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View a eulogy for Robert William Cone, USMA '79, who passed away on September 18, 2016.

Robert William Cone

West Point, 1979

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by John C."Doc" Bahnsen on September 21, 2016:

LT Bob Cone was the commander of the honor guard platoon that honored me when I was promoted to BG at Ft Hood in June 1980. He was a platoon leader in the 2/1 Cavalry Squadron of the 2nd Armored Division. Months later I selected him to be my Aide-de-Camp after I determined he was the best Lieutenant in the division. Our friendship was established at that time and endured throughout the remainder of our individual Army careers. He was like a younger brother to me and went to school on everything I did as an assistant Division Commander. He was part of my family and spent time with us both on duty and off duty. Our association developed into a great friendship. I trusted his judgement and listened to his advice and thoughts. When his tour of duty with me ended I advised him to get married-- which he did to a magnificent lady, Jill. If ever a perfect match was made, Jill and Bob set the standard. It changed his life in all the good ways.

Over the years we corresponded and exchanged phone calls. I tracked his career and gave advice when asked, but more importantly provided a sounding board for him when he ran into road blocks. We co-authored a couple of articles on the "warrior ethic" and on "taking care of soldiers", two subjects that he had mastered early in his career.

As Bob rose in rank and assumed additional responsibility my pride in him grew. He was a natural leader who loved soldiers and loved being a soldier.

He was happy soldier and a happy husband. He had a tremendous sense of humor and always laughed when I referred to Jill and him as the "Coneheads".

Our last conversation a couple months ago was a lengthy one and we both felt it might be our last one. We rehashed all our old stories and good memories. I treasured his friendship and treasure the memories of a great soldier and a great friend. You fought a good fight Bob---"Rest in peace.

Doc Bahnsen '56

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