Robert Rand
Early Life
Robert Crockett Rand was born on January 23, 1898, in New York, the son of William Henry Rand Jr. and Rosalie Crockett. He spent part of his childhood in Rye, New York, where his family maintained a residence on Forest Avenue, establishing an early connection to the community.
He later lived in New York City and abroad, reflecting a life that moved between the United States and Europe. His upbringing in a prominent family and his later education prepared him for a professional career in law and public service.
World War I Service
Rand entered naval service on April 25, 1917, in New York City, joining the United States Naval Reserve Force shortly after the United States entered World War I. He began his service as a Seaman and was assigned to several vessels during the course of the war.
He first served aboard the USS Harvard, a transport ship used to carry troops and supplies. He was later assigned to the USS Carola, where he advanced to the rating of Coxswain, taking on increased responsibility in navigation and small-boat operations.
Rand subsequently served aboard the USS Mexican, where he was promoted to Boatswain’s Mate First Class, a senior enlisted position responsible for deck operations, seamanship, and supervision of crew.
In addition to his shipboard service, he trained at the Naval Training Station at Pelham Bay Park, part of the Navy’s expanded wartime training system. His service reflects both operational duty at sea and advanced training in leadership and seamanship.
He served throughout the war and was discharged to inactive duty on September 18, 1918, with the rating of Boatswain’s Mate First Class. His service was primarily stateside and coastal, contributing to the transport and readiness functions critical to the Navy during World War I.
Life After Service
Following his military service, Rand pursued a distinguished career in law and public service. He became an attorney in New York City and was associated with several law firms, including Jerome & Rand and Rand, French & Carpenter.
He also served as an assistant Corporation Counsel for New York City and was active in political life, including an unsuccessful candidacy for the New York State Assembly in 1925.
During World War II, he continued his public service as a regional counsel to the War Production Board and later worked with the State Department. He also represented the United States on an international copyright committee associated with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.
Rand maintained residences in both New York City and Glen Cove, New York, and remained connected to Rye through family ties and earlier residence.
Robert C. Rand died on July 20, 1949, at a hospital in Glen Cove, New York, at the age of 51.
At the time of his death, he was survived by his wife, Mina Rand; his brother, William Rand; and his stepchildren, R. Grier Monroe and Mrs. Henry C. Stockman.