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U.S. Naval War College

ROBERT STEELE Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Nov. 11, 2016.

ROBERT J. STEELE Rear Admiral, USN (Ret.)
Quietly on June 8, 2016. Funeral was at Grace Episcopal Church, Alexandria, VA, followed by interment in the columbarium. Born January 31, 1936 in Phillipsburg, PA, he was President of the student body and graduated from Penn State and was commissioned an Ensign (NROTC) in 1958. In the Navy, he had command of USS Fox, USS Mahan and USS McMorris; XO USS Turner Joy; and served aboard USS Norfolk and USS Forrest Sherman. Shore duty included the Naval War College; BUPERS; Navy Staff (OP-06); ISA/OSD; White House Social Aide (Johnson Presidency); CNO personal staff; and EA to the VCNO, when he was promoted to Rear Admiral. As a flag officer he was Director, Pol-Mil Division (OP-61), and Chief of Staff, CINCUSNAVEUR (London), from which he retired in 1988. Principal decorations included: Legion of Merit (x3); Meritorious Service (x2); Bronze Star (w/Combat V); Navy Comm (CV); multiple unit and campaign ribbons; and the Presidential Service Badge. After retiring, he devoted his efforts to volunteer work, serving on the vestry of Grace Church, including as Sr and Jr Warden. An outstanding naval officer, lover of theater and music, and a kind, intelligent, and clever man -- he will be greatly missed by numerous friends and family.

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Recent Activity

November 5, 2023

Denis Zane Leach posted to the memorial.

February 23, 2023

Jack Goterch posted to the memorial.

August 20, 2022

Denis Z Leach posted to the memorial.

11 Entries

Denis Zane Leach

November 5, 2023

Capt Robert Steele (commander at the time) was my commanding officer on the USS Mahan (DLG-11). He took us to the warzone off Vietnam. He was excetionally intellegent and friendly. He was liked by every member of the crew and had their total trust and obedience. I was a third class ET at the time. One day, when he was new to the ship, he walked upon me in the passageway as I was going into Radio Central. He stated, "Arent you Denis Leach", which I acknoledged. He then talked to me about where I was from and many other things about myself. His attention to my personal attributes made me feel very important in his eyes and put him immediatly on a pedistal as far as I was concerned. He was like this to every member of the crew regardless of rank or rate. I still think of him and his attributes. He will surly be missed.

Jack Goterch

February 23, 2023

I had the pleasure of knowing then Commander Steele at CNO headquarters in 1971. One of the most intelligent and prsonable individuals I've ever known.

We both left Washington about the same time but I was aware of his next command at sea in USS Mahan as well as his promotion to the newly reinstituted rank of Commodore (O-7) in 1983.

Jack Goterch, YNC, US Navy (Ret)

Denis Z Leach

August 20, 2022

I have often thought of Adm Steele. I served under him on the USS Mahan DLG11 in Vietnam. He was one of the people that guided my life and I will truly miss him.

Michael Seifert

November 16, 2021

I served with Capt Steele while on USS Mahan DLG-11 1972, 1973. He was a outstanding CO , cared about his men under his command. Wasn't afraid to get down in the lower level fireroom with the rest of the Bts to find out problems. Best officer I ever saw.

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Tom Straughn

April 13, 2019

I served under CAPT Steele on the USS Fox. A great Commanding Officer, an intelligent and thoughtful man, and a wonderful human being.

December 10, 2016

RIP

william pospisil

December 10, 2016

I served under Capt. Steele when was capt. of the Uss Mahan he is the best commanding officer, I have ever served under. smooth sailing.

Thomas Mcgee

December 10, 2016

Very proud and honored to have had this man as my commanding officer on the USS MAHAN DLG11. Walked the decks and talked to his crew. Knew the name's of your spouses and children. Skipper of all Skippers.

Sam Chirco

December 10, 2016

I too, served under Admiral Steele, he was a great commanding officer. We had some interesting times, but as his name applies, he was a man of Steel! God speed Admiral.

William Skripko

December 9, 2016

I seved under him on the uss Mahan he was the best commanding officer any Chief Boatswains Mate could ever have. I loved that man I will keep you in my prayers

Karen Harvey

November 15, 2016

My heartfelt condolences to the family of Robert Steele. He was such an accomplished man, a sincere friend, and an up-lifting spirit to all who knew him. He was a faithful volunteer at Hospice Of Northern Virginia (the former name) and was loved by all. God Rest Your Soul, Mr. Steele.

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