A notable equestrian, he was prominent in the Cavalry Branch prior to the Second World War and participated in polo, endurance races, fox hunting, and horse shows.

[5] He was raised on a Mount Pleasant plantation near the Alabama River, and did not attend school, except for one six-month term, but was educated at home by his mother.

[1] In 1901, U.S. Representative George W. Taylor nominated Scott for appointment to the United States Military Academy (West Point).

[7] Scott was a noted horseman, and he was prominent in the Cavalry Branch as a participant in horse shows, polo, fox hunting, and endurance races.

[7] In January 1918, he returned to the United States and was assigned to the Board for Purchasing Public Animals in Kansas City, Missouri.

[8] In July 1920 he was promoted to permanent major and assigned to the office of the Quartermaster general as head of the Remount Service's Animal Division.

[8] In August 1928, Scott began attendance at the United States Army Command and General Staff College, and he graduated in July 1929.

[9] From September 1936 to October 1939, Scott commanded the 13th Cavalry Regiment at Fort Knox, and was responsible for its organization and training as it converted from horses to motorized vehicles.

[9] In October 1939, Scott was assigned as assistant chief of staff for plans, operations, and training (G-3) at Headquarters, First Corps Area, which was located at South Boston Army Base, Massachusetts.

[13] Scott led the 2nd Armored Division during its initial manning, equipping, and training and was promoted to major general in October.

[18] Robert C. L. Scott was an army veteran of World War II, and a career history professor, department chair, and dean at Williams College.