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Arthur K. Cebrowski

Arthur Cebrowski Obituary

CEBROWSKI, ARTHUR K., VADM USN (Ret.)

On November 12, 2005 at age 63. Beloved husband of Kathryn M. Cebrowski of Warrenton, VA; devoted father of Kristin Niro of Little Silver, NJ and Julie Clark of Caldwell, WV. Loving son of John and Helen Cebrowski of Hasbrouck Heights, NJ; dear brother of John W. Cebrowski of Bedford, NH and Carol Cebrowski of Hasbrouck Heights, NJ; cherished grandfather of seven, Courtland, Mikayla, Analeese, Matthew, Emma, Grace and Caroline. Family will receive friends this evening from 7 to 9 p.m. at MOSER FUNERAL HOME, 233 Broadview Ave., Warrenton, VA. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 271 Winchester St., Warrenton, on Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. Interment with Full Honors at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Life League, P.O. Box 1530, Stafford, VA 22555.

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Published by The Washington Post on Nov. 14, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
for Arthur Cebrowski

Sponsored by Patrick.

62 Entries

Amir Safayan

July 16, 2024

Art was a wonderful man and my sponsor at St Luke´s in McLean, Va. I´ll be 63 in two days and I see Art passed away at this same age - far too young. Thank you sir and God Speed.

Ricardo Orozco

January 15, 2018

ADM Cebrowski was the finest CO I ever served with, especially going through the first Gulf War on the USS Midway. The performance of the old war horse CV-41 was phenomenal under his leadership. With the passing of time and experience, there are those times you look back to moments that are the pinnacle in your life. My tour with ADM Cebrowski was it.

Rosemary Townsend

June 6, 2016

The last time I saw Art and Kathy was at their wedding. I happened upon this news on the Internet and was sad to learn how young such a fine man was lost. I live in Cape Elizabeth Maine and would love to have you visit if you ever get up this way. . . ROsemary Leitner Townsend

R Wielk

November 12, 2013

RIP Art - HHHS '60.

December 12, 2012

It sure has been a while, and a lot has taken place since the Admiral passed on. Funny thing is, I don't believe any of it would have surprised him. I hope your family and loved ones take an additional and continued measure of comfort from the tremendous positive effect you had - on people more than anything else. Thanks for sharing him with us.

Taken during a USO tour during the Persian Gulf War

December 19, 2009

Michael Thomas

August 22, 2009

Even after all this time his effect on the Navy is still being felt in such a positive way. No doubt, his legacy as a Sailor and more importantly as a human being will continue to be felt for years.

Shane Van Wey

August 25, 2008

Wow... you lose contact with someone for a few years and this is the way you find them.

I too was Navy, but I never had the pleasure to serve under ADM Cebrowski. I was a submariner. I did however know his daughter Kristy well enough to know he was one top-notch father. He had to be to have helped in raising someone so nice and good as I have always known my friend Kristy to be. My own father, also Navy, passed when I was 20. So I have been there.

I am late in finding this out, but my best wishes to the Cebrowski family. I hope somehow this might get to Kristy's attention. I would love to catch up sometime.

Again, my belated best wishes to the family of a great man.

Shane Van Wey

Ern Lewis

June 11, 2007

We crossed paths several times during his career -- as served in the same corners of the Navy -- until he went to joint & OSD as a Flag. Like him I flew missions in VietNAM -- and spent a lot of time "in side the Beltway" -- beginning as the Secretary to the Acquisition Review Board when it was first established, & three NAVAIR aquisition program manager tours (XFV12, Special Msn acft & TACAMO).
Can't recall when I first met him -- either when I was on COMNAVAIRPAC staff -- or as a PM -- but he was a newly promoted flag officer. While I spoke with him at length only once, I admired his intellect and personality. He had the steel of RADM Red Raborn, seemed to me as smart as ADM Rickover and had some of the sort of wry sense of humor that made me love working for RADM Bud Ekas when he was ACNM(Acq)& CNR. VADM Cebrowski seemed to thrive in Washington -- but wasn't surprising he retired when he did. He was an outspoken maverick. 'Nuff said. We'll miss him.

Cyndi ward

June 5, 2007

my condolences.
[email protected]
[email protected]

Pat Burke

May 16, 2007

I had the hallowing experience of sailing with ADM Cebrowski as an augmentee from Rota, Spain during operations in the MED and IO.
I was charmed by his wit and overwhelmed by his uncanny ability to transliterate his Copernican intellect to my humble sense.
The world is a better place because of your trailblazing spirit; and I, a lowly Warrant Officer, shall never forget the valuable lessons you taught me about war, peace, and achieving the asymmetric advantage.
V/R, CWO4 Pat Burke

Grace with her Dziadzi (grandfather) VADM Arthur Cebrowski

April 3, 2007

Chandra Bajpai

March 28, 2007

I was lucky enough to sit next to Arthur Cebrowski on his trip to Japan to take command of the USS Midway. I was only 23 at the time, we talked a lot during that flight, esp. about computer as he had just got a brand new Gateway computer and had some problems with it. He really made the time pass on a 10 hour journey. I had no idea of his of rank until several week later I got a surprise post card in the mail and he invited me to the ceremony to take over the USS Midway. I followed his career over the years, even saw him on TV once. The two words that describe him best to me is: Class Act. Mr. Cebrowski, you will be missed. Condolences to your family.

Jeffrey Estes

March 6, 2007

I just learned of Admiral Cebrowski's death today. I was his Marine orderly for two years aboard the Midway. As his orderly, my days (and most nights) were spent with the Admiral, and I cannot emphasize how much of an influence he had on a 19 year old learning about life. I have many fond memories and stories of life "behind the scenes" while he was in command. I learned more listening to him during our early morning flight-deck runs than in four years of college!

He was a great role model and inspiration to me. It speaks volumes about who he was when you consider that although he was in command of thousands, he took the time to mentor his Marine.

I offer my sincerest condolences to the family.

mut simo

January 11, 2007

my prayer goes to the family.

Ted Johnson

December 28, 2006

I had the honor of serving with Admiral Cebrowski on the USS Midway during Desert Shield and Desert Storm. There was no finer Commanding Officer, and I think of him and all of my shipmates often. I was the EEO Specialist onboard and therefore spoke with the Admiral, one-on-one, on several occasions regarding the crew. He was a fair, honest and objective leader, and a down to earth human being. My fondest memory of him was that he told me that he trusted my judgement on issues regarding my input; that meant more to me than any award or promotion ever could, coming from an Admiral. Those few words changed my professional life and motivated me to this day. I will always remember him with the utmost respect, reverence and friendship.

Fair winds and following seas, dear sir.

Bill & Linda Charlton

September 5, 2006

I just found out about Art's passing. We roomed together at Villanova and my wife, Linda and I maintained close contact with Art and Kathy through flight school and for a number of years following. We remember his humor and positive attitude , but mainly his refusal to accept the status quo, but how to overcome any and all obstacles. May God give peace to all of his family.

Michael Walls

August 22, 2006

I had the honor of serving aboard the USS Midway during his tenure as Captain. As an Operations Specialist we would rotate on and off the bridge to maintain the surface contact board located there. There are many a time I remember of Captain Cebrowski showing up on a mid watch (midnight watch) and joking with us or just asking us how we were doing. As you are the only Operations Specialist on the bridge it meant alot to know the "old man" cared enough to want to interact with you. I only recently learned of his passing and am truly saddened. May God Bless Captain Cebrowski and his family.

Rick Uhrie

August 8, 2006

Unfortunately, since I have been so far removed from the military (I had retired nearly 20 years ago), I had only heard of Art's death yesterday. Naturally, I was deeply saddened to hear of his death, but at the same time, I was truly proud to have had the opportunity to work for such a truly remarkable man who served God and his country at an exemplary level. I can recall what an honor it was for me to serve under Captain Art Cebrowski, who was the Air Wing Commander for CAG-8 during 1983-1984. At that time, I was the Commanding Officer of VS24 at which time the Air Wing was embarked in USS Nimitz and spent the remainder of the time ashore. His leadership, innovative thinking and aggressive behavior inspired all of us to move to the next level in our daily lives. He definitely made a difference in my life, and for that I am truly grateful. I wish to extend my deepest condolences to his family, and I will always keep them in my prayers. Thank you for sharing Art with the rest of us!

Michael Taylor

July 25, 2006

I Served With Him When He Was on The Uss Midway, I am Saddened by his loss. And send My Deepest Condolences

Phil oakley

February 28, 2006

As a student at the NWC I was extremely impressed with ADM Cebrowski's ability to embrace technological changes. I was able to speak with Admiral Cebrowski on a few short occasions and found him to be approachable, honest, candid, and most importantly a great American. We have lost a true visionary, god bless his family his legacy will last long into the next millennium.

Frank OBrien

February 24, 2006

Thank you Sir, For being a Great Teacher and A Great friend.

OBWUN ODS/DS

Henry Gauthier

February 22, 2006

I did not know him. But, I read about him and all the things he has done for this Nation and the world at large. I will be joining the Navy here in April in large part due to the fact that a man of his nature also chose the Navy. I will work in earnest to try and follow his example for what a Naval Officer is.

Shane Cole

January 29, 2006

I served with Capt. Cebrowski (Now Adm. Cebrowski) on the Uss Midway Before, Durring and after Opperation Desert Shield/Storm. I have had the Honor knowing him and talking to him on several ocasions. Durring one trip to the gulf, we had a mishap with one of our steam lines and it caused a fire onboard the ship. Fighting the fire all night long, into the next day. we had lost some men. One gentleman was named John Kilgore. We were the best of friends. Capt. Cebrowski gave a 21-gun salute on the hangar bay to all those who fell on that day. After the services of John Kilgore, Capt. Cebrowski (Knowing John and I were best friends)asked me if I would like to have the American flag that we were flying top-side in honor of John. My heart fell. That sundown Capt. Cebrowski, myself and the Marine Honor guard, lowered the flag, folded it then Capt. Cebrowski handed it to me. I still have the flag and Honor it today as I did then. Capt. Cebrowski and I have had many talks about dealing with the loss of John and the others. He made me feel very welcomed to talk to him whenever I need. He always had an "Open door policy". All of us onboard the Uss Midway looked up to him as our father and will miss him greatly.

Capt. Cebrowski always made his people feel like family. He was a down-to-earth gentleman.

Another Occasion during a "Steel Beach Picnic" Capt. decided everyone was gonna take turns cooking, cleaning up, etc. well the first picnic was the Officers turn to cook for all of us and the chiefs were to clean up. well Capt Cebrowski had his turn (many times) on the grill and had the time of his life on their but was booted off by the XO. When he passed me I asked him to get me a soda. Keeping in mind the officers were taking care of all the picnic-ing, so-to-speak. So when he passed me I couldnt resist getting an officer (mainly a captin) to get me (a lowly E-2) something cold to drink..... He just smiled and said to me "Mr. Cole, your just loving this too much" or words to that effect. I just laughed and said "Yes Sir". He did get me that soda and I walked away with a big head on my shoulders like I did something Impossible...

To the Family, friends and loved ones of Adm. Cebrowski. May God Bless you all and keep you safe and secure in his arms. My prayers are with you all.

Shane Cole

Gary Schreffler

January 29, 2006

I was a crewman and rescue swimmer with HS-12, embarked in USS Midway when Captain Cebrowski was the CO. During Desert Storm he always made a point of keeping the crew informed of how the war was going, etc. The few times I talked to him I found his sense of humor great, and he really cared for the enlisted crew.

I was on USS Midway with HS-12 from 1984-1991. Captain Cebrowski was hands down the best CO.

Mike Scott

January 18, 2006

I had the distinct pleasure of knowing Mr. Cebrowski during the mid-80s when I was a high school student at George C. Marshall. It's with a heavy heart that I learn of his passing. Mr. Cebrowski was an endearing man; always quick with a smile, a joke, or a pat on the back. He was a Patriot to our nation, and a blessing to all fortunate enough to have known him. My deepest condolences to Kristy and the rest of his family. God bless.

Edward Zelczak

January 12, 2006

Thank you for your leadership and mentorship.

Semper Fi!

Edward Zelczak

Thomas Tolson

January 7, 2006

I had the wonderful good fortune of meeting Art and Kathy just as they had settled on their new home just outside of Warrenton - before the tornado swept within 100 yards+/- of their new home...

I was immediately impressed with the down-to-earth nature of both A&K and felt immediately embraced by them. I knew Art as a civilian, a homeowner, a family man. And mostly I recognized Art as one of, if not, the finest examples of a gentleman and a gentle man. He was deeply thougthful, and he was deeply caring. I will miss his visits by my shop or chance meetings on the roads around town.

As time went by and I worked in their home off and on, I came to learn that they were/are some of those VERY rare folks that are so truly genuine, caring and spirit to spirit with each encounter.

Never did I speak with them that they did not ask about myself and my family. What true Christians who lived their faith every moment. I don't mean to speak of Kathy in the past tense, but I am referring to the incredible people they were together. That's how I knew them. Again, having the good fortune of working in their home, I often saw them together. I know there must be a huge void at TwoHeartsFarm. This certainly brings more than one tear to my eye(s).

I feel truly honored to have had the opportunity to get to know Art a little bit and to feel welcomed into his life, even tho I be just a lowly carpenter...

Kathy and "girls", I truly feel for you and sympathize with you over the great loss that you have suffered with Art's passing.

Kathy, I am thinking of you. I know your faith will serve you well and comfort you during this difficult time. May an angel rest on your shoulder at all times.

Art Cebrowski was as great a role model that has lived. Ever. I admired his strength and grace, especially as he struggled with the illness that eventually took him away from us, in the mortal sense. I shall always miss and never forget VADM Arthur K. Cebrowski.

If I may, as a civilian, salute you sir, for a life well lived and a life of service to your country, The United States of America. I appreciate it deeply. And may I wave to you, respectfully, yet fondly, a fare-thee-well, sweet prince of peace and liberty.

My sincerest condolences to Art's parents, brother and sister, and of course, Kathy, Kristin and Julie. Love, Thommy Tolson

Dave Manser, CDR USN (ret.)

January 6, 2006

I worked ADM Cebrowski during his command of the USS America Carrier Battle Group. VADM Tuttle, then CNO N6, assigned me to then RDML Cebrowski as one of two (CDR Bob Whitkop, the other) technology experts to support Admiral Cebrowski's dsire to use the America Battle Group as a floating high technology demonstrator. We like to think it was those operational moments using early C4 technology in the Bosnia conflict, operating offshore of Somalia while coming to the aid of Army personnel there, and later on patrol in the Arabian Gulf that birthed the advanced concepts which later became known as Network Centric Warfare.

Admiral Cebrowski's legacy is far broader and complete, though, than as simply the "Father of NCW/NCO" or as "a high technology guru". Of the 12 flag officers I worked for over 15 years, he showed himself to me to be the most complete tactical thinker, the best family man, the deepest spiritual thinker, and the finest leader I have come across. Others have given tribute to his many qualities, let me offer a small slice of a personal remembrance that speaks to me of his humility which was as great as his genius.

I was on watch as one of the Admiral's Tactical Action Officers in Flag Combat onboard the USS America as we were sailing only a few miles offshore of Mogadishu, Somalia shortly after the "Black Hawk Down" episode had occurred.

Admiral Cebrowksi had taken over the tactical responsibility for actions ashore and was simultaneously: driving a 95,000 ton aircraft carrier a few miles offshore for all Somalians to see (and be intimidated by), had put SEALS into sniper positions to protect Americans and health care workers, had set up a medical and dental clinic ashore to win the friendship of the locals, was buzzing the headquarters of the insurgents with F-18 flights to keep them locked in their hole, and was ferrying helicopter flights of beleagured Army and Delta force men from their compound to the protected confines of our carrier where they could feel safe and unwind for a couple days rest and relaxation.

In the midst of this tension and managed chaos I slipped out of the Flag Command Center in the America to cross its War Room and go into the Flag Mess to get a fresh cup of coffee. As I crossed the empty War Room, my peripheral vision caught a pair of legs standing on the Admiral's conference table. I froze in my tracks and turned to dress down the offender when to my surprise I recognized the Admiral...with a screw driver in hand, tinkering with the over head projector that was suspended from the ceiling.

As he was alone and this hardly seemed "Admiral's work" I immediately offered to call a technician. The Admiral arched an eyebrow at me which was always his cue for me to "think outside the box". I paused, frozen for what seemed an eternity, (probably 2 seconds), and finally responded haltingly... you are, ummm, fixing the slide projector, yourself, because you just came from the Pentagon as a one-star aide...and, ummm, you probably know more about coffee-maker, copier, and slide projector repair than anyone else I could call on this boat..right,Sir?"

The Admiral just smiled at my reasoning and turned his piercing, laser-like, blue-eyed gaze back to his work and I escaped to get my coffee and ignored him on the return trip through the War Room. I found that Art Cebrowski could do just about any job anyone else could, and would often take the tedious and burdensome task off of someone's shoulders.

He was also the most patient, inspiring leader who delighted in delegating "plum assignments" to his subordinates and then helped them to succeed, while neither micromanaging, condescending while advising, nor destroying the confidence of his subordinates when their efforts came up short.

Admiral Cebrowski stayed in touch via email in the 12 years that passed this episode and encouraged me in my efforts in industry to lead innovation that delivers on the vision he fostered. Of the many senior officers who shared in those moments during that tour, I continually run into them today still pursuing implementation of the Admiral's vision.

If Admiral Cebrowski made half the impression on the thousands on future leaders he influenced, that he made on me, his legacy will stay a part of them for their whole lives.

I only met Kathy a few times in Mayport, FL during that tour. Kathy, your personal regard for preparing sailors and their families for the hardships of separation gained such a huge following that I went to these evening meetings, (as a Bachelor!), just to store the nuggets of advice on relationships. The grief I should feel for Art's life being cut short and his passing before he could be retired "full-time" with you is tempered by my knowledge that he showed us younger men how not to let time go by without expressing one's love to his family that they are the great love affair of one's life, and number one in one's heart.

God Blessed us richly with Art Cebrowski's time among us, may our prayers bless you, his family, with our thanks for sharing him with us.

Bob Magnuson

December 24, 2005

Kathy and family, I just heard that Art passed away and offer my deepest condolences. While he was a high ranking naval officer I only knew Art and Kathy as a member of a prayer group back in the mid 1990's when I lived in McLean, VA. I always had such respect for him and knew he must be someone special to acheive as much as he did in his short life. I will never forget the hospitality of opening their beautiful home for our prayer group on Wednesday nights.The pleasure to have known both Art and Kathy will always be a blessing in my life.

God Bless you Art!

BG James P. Daley

December 22, 2005

I worked with VADM Cebrowski for six months in the Office of Force Transformation in 2003-2004. While most comments have focused upon his intellect, it was his humor and kindness that I will always remember. He maintained the capacity to laugh at himself and always displayed basic thoughtfullness and kindness to everyone he met. The marriage of both the quality intellect and the keen insight displayed by Art Cebrowski occurs only once or twice to a generation. But for me, his personal kindness and humor will be personally, sorely missed

Neil Siegel

December 19, 2005

I was honored to know and work with Admiral Cebrowski. He was an original and deep thinker, and dedicated to using science and technology to the benefit of our country and the world.

Chessell Ian

December 14, 2005

Art was an inspirational military thinker with a deep understanding of technology and its impact. He was above all a true gentleman, a delight to meet, a great lecturer, generous with his time and hospitality and a friend to Australia.

cortland schulrud

December 9, 2005

My grandfather was the most kind and loving person I have ever known.He always had a smile on his face when we would visit.He always had kind words to say to us.We always looked forward to visiting him.He always had something special for us to do.He was alot of fun.He was very special to me.I will miss him very much.I will always love my grandpa.
(Grandaughter)

James Blaker

December 8, 2005

I worked with Art Cebrowski over the last decade. He was a wonderful teacher, a profound man, brilliant and good. It was an honor to have known him.

Thomas Griffin

December 8, 2005

A great man who had an profound and enduring impact in improving the nation's security, and a good man personally who exemplified the finest qualities of an officer and gentleman

Stan Arthur

November 29, 2005

Art and I shared many great moments during our Navy days. He will have a cherished place in the history of the modern Navy. A very special man that could see today and the future with equal clarity. He will be missed.

Andrew Valdez

November 28, 2005

Although I did not know Admiral Cebrowski personally, his impact on me has been profound. His writings on NCW continue to flourish in my work and the National Security of this country. Thank you Sir, V/R CW3 Valdez

Bill Gravell

November 28, 2005

It is my great personal honor, and professional delight, to count Art Cebrowski as a close friend of long standing. I use the present tense deliberately, because the signs and effects of his presence, and our association, are everywhere in my life, and will be forever. Much has been said about his MIND, and certainly his intellectual accomplishments are enormous. However, it is in the nature of all such work that it mutates over time, as new thinking, new needs and new solutions enter the debate. Intellectualization must permit evolution and adaptation, or it will lose relevancy. However, beyond that, and quite apart from it, is the HEART. In Art’s case, it is his heart which uplifted and embraced all around him, and left many of them changed for the good – most certainly to include myself. His good heart was, and IS, a constant in the universe, a steady beam of example and inspiration, which will stand up to any challenge, including the dimming light of human memory over time. The heart – that is to say, the spirit – stands for itself, not depending on any human interpretation.

This is the way I choose to remember and honor my friend Art. It is possible that this aspect of his life will be lost to history, in time, and that will be a great loss indeed…but, those who know – and those who will never know – how Art touched them, will always be the better for his time with us here.

LCDR Gregory Atchason

November 26, 2005

I was not a close personal or family friend to CAPT Cebrowski, but I was a young Ensign and later a JG on USS Guam in the late 80's when CAPT Cebrowski was the Commanding Officer. He pushed the ship and crew hard to achieve lofty goals. I could talk to that side of him, but I wanted to share a few personal experiences I had with CAPT Cebrowski that show the more common and personal side that may be appreciated by his family and those who were close.

I was an avid scuba diver when I was assigned to USS GUAM, and I would go diving in different ports in which we stopped. My stateroom was on the same level as the CO's and he would pass by my stateroom on the way to his. He would catch me with my door open from time to time and always stop and comment with his winning smile that my room always smelled like fish because of my dive gear hanging form the overhead drying.

Standing watch on the bridge everyday underway meant that you were in close proximety to the Capatain as the bridge on GUAM was tiny. CAPT Cebrowski was very serious on the bridge, particularly during Sea and Anchor detail, when the ship was entering or leaving port. I remember one particular occasion where we were coming back to Norfolk a few days early, so before the days of email, CAPT Cebrowski called his home via bridge to bridge radio phone patch to let his family know he would be home early. When the connection was established one of his teenage daughters answered the phone and the whole bridge full of people head her say, "Hi daddy, where our you", and proceeded to ask him a million questions going a mile a minute. He finally gave up and asked to speak to her mother. It made us all smile as CAPT Cebrowski was so serious when we were entering port, the bridge was like a morgue.

The last instance I want to share, was near the end of the Captain's tour when he was relating to someone on the bridge, on how his parents keep asking him when he was going to be done with his away from home college-like job in the Navy and come home for good!

During this Christmas season, I remember back to the time when I was on GUAM and CAPT Cebrowski opened up his home to the wardroom for a Christmas party at his house. This was so like him. To be a very profound thinker on the one hand, hard to keep up with intellectually at times, and on the other hand, a very genuine, decent, good man who cared for his family, his people, his Navy, his country and his God.

I hope these simple encounters I have told will bring a smile to the face of Mr. Cebrowski's family and loved ones.

George Hays

November 22, 2005

Mary Lynn and I join many throughout the Nation to extend our deepest sympathy to the Cebrowski family. I was lucky enough to serve with the admiral on the Joint Staff when he was the J6. While there, his insightful discussions and innovative thinking about the theory, structure and implementation of communications paved the way ahead for Command and Control Commuinications in our military today. We as a communications community, as the best military in the world, and as a Nation were blessed to have him for a short time and we will miss him very much.

Sincerely,

Adam Clark

November 22, 2005

Art (dad) has played a great role in my family's life. I will without adought miss him and all the things he could and would lecture about,I will miss the kindness,and the sence of humor he had.I'm extremely thankful that I had the pleasure to spend the time, that was so well worth it.My father inlaw will be missed by many who's live's he touched,but nothing compared to the familiy he left behind.I'm proud to be part of the family he made and it is a honor to have known him.

Adam Clark (son inlaw)

julie clark

November 22, 2005

My father was the most kind,caring and loving man that I have ever met.He was always there for his family even though he was gone alot when we were growing up.He always had a way to keep in touch wheather it was a note ,a post card or even a gift.The one thing he always made sure of was that he told Kristy and I that he loved us.I am going to miss those corny jokes ,you know the ones that he always laughed at with that big roaring laugh.I am going to miss those serious conservations that we use to have ,when he look at you with that look on his face and his eyes almost ready to pop off his face.Im sure every one knows that look.I am going to miss seeing mom and dad dancing around the kitchen together even though mom is trying to cook. There are so many things that I am going to miss,but the one thing I am going to miss is seeing dad with my 4 children who loved him so very much.Watching dad do the same little jokes and games that he did with Kristy and I.We are going to miss him greatly.We love him so very much.Thanks to all the people for the nice words that everyone has been saying about dad.We appeciate it greatly

Julie clark(Art's youngest daughter)

Steve Mims

November 22, 2005

To the family of a truly great man. Adm. Cebrowski will be remembered as a truly innovative individual who accepted things not for what they are but the way they should be. His contribution to the Transformation of the Armed Services will be forever remembered.

Lilia Ramirez

November 22, 2005

Admiral Cebrowski was a truly inspirational leader and I feel blessed to have worked for him. He will be missed. My family and I send our warmest regards to the Cebrowski family and our deepest sympathy.

He will certainly leave a legacy that will be felt for many years to come...

Helen B. Dominguez

November 20, 2005

Dear Family of Art Cebrowski,

My cherished memories of Art go back to Hasbrouck Heights H.S. in New Jersey, where I had the privilege of having him as a student. Over the past year he took time to correspond with me in spite of his illness. God bless all of you. We know Art's in good hands now and will not have to suffer anymore.

Love and Peace,

Helen B. Dominguez

Christopher Echols

November 19, 2005

I honor this visionary who understood the importance of NCOW to effective unity of command

Patrick Niro

November 18, 2005

Faith, Family and Country. This defines the life of my father in law Arthur Cebrowski. He will be sorely missed by all, especially his grandchildren. They will always love their Dziadzi (grandpa in polish).

Mark Lewis

November 18, 2005

I was fortunate enough to be in OFT for seven months with the Admiral - it was a tremendously intellectually stimulating time and a highlight of my life. A brilliant man, he will be missed.

John Heidenrich

November 18, 2005

I had the remarkable privilege of working on behalf of VADM Cebrowski and his OFT staff. I met with him only rarely, but because of his personality, his writings, and his speeches, his influence upon me will last a lifetime.

He was down-to-earth, and yet also deeply spiritual. If he had lived centuries ago in Medieval times, I have no doubt that he would have been a great Christian theologian: Roman Catholic in his practices, universal in his love for all of God's creation. That was how he behaved, and everyone respected him accordingly because his behavior was so obviously sincere: a manifestation of deep personal conviction and faith, rather than the outward "faith" that other people use as a mask to disguise their fears or pettiness.

The Admiral was brilliant, and yet always he was willing to listen, to learn, and to adopt your ideas -- in an instant -- if he found them logical sound. Too many people adopt ideas based, not upon the merit of those ideas (which may be quite lacking, even ludicrous), but only because someone of supposed “eminence” said them. The Admiral instead looked to the merit of an idea, no matter how lowly in stature the person offering it. This quintessentially democratic open-mindedness, spiritual in its respect for other people and scientific in its honesty, is not always in evidence among the U.S. Armed Forces and our Republic. We all know that it should be, but alas it is not. The Admiral embodied it.

He was also confrontational, combative, indeed willing to do and say things that everyone knew would be unpopular. He knew, too -- and his response to that danger was to laugh. Repeatedly, he got away with his tendency to confront because Admiral Cebrowski's style of confrontation was packaged in a disarmingly warm and respectful smile on his face and a tone of voice that was assertive but never shouting.

From what little I saw of his anger, never very loud, I sensed that it was grounded in some deeper sadness, not rage. I believe that he was angry/sad because we -- "we" being the Navy, or the U.S. Armed Forces, or the United States of America, or all of humankind -- were not living up to the standards of competence, commitment, and honesty that he lived as a matter of everyday common decency and of unspoken routine. He said what he said -- and he said quite a lot -- because he cared deeply about his country, about democracy, about humankind, and about being true to his faith and to God. He said what he said because he had thought about it, he had considered the arguments for and against the current practice, and he wanted others to be as scientific and critical in their thinking as he was. He did not expect you to agree with him, though he enjoyed it when you did. More importantly, however, he wanted you to think.

Most importantly, he wanted our nation’s "thinkers" to think: that in Government, in the Military, in Academia, and wherever else, they should stop making excuses for the status quo and instead should propose well-considered alternatives worthy of their intellect. They should not just advocate small changes on the margin or, just as bad in the Admiral's view, an “Ivory Tower” alternative that gushes theory for theory's sake without practical input or evidence from data analysis.

Even if the Admiral had not become the first OFT Director, he was truly an advocate for transformation -- of the U.S. Armed Forces, and of the U.S. Government in its approach to global problems such as terrorism, poverty, and informational disconnectedness -- because he believed that transformation was utterly necessary, as surely as the first rule of evolution: Adapt or Die. He was not content to leave "well enough alone" because, in pondering the matter as thoroughly as his brilliant mind did, he concluded that the status quo was not "well enough" at all to be left alone, that the status quo was ill, sick, harming actual people and destined to harm even more unless somebody spoke up and urged a change. But who should that person be? If not he, then who? If not now, then when? And so he spoke up, repeatedly, using language that encouraged others to look at the issue itself, not so much at him.

In that remarkably honorable group that we call the American Officer Corps, such individuals are very rare indeed. Sir, thank you for touching my life. May God comfort the Cebrowski family.

Rich & Jenny Smith

November 17, 2005

Our deepest sympathy to the entire Cebrowski family. God bless.

Jim & Sue Flynn

November 17, 2005

Our sincere sympathy during this time to the entire Cebrowski family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Joyce and Howard Setzer

November 17, 2005

Our sincere sympathy to, and prayers for, the entire Cebrowski family.

Carol Kleemann

November 16, 2005

My family and I wish to express our deepest sympathy to you, Kathy and all of your family. Art was a wonderful husband, father and friend.Hank was honored to serve as his XO in VF-41. Please know that all of you are in our prayers.

Andy Huffman

November 16, 2005

As a fellow veteran, I salute and thank VADM. Cebrowski for his life long service to his county

VFW Post #4918

Bob Coleman

November 16, 2005

Art was a friend and mentor when I was a young naval officer in a fighter squadron together with him. His example and guidance were a great help to me both personally and professionally.

Dick Vercauteren

November 16, 2005

Art was a superb strategic thinker with a blend of operational experience. Art brought vision to a difficult situation in Somalia and elsewhere. My sincere condolences to his beloved family. May he rest in peace. Dick Vercauteren, Brigadier General,U.S.Marine Corps.

Carol Potter

November 16, 2005

My thoughts and prayers are with the family.

R Quinlan

November 15, 2005

Admiral Cebrowski was a true leader and was highly respected here in the Pentagon. My condolences to your family on your great loss.

Mike Oehl

November 15, 2005

As a student of the Naval Command and Staff course in Newport, RI in '99'-'00, I witnessed first-hand the value of true "vision" in VADM Cebrowski. His briefings were the buzz of the student body as he continually enticed us to think outside the box. The Navy and the country has lost a real visionary.

Alan and Faye Burns

November 14, 2005

Art was a dear friend to us. We were honored to know and serve with him. He will be greatly missed. We are thinking of Kathy, Kristy, and Julie. You are in our prayers.

Ed Straw

November 14, 2005

Art and I were Vice Admirals together. I consider him a good friend and great american. All that knew him will miss him. I send my condolences and prayers to his family. God bless them in this time of sadness.

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