Lieutenant General (Ret.) Kirk SMITH
Kirk is Pentacle’s Senior Consultant. Recently retired after 35 years in the United States Air Force, he brings a unique and deep perspective to global relations, having served across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa during his career. The final seven years of Kirk’s military career were spent outside of the US, as the Deputy Commanding General of Africa Command and the Commanding General of Special Operations Command, Europe, as well as the Deputy Commanding General of NATO Special Operations Task Force in Bagram, Afghanistan.
After graduating from the United States Air Force Academy, Kirk trained as an aviator, with most of his career serving in Special Operations, joint commands, and multinational environments. Qualified in both rotary and fixed wing aircraft, he is a command pilot with over 3000 flying hours. He holds three Masters Degrees and is an alum of the National War College, the US Military’s premier institution of higher learning. He was a contributor to the forward for the 2019 Resistance Operating Concept, published by the Swedish Defense University. A believer in the value and strength of the Trans-Atlantic relationship now living near Oslo Norway, Kirk brings his passion for global affairs to his work. An expert in organizational culture, strategy, and risk management, he has led at the highest levels. He is a vocal advocate for the promotion of mental health and believes diversity of thought and perspective produces the most authentic and credible relationships and partnerships. Collaborative and approachable, he is certain that the best and most innovative solutions come when everyone’s input is valued.