Deputy Minister Larmin’s unwavering dedication to the Ministry of National Defense (MoD) spans over 18 years, commencing in 2006. His tenure has been marked by his instrumental role in restructuring the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) under the security sector reform program and implementing the national defense sector reform. His roles have been diverse, including Deputy Director for Plans and Policy, Director for Administration, Director for Logistics, Procurement, and Transportation, Director of Human Resources, Assistant Minister for Administration (Actg.), and Assistant Minister for Operations in his previous role. In his current position as Deputy Defense Minister for Administration, Deputy Minister Larmin is a key figure in the day-to-day operations of MoD. He is the principal deputy to Liberia’s first female Defense Minister Rtd. Gen. Geraldine Janet George. He works closely with the Minister of National Defense to oversee and coordinate administrative activities, including administrative management, human resources, finance, budgeting, pay and benefits, pension, and retirement for central administration and military personnel.
During his confirmation hearing at the Liberian Senate, Dr. Larmin articulated his vision for a robust and dynamic military. He stated, “Honorable Senators, with your support, my boss, the Minister of National Defense, and my colleagues will build a robust and dynamic military. We aim to create a secure and prosperous future for our nation, where our citizens can live without fear, and our borders are protected. This mission is paramount, and I am fully committed to its success.
Deputy Minister Larmin holds a PhD in Security Studies from the School of Politics, Security and International Affairs, the University of Central Florida, United States. The Security Studies program focuses on national, international, and domestic security issues such as terrorism, transnational crimes, cybercrimes, and the military. His PhD dissertation focuses on noncombatant deaths during armed conflicts in sub-Saharan Africa, and his dissertation Advisor was Dr. Michael Mousseau, who chaired the dissertation committee of five people. He also has a BA in Political Science, an MA in International Relations, and an MPA in Public Sector Management. He received training at various military institutions, including the African Center for Strategic Studies (ACSS) at the National Defense University in Washington, D.C., the Naval Post-Graduate College in Monetary, California, the Center for Democratic Control of Armed Conflicts in London, UK, the National Defense University in Beijing, China among others. Deputy Minister Larmin stands as a trailblazer, being the first Liberian to attain a PhD in Security Studies.
Dr. Augustine T. Larmin’s roots in Kpordu, Foya District, Lofa County, have deeply influenced his life and career. His grandfather, Chief Larmin, was a respected clan chief, and his father, F. Sam Larmin, is a veteran journalist. His mother, Tuwah Larmin, dedicated her life to raising her children. Dr. Larmin is a loving husband to Mrs. Pam Larmin and a proud father of three children, Gus Jr., Austin, and Adrian.
Dr. Larmin’s commitment to serving his community was evident from his early years. He actively participated in Liberia’s youth and student movement during his college education. His leadership roles with the Federation of Liberia Youths (FLY), the Liberia National Student Union (LINSU), and the Youth Representative Office at the National Transitional Legislative Assembly in the capitol building allowed him to make a significant impact on the lives of young Liberians.
