Captain Duncan Makau

Born and raised in a small village in Kenya, CPT Makau developed the grit, resilience, and determination that would later define his career in the United States Army.  In 2007, CPT Duncan Makau earned admission to the United States Military Academy at West Point as an exchange cadet. After graduating in 2011, he returned to Kenya and worked in project management in both Kenya and Rwanda. In 2013, CPT Makau returned to the U.S and earned a master’s in business and finance from North Central College. Before commissioning, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, gaining valuable perspective and leadership experience from both enlisted and officer ranks.

Following his commissioning in 2018, CPT Makau graduated from the Basic Officer Leader Course (BOLC), and the Captains Career Course (CCC) in 2024. His assignments have included service in Korea as 176th Financial Management Support Unit (FMSU) Disbursing Officer entrusted with over $10 million in physical currency, ensuring flawless accountability, safeguarding funds and executing finance / fiscal operations with zero loss of funds. As a Budget Officer for 2nd Combat Aviation Brigade, and later served as G8, Budget Operations Officer for 2nd Infantry Division, a Korea-US Combined Division, CPT Makau managed and executed multimillion-dollar budgets providing accurate forecasting, optimal resources allocation, and full compliance with Army fiscal policy to support complex operational requirements that greatly enhanced Korea-US alliance, increased interoperability and enabled mission success.  Served in Germany for 266th Finance Operations Center (FIOC), 21 TSC, as Plans and Operations Chief, where he led the development, synchronization, and execution of operational plans in support of finance operations across the theater.

CPT Makau’s awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal (2), Army Achievement Medal, Certificate of Achievement (2), National Defense Service Medal and Korea Defense Service Medal.

CPT Makau continues to exemplify resilience, adaptability, and dedication to mission accomplishment, drawing on his diverse civilian & Army experiences to lead Soldiers with integrity and purpose.

CPT Makau actively contributes to the community by coaching youth soccer for the Family and Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (FMWR) Child & Youth Services (CYS), demonstrating his commitment to mentorship and leadership beyond the Army.

CPT Makau is married and has two children.