Robert O. Swain, 1933
B.A., Denison University
Arlington, Va.
Citation awarded on Saturday, June 8, 1957
Robert O. Swain is widely recognized for his contributions to the welfare and economy of many countries and particularly those of underdeveloped areas of the world. Executive director of the International Road Federation since its founding in 1948, he has a rich background in transportation economics and engineering that he developed with the Texas Highway Department between 1933 and 1941, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers during World War II as a Major, and the State Department when he served as a member of the Rhine River Commission; the U.S. Delegation, Transport Commission, U.N.; Geneva; and the transport survey program of Germany and Greece.
His belief that good roads are essential to economic and social development in society has led him to impressive achievements in foreign transportation programs and to receiving the French Legion of Honor and Cuban Grand Cross, Order of Merit, the Diploma of Honor and Merit from the University of Camaguey (Cuba), and the U.S. Army Bronze Star for Rhine River Crossings.
