Robert L. Deprospero

Robert L. DeProspero was recognized as an Outstanding Alumnus by the College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences in 1992.

A native of Morgantown, W.Va., DeProspero graduated from Morgantown High School and earned both a bachelor’s degree in physical education and a master’s degree in education from West Virginia University. After completing his military service in the U.S. Air Force, he began his career as a teacher and coach in Virginia before joining the U.S. Secret Service in 1965.

DeProspero’s early assignments included roles in the Washington Field Office, the White House Detail, and the Protective Support Division. He was promoted in 1973 to assistant to the special agent in charge of the Vice Presidential Protective Division. From 1975-82, he held several high-level positions within the agency, gaining increasing responsibility in national protective operations.

In 1982, following the attempted assassination of President Ronald Reagan, DeProspero was appointed Special Agent in Charge of the Presidential Protective Division. In that role, he oversaw comprehensive security planning for the president and first family under all conditions. Over his career, he was assigned to protect Presidents Eisenhower, Johnson, Ford, Carter, and Reagan. He played a key role in developing and implementing modern security measures, including the stationing of agents at trauma centers and the widespread use of metal detectors.

After retiring in 1986, DeProspero led O’Gara Protective Services, a security consulting firm. His honors include the Albert Gallatin Award from the U.S. Treasury Department and recognition for establishing the Presidential Trauma Protocol. In 1985, he was named Outstanding West Virginia Italian-American.

Deprospero died in 2019 at the age of 80.