LTG Dale Allen Vesser

1932 - 2025

Lieutenant General Dale Vesser (Ret.), 93, died at his home in McLean, Virginia, on September 16, 2025, surrounded by family after a brief struggle with cancer.

Born September 10, 1932, in California and raised in Pocatello, Idaho, he graduated from Pocatello High School, Class of 1950, before entering the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, where he graduated second in his class and later earned a Rhodes Scholarship to Oxford University.

Over a distinguished 47-year career in combined military and civilian defense service, General Vesser completed two combat tours in Vietnam and received the Silver Star, Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star, and Purple Heart. His career included senior posts at the Pentagon, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the National Security Council. After retiring as a lieutenant general, he joined the Department of Defense Senior Executive Service and later led the Gulf War Illness Task Force.

An avid tennis player and lover of books and golden retrievers, he was admired for his high standards, intellect, and kindness. He will be interred at Arlington National Cemetery at a date to be determined. A private service will be held.