "The Mission Continues," a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping veterans transition to civilian life by empowering them to continue serving their communities.

Political Career

Greitens's transition from the military to politics involved a shift in party affiliation and a swift rise to the gubernatorial office in Missouri. However, his political career was not without controversy.

Entry into Politics

Initially a Democrat, Greitens switched to the Republican Party before running for governor. His military background and emphasis on ethics and public service resonated with voters, leading to his victory in the 2016 Missouri gubernatorial election.

Governorship of Missouri

Greitens took office as the 56th governor of Missouri on January 9, 2017. His tenure was marked by significant legislative actions, including signing Missouri's right-to-work law. However, his administration faced challenges, including allegations of sexual misconduct and campaign finance improprieties, culminating in his resignation on June 1, 2018.

Major Achievements

Despite the controversies, Greitens's career includes several notable achievements in various fields. His impact on military service, humanitarian work, and political reforms is worth highlighting.

The Mission Continues

Founded in 2007, "The Mission Continues" has become a significant force in veteran support. The organization empowers veterans through service projects that benefit communities, maintaining a focus on leadership and public service.

Legislative Actions as Governor

During his brief tenure as governor, Greitens championed several legislative initiatives. The most notable was the right-to-work law, aimed at reducing the influence of unions in the workplace. Although the law was later repealed by a public referendum, it showcased Greitens's commitment to his political ideals.

Publications and Media Presence

Greitens is also an accomplished author, having written several books on leadership, resilience, and service. His works, such as "The Heart and the Fist" and "Resilience," have received positive acclaim and contribute to his public persona as a thought leader.

Personal Life

Greitens's personal life has been as eventful as his professional career. His relationships, family life, and personal challenges provide a deeper understanding of the man behind the public figure.

Marriage and Family

Eric Greitens married Sheena Chestnut Greitens, a scholar and expert on East Asia, in 2011. The couple has two sons. However, their marriage faced difficulties, leading to a public divorce announcement on April 11, 2020.

Controversies and Legal Issues

Greitens's political career was marred by allegations of sexual misconduct and campaign finance violations. In February 2018, he was indicted on felony invasion of privacy charges, which ultimately led to his resignation as governor. Despite these challenges, Greitens has continued to maintain a public presence and pursue political ambitions.

Financial Insights

Eric Greitens's financial journey reflects his diverse career and public service commitments. This section provides an overview of his net worth, earnings, and financial challenges.

Net Worth and Earnings

As of 2024, Eric Greitens's estimated net worth is approximately $1.5 million. His income sources include his military pension, earnings from book sales, and speaking engagements. His salary as the governor of Missouri and subsequent ventures also contribute to his overall financial portfolio.

Financial Challenges and Legal Expenses

The legal battles and controversies surrounding Greitens have undoubtedly impacted his finances. The costs associated with legal defense and settlements have been substantial, affecting his net worth and financial stability. Despite these challenges, Greitens has managed to maintain a moderate level of financial success.

Conclusion

Eric Greitens's life is a testament to the complexities of public service and personal resilience. From his distinguished military career to his controversial political tenure, Greitens has navigated numerous challenges and achieved significant milestones. His ongoing influence in various fields continues to shape his legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Eric Greitens known for?

Eric Greitens is known for his service as a Navy SEAL, his role as the 56th governor of Missouri, and his work with "The Mission Continues," a nonprofit organization supporting veterans.

Why did Eric Greitens resign as governor?

Eric Greitens resigned as governor of Missouri in June 2018 amid allegations of sexual misconduct and campaign finance improprieties.

What are Eric Greitens's major achievements?

Greitens's major achievements include founding "The Mission Continues," authoring several books on leadership and resilience, and his legislative actions as governor, such as signing the right-to-work law.

What is Eric Greitens's net worth?

As of 2024, Eric Greitens's estimated net worth is approximately $1.5 million.

Is Eric Greitens involved in politics?

As of 2022, Eric Greitens ran for a U.S. Senate seat but lost the Republican primary. He continues to maintain a public presence and may pursue future political opportunities.

In conclusion, Eric Greitens's multifaceted life and career present a rich narrative of service, controversy, and resilience. His contributions to military service, humanitarian efforts, and political reforms underscore his complex legacy. Despite facing significant challenges, Greitens remains a prominent figure in American public life.