Lewis "Bob" Sorley

The past two days, I have been listening to YouTube videos with Mr. Sorley lecturing about Generals Westmoreland and Abrams. I picked up the Westmoreland book to learn more and on a whim did a Google search. I'm saddened that I never got to meet him, but I am grateful for the wisdom he left us in his books and lectures.

When the Chief of Staff of the Army (CSA) asked me to do a 50 year commemoration of the terrible My Lai war crime in 2018, I sought the advice of two former CSA's, they both recommended Lewis (Bob) Sorley to present an address, allowing questions and answers in a "closed" Pentagon address to most of the Judge Advocates of the Army. Bob and the late MG Bob Scales related how that unprofessional Army of Vietnam War had been transformed by ethical leaders of all ranks into the magnificent...

Bob, and Ginny, were for many years, friends of the Starry family. My father, GEN (R) Donn A. Starry, and Bob shared a mutual respect for military history and it's foundational role in the profession of arms. They collaborated on several biographies, historical articles, and the Army asked Bob to put together a collection of my father's papers. I made a great friend during that papers project. He was a great help to our family when my parents passed away as he reassured us, participated in...

Bob was my mentor. I babysat his daughter, Kathy; and we became lifelong friends. I extend my sincere condolences to his and Ginny´s children. We have lost a good and decent man. I would like to know when his service and burial will be at West Point.

Dr. Lewis Stone Sorley III held many distinguished titles to include a doctorate in national security. But when I first addressed him as "Dr. Sorley," he said, "What's this doctor business? Call me Bob." And that's how friends and admirers know him-- a man of great moral conviction with a humble ease.

For me, I was in awe of Bob, not for his accolades but for the generosity and kindness he showed me, especially when he didn't have to.

Bob had many long friendships that...

Rest in peace LTC Sorley. Thanks for teaching me about leadership as a 1 LT in the 2/37 Armor Germany