Robert Duane Beckel

Lieutenant General Robert Duane Beckel, United States Air Force (Retired), passed away peacefully on November 8, 2025, in The Woodlands, Texas, at the age of 88. A distinguished military leader, educator, and devoted family man, General Beckel’s life was marked by extraordinary service, unwavering dedication, and a deep commitment to excellence.

Born on January 2, 1937, in Walla Walla, Washington, Robert Beckel charted a path of distinction from an early age. He was a proud member of the inaugural graduating class of the United States Air Force Academy in 1959, earning a Bachelor of Science degree. He furthered his education with a Master of Science degree in international affairs from The George Washington University in 1971. His professional military education included graduation from the College of Naval Command and Staff and the National War College.

General Beckel earned his pilot wings in June 1960 at Vance Air Force Base, Oklahoma, where he was recognized as the outstanding graduate of his class. He went on to complete advanced jet fighter training at Luke and Nellis Air Force Bases before being assigned to the 49th Tactical Fighter Wing in Spangdahlem Air Base, West Germany. There he flew F-100s and F-105s.

In December 1965, he joined the U.S. Air Force Aerial Demonstration Squadron the Thunderbirds—flying the solo position for two years in air shows around the world. From December 1967 to January 1969, as flight commander of the 614th Tactical Fighter Squadron in South Vietnam, he flew an impressive 313 combat missions in the F-100.

Following his combat service, General Beckel returned to Nellis Air Force Base as an instructor and later served in various operational test and evaluation roles. His career took him to Washington D.C., where he worked with the Office of Legislative Liaison and served as chief aide to Admiral Thomas H. Moorer, then Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

After graduating from the National War College in 1975, General Beckel held a series of command positions including vice commander of the 9th Strategic Reconnaissance Wing at Beale Air Force Base—where he flew SR-71s and T-38s—commander of both the 100th Combat Support Group and the 100th Air Refueling Wing, and commander of the 410th Bombardment Wing at K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base.

In June 1979 he assumed command of the 7th Air Division at Ramstein Air Base in West Germany. He returned to his alma mater in February 1981 as Commandant of Cadets at the U.S. Air Force Academy. Subsequent assignments included director of operations at Headquarters U.S. Air Force; deputy chief of staff for operations and chief of staff at Strategic Air Command; and deputy chairman of the NATO Military Committee in Brussels.

General Beckel was promoted to lieutenant general on August 1, 1987 and served as 15th Air Force commander at March Air Force Base, California where he was responsible for worldwide operation of the Strategic Air Command air refueling tanker force as well as two of the command's strategic bomber units. Over his career he logged more than 4,400 flying hours and earned numerous decorations including the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal, Silver Star, Legion of Merit with oak leaf cluster, Distinguished Flying Cross with four oak leaf clusters, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, and Air Medal with fifteen oak leaf clusters.

An accomplished athlete as well as a warrior leader, he was named to the Helms All-American basketball team in 1959 and played for both U.S. Air Forces in Europe and all-Air Force basketball teams in 1961.

After retiring from active duty, Lt Gen Beckel continued his legacy of leadership as the 17th Superintendent of New Mexico Military Institute (NMMI) from summer 1996 to summer 2004. During his tenure, he revitalized academic and leadership programs while instilling a culture rooted in Duty, Honor, and Achievement. His visionary leadership left an enduring mark on generations of cadets who passed through NMMI’s halls under his guidance.

Following his time at NMMI, General Beckel served as a consultant for the United Arab Emirates Air Force Secondary School and Zayed University—continuing to share his expertise on an international stage.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, General Beckel found joy in fishing, traveling across continents, engaging deeply with international affairs, and enjoying “wine time” with those close to him.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Donna Beckel in 2007—high school sweetheart and the love of his life with whom he shared many cherished years.

He is lovingly remembered by his children: son Robert Beckel Jr. and daughter-in-law Vivian Beckel; daughter Valerie Beckel Honsinger and son-in-law Mike Honsinger; six grandchildren—Joshua, Alexandra, Megan, Jon, Shelly, and Jessica—and seventeen great-grandchildren who carry forward his legacy.

Lt Gen Robert D. Beckel will be remembered not only as a strategic thinker and pilot’s pilot but also as a man whose life embodied courage, integrity, and service above self. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to those who follow in his footsteps. A Memorial Service will be held on December 4, 2025, from 01:00 PM to 02:00 PM at the United States Air Force Academy, 3024 Parade Loop. A by invitation Celebration of Life will occur after the memorial service at the Polaris Hotel - 8989 North Gate Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80921. If traveling from out of town, please email beckelmemorial@gmail.com or call (913) 702-5308 so we can plan accordingly. Space is limited.

In leu of flowers you can send a remembrance to the Lt Gen Beckel Leadership Chair at the New Mexico Military Institute via the NMMI Foundation. Your remembrance can be submitted online at https://alumni.nmmi.edu/give-now/ (PayPal - Ref “Beckel Chair”) or by phone at 575-624-8035. If you would prefer to mail a check, make checks payable to NMMI Foundation, write “Beckel Chair” on the memo line, and mail to:
NMMI Foundation, Inc.
101 West College Boulevard
Roswell, NM 88201

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