COL Robert F. Radcliffe USA (Retired)Cullum:25994 Class:'65 Cadet Company:B1 Date of Birth:October 10, 1942 Date of Death:August 29, 2024 Died in: Ash, NC Interred: Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA - View or Post a Eulogy |
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Robert Fielding “Bob” Radcliffe, the son of Milton Ray Radcliffe and Margaret Vass Radcliffe, was born in Greensboro, NC on October 10, 1942.
Bob spent his high school years in Marblehead, MA, where he was an excellent student who excelled in athletics. He was a first team All-State football wide receiver for Marblehead and was recruited extensively. He chose West Point, entering the Academy in June 1961 with the distinguished Class of 1965.
Although Bob was recruited to play football at West Point, he was introduced to lacrosse during his plebe year and thus began his lifelong love of the game. He earned three varsity letters in lacrosse and, in 1965, he was selected as a first team All American defenseman.
Bob graduated from West Point in June 1965 and was commissioned as an Infantry officer. After completing the Army’s Airborne and Ranger schools, Bob was assigned to the 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, KY. This assignment lasted less than a year before he was assigned to Vietnam as an infantry platoon leader in the 1st Cavalry Division. Bob completed his tour in Vietnam with distinction, earning a Silver Star, Soldier’s Medal, Bronze Star for valor, Air Medal, Purple Heart and Combat Infantryman Badge. In addition, Bob’s achievements throughout his Army career resulted in the awarding of three Legions of Merit, two Meritorious Service Medals, the Joint Service Commendation Medal and an Army Commendation Medal.
Bob served in the Army for 26 years, retiring in 1991 with the rank of colonel. His career included assignments in airborne, airmobile and light infantry units, a tour of duty at West Point as a company tactical officer, a major headquarters (Training and Doctrine Command) assignment and finally three assignments within the Army Recruiting Command. Overseas assignments included tours of duty in Vietnam, Iran, Thailand and Hawaii. Bob was a rare officer who was promoted to colonel without having attended the War College.
As the Army transitioned to an all-volunteer force, it was in the Recruiting Command where Bob made his greatest impact on the Army. With his infectious and caring leadership style, he excelled at leading new recruiting organizations. At the same time, he was able to establish high standards and garner extraordinary results. In 1986 his leadership resulted in the Seattle Battalion being ranked the second-highest recruiting battalion in the U.S. Army. His success at the recruiting battalion level led to his selection as deputy brigade commander of the Western Recruiting Brigade and ultimately to his final assignment as the inspector general of the Army Recruiting Command.
After his Army retirement, Bob began a second career in industry. In December 1991 he joined Philip Morris USA at their largest manufacturing facility, in Concord, NC. He quickly learned the production side of the tobacco business and gained experience in several plant positions. His leadership style and ability as a quick study ultimately led to his selection as purchasing manager.
In Concord, Bob met the love of his life, Faye Hayes. Upon their meeting, love grew, and their marriage was inevitable. Faye and Bob married in 1996. Their love grew stronger with each passing year, and they had 28 wonderful years together.
In 2000, Bob and Faye moved to Richmond, VA, where Bob assumed greater responsibilities. In his new position, Bob traveled internationally purchasing manufacturing equipment. Faye and Bob especially enjoyed living in the historical district of Richmond with its cultural opportunities and fine restaurants, all within walking distance. Bob retired from Philip Morris USA after 15 years as director of indirect materials and procurement services. Bob liked to say that he was fortunate to have been a “colonel” twice in his career, once in the military and once in industry.
Throughout his life, he established and maintained friendships. Being a member of the Class of 1965 was a source of great pride for Bob, who served as a class officer for over 10 years. Perhaps his greatest contribution to the Class of ’65 will be the golf outings Bob organized for his class each year for over 20 years. These outings served to reinforce the bonds of friendship and brotherhood among the Class of ’65 like no other event. Some classmates who had not connected with their classmates since graduation rejoined their brothers for golf and poker each spring and fall. Bob said golf was just an excuse for his classmates to be together for remembering, playing poker, and laughing.
Bob and Faye built their retirement home on the North Carolina shore in Ocean Isle Beach, NC. They loved life together, the outdoors and shore life, enjoying friends, golf, and fishing. Football season was an exciting time for Bob and Faye as they supported the Clemson Tigers, the Army team, and the Carolina Panthers. Bob and Faye traveled extensively during retirement. Bob continued to be active with his class and the local West Point societies until his death.
Bob is survived by his wife, Faye Hayes; his three children: Gregory, Jennifer, and Jeffrey; four grandchildren: Ethan, Owen, Morgan, and Lila; and his sister, Terry Radcliffe Stocker.
Bob will be missed greatly by those who loved him or called him a friend. They will all agree that they are better for having known him and called him a friend. May he rest in peace.
— Robert Radcliffe and Faye Hayes, Wife
