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Robert Beckel Obituary
Robert Beckel
January 2, 1937
November 8, 2025
Lt Gen Robert Beckel, USAF (Retired), passed away peacefully in The Woodlands, Texas, at age 88. A member of the U.S. Air Force Academy's inaugural Class of 1959, he went on to fly F-100s and F-105s in Germany. A decorated veteran, he logged 313 combat missions in Vietnam and was honored with the Silver Star and the Distinguished Flying Cross (4 OLCs). General Beckel's illustrious career included serving as USAF Thunderbirds solo pilot, legislative liaison, aide to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and Commandant of Cadets at the Academy. Promoted to lieutenant general in 1987, he commanded 15th Air Force. By careers end, he logged over 4,400 flying hours. Following his AF retirement, Lt Gen Beckel served as Superintendent of New Mexico Military Institute (1996–2004). He was preceded in death by his high school sweetheart and loving wife, Donna Beckel. He is survived by his 2 children; 6 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held on December 4, 2025, at the Air Force Academy Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Lt Gen Beckel Leadership Chair at the NMMI Foundation.
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