Robert G. Owens Jr.

Robert G. Owens Jr.
Robert G. Owens Jr.
Nickname(s)"Big O"
BornFebruary 13, 1917
Greenville, South Carolina, US
DiedOctober 31, 2007(2007-10-31) (aged 90)
Boulder, Colorado, US
Buried
AllegianceUnited States
Service / branchUnited States Marine Corps
Years of service1939–1972
RankMajor General
Commands1st Marine Aircraft Wing
3rd Marine Aircraft Wing
Marine Fighting Squadron 215
Battles / warsWorld War II Vietnam War
AwardsNavy Cross
Legion of Merit (5)
Distinguished Flying Cross (5)
Air Medal (11)
Purple Heart

Robert Gordon Owens Jr. (February 13, 1917 – October 31, 2007) was a highly decorated United States Marine aviator and Major General, who was a flying ace with seven victories during World War II. He was a recipient of the Navy Cross, the United States' second-highest decoration awarded for valor in combat.[1][2]

Owens rose to the general's rank and served as Chief of Staff, III Marine Amphibious Force during the Vietnam War. He completed his service as Commanding general, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing in April 1972.[1][3]

  1. ^ a b "Major general Robert G. Owens Jr., United States Marine Corps". Arlington National Cemetery websites. Retrieved 2018-10-07.
  2. ^ "Sherrod's Revised List of Aces - Fortitudine 10, Part 4; page 9" (PDF). marines.mil. Marines Websites. Retrieved July 1, 2017.
  3. ^ "Robert G. Owens Jr. Papers – USMC Military History Division". USMC Military History Division. Retrieved 2018-10-07.