Ret. CSM Rosvelt Martain

On March 22, 1933, in Pomaria, South Carolina, Rosvelt “Carl Lee” Martain was born to his mother, the late Sarah Tobias Robinson. Throughout his life, he answered to both names. Following his birth, he was lovingly raised by his maternal grandparents, the late Davis and Jeffie Crooks Tobias.

Carl Lee received his education through the public schools of Newberry County. Then Rosvelt later earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology from Kensington University.

At an early age, he was baptized and became a devoted member of St. Mark AME Church, where he served faithfully until his health declined. During his years of dedicated service, he held several leadership roles, including Pastor Pro-tem, Steward, and President of the Trustee Board.

On February 2, 1952, Carl Lee enlisted in the United States Army in pursuit of greater opportunities and the chance to see the world. This decision proved to be life-changing, and from that point forward he became widely known as Rosvelt. He believed the Army would provide not only opportunities for personal growth, but also a better future for his family.

His military career spanned thirty-six (36) distinguished years, during which he excelled at every level of service. Upon his retirement in 1987, he had attained the highest enlisted rank, Command Sergeant Major (E-9). He made history as the first African American Post Command Sergeant Major at Fort Jackson. Following his service at Fort Jackson, he was assigned to Korea, where he held three prestigious leadership positions at one of the largest artillery bases in the United States Army. First, he served as the 2nd Infantry Division Command Sergeant Major, overseeing operations responsible for guarding the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) between North and South Korea. He was then selected to continue in an elevated leadership role before ultimately becoming the 8th Army and United Nations Command Sergeant Major, serving over all U.S. Forces in Korea as well as the Korean Army. Following this deployment, he was nominated for the prestigious position of Sergeant Major of the Army, where he finished as second runner-up.

Throughout his military tenure, CSM Martain served under seven General Officers. His final assignment before retirement was as Post Command Sergeant Major at Fort Lee Quartermaster Center. There, he was nominated to the Quartermaster Hall of Fame and became the First Quartermaster Regimental Command Sergeant Major inducted into the Hall of Fame. Over the course of his illustrious military career, he received numerous awards and decorations, too many to name. He served honorably in two major wars and was stationed at numerous military installations, including Germany, Korea (four tours), Vietnam, Fort Benning, Fort Campbell, Fort Hood, Fort Lee, and Fort Jackson, where he concluded his remarkable Army career.

After retiring from the Army, he continued his service to others through positions with the VA, DSS, and Camden Military Academy, which became his second career. He deeply loved Camden Military Academy, and the school loved him in return. There, he left an indelible mark as a leader, teacher, and mentor to countless young men whose lives he helped shape for the better. His tenure at CMA lasted 16 years, and in recognition of his dedication and commitment, the parade field is now named the Martain Parade Field in his honor. His many accomplishments also led to his inclusion in the book, 100 Command Sergeant Majors of Color.

When retirement called once again, he embraced a life centered on family, the fruits of his labor, and God’s many blessings. One of his greatest joys became supporting South Carolina Gamecocks women's basketball. As an avid fan, he proudly received an autographed basketball from the team and Coach Dawn Staley, along with a 2024 championship ring—an honor that brought him tremendous pride. He truly became a devoted “Gamecock Superfan.”

He was preceded in death by his three brothers, Charles Hill, Julius Robinson, and Johnny Robinson; one sister, Rosalee Robinson; and his son, Rosvelt Martain, Jr. who was the twin to Rozell.

On March 8, 1955, he married his childhood sweetheart, Dollie Lyles Martain and from this loving union, they were blessed with five children. Surviving are his four loving children, Rozell Martain McRavin of Charlotte, NC; Debra Martain Guider (Horace) and Jerry Martain, both of Columbia; and Mamie Martain-Scott of Charlotte, NC; and his daughter-in-law, Grenlen Martain of West Columbia, SC.  His children further blessed him with six grandchildren: Joseph McRavin, Jr., Shorace Guider, Carleeta Guider Bradley, Victoria Martain, Jerry Martain, Jr., and Jessica Martain; as well as two great-grandchildren, including his beloved Islan B. Dinkins, affectionately known as “Issy.” He also leaves behind a host of cherished relatives and dear friends who will miss him deeply.

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